Music

You Can’t Stop the Music (not even in ISO)

Congratulations everyone for getting through the remote learning period this term. It has been a difficult journey to take and a very unexpected one, but I am blown away by the dedication of our Music students and the professionalism of our teaching staff. I have found it truly inspiring. 

When the reality of home schooling set in, in the final week of Term 1, the Music staff came together to work out the most effective way to teach online. The positive manner in which they approached this unforeseen circumstance was a real credit to them. 

Zahara Easton performs a solo for Year 11 Music class

It was decided that we do a mix of live teaching through Microsoft Teams meetings and 'asynchronous teaching' (set a task, demo videos, send in recordings, feedback later). After a week or so, it was quite clear that staff were wanting to do the live teaching on a regular basis and this proved to be a wonderful way to keep connected with the students. There is enough evidence to suggest many students did establish a regular practice routine and did thrive during this period. Others prefer the structure of lessons and rehearsals at school but I am sure that many of them will catch up in no time. 

Beginner Band students arrived at school at 7.30am on the first day back for their first live rehearsal at school. Ms. Van Oosten actually started rehearsals during the Learning at Home period, allowing students to start learning band pieces at home. When one starts an ensemble over the internet, they are faced with enormous challenges, but judging by the sound of the band, it was very worthwhile. 

Classroom Music was also a major challenge, but students rose to the challenge and managed to get through a good amount of work. Group tasks were off the curriculum for the time being with individual tasks taking priority. Year 9-12 students were able to complete their solo performance tasks by recording a video of their performances and sending it to their teacher via Teams and Compass. Many students thrived at home, which was evident in some outstanding performances. 

There is no doubt, the Music department has been severely affected by Covid-19 with all performances being cancelled in Term 2. Performances such as at the Victorian School Music Festival and the Royal South Street Eisteddfod have already been cancelled for Term 3, so it's unclear at this stage when students will be able to perform for family and friends, but we hope to present something by the end of the year. 

I am very proud of the Music students and staff for the resilience they have displayed over the past few months and the passion they continue to have for music. Music definitely has the power to change moods and is excellent for mental health and was used as a real positive by many in this time. Let’s never forget that no matter what is happening in our lives that 'Music is important!'

- Mr Troy Rogers, Director of Music