Highfields State Secondary College is beginning a proud tradition of excellence in our Instrumental Music Program with courses of study in a variety of instrumental subjects and ensembles. Many of the Instrumental Music Program activities take place outside normal school hours, for example before school or breaks, performances at outside venues or school events at night or during the weekend.
Membership of the Instrumental Music Program demands extra time, effort and commitment to ensure that schoolwork does not suffer. Teamwork is essential.
Instruments
It is preferred that students supply their own instruments. A limited number of instruments are available for hire from the school and may be loaned at the discretion of the instrumental teacher. Tuition is available in the following instruments:
Woodwind | Brass | Percussion |
Flute | Trumpet | Drum kit |
Clarinet | Trombone | Xylophone |
Bass Clarinet | Euphonium | Glockenspiel |
Alto Saxophone | Tuba | Auxiliary Percussion |
Tenor Saxophone | French Horn | *Note: Percussion students will receive tuition in all of the above |
Baritone Saxophone |
Oboe |
Bassoon | Bass Guitar |
Student Requirements
Students are expected to provide the following items, as applicable to their specific instrument (consult with the Instrumental Music teacher before purchasing equipment):
Brass | Valve oil or rotary valve oil, slide grease/cream, bore and mouthpiece brushes, sundry cleaning and maintenance equipment and accessories. |
Woodwind | Reeds and cork grease, bore swab, sundry cleaning and maintenance accessories. |
Percussion | Drumsticks, mallets/brushes (advanced students), ‘Practice Pad’ electronic chromatic keyboard or chromatic glockenspiel (inexpensive types). |
Stringed Instruments | Strings, resin, bridges, maintenance equipment and accessories as required. |
All students | Method books, sundry other items (as specified by instructor), strong folder for music, music stand (for home practice) |
Uniform | Students will require full formal uniform for performances. |
Concerts & Performances
During the course of the school year, band members and ensemble members will be required to play at a variety of functions. It is expected that members make themselves available to perform on all occasions. Notice in writing of these functions will be distributed to students prior to the event, so appropriate arrangements can be made. If a student is unavailable to attend any of these functions, a parental note outlining the reason is required. If parents/caregivers are required to provide transport to and from these functions, it is requested that they do so and that punctuality is observed.
Forms
All permissions notes can be found in the Support and resources section.
Instrumental Music Program enrolment forms are provided in the schools official enrolment pack.