Music

Music at St Ives

At St Ives, class programmes teach five basic areas of elementary music – singing, moving, creating, listening and playing. Lessons on most orchestral instruments are available from specialist tutors and a number of choirs, chamber groups, ensembles and a full orchestra rehearse each week. Recitals and concerts are held regularly. There are also occasional opportunities for musical tours away from the School.

Music Lessons

The School has a specialised music teaching staff offering tuition on a wide range of instruments, most of which are available to hire.

As well as weekly lessons on a chosen instrument, there are many opportunities to participate in the musical life of the School through ensembles, orchestra, recitals, group lessons and chamber music groups. Every two or three years a tour is conducted. In the past we have visited Perth, the North and South Islands of New Zealand and, most recently, Singapore.

We offer tuition on the following instruments:

• Violin
• Viola
• Violoncello
• Double Bass
• Flute
• Oboe
• Clarinet
• Bassoon
• Alto saxophone
• Cornet
• Trumpet
• French horn
• Trombone
• Baritone/Euphonium
• Tuba
• Piano*
• Classical Guitar
• Orchestral Percussion
• Taiko Drumming – group lessons offered to boys in Years 5 and 6 only

*Availability of an acoustic piano in the home is preferred. However, a digital piano that meets the following specifications is acceptable for beginner level up to Grade 4:

• Keyboard size – 88 notes
• Action – weighted and touch sensitive keys
• Pedals – fixed and functioning as for acoustic pianos

Instrumental Music for Preschool – Year 2

These are instruments that can accommodate younger players. Boys in K-2 have the opportunity to join a string ensemble. We also have training flutes and fagottino bassoons. Preschool boys may learn from Semester 2 (on assessment).

Music lessons for Preschool boys may commence in Semester 2 after consultation with the Director of Music.

Fees 2023

The lesson duration for Preschool boys is 20 minutes. Boys in K-6 receive 30 minute lessons. Fees are billed to parent accounts twice a year.

Lessons for boys in Years K-6 are scheduled between 8:40am and 3:00pm on a rotating basis throughout the 10 period day. If a boy learns two instruments through the School, the lesson time for one instrument will take place outside school hours. For parents who wish to attend their son’s beginner lessons, we endeavour to find a suitable time.

Applying for Music Lessons

To enrol your son for individual instrumental tuition, please complete the application form via the link below.

Music Lesson Application Form

Discontinuing Music Lessons

To withdraw your son from music lessons at School after his first year of learning an instrument, written notice must be received by Friday, Week 5 of a term, to take effect from the end of that term.

Missed Lessons

In the event of illness or injury, 24 hours' notice to the Main Office and the Music Office is required. If the Headmaster grants leave and your son has a music lesson, separate notification to the Music Department is required.

Extra Lessons

If, after your son has received 30 lessons there are still teaching weeks remaining, you may arrange with your son's music tutor for extra lessons. Payment for these lessons will be added to your next school account.

Instrument Hire

This gives the boys an opportunity to test their skill and interest and delays the purchase of an instrument. However, after this period, parents are expected to buy an instrument (although the more expensive instruments may be excepted). When allocating instruments for hire, preference is given to boys starting an instrument. Hire fees are $57.50 per term and are billed to your School account twice a year. Instruments should be clearly labelled with your son's name and current class on the outside of the case and contact address and phone number inside.

Repairs and Damage

Bring it to the Music Department where the damage can be assessed and a repairer contacted. Maintenance costs will be met by the Department but parents are responsible for the cost of any damage to school instruments. As the School's insurance policy does not cover loss or damage to instruments, we recommend coverage be made through your own insurance policy.

Ensembles

It is expected that boys who learn an instrument through the School will participate in the ensemble programme. Places in advanced ensembles are determined by the Director of Music. Boys who learn an instrument either at school or outside are welcome to join. Places are granted with the understanding that a year's commitment is expected by boys learning either in or outside School.

AMEB Examinations

Commitment to Lessons

Mastering new skills takes time and practice. You will make the best progress on your instrument if you can remember these things:

• Be organised for your lesson by being on time and having your music and instrument with you.
• Listen to your teacher and practise the things you work on in your lesson.
• Remember to read your Music Record Book for your teacher's practice instructions for the week.
• Remember that the saying “Practice makes perfect” applies to YOU and regular home practice (most days of the week) will help you make the best possible progress and accelerate your enjoyment of music!

Commitment to Ensembles

Morning rehearsals begin at 7:30am and all boys are expected to arrive 10 minutes beforehand to unpack and tune. If, for any reason, a boy cannot attend his ensemble rehearsal, an explanatory note to the conductor is appreciated.

Ensembles

Prompt arrival at all rehearsals is expected. Remember that if, on occasions, a boy is unable to attend, a note of explanation to the conductor is appreciated.