Mowbray Music Program
Mowbray’s Music Program is a subcommittee of the Mowbray Public School P&C Association.
The Music Program gives students the chance to learn an instrument, read music, play in a group, and enjoy making music. Our goals are simple:
- Every child enjoys making and learning music
- Every child develops their musical skills
The Music Program has two parts:
The P&C employs experienced conductors and tutors for both the Strings and Band Programs. Parent/carer volunteers help with administration, so if your child joins, we ask that you support the program by assisting when needed.
Mowbray Music groups
Training Band - from Year 3
(Beginners - AMEB Grade 1 equivalent) This is where students begin their musical journey and typically spend one to two years as a member. Often with no prior musical experience, this time will foster musicianship in your child as they are mastering their new instrument and learning to play together as a band. After one to two years in Training Band, students graduate to Concert Band.
Concert Band
(AMEB Grades 2 - 3) The intermediate level Concert Band rehearsals are longer and introduce more challenging music pieces to develop a student’s skills. Musicians are offered more opportunities to perform and grow their talents. Students remain in Concert Band until they are at the standard required to graduate to Performance Band.
Performance Band
(AMEB Grade 3 and above) Students audition to become a part of the Performance Band, Mowbray’s most senior band, after demonstrating a strong commitment to the Band program. These accomplished musicians use their talent and experience to represent Mowbray at a variety of events. The students perform at eisteddfods and festivals, often competing against their peers from other schools. A great foundation to continue music in high school.
Super Strings - from Year 2
(Beginners) Super Strings learn the basic functions of their new instrument with the focus on musicianship with the support of their Tutor and Conductor. As their note reading improves, the students learn to play together with other ensemble members.
Junior Strings
(Pre-intermediate) Junior Strings will take graduates from Super Strings. This is a transitional ensemble to further reinforce each student’s ability on their instrument and prepare them with more challenging music pieces and performances. After one to two years in Junior Strings, students graduate to Chamber Strings.
Chamber Strings
(Intermediate - AMEB Preliminary Grade 1) Students remain in Chamber Strings until they are at the standard required to graduate to Camerata. These students are growing as musicians with plenty of opportunities to develop in festivals and performances while setting an example to the younger players.
Camerata
(Advanced - AMEB Grade 2 and above) Camerata is Mowbray’s elite Strings ensemble. Entry to Camerata is open to students who have shown strong commitment to the Strings program and who are of a proficient AMEB Grade 2 and above equivalent. Entry into Camerata is by audition or invitation only. A great foundation to continue music in high school.
How to Join Mowbray Music
Each year in late Term 4, we host two “Meet the Music” sessions for families interested in joining the Mowbray Music program. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about our Band and Strings programs, meet members of the music team, and ask any questions.
Students are also invited to try a range of instruments, helping them discover what they enjoy and decide whether the music program is right for them.
Estimated Annual Cost For First Year/Beginners
Use of Fees:
- All fees go directly toward running the Music Program
- Includes professional conductors, instruments and maintenance, event costs, transport, sheet music, uniforms, and accessories
- Fees are finalised early in Term 1 once student numbers are confirmed
- Annual fees are invoiced in Term 1 and due within 30 days unless another arrangement is agreed in writing
- Fees are paid once per year in advance and are non-refundable if a student leaves the program
- Payment plans may be arranged with the Music Treasurer
- Beginner students are welcome and no prior experience is needed
- Playing in an ensemble/band builds teamwork, confidence, and friendships across year groups
- All Music Program students must join a group and commit for the full year
- Rehearsals are once a week, before or after school, led by an experienced conductor
- Students should have 30-minute lessons weekly with a qualified tutor, and practise regularly at home
- Students who learn through the Music Program must also be part of an ensemble or band
- Students may use their own instrument or hire one from the Music Program
- If buying an instrument, please seek guidance from your child’s tutor first
- Instruments are available on a first-come, first-served basis
