FAQs

Students benefit from qualified teachers, regular performance opportunities, ensemble participation, subsidised fees, and lessons that complement classroom music studies.

Students are encouraged to try a range of instruments at the Music Expo in Term 4 before enrolling. Each student lists four preferred instruments, and placements are made based on preference, aptitude, and ensemble balance. Our staff work with students to find the instrument that best suits their ability and interests.

• Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone

• Brass: Trumpet, Trombone

• Guitar, Bass Guitar

• Drums and Percussion

• Voice

• Others: Piano/Keyboard (by application), Music Theory (for VCE students)

We generally ask students to stick with their chosen instrument for the first year to give it a fair chance — it often takes a bit of time before you start feeling confident. If, after your first year, you still don’t feel connected to your instrument, you can discuss switching to a different one for the following year. Changes during the year are often not possible as our teachers are fully allotted.

We understand it can be disappointing not to receive your first instrument preference. Instrument allocations are made carefully, based on student preferences, aptitude, teacher availability, and the need to maintain balanced ensembles so that every group sounds its best.

If you didn’t receive your first choice, we encourage you to commit to your allocated instrument for the first year. Many students find they enjoy and excel on an instrument they hadn’t originally considered once they gain confidence and skill.

If, after a full year of participation, you still feel the instrument isn’t the right fit, you can request a change for the following year.

Enrol here.

• New students: Complete the New Enrolment Form by early December (or within the first 2 weeks of Term 1) to secure your place.

• Continuing students: Complete the Continuing Enrolment Form by the due date, usually early term 4 of the previous year.

• Instrumental Music lessons & ensemble: $800 per year

• Second instrument: $400 per year

• Piano lessons: $1000 (or $600 as a second instrument)

• Instrument hire: $200 per year

• Ensemble only: $200 per year

No. Enrolment is an annual commitment, and fees are non-refundable due to staffing allocations.

Yes. Limited instruments are available for hire (Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, Guitars, Bass Guitars).

Note: Guitars and bass guitars are relatively affordable to purchase, so hire is not recommended.

Instruments should be kept clean, stored safely, and brought to school only on lesson/ensemble days. Damaged or lost instruments must be paid for by the student/parent.

Instruments must be returned by Week 8 of Term 4 (or after the final concert), cleaned and with all accessories. Continuing students with approved forms may keep their instrument over the holidays.

Students have one 40-minute lesson per week, scheduled on a rotating timetable during class time. This ensures they don’t miss the same class each week.

Students can expect 32 scheduled lessons per year, plus ensemble rehearsals.

• If a student will be away (excursion, assessment, illness), please email the instrumental teacher in advance to reschedule.

• Lessons missed without notice (e.g., forgetting) will not be rescheduled.

Yes. Ensemble participation is compulsory for all instrumental students. Students may also audition for elective ensembles.

• Junior Band (beginners – brass, woodwind, percussion, bass)

• Symphonic Band (all brass, woodwind, percussion, bass)

• Guitar Ensemble

• Choir

• Combo Band (auditioned)

• Production Band (auditioned)

• Junior Contemporary Ensemble (auditioned)

• Senior Contemporary Ensemble (auditioned)

Students perform in school assemblies, the Mid-Year and End-of-Year Concerts, the annual School Production, and external excursions and workshops.

Students wear either their full school uniform or Concert Blacks (black trousers/skirts, black shirts, and black shoes, with no visible logos).

Students attend music camps, excursions to professional performances, workshops, and incursions with guest artists.

Music Camp is highly encouraged — it’s one of the highlights of the year and provides an immersive learning experience with rehearsals, workshops, and performances.

No, it’s not compulsory — but it is strongly recommended. IM gives you weekly lessons, rehearsal experience, and feedback from specialist teachers that directly support what you’ll do in VCE Music. It makes a huge difference to your skills, confidence, and performance results.

VCE Music has a strong performance focus. By participating in Instrumental Music, you’ll get regular practice, technical guidance, and ensemble experience — all things you’ll be assessed on in VCE. It’s the best way to stay prepared, supported, and ready to perform at your best.

Even if you’re not planning to do VCE Music, IM helps you grow as a musician, work as part of a team, and build confidence performing. It’s also a great creative outlet, a break from academic subjects, and a chance to be part of something fun and rewarding. For many students, Instrumental Music is the highlight of their High School experience.

Piano/keyboard lessons are available by application for VCE students, elective ensemble pianists, or students learning a second instrument. You can express your interest in Piano/keyboard lessons here.

Parents must email the Music Coordinator. Please discuss the decision with your child’s instrumental teacher first, and note that refunds are not available after the cooling off period.

Speak with the instrumental teacher early. Often, changing repertoire, setting goals, or joining a new ensemble can reignite engagement.