Embedded Files
McKinnon has a plethora of core and elective ensembles catering to all levels. There are no assessments for ensembles (except Year 7 & 8 Strings and Band), but if you sign up, you are expected to attend frequently.
Students must participate in a core ensemble if they wish to participate in elective ensembles. Additionally, students having lessons at school are required to participate in at least one core ensemble.
Please note that some elective ensembles are selective entry, and that vacancies may not be available until 2026.
Click on the links below to find out more about each ensemble!
Band Ensembles
Band Ensembles
Band Ensembles follow either the concert band or stage band formation. This consists mainly of wind instruments and percussion. Students in these ensembles can expect to play many types of music, including classical, jazz, traditional/world, marches.
String Ensembles
String Ensembles
String Ensembles* are made up of orchestral string instruments - violin, viola, cello and double bass. String ensemble music lends itself to many styles, including classical, chamber music, world music, film soundtracks.
*Orchestra is not a strings-only ensemble, but string players make up about half of the orchestra.
Vocal Ensembles
Vocal Ensembles
Vocal ensembles are made up entirely of singers. Students taking vocal lessons must be part of the Choir at their campus. Choir is also open to anyone wishing to participate.
Senior singers is selective entry.
Other Ensembles
Other Ensembles
Progressing through the ensembles
Progressing through the ensembles
McKinnon's highly regarded music program is ensemble-based. This means that participating in ensembles is integrated into the instrumental music program.
Each student must participate in at least one core ensemble if they wish to have lessons at school. There is also a variety of extra-curricular ensembles, providing students with more opportunities to perform and broaden their knowledge.
Page updated
Report abuse