Towards the end of last term, it was lovely to see many of our Nexus musicians working towards the Primary and Secondary Music Recitals. We also had many learners participate in 'Lessons without Walls'. Offering a range of performance opportunities is an important experience when learning an instrument; not only does it provide an end goal that encourages practise, it provides a platform that aids with confidence and communication.

Links for the final edited recitals are:

• Primary: https://vimeo.com/499438919

• Secondary: https://vimeo.com/499439766

• Christmas: https://vimeo.com/500301380

Throughout the year we will continue to provide a range of opportunities for our learners and we hope to encourage many more of our Nexus musicians to participate - everyone is welcome regardless of age or stage of learning an instrument. We will also continue with 'Lessons without Walls'.

For our next Music Recital we are aiming to have a live performance in our new auditorium, this is very exciting! The recitals will take place in Term 4, please liaise with your child's instrumental tutor and get practising!

We know many learners have recently taken an ABRSM or Trinity Music exam or are currently working towards one. These exams are an excellent stepping stone for learning, which support and enhance an instrumentalist or singer's performing skills. We wish those of you taking an exam the very best of luck, please do keep us posted on your results. If you are interested in your child working towards an exam, please feel free to contact us for further details.

We have a number of music ensembles on offer this semester. Sign-ups commenced yesterday on CHQ with ensembles starting on Monday, 25 January. These music ensembles will run until Friday, 21 May.

We are still unable to run choirs due to Covid-19 restrictions, however watch this space as, as soon as we can offer singing we will! Thankfully we are able to extend our ensembles across phases so changes to the Primary and Secondary Orchestra include being able to have Primary Orchestra (Y3-6) and Secondary Orchestra (Y7-13). Each phase of the Orchestra will rehearse and perform socially-distanced. Wind and Brass are now able to join our ensembles and we have included a Beginner Recorder and Flute Group for our younger learners.

During each of our ensemble rehearsals, we will be following Covid-19 guidelines with the health and safety of our learners and tutors paramount.

Y1 and 2 - Keys Club - Thursday 12:25 to 1:20pm

Come and play roll-up keyboard, music theory games on iPad, and finish fun music colouring worksheets. Any level of musicians with a passion for music are welcome! Heads-up, Mr Chris will come collect the participants from their classrooms just before lunch and we will all picnic together. Learners will be stay in their Learning Hub on the 1F.

Y1 and 2 - Y1 and 2 Ukulele - Thursday 12:25 to 1:20pm

This club is for learners with no prior knowledge of the ukulele. Learners will be taught simply chords and how to play basic pieces. We are hoping that restrictions will lift soon and they may even be able to sing and accompany themselves! For this group we ask that learners purchase their own ukulele.

Y2-6 - Primary Orchestra - Friday - 12.25-12.55

Primary Orchestra is for learners of any instrument who have been playing for at least 1-2 terms. Voilin, viola, cello, trumpet, trombone, recorder, flute, clarinet, guitar, ukulele. bass guitar, drum kit or piano. The ensemble aims to build confidence through performing. (Please note we can only accommodate a maximum of 5 piano players, therefore you must present your Grade 2 certificate to attend)

Y3 and 4 - Ukulele - Thursday 12:45 - 1:15pm

Learners will have the opportunity to learn basic ukulele chords, play along to a variety of styles of music as well as learn general musicianship i.e rhythm, performance skills and having fun with music.

Y3-6 - Beginner Recorder and Flute Club - Thursday 12:25 to 1:20pm

This music ensemble is for complete beginners. Those who are interested to learn recorder, flute or even clarinet. Your child will learn to read music and play simple songs in a group.