FAQ's

Q. My student has never played an instrument before, but would like to learn one. Can they take instrumental music?

A. Grade 9 is a great place to begin learning an instrument, and you will learn very fast! Take AMU 10Our grade nine beginners can be part of our Junior Band who perform at our annual Winter and Spring Concerts as well as participating in additional festivals, concerts & workshops .

Q. My student has previous instrumental experience. What class should they take?

A. If you’ve had at least one year of playing a band instrument in an elementary school, then we have a class specially designed for you that continues to build on your musical strengths. We are thrilled that you have had a good start in your elementary school and look forward to seeing you really build on those skills you already have! Students will be expected to be able to read traditional notation and be able to apply it to a wind or percussion instrument. Take AMI 10

Students can be part of our Junior Band who perform at our annual Winter and Spring concerts as well as participating in additional festivals, concerts & workshops.

Q. My student wants to sing. What course should they take?

A. If you enjoy singing, or want to learn more about it, then we have the course designed especially for you! Develop your

vocal talents, or find those hidden ones you didn’t know you had! Vocal music focuses on the “instrument” you carry with

you all the time...your voice! Vocal music studies begin in grade 10 (AMV 20), but build your music skills and develop a

foundation by taking AMU 10

Q. What performing groups can students be part of?

A. The number and type of ensembles vary from year to year, as it is based on student interest, staff availability and resources available. Some ensembles we have run in past years include:

senior concert band junior concert band intermediate concert band hawks jazz band sr.

junior jazz saxophone ensemble dixieland jazz guitar ensemble jazz trio

small groups brass ensemble

Q. Do students have to audition for concert bands or other performing groups

A. No, we do not hold formal auditions for our concert bands. Participation is voluntary and participation is based on a willingness to learn, an eagerness to participate, and a personal schedule that can fit in the rehearsals as well as overall playing level of the student. Students not in a music class for the year, may need to rent an instrument in order to participate. Other performing groups, may require students to be a certain playing level in order to be part of it.