Collingwood Park State School provides an Education Queensland approved and funded program of Instrumental tuition for Years 4 to 6 students. At this school tuition is provided in Brass, Woodwind and Percussion instruments.
In addition to small group lessons with three to ten students learning together in school time, ensemble experience is provided through the formation of concert bands, and other ensembles. The rehearsals for these take place before school and in the lunch breaks. Regular attendance at lessons and concert band practices is mandatory. Availability for performances is also a requirement. Generally students are only required to attend one out of school time rehearsal.
The program forms an integral part of the student's music education. Lessons are free of charge but instruments will need to be either hired or purchased. There are some school instruments available for hire for one year on a merit basis. Once having made a commitment to the program children are expected to continue for three years until they complete Year 6. In addition to the instrument parents will be required to provide an instruction book, a music folder, a music shirt and a performance uniform.
The recruitment process for the Instrumental Music takes place in Year 3 and consists of an overview of the child’s performance in Classroom Music, the administration of one or more Aptitude Tests, general classroom behaviour and an expression of interest from the child and parents.
Students who learn an instrument will gain many benefits - time management and team-work skills; learning a universal language - music; having the opportunity to continue playing in high school and after school; and even having the option of pursuing a musical career, such as a Music Teacher, Performer, Producer, etc.
Mr Bignell is the Instrumental Music Specialist.