The Instrumental Music Program at Bayside P-12 College offers a wonderful opportunity for students from Primary through to Year 12 to develop their musical talents. Students have the chance to learn a variety of instruments and perform in ensembles throughout the school year. The program also includes opportunities to perform at school and external events, helping students refine their performance skills.
At the Altona North Campus, students can choose from instruments such as guitar, bass guitar, drums (percussion), vocals, and piano. At the Williamstown Campus, the program offers drum lessons on Wednesdays, guitar and bass lessons on Thursdays or Fridays, and Year 7 brass and woodwind lessons on Thursdays. Year 7 band rehearsals are held during lunchtime every Thursday. Please note that the schedule for these lessons is subject to change.
Instrumental lessons are held once a week during regular class hours. Students attend these lessons in small groups of three to five, depending on their skill level, and each session lasts for 50 minutes. Students are expected to make up any missed classwork during their instrumental lesson time, which is reflected on their Compass.
Preference is given to students who own their own instrument or show a strong commitment to learning the instrument. Parents considering purchasing an instrument for their child are encouraged to consult with the instrumental teacher regarding suitable brands.
Commitment is an essential part of the program, with students expected to attend all lessons, rehearsals, and performances, and to practice regularly, both at school and at home. Students who miss lessons or rehearsals without a valid reason will need to make up the content in the homework club on Wednesday nights. The program also has an annual fee of $100, which covers materials and instrument maintenance.
Overall, Bayside P-12 College’s Instrumental Music Program is designed to nurture students’ musical abilities and instill values of discipline, responsibility, and a lifelong love for music.