Instrumental Music

Instrumental Music

Berwick College has a strong tradition of excellence in music and a vibrant instrumental music program. Berwick College has a dynamic and varied instrumental music program. There are significant benefits for students who participate in the program. We know that students with instrumental music training will have increased academic outcomes. At Berwick College, we also know that our music students are highly motivated and organised. They are engaged in an inclusive community and through this are connected to the school.

Students who study instrumental music are enrolled in an ensemble as part of the study. These ensembles perform regularly as part of the school program.

Students also have the opportunity to participate in our co-curricular music activities and performances and to collaborate with alumni who are leading, conducting or playing professionally in the wider community.

We offer tuition in all wind instruments and guitar, and tuition is open to any student from years 7-12. 

The following instruments are available for tuition:

  • Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Tuba
  • Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Oboe/Bassoon
  • Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
  • Guitar: Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar
  • Keyboards: Electric Keyboard, Piano
  • Percussion: Drum kit, Orchestral percussion, Glockenspiel
  • Voice

Learning a musical instrument is something all students should consider. Whilst many students feel that playing a musical instrument is too difficult, they soon find themselves performing to audiences who admire their talent. They gain satisfaction and enjoyment from being part of a group of people who share the same interests and talents.

Playing a musical instrument enhances a student’s self expression and poise, assists with coordination, problem solving, memory and goal setting skills, and boosts confidence and self-esteem.

All students in the High Achievers’ Program undertake instrumental music in class as the Music component of Year 7 Performing Arts. This is completed in a band format and as such, students in this program will be required to choose a Woodwind or Brass instrument.

Concert Band Program

Each student who learns a musical instrument is placed into a band or ensemble. These groups learn different types of music, which they perform at school assemblies, presentation evenings, special musical evenings, at shopping centres, Primary Schools and at band competitions.

In addition to our main groups (Senior Concert Band, Intermediate Concert Band, Junior Concert Band and Guitar Ensemble) there are other ensembles, consisting of four or eight students, in which students can participate: Saxophone Ensemble, Clarinet Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Jazz Groups, Stage Band, Flute Ensemble and Rock Bands.

Contemporary Music Program

Students having lessons in this program are required to perform with the Guitar Ensemble or other organised contemporary groups. Ensemble rehearsals will usually be held during lunchtimes and members are expected to attend. The ensembles will be performing at various functions throughout the year, and members are expected to be available for these appearances.

This year we will have Junior, Intermediate and Senior concert bands and all brass and woodwind students are expected to be members of one of these bands.

An annual fee is charged per annum to cover the cost of band music, the up-keep of equipment and other associated costs. Band rehearsals will be held out of school hours.

Music Coordinator: Mr Michael Couche