Yarraville West Music Program

While formal instrument tuition is important, we also aim to foster enjoyment in playing instruments and singing in an uncompetitive yet challenging environment. Students are encouraged to compose songs, write lyrics or suggest existing songs they would like to learn. Tuition is most suitable for students grade 1 and up. Most lessons are during school hours including morning recess and lunchtime.

Tuition is available in:
Keyboards/piano, guitar, ukelele, singing, violin, recorder, flute, trumpet and saxophone.

What instrument to choose?
If you are unsure what instrument would suit your child, we can introduce him/her to a variety of instruments by offering one lesson per instrument over a period of 5 weeks, so that you and your child can make an informed choice. Tick the instrument introduction box on the enrolment form.

Tuition length
Three choices offered present a natural progression from group lessons for younger beginning students (grades 1/2) to 20 minute or 30 minute private lessons for grade 3/4 students. For grade 4/5/6, 30 minute lessons are recommended for optimum results. Depending on the student and your budget, a 20 minute lesson is still an option.

Group performance/CD recording
Students will be working towards solo/group performances at assembly and other occasions. All students participate in a CD recording and concert towards the end of the year. These are fun and stimulate practice at home. Over time students develop confidence performing in front of an audience. This confidence will be an asset throughout their lives, whether they continue playing music or not. In preparation for group performance/recording, there will be a couple of weeks of rehearsals instead of regular lessons.

Instrument
It is recommended that your child has an instrument for practice at home. You can contact us if you need advice re: purchase or hire of instruments.

Teaching Approach
The program’s approach to music teaching is student led – find out how/what the student learns most easily and tailor lessons accordingly. Our first objective is to make playing music enjoyable. Initially there is little emphasis on the ‘brainless scale playing’ that we may remember from our childhood. Scales and chords will naturally come up through the choices the student makes. Music theory focuses on discovering how simple the basics of keys, scales and harmony actually are. Ensemble and individual public performances and a CD recording towards the end of the year are a special feature of the program. You will receive a written progress report at the end of first and third term.

Enrolment forms
Enrolment forms with further information are available from the school's office.