Enrolments

Junior School Music at Abbotsleigh

At Abbotsleigh, we believe that every girl is a musician. Our extensive Music program offers girls of all ability levels and experience a place to participate in and enjoy learning music. Whatever your daughter’s passion, she will have the opportunity to be creative, to be challenged and to enjoy music.

Curriculum music, co-curricular music and extended tuition are the three avenues of Music education that progress through the Junior School. Our curriculum Music program is based on the methodologies of Kodaly and Orff Schulwerk and all students are encouraged to perform, compose and listen to music.

In addition to curriculum Music classes, every girl participates in a Choir as part of the weekly timetable. During this choir, girls learn repertoire that develops choral skills as well as prepares repertoire for upcoming school events.

All students in Year 2 and 3 participate in a String or Instrumental Program as part of their musical learning.

Abbotsleigh Junior School has a wide and varied co-curricular music program that caters for the wide experiences and ability level of our students. All students having private lessons on a band or string instrument, at school or externally, are encouraged to join an instrumental ensemble. Students will be placed in an ensemble appropriate to their skill level and ability.

You can download the 2027 music tuition booklet here.

Co-curricular ensembles

Archdale Choir provides students in Years 3 and 4 the opportunity to experience the joy of singing as part of a choir. Open to all students without audition, it offers a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment where young singers can develop confidence, make new friends, and discover a love of being part of an ensemble. Through engaging repertoire and regular performances, students build foundational vocal skills, musicianship, and ensemble awareness while enjoying the excitement of performing together.

Everett Choir offers students in Years 5 and 6 the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and welcoming singing community. Open to all students without audition, the choir encourages participation from singers of all experience levels who wish to share their love of music and performance. Students in Everett Choir perform at school and community events throughout the year, including Speech Day and Easter and Christmas services.

Cantare Choir is open to Everett Choir members by audition. The ensemble performs a range of repertoire while developing sophisticated vocal, ensemble and performance skills. Cantare Choir is featured at school and community events, sharing inspiring performances with a wide range of audiences.

Bundarra Band provides students with their first experience of making music in an ensemble, developing essential instrumental and teamwork skills in a supportive and enjoyable environment. Through the rehearsal and performance of band repertoire, students learn the foundations of ensemble playing. As students grow in confidence and musicianship, they have the opportunity to share their learning through a range of performance experiences throughout the year.

Concert Band is the advanced band in the Junior School, bringing together accomplished young musicians. Through the rehearsal and performance of challenging and engaging repertoire, students refine their instrumental technique, ensemble awareness, and musical expression. The band plays an important role in the musical life of the School and regularly performs at concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.

Bambini Strings provides students in Years 1 and 2 with their first opportunity to make music as part of a string ensemble in a fun, supportive, and nurturing environment. Through rehearsing and performing repertoire, students learn the foundations of ensemble playing, including listening, following a conductor, playing together, and developing good ensemble habits. As their confidence and skills grow, students enjoy sharing their music with others through a variety of performance opportunities throughout the year.

Poole House Strings provides students with the opportunity to further develop their ensemble and instrumental skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Through the rehearsal and performance of a variety of string repertoire, students strengthen their musicianship, listening skills, and ability to play confidently as part of a group. As they progress, students refine their technique, deepen their musical understanding, and gain valuable ensemble experience throughout the year.

Robinson Strings provides students with the opportunity to build on their developing ensemble and instrumental skills through the rehearsal and performance of increasingly challenging repertoire. Students refine their technique, strengthen their musical understanding, and develop greater independence as ensemble musicians. Performance opportunities throughout the year allow students to showcase their progress and experience the rewards of shared musical achievement.

Symphony Orchestra is the premier instrumental ensemble in the Junior School, bringing together the school’s most accomplished young string and band players. Through the rehearsal and performance of challenging and rewarding orchestral repertoire, students develop advanced technical skills, musical expression, and a deep understanding of ensemble performance. Members are encouraged to demonstrate leadership, musical independence, and a commitment to excellence while working collaboratively to achieve a polished orchestral sound. The Symphony Orchestra performs at major school concerts, festivals, and special events, playing a significant role in the vibrant musical life of the school.

In addition to large ensembles, intermediate and advanced students are invited to participate in a small instrumental ensemble, including:

  • Brass Belles
  • Flute Ensemble
  • Percussion Ensemble
  • Small String Ensembles

A cherished Abbotsleigh tradition, the Handbell Ensemble offers students in Years 5 and 6 the opportunity to participate in this unique and rewarding ensemble. Students learn and perform a diverse range of repertoire while developing ensemble skills, musical precision, and an appreciation for the rich tradition of handbell ringing. The ensemble performs throughout the year at a variety of special school occasions, including Easter and Christmas services, concerts, and other significant community events, contributing to some of the school’s most treasured celebrations.

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