A new music initiative at ACG Parnell College

Wednesday, 11 July 2012 11:19 Written by  ACG Parnell College News

ACG Parnell College Music Lessons - July 2012

A new music initiative at ACG Parnell College is proving a runaway success. All Year Five students are getting a weekly one-hour tutorial in a musical instrument of their choice from extremely talented tutors – many from the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra.

Last November, all Year Fours had sessions with musical specialists to discover which instrument suited each one the best. "It was amazing to watch," says Head of Music, Dr Julie Garner. "We had one child blow a strong, clear note on a trumpet first time. It was very obvious what he would end up playing this year!"

The instruments arrived at the start of the first term and the students are loving it. "They were doing music once a week anyway," says Julie "And the way this has been developed, the theory, the history and the practical application are all rolled into one. It's much more stimulating and hands-on than doing an hour of theory and the students are really enjoying the exploration of their chosen instruments."

Larne Edmeades, School Principal says "Itinerant music teachers are employed by the school to teach groups of students how to use their instruments, and we are looking forward to enjoying a great concert before too long. The aim is to expose the children to the joys of learning an instrument and opening up the world of music to them. It's a very innovative and exciting programme. "

If the programme is a success, it is hoped it will be continued right through to Year Nine. At this stage it is only Year Five and Six but given its popularity the chances of it being extended are very high.

Last modified on Wednesday, 11 July 2012 11:25