MUSIC
AT JOHN XXIII COLLEGE
Our music program serves students from Pre-Primary through to Year 12 – combining curricular study, individual instrumental tuition, and an extensive co-curricular program.
DISCOVER. CREATE. PERFORM.
Our ensembles, concerts, recitals and productions draw audiences from across the College community and beyond. Whether a student is encountering an instrument for the first time or pursuing music as a pathway to further study, there is a place for them here.
MUSIC IN THE CURRICULUM
Music is a compulsory classroom subject from Pre-Primary through to Year 7, taught by specialist music staff. From Year 8, students may elect to study music as part of their subject choices, with the program deepening through to the senior years. The ATAR Music course is offered in Years 11 and 12, providing a pathway for students wishing to pursue music at university or in a professional career.
INSTRUMENTAL TUITION
A comprehensive instrumental program is available across all year levels, with tuition offered on a wide range of instruments by specialist staff. All lessons are 30 minutes long and are generally scheduled during school hours.
Instruments available for tuition include:
- Woodwind
Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone - Strings
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass - Brass
Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Euphonium, Tuba - Guitar
Classical, Acoustic, Bass, Electric - Voice
Classical, Music Theatre, Jazz, Contemporary - Piano
Classical, Jazz and Contemporary/Leisure - Percussion
Orchestral Percussion and Drum Kit - Music Theory tuition and curriculum support
Many instruments are available for hire through the Music Department, making it accessible for students to begin before committing to a purchase.
Enrolment Conditions
- Years 1 and 2 students may enrol in piano only.
- Woodwind, Percussion and Brass tuition is available from Year 5.
- Guitar is available as an Acoustic option for Years 3 to 6.
- Voice tuition is available from Year 6.
- Secondary students may enrol in a maximum of three instruments at the College.
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Life in the Music Department is shaped by performance. Throughout the year, students perform at soirees, recital nights, eisteddfods, and concerts. Students may also participate in music tours to destinations across Australia and internationally.
To keep up with all performances, dates and updates, families are encouraged to subscribe to the Music and Drama Calendar.
MUSIC ENSEMBLES
The co-curricular music program is extensive. All students learning an instrument or voice – whether through the College or privately – are welcome to participate. Students enrolled in elective music or taking instrumental lessons are required to join a large ensemble.
Ensembles include:
- Choirs: Treble Choir, Chamber Choir, Chapel Choir and Wanju Voices
- Vocal Groups
- Concert Band, Wind Band and Swing Band
- Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra and String Quartets
- Guitar Ensembles
- Contemporary Bands
Membership of smaller ensembles is by audition and is open to committed members of a large ensemble. Most rehearsals take place before school, at lunchtime or after school.
YEAR 3 STRINGS AND YEAR 5 BAND PROGRAMS
Students in Years 3 and 5 are invited to take part in subsidised instrumental programs, offering group tuition. The Year 3 Strings Program covers Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass; the Year 5 Band Program offers Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Flute and Percussion. Both programs provide a wonderful introduction to ensemble music-making.
MUSIC AND THE WHOLE PERSON
Music develops the whole person, cultivating confidence, resilience and creativity.
The Music Department welcomes students of all abilities and experience levels. There is no prerequisite for passion.
Beyond academic achievement lies a rich program designed to shape the whole person – curious, capable and ready to contribute.
Keep Exploring Co-Curricular
