Scotch College

An insight into the Junior School Music Program

WORDS: Jenni Allen and Kate Ikinger

The foundation of the Junior School music program is the Kodaly-based classroom curriculum which teaches music literacy using the singing voice in a sequential, child-centred and developmental format. From this foundation stems the instrument and ensemble program. All Junior School students who learn an instrument are invited to perform in a recital at least twice a year. All students in Years 3−6 are involved in presenting year level concerts, while the Junior Primary boys perform at their end of year Christmas Concert. Scotch College boasts a talented, professional and caring music staff, which, with the students, has access to world class facilities on campus.

Year 6 student Lachlan Marshall performed with obvious enjoyment at the Years 5 and 6 Winter Concert. Although he plays both acoustic and electric guitar, during the concert he played the double bass. Lachlan has been learning to play the double bass for approximately one and a half years. His choice of instrument was the result of a music round-a-bout in Year 4, where he was given the opportunity to play a range of different string instruments. Once Lachlan saw the teacher play the double bass he knew he had to have a go! Lachlan believes that all instruments are inter-connected, and that learning one instrument can lead to mastering another. Although he does not plan to pursue a professional career in music, he knows that playing music is a lifetime skill that will always bring him pleasure.

Junior School Music Captain Charlie Naughton has been playing the violin since kindergarten and the piano since Year 4. He comes from a musical family. His eldest brother was also Music Captain in the Scotch College Junior School. Charlie enjoys music and appreciates the friendships that have developed through a shared pleasure in music. Charlie understands the wonderful opportunities he has been offered musically and says that music will always be a special part of his life.

Soloist at the Years 5 and 6 Winter Concert and 2009 Choir Captain, Junho Kim, has boundless energy and a passion for music. He plans to make his final year in the Junior School as Choir Captain a year to remember. Junho’s enjoyment of singing started at an early age. He enjoys the challenges involved in learning a new piece, and the team spirit found in the choir. He describes Scotch College’s music program as being well organised and offering each student many and varied opportunities. Junho will continue in the school choirs, and is even thinking about the Chamber Choir. GS