CRCCS will be launching an exciting new Instrumental Music and Concert Band Program in Semester 2. We have been offering tuition on voice, piano, guitar and drums for some years now; this will be expanded to include flute, clarinet, alto and tenor saxophone, trumpet, trombone and drums/percussion. We will be only one of two Schools in the region offering a comprehensive Concert Band/Instrumental Music Program.

A video demonstration of the instruments on offer is attached to this article, it is recommended that Parents/Carers watch it with their son or daughter. Students will have the opportunity to try each of the instruments they nominate (3 preferences are required) in the first few weeks of Term 3 to match the instrument best suited (we will try to accommodate their first preference), with COVID-safe protocols around instrument sterilisation.

Students will receive a weekly small-group lesson as well as a Beginner Band Class where students start preparing ensemble pieces for performances. All instruments will be available for hire through the College at competitive rates. Students will be provided with a tutor book and music record book at their first lesson by the College.

Lesson and instrument hire charges are outlined below. Fees will be placed on your College fee account at the start of each term (initial enrolment is based on a semester). A minimum of three weeks’ notice is required for discontinuing lessons (week 8 of a 10-week term) in writing to the Head of Music Performance.

Parents hiring an instrument will receive a hire agreement with all terms and conditions, which will need to be completed prior to the instrument being released to the student.

Parents of students in Years 7 to 10 are invited to complete an application form via this link,

Families will then receive an enrolment form via email which will need to be completed, sighed and returned to the College to Reception or via return email to music@crccs.vic.edu.au.

Expression of Interest are due by Friday 16 July, and applications for lessons are due by Friday 23 July. Applications received after this date will be processed and placed on a waiting list with students commencing as soon as a place becomes available (lesson charges will reflect the starting point in the term).

Students in Year 7 will be participating in an incursion on Monday 24 June by the Royal Australian Navy Band, where all instruments will be demonstrated.

Lessons are offered on a small group basis in Years 7 to 10 (with the exception of Voice and Piano), with the option of changing to individual lessons in Years 8 to 10. Lessons rotate through the normal school day. Students also attend the Beginner Band which rehearses during a lunchtime each week where they learn new ensemble pieces to perform at events throughout the year (this is a compulsory part of the Concert Band Program).

Please contact Dr Chris McGillen, Head of Music Performance, with any questions or queries.