Instrumental Music
Co-curricular activities
Music is more than just learning an instrument – it’s about building connections, developing confidence, and being part of something bigger than yourself. Through our ensemble-based program, students develop individual skills while experiencing the joy and challenge of making music together. From your first lesson to performing at our regular concerts, you’ll be supported by professional musicians and surrounded by like-minded peers who share your passion for music.
Instrumental Music Program
Our co-curricular music program helps students develop strong individual technical skills through small group lessons (average group size of 3), while our ultimate focus is preparing them for the rewarding experience of ensemble performance. This provides the foundational skills for students who wish to pursue solo performance in their senior school years.
Our Ensembles
- String Orchestras: Beginner and Advanced levels
- Concert Bands: Beginner and Advanced levels
- Jazz Band: For those who love improvisation and swing
- Contemporary Ensemble: Rock, pop, and modern styles
- Guitar Ensembles: Beginner and Advanced levels (Year 8 and above)
- Percussion Ensembles: orchestral percussion, Indonesian Gamelan, drum kit
- Vocal Groups: Choir and audition-based Vocal Ensemble
Instruments
- Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
- Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Oboe
- Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Euphonium, Tuba
- Percussion: Orchestral Percussion, Drum Kit (limited places)
- Voice: Choir and small vocal ensemble opportunities
- Bass/Guitar: Electric Bass, limited places for Acoustic/Electric Guitar (Year 8 and above)
Lesson Information
Our 30-minute lessons take place during class time on a rotating timetable, so students don’t miss the same subject each week. All lessons appear in Compass alongside regular classes, making it easy to stay organized. Ensemble rehearsals happen once per week, either before or after school.
Performance Opportunities
Music comes alive in performance! Our students showcase their talents through:
- Spring Concert – our major annual celebration of musical achievement
- Preston Music Festival – held across multiple stages in a festival-like atmosphere on campus
- Open Mic Nights – relaxed opportunities for students to try performing
- Victorian Schools Music Festival – compete and connect with musicians from across the state
- Community events and special school performances throughout the year
Ready to Join?
The Instrumental Music program operates on a user-pay basis with annual group tuition fees, plus optional instrument hire. Individual tuition is available for advanced students in Years 10-12, particularly those studying VCE Music.
Expression of Interest forms are distributed to incoming Year 7 families in late August, with applications due in early September. Places are limited due to ensemble balance requirements, so early application is encouraged.
Contact the Music Department via school reception for more information about joining Preston High School’s vibrant musical community.