Mount Riverview hosts programs for students to extend their learning via extra curricular activities.
School band program
The school band program normally operates for primary students, and consists of a weekly group instrument (by instrument and ability) and a band rehearsal (junior band/senior band). This is an extra-curricular program that children and parents commit to at a set cost per week. The band performs at our Captains' Assemblies and other special school events.
Unfortunately, our band program is unable to run at present but we are looking for tutors and a conductor to get this up and running again.
Choir
Mrs Somerville and Miss Beard are training our school choir. In previous years, the Mount Riverview Public School choir has successfully auditioned for the Opera House choir several years in a row, a process which has become more selective each year. The choir also works on performances for school and local events.
Dance
From Year 2, students have the opportunity to participate in dance groups. Dance groups happen during mornings or lunch times. Dance groups perform at stage assemblies and other school events.
Music appreciation
When the opportunity arises, we have hosted Musica Viva and other classical music artists, and used their educational material in the classroom to prepare for their visit. This gives the children the opportunity to experience classical music traditions in an informal and friendly environment. This program is co-ordinated by Mrs Blythe and Miss Beard.
Instrument choices
For various reasons instrumental tuition begins at different ages on different instruments. Wind and brass instruments are generally started later than string instruments and recorders because the lungs need to be quite well developed in order to be able to play them
Years 1 and 2
- Recorder, violin or cello only (many small sizes available to hire)
- Guitar from Year 2 (half sizes available)
Year 3 and above
- Wind, brass or percussion instruments
- Recorder, violin or cello (if numbers permit an older beginners class will be run)
It is not recommended that children learn a musical instrument while they are in kindergarten. This is a very tiring year and experience has shown that most children have enough to do learning to cope with the new school situation.
Instrument hire
Instruments may be hired from the music committee. First year learners are given preference in the hiring of instruments. This gives beginners the opportunity to find out whether they enjoy their chosen instrument without the expense of having to purchase their own instrument immediately. Instrument hire may be possible for second or even third year learners, depending on availability.
Tuition
Qualified music tutors are employed by the music committee to provide private music lessons on a variety of instruments for students participating in any of the school music ensembles. Students generally have a half hour lesson once a week in addition to their weekly group rehearsal.