Music

Music at Friends' is on the move, thanks to the skilful direction of Director of Music, Judith Tudball.

Music Curriculum
All students from the Early Years Program to Year 12 have the opportunity to study music with it being a mandatory subject for students from Kinder to Year 7. Students from Year 8 to 12 may choose to study music as an elective subject. Several strands of Music are offered at Clemes (Year 11 and 12) for the TCE, as well as Higher Level Music for the International Baccalaureate.

High School and Clemes Music classes take place in the recently opened Sheila Given Music Centre on the Commercial Road campus. Morris students have their lessons in a dedicated music room on the Argyle Street Campus.

There are presently four classroom music teachers on staff, two working in the Morris and two working in the High School and at Clemes.

Singing is becoming a significant part of our school life. Community singing, led by Music Teacher Catherine Cretan, has been a feature of Wells and Walpole gatherings in Morris for some time.

Music Co-Curriculum
Friends' offers a vibrant co-curricular music program which sees a significant number of students involved. At present the following ensembles are offered to our students:

String Ensemble (Years 7-12)
Concert Band (Years 7-12)
Stage Band (Years 7-12)
School Choir (Years 7-12)
Vocal Ensemble (Years 7-12)
Guitar Ensemble (Years 7-12)
Flute Choir (Years 7-12)
Year 7/8 Marimba Ensemble
Year 9/10 Marimba Ensemble
Morris Choir
Morris Minors Choir
Morris Band
Morris String Ensemble

The ensembles are mostly directed by the music staff, with additional support staff in a number of instances. The ensembles perform regularly at school concerts, eisteddfods, assemblies and other special events.

Instrumental Tuition Scheme
Students at The Friends' School have the opportunity to receive individual tuition on an instrument through the Instrumental Tuition Scheme. A number of instrumental staff are employed by the School to provide instrumental tuition including woodwind, string, piano, percussion, brass and guitar teachers.

Music Awards
High School and Clemes students involved in the co-curricular program are eligible to apply for Music Awards towards the end of the school year. The awards exist to recognise musical ability, commitment, and service to music.

Friendsmusic
Music Staff and students enjoy the support of Friendsmusic, a parent group which assists with fundraising and concerts. Friendsmusic meets regularly and is convened by the Director of Music. Music at Friends' has also received considerable support from the School's Parents and Friends' Association.

For more information about Music at Friends' contact Judith Tudball, Director of Music.