MUSIC IN FOCUS

About the Program

Music in Focus is a school-based specialist program designed for our local intake students currently studying an instrument with IMSS (Instrumental Music School Services), or who are receiving private lessons on a musical instrument.

We also offer intake for students who are accepted into Gifted and Talented and/or other specialist programs (Aviation, Graphic Design Media, or Netball – timetable permitting) and who may be out of area.

Just like the other specialist programs offered at Melville Senior High School, Music in Focus is a timetabled class which will take the place of one elective subjects on a student’s timetable (two hours per week). This will increase to two elective class equivalents in Year 9 and 10 (four hours per week).

The program offers a range of musical opportunities through sequential learning in solo, group and ensemble performances and instrumental lessons.

Music in Focus is a four-year program, designed for passionate students wishing to extend their knowledge and performance abilities in music. It is also to prepare students for a career pathway in the music industry and for tertiary study at university.

In Year 7 and 8

Students have Music in Focus class twice per week, where they grow their understanding of aural and theory, history and culture, composition, music technology, and performance.

Students will attend weekly IMSS lessons (or private instrumental tutoring), and an ensemble rehearsal.

Students will be involved in music masterclasses with industry professionals annually and will perform at school and IMSS music events each term.

In Year 9 and 10

Students have Music in Focus class four times per week, and they continue to grow and explore their capabilities in aural and theory, history and culture, composition, music technology and performance. This is extended with project-based learning, industry workshops, and excursions to universities and TAFE locations for further music extension.

Students will continue to attend weekly IMSS lessons (or private tuition), and at least music ensemble.

In year 10, students have the opportunity to engage in additional music studies by enrolling in the VET qualification ‘Certificate II in Music’, which is a practical and performance-based qualification. This course has a one year duration and is delivered as an elective class in addition to the Music in Focus classes.

Year 10 students will also begin their preparation to transition into the senior school music courses. Students choose from the following pathway options for Year 11 and 12:
a) Music ATAR
b) Certificate III in Music – two-year qualification with a specialisation in performance
c) PIMS – Instrumental and ensemble music. An endorsed program that contributes to a students’ WACE attainment.

Music Ensembles

Student participation in a music ensemble is a compulsory aspect of the Music in Focus program. Students are allocated an IMSS or extra-curricular ensemble based on their year level, experience and instrument they play. These are directed and conducted by IMSS and Music in Focus teachers.

Our music ensembles and class bands perform at school-based concerts each term, WA School Festivals, and performances in our local community.

The current ensembles are Melville Vox, Junior and Senior Contemporary Guitar Ensembles, Intermediate Concert Band, Senior Concert Band, and the Junior and Senior Classical Guitar Ensembles. Our school also offers extension for those students wishing to learn and perform jazz, funk and soul, with our school Swing Band. This ensemble is suitable for Year 9 students and older, with entry by audition or invitation.

Course Requirements

The requirements of our program are summarised as:

• Students who accept a place in the program are agreeing to participate in the Music in Focus course until the end of Year 10 (four-year commitment).
• Attendance to Music in Focus classes (2 classes per week, increasing to 4 classes per week in Year 9 onwards)
• A weekly lesson on an IMSS instrument; in some cases, this can be private tuition.
• Weekly attendance to an IMSS or extra-curricular music ensemble rehearsal

Commitment

Students who accept a place in the program are agreeing to participate in the Music in Focus course until the end of Year 10 (four-year commitment). This is due to the following reasons:

• Instruments are offered based on the needs of the program, and there are no opportunities to start IMSS lessons in later years.
• Those who accept a place are valuable members of the program.
• Successful completion of the Music in Focus program will allow Year 11 and 12 students to continue their free IMSS lessons for Music ATAR, Certificate III in Music, and the PIMS endorsed program.
• Four years is the minimum amount of time identified by researchers to ensure life-long changes to the brains structure and ability to react.
• Music is challenging and requires discipline and resilience.

IMSS Instruments available at Melville SHS

Enrolment and Testing

Enrolment for the Music in Focus Program and the opportunity to have school IMSS lessons involves a testing process when students are in Year 5 and/or 6. There is an academic test as well as an audition. Students in other year groups are welcome to apply to join the program as vacancies arise. This involves an academic test, and depending on the results of the test, an audition by invitation in Semester 1. If you are interested in applying for the Music in Focus program, please fill in an application below, and read more about the program in the Specialist and Focus Program Prospectus is HERE.

PLEASE NOTE: Students can only apply for Music in Focus if they live within the Melville SHS intake area or are in a Gifted and Talented or Specialist Program (Aviation, Graphic Design Media or Netball).