Music
Music Overview
St James’ has a rich musical culture with students from Pre-Primary to Year 6 having Music class twice a week. Lessons are inspired by the Kodály method and have students actively involved in learning music concepts through singing, dancing and playing games. As well as in class, there are multiple opportunities for students outside of class to further their music skills and create music together in ensembles.
Year 4 Recorder Program
Learning the recorder is a simple, accessible way to build core musical skills like rhythm, pitch, and breath control. It’s inexpensive, easy to start, and helps develop coordination and listening abilities that transfer to other instruments in later years. Playing it can also boost concentration, creativity, and confidence, and introduces the idea to students of taking their instrument home to practice.
Year 5 Band Program
In Year 5, students choose if they wish to opt-in to the Band Program or continue in regular Music lessons. An opt-in Band Program creates a stronger, more motivated group of musicians, respects student interests and uses school resources wisely, leading to better musical and educational outcomes overall. Students who do not choose to participate in the Band Program still receive two music lessons a week but use more typical classroom instruments such as recorder or ukulele. Students in the Band Program receive two music lessons a week (one of which will be a band rehearsal) as well as a small group lesson on their assigned instrument with a tutor. Small group lessons are 30 minutes long and run from 8:00 to 10:00 on a rotating schedule to minimise any disruption to the regular Year 5 timetable. Instruments available for the Band Program include flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion; this instrument is loaned to students from the school for the year (free of charge).
Year 6 Taiko Program
Taiko drumming builds physical strength, coordination, and stamina through powerful, full-body movements, while sharpening rhythm and timing. It also promotes focus, discipline, and teamwork, as performances often rely on tight group synchronization. Beyond the physical and mental benefits, it offers a strong sense of cultural connection and emotional release, making it both energizing and deeply rewarding.
Instrumental Lessons
In addition to classroom Music lessons, student may sign up for instrumental lessons with our team of talented tutors. Learning an instrument strengthens memory, coordination, and problem-solving while improving focus and discipline. It provides a creative outlet for self-expression and can reduce stress, boosting overall wellbeing. Over time, it also builds confidence and perseverance, and can create social opportunities through performing or playing with others. At St James’ Anglican School we offer tuition for many instruments including Guitar, Ukulele, Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, Vocal, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone and Percussion.
Please follow the link below to sign your child up for instrumental lessons:
Music Ensembles
Junior School Choir
Junior School Choir is available for students in Years 3-6. Singing in a choir improves vocal skills, breathing and musical awareness while building discipline and teamwork through group harmony. It also boosts mental wellbeing by reducing stress and creating a sense of belonging, as members work together toward shared performances. Over time, it builds confidence, listening skills and strong connections. Students have the opportunity to perform at assemblies, concerts and a special tour at the end of the year to local Aged Care Homes to link in with our value of Service.
Concert Band
Concert Band is available to students who have participated in the Year 5 Band Program and wish to continue with their instruments in Year 6. Concert band is great for students because it develops musical skills like reading music, tone, and ensemble playing while building discipline and teamwork. It encourages responsibility, as each player contributes to the group’s success, and improves focus and time management through regular practice. Being part of a band also boosts confidence, provides social connections, and gives students a rewarding sense of achievement through performances.
Junior School Rock Band
Junior School Rock Band is available for students in Years 4 – 6 and requires no prior experience. Students learn to put together a band and sing contemporary rock and pop songs using instruments such as voice, keyboard, guitar, bass and drumkit. Students are given the opportunity to perform throughout the year in low-stakes performances for the Junior School.