Music Program

BSE offers a Specialist Music Program for students to learn instruments and play in a range of ensembles. We are proud of the high standard our students achieve, and the fun they have in the process. Our bands and orchestras have earned wide recognition and many awards.

We are also proud to see the flow-on benefits for the students, such as: improved organisation; self-discipline; friendships; enhanced academic performance. Each year, a high percentage of BSE’s top academic award winners are students who are enrolled in the Music Program. For all enquiries please contact the Music Coordinator, Warwick Cohen, by email: warwick.cohen@education.vic.gov.au

Check out this cute “Ted Talk” video about Music and brain activity. Amazing info! 

WHAT IS THE BSE MUSIC PROGRAM?

  • The Music Program at BSE is open to all students and provides a specialist learning opportunity. We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step from the very beginning. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. 
  • Students participate in Instrumental lessons as well as Ensemble Classes including Guitar Ensemble, String Ensemble, Choir, and Concert Band.
  • We offer weekly lessons with qualified specialist staff, each with extensive skills and training in their discipline. Lessons are available for most instruments, including voice, woodwind, brass, strings, guitar, and percussion.
  • Instruments are available for hire at a subsidised rate through the department hire scheme. 
  • An emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of playing, including regular rehearsals (twice per week). Working towards performances, competitions, and community events helps students build skills, confidence, and pride in their achievements.
  • To complement students’ practical skills, students also receive training in music theory and written notation.
  • A strong focus is placed on integrating students’ passion for music with their academic progress, recognising the well-known academic and personal benefits of learning an instrument.
  • As students progress through the program, they are offered opportunities to extend their skills through extra ensembles, AMEB exams, solo performances, learning second instruments, and joining community music groups.

WHAT INSTRUMENT SHOULD MY CHILD PLAY?

  • The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something they enjoy. I encourage you to visit the website www.bepartofthemusic.org, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options.
  • We will also help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Together, we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success.

JOINING THE MUSIC PROGRAM IN 2027

BSE Music teachers and students will visit many Primary Schools later this year to meet the grade 6 students and show them the instruments they can choose to play at BSE in 2027.

· In the first 2 weeks of Term 1 next year, ALL year 7 students will take part in the Instrument Discovery Day, where they will have a 5-minute lesson on 5 or 6 different instruments, to try them out and get an idea about which one they’d like to learn.

· In the following week, students have the opportunity to attend a full-length lesson with a specialist teacher, to try out one instrument properly. If they like that experience, they can sign up for weekly Instrumental lessons for the rest of the year. We have specialist teachers on Brass, Woodwind, Strings, Percussion, Voice and Guitar.

· Students who sign up to learn an instrument will also join a Music Ensemble class (Concert Band, Choir, Strings or Guitar Ensemble) which is like a rehearsal, and runs twice a week.

· All Instrumental lessons and Music Ensemble classes run during the school day.

 

MUSIC INFORMATION NIGHT

All year 7 students and their parents are invited to the Music Information Night on Tuesday 16/02/2027, in the BSE Theatre.

Students can try all the instruments again, and show their parents which ones they’d like to learn. Parents can meet the Music teachers and find out more about the Music Program.

 

MUSIC ENROLMENT FORMS will be available at the Music Information night, and from Music teachers from 17/02/27 onwards.