The opportunity to engage in music and theatre has many proven benefits for young learners. Academically and socially, performing arts provide a positive and creative environment for the building and advancement of many skills; communication, confidence and self-esteem, organisation and group dynamics all are enhanced, as is their sense of community and belonging.
Instrumental Music Program
Students at Whitefriars are offered the opportunity to enrol in individual instrumental lessons. These 30 minute lessons are scheduled each week with the timetable operating on a rotating basis so that students do not regularly miss any one subject. These tuition sessions can be individual or group based and work in conjunction with the music program offered in the curriculum. There is also the opportunity for primary school students to begin their instrumental music education at Whitefriars, with limited after school lesson times available. Tuition is available in Classical and Popular Voice, Piano, Theory, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Euphonium, French Horn, Saxophone, Double Bass, Violin, Viola, Cello, Percussion and Drums and Classical, Electric and Bass Guitar. Many of the Instrumental music teachers assist with the performance side of their musical tuition with students presenting in relaxed and informal environments, such as lunchtime performances for the College community and onsite studio concerts for parents. Students are further encouraged to explore and perform a wide variety of musical styles and to enter external ANZCA and AMEB examinations.
Ensemble Program
To complement the classroom and instrumental programs, we also offer performance opportunities to become involved in one of our many dynamic ensembles. Students rehearse outside of school hours and are provided with ample performance opportunities both within and outside the College, performing at local primary school fetes, fairs and festivals. Musical talents are also showcased with intrastate and interstate concerts. The students showcase their skills with pride and enthusiasm.
Our ensembles include:
- Junior and Senior Concert Bands
- Junior, Intermediate and Senior Guitar Ensembles
- Percussion Ensembles
- College Choir
- Woodwind Ensembles
- Classical Guitar Ensembles
- Rock Bands
- Stage Band
- Jazz Combo
- Global Rhythm Ensemble
- Drum Line
- String Fusion Ensemble
Whitefriars also offers the opportunity to be involved in the annual musical production alongside students from Siena College. The boys have performed in productions such as Fame, Barnam, West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof and Godspell. The students are able to engage in all aspects of theatre production including performance, lighting, staging and sound. Senior Theatre and Drama students also perform in Senior Plays, the most recent being 12 Angry Men.
