Music programs

This is where students begin their musical journey. Both instrumental skills and music reading skills are taught and developed. (Students are required to attend a weekly band rehearsal and tutorial. These are held on Wednesday and Thursday mornings starting promptly at 7.40am).

Once students have learnt sufficient instrumental and music reading skills in the Junior Concert Band, they move into the Senior Concert Band. This band is also for students who come to Winmalee High School with instrumental skills in Year 7. The Senior Concert Band works on developing skills beyond an elementary level through to an advanced level. (Students are required to attend a weekly band rehearsal and tutorial. These are held on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings starting promptly at 7.40am).

This ensemble is aimed at those students who would like to extend their ability and experience a contrast in musical styles to that of the Concert Bands.  Membership is by invitation only (Thursday afternoons 3.00pm – 4.00pm). No additional cost if you are in the school's Concert Band.

There are two Vocal Groups. The larger of the two is an all inclusive ensemble open to all students. The smaller vocal ensemble is a select group of students chosen via audition (Monday afternoons from 3.00pm).

This ensemble caters for guitarists at a range of playing levels from beginner to advanced (Monday mornings starting promptly at 7.30am).  

This ensemble caters for our violinists, cellists and double bassists. They rehearse on Tuesday mornings before school in the TLS. This group is lead by Mr Cranby. 

We are very fortunate to have all our sectionals taught by professionals in the music industry. As a result, our tutors teach explicit skills and techniques in their chosen instrumental field. Students will be expected to complete regular practise in their own time to further enhance their musical development.

Please see below for Private Tuition fee information.

The payment of fees is vital to the success of the Band/Instrumental Program. Therefore payment of all fees is extremely important. Every dollar of tutor/ instrumental fees paid is invested into the music programs. Without the fees system, tutors could not be employed and resources such as larger band equipment, sheet music, music stands, etc would be very limited. Quality tutors and adequate resources are integral to the long term success of the Instrumental Program at Winmalee High School.

The instrumental fees can be paid by the term, in full or by regular payments.  If there are any financial difficulties please do not let this deter you from joining or continuing with one of our instrumental programs, you are encouraged to contact Mr McGown to discuss alternative payment methods.

Band Structure and Fees 2023 (PDF 405 KB)
Application form for Band, Vocal Group, Guitar Ensemble and String Ensemble 2023 (PDF 297 KB)

Some students may wish to hire a school-owned instrument from the music department. The cost of hiring of a school instrument is $30 per term.. Available instruments are limited and preference is given to students starting in the band program.  If you wish to hire a school-owned instrument you will need to see Mrs Fox for a hire agreement form and more details.

If you wish to purchase an instrument 18 month interest free purchase plans are available from some reputable music stores such as Engadine Music (Engadine) and Sax and Woodwind (Camperdown).  Often we can get further discounts through the school.  If you are interested in this offer please come and speak to either Mr McGown or Mrs Fox in the Music staff room.

We are very fortunate to be able to offer private instrumental tuition during the school day.  We have professional tutors of the highest calibre teaching our instrumental lessons. Through our experience we know that students who receive private music lessons progress more quickly and get more enjoyment from the school’s music program.  Our lesson prices are very competitive and are often much lower over the whole year than other music schools and private tutors in the local area.   Currently we have lessons in all woodwind and brass instruments as well as piano. 

Please download the 2023 application form for private instrumental tuition (PDF 357 KB) for more information.