Ormiston State School is proud to offer one of the largest and most successful Instrumental Music Band programs in the region. Designed for students in Years 4-5-6, our program provides outstanding performance opportunities while fostering musical excellence, teamwork and confidence.
The Instrumental Music Program is a co-curricular subject and follows a structured curriculum. Students undertake regular assessments throughout the year and receive end-of-semester grades, reflecting their progress, engagement and musical development.
The program features two Concert Bands and an auditioned extension ensemble, our Stage Band. Membership in Stage Band is in addition to participation in the Senior Concert Band. All ensembles perform regularly at school and community events and consistently represent Ormiston State School at local eisteddfods and competitions throughout the year.
Entry into the Instrumental Music Program occurs through a selection process held in Term 3, with students primarily selected in Year 3 in preparation for commencement in Year 4. Selection is based on a range of factors including musical aptitude, behaviour, and a student's ability to manage the additional commitment alongside their classroom learning.
Students receive a weekly 30-minute instrumental lesson and learn from the Woodwind, Brass or Percussion families. In addition to lessons, participation in an ensemble is a core requirement of the program.
An annual participation fee applies and contributes to competition entry fees, workshops, and the purchase of new music and resources. A limited number of larger, higher-value instruments are available for hire through the school for eligible students. All students are also required to purchase the Ormiston State School Performance Music Shirt and wear black trousers, black socks and black shoes for performances.
Instrumental Music participation at Ormiston SS offers:
- Academic and personal growth – Learning an instrument supports concentration, memory, discipline and resilience.
- High-quality music education – Students follow a structured curriculum with regular assessment and reporting.
- Performance opportunities – Frequent performances build confidence, stage presence and pride in achievement.
- Teamwork and belonging – Ensemble participation fosters collaboration, responsibility and strong peer connections.
- Pathways for extension – Auditioned ensembles such as Stage Band provide challenge and enrichment for highly motivated students.
- A proud tradition of success – Our bands consistently perform at a high level and represent Ormiston State School with excellence in the wider community.