Last week Year 7 students took part in a Music Expo which allowed them to meet the teachers and see the instruments on offer. This event followed the morning’s celebration assembly where the current leaders encouraged all students to ‘try something new’. This was an inspirational message to our students as many of OLMC’s past and current leaders have been active members of the Music Department since arriving in Year 7. Lunchtime saw our first ever lunchtime sign-ups for music ensembles and the number of girls excited to take part in a choir or band in 2022 was extremely encouraging. Whilst it may be daunting being at a new school with lots of subjects and teachers, learning a musical instrument is unique as it teaches not only skills that can be transferred to many areas of learning, but many which can only be taught when learning how to play music. So, even though you may be worried about missing out on 20-30 minutes of a school subject once or twice a term, as our music timetable rotates, we are sure you will benefit academically, musically and socially when in your music lesson or ensemble.
If you would like to find out more about the benefits of learning an instrument we recommend you watch the following very interesting tedtalk https://www.ted.com/talks/anita_collins_how_playing_an_instrument_benefits_your_brain?language=en or read the following article from The Australian Government which discusses some of the benefits of learning an instrument https://www.learningpotential.gov.au/articles/musical-benefits.
Applications are still being accepted for all instrumental music lessons, with scholarships in some brass and woodwind instruments currently open for students in Years 7 and 8. We encourage you to seriously consider being a part of this worthwhile program in 2022 and we look forward to showcasing the talent OLMC has to offer throughout the year.
Jo-Anne Mileto
Instrumental Music Coordinator
