Ensembles
Ensembles
Click for info on:
Choirs | Classical & Acoustic Ensembles | Contemporary Ensembles
Ensembles are an important part of our music program and provide students the opportunity to learn and play music across a range of styles and genres. Students apply the technical skills they are developing in their lessons, as well as learning ensemble based skills that only come from rehearsing and performing with other musicians. Ensembles also provide social and community engagement for students, with weekly rehearsals, camps, and regular performance opportunities through the year. The experience of music making also encourages teamwork and helps students develop resilience.
If you want your child to be more resilient, get them to join a choir, orchestra or band
– The Conversation (October 24, 2022) by Dr William James Baker, Anne-Marie Forbes, Kim McLeod
As part of enrolling for instrumental lessons, students will be able to submit an expression of interest for any ensemble. Students will need to select at least one core ensemble to participate in as part of their instrumental lessons. In addition to a core ensemble, students may also select to participate in an elective of audition based ensemble.
Student preferences will be provided to all ensemble leaders.
- Ensemble Leaders for core ensembles will be in touch at the beginning of the school year regarding ensemble participation and requirements. This may include follow up regarding students who have selected a senior ensemble.
- Ensemble Leaders for elective/audition ensembles mostly run required auditions throughout Term 4. This will occasionally extend into the beginning of Term 1.
We recommend students consider the following information when choosing an ensemble:
- Style/s of music performed
- Ensemble instrumentation
- Ability level
- Audition requirements
Students not enrolled in the school instrumental program are welcome to join and/or audition for any ensemble of interest, however a $200 fee applies for each ensemble.
Ensembles
Core Ensembles | Elective/Audition Ensembles |
---|---|
Arnold St (Concert Band) | Contemporary Jazz Ensemble (CJE) |
Orchestra | Stage Band |
Used Car Horns (saxophone ensemble) | Latin Band |
Strung Out (Junior Strings) | Soul Band |
String Collective (Senior Strings) | Planet Seven (Year 7 only) |
Percussion Ensemble | Planet Eighty-Nine (Years 8 & 9 only) |
Intermezzo Guitar Ensemble | Woodwind Ensemble |
Senior Guitar Ensemble | Conteporary Choir (audition based) |
Junior Choir (Years 7 & 8) | Rhapsody (Advanced Choir, audition based) |
Senior Choir (Years 9+) | Vocal Group (Advanced Choir, 5 positions only) |
Extension Opportunities
Each year we look for opportunities where student-led ensembles can be facilitated with support from the Music Department.

For more information about the Music Department please call 9389 0622,
or email musicadmin@phsc.vic.edu.au.
