Music

Renowned for its excellence, Mount Lawley Senior High School’s Music Program has inspired generations of young musicians, developing outstanding performers, passionate music-makers and lifelong lovers of music.

Our Music Program is designed to nurture creativity, performance skills and musical knowledge while providing students with pathways to further study, performance and industry opportunities. Along the way, students develop valuable transferable skills including confidence, teamwork, discipline, perseverance, communication, creativity and leadership.

Led by passionate and experienced educators, the program encourages students to explore their individual talents while working collaboratively with their peers. Enrichment opportunities include workshops, chamber ensembles, Music Club, student mentoring and a wide range of performances within the school and broader community.

Program Structure

During Years 7 to 9, students participate in:

  • Two classroom music lessons each week
  • One instrumental lesson each week
  • One ensemble rehearsal each week
  • Concert performances, assemblies and special events

Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of ensembles and performance opportunities that build musicianship, confidence and stage experience.

 

Senior School Pathways

The Music Program offers a range of pathways for students in Years 11 and 12, including:

  • ATAR Music

  • Contemporary Music

  • Western Art Music

  • Certificate III qualifications

  • Performance and industry-based learning opportunities

     

Instrumental Music

All students accepted into the Music Program are offered weekly instrumental lessons through Western Australia’s Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS) program. Students are allocated an instrument based on their interests, experience and the needs of the school’s ensembles.

With more than 15 instruments available, students receive specialist tuition while developing the skills required to perform as part of bands, orchestras and other ensembles. Students also have opportunities to participate in enrichment activities and collaborative performances throughout the year.

Students who currently receive private instrumental or vocal tuition may continue their studies privately while participating in the school’s Music Program. Regular lessons are expected to ensure students maintain the performance standards required for ensemble participation.

Ensemble Music

Performance is at the heart of the Music Program. All students participate in at least one ensemble, developing musicianship, teamwork, confidence and performance skills through regular rehearsals and concerts.

Our extensive ensemble program includes concert bands, string orchestras, big bands, jazz combos, contemporary ensembles, guitar ensembles, choir, chamber groups and rock bands. Students regularly perform at school events, assemblies, community functions, festivals and special performances throughout the year.

Many students choose to participate in multiple ensembles, creating a vibrant and rewarding musical community.

Performance Uniform

Music students are required to wear the official Music Performance Uniform for all concerts, assemblies and public performances.

The uniform consists of a school music shirt or blouse, worn with black trousers or an approved black skirt, together with black socks or stockings and black lace-up shoes.

Performance uniform items are available through the school Uniform Shop. Families are encouraged to order early to ensure required sizes are available ahead of scheduled performances.

A Community of Musicians

The Mount Lawley Senior High School Music Department is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive community where students are encouraged to pursue personal excellence and develop a lifelong appreciation for music.

Strong partnerships with tertiary institutions and community organisations provide valuable opportunities for students to engage with professional musicians, participate in workshops and showcase their talents through a variety of performances throughout the year.

Whether students aspire to a career in music or simply wish to enjoy the many benefits of music education, our program empowers every student to develop their skills, discover their potential and find their voice.

 

Further Information

For further information about the Music Program or application process, please contact:

Dijon Summers
Teacher in Charge – Music
dijon.summers@education.wa.edu.au

 

Application Process

Entry into the Mount Lawley Senior High School Music Program is by application and audition. The program is designed for students who demonstrate musical aptitude, commitment and a passion for performance.

Step 1 – Submit an Application
Families should complete the school's enrolment application and indicate their interest in the Music Program. Students residing outside the local intake area should select the Jazz Music Program option as part of their application.

Step 2 – Attend an Audition
Applicants will be invited to attend an audition and short interview. Students should prepare a performance on their chosen instrument or voice and may be asked to complete simple musical activities such as rhythm exercises, aural activities or scales where appropriate.

Students currently participating in the Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS) program should audition on their allocated instrument.

Step 3 – Assessment and Selection
Selection is based on musical potential, performance ability, commitment to music and the student's suitability for the program. Due to the limited number of places available, entry is competitive.

Step 4 – Offer of Placement
Successful applicants will be notified following the audition process and provided with information about commencing in the Music Program.

For further information about the Music Program or application process, please contact the school's Music Department.

 

Acknowledgement of Country

Mount Lawley Senior High School acknowledges the Whadjuk (Whadjak) People of the Nyoongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land. We pay our respects to their Elders, both past and present, and to their continuing connection to Noongar Boodja (Noongar Country).

Address

65 Woodsome Street
Mount Lawley
Western Australia 6050

Enquiries

Main Administration

+61 (8) 9265 1500 Email Main Administration

Alumni

Email Alumni

Sub-schools

Middle School (Years 7-8)

+61 (8) 9265 1573 Email Middle School

Upper School (Years 9-10)

+61 (8) 9265 1543 Email Upper School

Senior School (Years 11-12)

+61 (8) 9265 1535 Email Senior School

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