Music

The music program follows a sequential Kodály inspired pedagogy where students build on musical experiences across year levels. During weekly lessons, students from Pre-Primary to Year 6 explore the elements of music, develop skills in singing and playing percussion instruments and learn to respond to a variety of music including Aboriginal music using the Noongar language.

The Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS) Program offers a comprehensive instrumental music selection of flute, clarinet, brass (trumpet, baritone, trombone), percussion, guitar and  strings (cello, violin, viola). Testing for selection in the program is held in Year 3 and 4 to begin lessons from Year 4 and 5. Specialist instrumental teachers visit the school weekly to provide tuition. This is a wonderful opportunity for the students to develop a love for music which can be pursued throughout their secondary education in a public high school and become a lifelong endeavour. 

Students selected for IMSS participate in a Concert Band ensemble. The Band provides an environment to develop listening, reading and performing skills as part of a team.

Harrisdale Primary School also provides opportunities for students in Year 5 and 6 to belong to Choir where students are encouraged to participate in rehearsal and performances such as the Massed Choir Festival. Both Band and Choir are about developing a sense of belonging and responsibility that they can apply to other areas of their lives as they grow and develop.