THE HAPPIEST SOUNDS IN THE WORLD
Music is a valuable part of a well-rounded education. From maths and science to reading and beyond, children perform better in almost every area when there is music in the curriculum. At St Peter’s it all starts in the Junior Prep, where a love of music is nurtured. At the same time, our wish is that the girls enjoy a variety of activities that give them experiential knowledge of music concepts that will be reinforced throughout their musical journey at St Peter’s Prep and beyond. Alongside these, it is evident that music helps to develop critical life skills.
The Music Department is a vibrant hive of activity, as music emanates from this part of the school throughout the day . . .
During our weekly class music activities, our girls use a variety of skills simultaneously. The girls must listen to those around them, look at symbols/musical notes while playing their instruments and/or using their voices. Working together to create a piece of music develops skills such as collaboration, discipline, co-operation and humility. Learning about orchestral instruments and music history opens up new doors of understanding.
At St Peter’ the girls learn life skills through music.
Ensemble performance is a vital tool used in music education. St Peter’s prides itself on creating opportunities like the Orchestra, numerous Choirs, Grade 6 and 7 Marimba bands, iPad band and Rock band to encourage creativity, collaboration and initiative whilst giving the girls a well-rounded exposure to musicianship. The girls learn about leadership, being a team member and about how to work with a diverse group of people with varying skill sets and talents. The girls experience the excitement of achievement and sometimes (even more importantly) we allow them to experience the discomfort of not achieving excellence on their first attempt.
At St Peter’s, a love for singing is nurtured. In Grade 2, the girls have the opportunity to join the JP Choir. Grade 3 and 4 girls can choose to be part of the Cadet Choir. Grade 5-7 girls can audition to be a chorister in the Chapel or Chamber Choir that leads weekly Chapel services. Some Grade 7s are selected to be part of the ‘Legacy’ singing group.
During the school week, 312 girls are involved in learning to play a variety of instruments, including the flute, saxophone, trumpet, piano and many more.
Grade 1 - 4 Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music theory is offered on a Wednesday morning where girls work through the syllabus in a safe and nurturing environment as part of a group. An international exam is held in October.
Please feel free to contact the Music Department for more information about any ensemble.
‘With music, one’s whole future life is brightened. This is such a treasure in life that helps us overcome many troubles and difficulties. Music is nourishment, a comforting elixir. Music multiplies all that is beautiful and of value in life.’ – Zoltan Kodaly
