music education
in australia
Upper Yarra Secondary College
Director of Music Syd Jackson
Upper Yarra Secondary College is a government school of 750 students that services the communities located in the Upper Yarra region about 60 kilometres East of Melbourne. The area is one of financial hardship and is not only low on employment prospects but also cultural and social opportunities.
The geographical characteristics of the Upper Yarra district create barriers that isolate families and impede community connectedness. Major negative changes in the local economy and local industries have occurred with the closure and restructuring of numerous major employers resulting in a significantly higher than average unemployment rate.
A strong community orientated school music program assists greatly in overcoming this with every opportunity provided to both the youth of the area and the local community being valued very strongly by the wider community.
The UYSC Music Program consists of 3 concert bands, a jazz ensemble, a choir, a percussion ensemble and numerous small groups creating music of a wide variety of genres, as well as an extensive classroom music program. It involves 6 music teachers and utilises the help of other teachers, parents, senior students, past students and the wider community.
There is a strong focus on enjoying the social, communal and aesthetic benefits that a practical based musical education can provide.
Particularly pleasing is the long-lasting impact that the Music Program has with numerous past students having studied music and music teaching at a tertiary level.
Music Captain and Year 12 Student Nicci De Podolinsky
The Upper Yarra Secondary College Music Department thrives on community support. As students we understand that community support is integral to the Music Department’s success.
Making music with others is very rewarding as it gives us an opportunity to expand our horizons, make new friends and learn from new experiences.
Playing music for people in the community is also a gratifying experience as the joy that our music brings into others’ lives is extremely satisfying.
The Music Department participates in many community events – all enriching our musical experience. We have also travelled to New Zealand and Queensland, playing at numerous community events-furthering our connection not only with our local communities (during fundraising events) but also with international communities (during our stay).
Previous community events have also included hosting music students from other regional schools – forming many strong bonds, and even a ‘mentoring program’ within our Music Program.
It is clear to us that the community is what keeps our Music Department active and in high spirits.
Therefore, Community Connectedness is extremely important to us and we will strive to keep this vital relationship with our community thriving, as we truly believe that maintaining community connections and support is imperative to the future of our Music Department.
