Music
MUSIC DEPARTMENT 2010.
Music is an integral part of Grove and has been one of the most important
marketing tools over the past years, where currently over 250 students are
involved in instrumenal tuition.
The Grove is fortunate to have a number of dedicated, enthusiastic and
experienced teachers, who strive to develop a love of music in every child,
learning to play a musical instrument.
Our staff is diverse in terms of types of instruments offered, as well as styles of music, from classical to folk, jazz, African and rock.
We are very aware of making it possible for children to learn an instrument, as this develops the brain in coping with other areas in the school curriculum.
It provides the opportunity for self expression, creativity and achievement.
WHY MUSIC in EDUCATION? 10 reasons!
Music develops intelligence in other areas
Music enriches life
Music contributes to the school and community environment
Music encourages teamwork and cohesiveness
Music generates discipline and commitment
Music is therapeutic
Music as a life skill enhances other skills : hand -eye co-ordination, listening,
memory perception, and general knowledge.
Music encourages the appreciation of different cultures, promoting a greater mutual understanding amongst those from diverse backgrounds
Music is a part of teaching of the ‘whole child'
INSTRUMENTS OFFERED
RECORDER. ( Grade 1 group tuition)
The recorder is an ideal instrument for students as it is manageable in size & technical scope.
The recorder is the best possible background and preparation for learning an orchestral instrument
The recorder helps to develop the emotional, physical, social and musical growth of a child through the integration of rhythm, singing and movement, in a relaxed environment.
The recorder exposes the students to music and gives us an opportunity to assess musicality in a fair and practical way.
PIANO TUITION
Once children are able to read they may start piano lessons, provided they show an aptitude for music. We presently have fifty budding pianists.
ORCHESTRAL INSTRUMENTS
String instruments as well as wind instruments are taught either individually or in small groups
These sections create magnificent sounds when mastered, but require plenty of discipline and dedication.
Presently we have over 20 children learning the violin, 5 fife students and 6 flautists.
CLASSICAL & CONTEMPORARY GUITAR
There are 3 guitar teachers, with over 60 budding guitarists.
This is a versatile instrument providing a solid musical foundation.
The classical style is a good place to start, especially for developing
an excellent technique and reading skills.
DRUM KIT
This gives students an opportunity to learn different styles and techniques of modern drumming
It develops co ordination and a strong sense of rhythm
EXTRA MURAL ACTIVITIES
WHAT DOES GROVE OFFER?
Junior & Senior choir
Madrigal Singers
Orff Ensemble
Orchestral Ensemble
String Ensemble
Recorder Ensemble
Marimba Bands
African Drumming
Flute Choir
Jazz Quintet 2009.
EVENTS
We believe in exposing children to so many different events, such as internal
and external concerts, examinations, eisteddfods, inter schools performances, concerts at Artscape, the Baxter Concert Hall, community functions and the like. We have also staged some wonderful musical productions, such as Alice
in Wonderland, Rats, and The Wizard of Oz.
Each year we have taken our Senior Marimba Band & orchestral ensemble members on a weekend tour to an amazing farm called Diademe in GREYTON, where they have enjoyed team building exercises, excursions to disadvantaged communities in Genadendal & the De Rust farm.This has been a highlight for our Grove musicians.
Last year our Senior choir spent a weekend at Goedgedacht Farm near Malmesbury where they were also involved with an outreach programme with
the rural children. This was a most worthwhile weekend for our children, especially to note how they were so willing to share their creative skills with
the children from a disadvantaged community, through song, dance and games.
Musathon
We hold an annual musathon for all our musicians, as a fun activity with the idea of raising funds for our music department. Each grade 7 committee member assists with this and it is great fun to hear music resounding through the corridors of Grove.
Workshops
We encourage our musicians to participate in workshops from time to time.
An excellent example is Francois le Roux, the HA! MAN, a creative facilitator, who uses the medium of music to entertain a receptive audience, on spontaneous creativity. This is a wonderful introduction for them to improvise freely, alongside Francois who accompanies them on keyboard, cello or voice.
Anthony Caplan, an expert in African Music who also composes in various styles, has led a very successful workshop on authentic African Instruments,
and their use in the 21century.
Michael Ryan has led drumming circles with parents and children.
Achievements
Many of our present as well as ex musicians continue to reach a high standard of performance and it is most satisfying to note how many have
continued in the field at tertiary level. Many of these musicians come back to share their talents with us!