ensemble NEWS

We have had a good start to 2026 with numbers growing in Symphonic Winds where we welcomed Year 7s and new students from other years.  Our jazz program is also expanding with many new students keen to develop their jazz skills.

Other ensembles are fluctuating in numbers so we are really keen to boost membership.  Please spread the word and ask your child to tap some friends to come along.  Everyone can be a choir member.

This year the following ensembles are being offered to students. These ensembles are directed by industry professionals with years of expertise in performing and educating.  We are very fortunate to have a group of experts to share their knowledge and skills with the students.  

Refer to Home Page of this website for the schedule and details.

– Symphonic Wind Ensemble (SWE) (Year 7 - 12)
– String Ensemble (Years 7 - 12)
- Choir (Years 7 - 12)
– MHS Jazz Ensemble (auditioned/by invitation only) Members must also be a member of SWE.
– Jazz Improv Years 7 - 12).  Members must also be a member of SWE.
– Percussion Ensemble (Years 7 - 12). Percussionists must be a member of  SWE.
– Guitar Ensemble (Years 7 - 12). Open to all guitarists. Core ensemble for guitarists.

*Bolded are Core Ensembles

New Faces

We are delighted to have some new faces on our conducting and tutoring team.

• Ash Lane - our new Choir Director

• Dave Wooltorton - Guitar Ensemble Director

• James Sarno - Trumpet Tutor

• Shay Perry - Vocal Tutor

• Toby Brown - Violin & Viola Tutor

These people bring their experience and inspiring approach to their roles and join our other excellent group of tutors and directors to form a strong team.  We are very excited to have them with us.

Ensemble Program Overview
The Music Ensemble Program is focused on helping students grow as confident, skilled and engaged musicians.  The program aligns with the music curriculum, creating  and delivering exciting performance and learning opportunities. 

A big part of the program is providing enriching experiences—such as performances, workshops and special projects—that develops students musically and enjoyment of being part of a team. A professional Ensembles Manager works closely with the music staff, conductors and tutors to set direction and deliver the many aspects of the program.

Parents are encouraged to support the program, particularly through fundraising, support on events and social activities that help build a strong and supportive music community.

Performances and Events - Term 2
Refer to performances and events page for list of upcoming events (so far). Keep an eye on the website for updates to the calendar.  This week it includes and EOI for a proposed regional tour.

Keeping informed
Private tutors will communicate directly with families/students about lesson times etc

Ensembles - we use a range of channels to communicate with ensemble families.  For smaller groups the director may communicate directly with their groups.  

For larger ensembles - each ensemble has a google classroom where messages are posted. The student will receive an e-mail on the school email when new information is poste.  Parents can also be added to the google classroom by the student.   This is used for reminders, links to music and other information the students need to be aware of.  We also post notices on noticeboards in the rehearsal room and on the school noticeboard system which is read out to them in their first class each day. Of course, music teachers will let students know when they see them in class.

Communication to parents is via e-mail, whats app, when immediate information needs to be communciated, facebook (mosmanhighmusic) for interest items, sometimes text message when there is an urgent message.  The website is helpful for performance information, rehearsals, registrations for ensembles and private tuition, fees and more.   When you are sent a message it usually means it's information you need to know or act on so please read those messages and ask questions if anything requires clarification.

We do ask the band members to ensure they pass messages onto parents.  We continue to look at other channels as needed which are consistent with the school communications channels.  

Questions
Please email mosmanhighmusic@gmail.com if you have questions about our ensembles or tutoring.