Ensembles
Every student has the opportunity to audition to be part of a Primary Dance, Drama, Vocal or Instrumental Ensemble. An ensemble is a small group of students who perform as a specialised group. Auditions are held in Term 1 and students can audition for multiple ensembles in various performing arts areas.
All students will be part of an ensemble in their auditioned performing arts area. However, students can be successful in gaining a position into a second or third ensemble in other performing arts areas. Students can be in a maximum of three ensembles each year. Rehearsal times occur once per week, during school hours. However, performances can occur outside of school hours. Anticipated dates of events are provided at the beginning of each term, and further information, including times, is provided as soon as it is available.
These groups often have the opportunity to perform at Regional and/or State level and perform extra works at other events throughout the calendar year. Some of these ensembles run for the full year. Others are created for, and run for, the duration of a special event; e.g. Star Struck, School Musical, Junior Theatre Festival.
Dance
Multiple dance ensembles are offered each year. These ensembles can be based on specific year groups or skill levels to meet the needs of the students. Dance ensembles may focus on styles such as contemporary, jazz, classical or tap, or can be specific eg. boys dance ensemble.
Drama Ensembles
Multiple drama ensembles are offered each year. Drama ensembles focus on a specific concept that teachers select based on the skills, knowledge, understanding and experience of students. They cover a variety of drama themes and are appropriate to the age of the students involved.
Vocal
Multiple vocal ensembles run annually for students in Years 3-6. Proms and Purple Choir are opportunity choirs designed to develop vocal technique and ensemble skills of enthusiastic and talented students regardless of core performing art. Participation in the Vocal Ensemble is based on skill as part of our extension music programs. Members of all ensembles participate in a variety of local, regional and state events.
Instrumental
A variety of bespoke instrumental ensembles run each year based on the needs and skills of the students. Some ensembles require specific skills in an instrument and others are focused on student involvement in music and key music skills and technique. Ensembles can include, but are not limited to, percussion, concert band or orchestra, and strings. All music ensembles focus on developing students’ musicianship skills and their love for music.
Note: Marching Band is the main ensemble for wind, brass and percussion. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays after school in the band centre.
Instrumental opportunities for dance and drama students. If your child was involved in a band/string program at their previous school or is keen to start, please contact Ms Adam to find out how they can be best supported at HSPA to continue with their music journey. mikhaela.adam-lobb@det.nsw.edu.au