Instrumental Music at Hilder Road State School
At Hilder Road State School, music is more than an extra, it is part of who we are. Our Instrumental Music Program is a vibrant and valued part of school life, giving students the opportunity to grow as confident, capable and creative Hilder HEROES.
Through high-quality tuition and inspiring performance opportunities, students develop musical skills while also building the teamwork, perseverance and responsibility that sit at the heart of our school values and being a true Hilder HERO.
A Program That Grows With Your Child
Our program is delivered by specialist instrumental music teachers across strings, woodwind, brass and percussion. Learning is carefully sequenced to suit primary-aged students, with clear pathways from beginner to advanced ensemble performance.
- Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass) are offered from Years 3–6
- Band instruments (woodwind, brass and percussion) are offered from Years 4–6
Students are placed into ensembles as their skills develop, ensuring they feel supported, challenged and proud of their progress.
Performance, Belonging and School Spirit
Instrumental Music students play an important role in the life and spirit of Hilder Road State School. Performing together helps students feel connected, confident and proud to be part of our school community.
Throughout the year, students have many opportunities to share their learning and celebrate their growth through performance, including:
- School Concerts
Our concert journey begins with a morning concert, where many of our newest musicians take their very first steps onto the stage, performing as part of an ensemble in front of a live audience. It is a special milestone that builds confidence and a sense of achievement.
The year culminates in our signature music event, Hilder Harmonies – From Little Notes, Big Music Grows. This grand finale concert celebrates the joy of music across our school, showcasing the talents of both students and adults. Each year we also feature a guest community group, giving students a glimpse of where music can take them and showing that learning an instrument is a lifelong, enjoyable and rewarding journey.
- School Assemblies
Ensembles regularly perform at assemblies, helping build school pride and giving students authentic performance experience.
- Fanfare and Music Festivals
Students represent Hilder Road at local and regional music events, performing alongside other schools and experiencing the excitement of large-scale ensemble performance.
- Community and Special Events
Our musicians contribute to key school and community occasions, sharing their talents and strengthening connections beyond the classroom.
Ensembles rehearse weekly and currently include:
- Senior Band
- Junior Band
- Senior Strings (Years 5–6)
- Junior Strings (Years 4–5)
- Beginner Strings
Commitment and Recruitment
Because of the specialist nature of the program, places are limited. Recruitment takes place in Term 4 for the following year.
Students accepted into the program are expected to:
✔ Attend weekly lessons
✔ Practise regularly at home
✔ Participate in rehearsals and performances
This commitment helps students develop responsibility, resilience and pride in their achievements — qualities we value strongly in our Hilder HERO learners.
Costs and Equipment
Instrumental Music is a user-funded program supported through the Department of Education. Lessons are provided as part of the program offerings, with an annual levy applied to support program costs.
Families can expect:
Annual Levy (invoiced at the beginning of the year)
Covers:
- Ensemble music
- Use of music stands and school equipment
- Entry into competitions and festivals
- Participation in music excursions and special performances
-
Additional Costs
Families purchase required items such as:
- Music books
- Accessories (e.g. reeds, valve oil, strings)
- Cluster Music Workshops
Instrument Hire
Some larger or high-cost instruments are available for hire (subject to availability), including:
Cello, Double Bass, Euphonium, Tuba, Bass Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone and Baritone. Instrument hire periods range from one to four years, depending on the instrument selected.
Students learning violin, viola, flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet and trombone initially hire an instrument for one year, after which families are required to purchase their own instrument.
Why Learn an Instrument?
Learning an instrument supports children far beyond music. Research and experience show that instrumental music helps students develop:
- Confidence and self-belief
- Focus and discipline
- Teamwork and cooperation
- Coordination and fine motor skills
- Creativity and self-expression
Most importantly, it gives students a lifelong skill and a deep sense of belonging through shared performance experiences.
At Hilder Road State School, our Instrumental Music Program helps students shine — as musicians, as learners and as Hilder HEROES. We look forward to welcoming both current and future families into this rewarding and inspiring part of school life.