Year 7 Band Programme
Marsden’s Year 7 Band Programme is an exciting and hands-on introduction to instrumental music. As part of the curriculum, one of the two weekly music lessons is a dedicated Band session where every student learns an instrument and plays together as an ensemble.
How the programme works
All Year 7 students learn a band instrument (flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, bassoon or oboe) and play together weekly in their Music class.
Twice each term, the full Year 7 cohort comes together for extended band workshops with specialist tutors, who also provide an additional two hours of instrumental tuition per student each term.
Students learn using Tradition of Excellence by Bruce Pearson, a progressive tutor book tailored to each instrument. This approach allows them to build strong technique while enjoying the fun and motivation of performing in a group.
Instrument hire and costs
The Music Department coordinates the hire of instruments and purchase of tutor books through KBB Music on Cuba Street.
Annual costs:
- Instrument hire: $220
- Insurance: $45
- Tutor book: $35
Total: $300 for the full year
These costs, along with specialist tuition (approx. $80–$90 per term), are included in the Activities, Materials & Licence Fee, which is invoiced monthly over a 10-month period (January–October).
Benefits of the Band Programme
- Students begin playing from day one, building confidence quickly.
- Technique develops alongside real repertoire—so progress feels immediate and rewarding.
- The ensemble setting creates a fun, supportive environment.
- Music is carefully levelled to suit beginners and ensure success.
- Skills from Band directly accelerate learning in the second weekly classroom lesson, where students explore notation, theory, composition, aural skills, listening and keyboard work.
Optional extra tuition:
Students may take individual or paired instrumental or vocal lessons with Marsden’s itinerant music teachers at any stage during the year.
If your child already plays an instrument
If your child already plays one of the Band Programme instruments, they will usually select a different instrument to explore in Year 7.
How you can support
Regular practice makes a big difference. We recommend five minutes a day, five times a week, ideally at the same time each day to help establish a routine.
Why learning an instrument matters
Being part of a band offers far more than musical skills. Research shows that instrumental music can strengthen maths and reading abilities, boost self-discipline, and support cognitive development. Band also provides a strong sense of belonging and teamwork, helping students connect with peers, work towards shared goals, and express themselves creatively during a formative stage in their lives.