This term we are bringing focus to our instrument program, and the music program in general. This will be a significant part of Open Day with singing and instrumental performances.
At Kindlehill, music is not an added extra and is essential to the well-rounded development of children and young people. To sing, to learn an instrument, to be part of an ensemble or musical collaboration is a wonderful and enlivening aspect of Steiner education.
Additionally, neuromusical educator, Dr Anita Collins, has demonstrated that “the effect on the brain of playing music is unlike any other activity…It enhances language processing pathways and improves executive function, which is the part of the brain that makes decisions, regulates emotions and solves complex problems – making it a particularly unique tool for improving learning and behavioural outcomes in school-aged children.”
The children are immersed in music starting with singing and percussion stories in kindy. They begin sweet flute and marimba in Year 1, violin and cello are offered from Year 3 and after two years, flute, clarinet and guitar are also offered. By Year 5, children are performing in ensembles and this continues into high school where bands also form. The most recent band performance was at a gig called Spectrum, organised by Class 8 -9 and featuring their own band as well as bands from other schools.
You can read more about Gurunggu Bayumi, Children Towards the Music in our new brochure by clicking the following link Kindlehill Musical Instrument Program
Originally a high school teacher in the public system, Lynn has also taught at TAFE and in community settings. In the Steiner context, she has previously been a kindergarten and primary school teacher. In addition to her roles as Chair and Principal, Lynn is High School Co-Ordinator, teaches Geography and History, and co-ordinates the Outdoor Education Programme. Lynn has a B. Arts (UWA) and a Dip. Ed. (WA Secondary Teachers College).
