Western Port – Music in Schools

Music is an important part of the MPF funded work in education with our focus on oral language and literacy as the building blocks for success in life. Music supports the development of oral language through skills acquisition in pitch and rhythm, as well as emotional self regulation through movement and mental concentration.

Music teacher Adrian Allen says, “Music is unique, activating all the senses. Music requires listening, moving, thinking, creating all at once. The brain just lights up, every part of the brain is active.” Adrian is based at Western Port SC and leads the Music in Schools program, part
of the Western Port Learning Guarantee. Adrian outreaches one day per week teaching music in four Western Port primary schools Crib Point, Wallaroo, Hastings and Tyabb Railway Station with over 500 children participating every week. Adrian delivers a robust curriculum teaching children the fundamentals of music through singing, movement and instrumental playing as skills develop.

The relationship across the secondary and primary schools plays an important role in students having a positive transition experience into year 7.

A highlight each year is the two concerts held at WPSC that include performances from primary and secondary students. The concert provides not only an opportunity for students to share their talents including for some secondary students, their own compositions but also an opportunity for parents and caregivers to see their children and young people perform.

The music program develops each year as interest and skill grows. In 2024 bucket drumming and djembe ensemble are part of the classroom program as well as keyboard and marimba ensemble.
Adrian shares a standout moment from the concert work: “I remember one boy who was very reserved in all of his subjects, he sat up the back with his arms crossed and wouldn’t participate. So, I didn’t pressure him to join in anything, I brought him into it very slowly. I let him sit and watch. After a month he joined in and became one of the most stand out performers. I managed to reach him through the music.”