Pennant Hills Public School boasts an extensive and quality music program, of which our burgeoning String Ensemble is a part of. The string ensemble was founded in 2001 and presently comprises of 20 - 25 violin, viola, cello and double bass players from kindergarten through to Year 6.
String Ensemble enrolments are accepted throughout the year.
Our Ensemble leadership provides valuable support and encouragement, and fantastic opportunities for children to grow in confidence and skill with their instrument.
The Main Ensemble is trained and directed by Sarah Qiu. Sarah has completed her Bachelor of Music (Music Education) at Sydney Conservatorium, now seeking to combine performance skills and education skills in string pedagogy. Most recently, Sarah led performances as concertmaster in FEMUSC (Brazil), performing alongside maestros Leon Spierer, Alex Klein and Gregory Carreno. Sarah enjoys connecting with young people through working with organisations such as The Arts Unit and Sydney Youth Orchestras. She is always keen for a folk jam, having attended Stringmania and Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival. Sarah hopes to continue to inspire youth to make music a part of their lives, and to keep exploring different genres, styles and ways of playing violin. Our Ensemble leadership provides valuable support and encouragement, and fantastic opportunities for children to grow in confidence and enthusiasm with their instrument.
The String Ensemble performs at a number of school events such as assemblies, Music Camp, Strings Soiree, and other concerts within and outside School. Additionally, our Festival String Ensemble has the privilege of performing at the Sydney Opera House in Term 2 of the school year. We also organize social and fundraising activities such as busking at schools and shopping centres.
Commitment
When joining the String Ensemble, it is assumed that your child:
- Has been learning their instrument for at least 3-6 months;
- Is having regular, weekly private tuition;
- Has their own instrument (hired or purchased);
- Can commit to weekly rehearsals; Main Ensemble is currently on a Tuesday afternoons after school & Intro to Strings is currently on a Monday mornings before school
- Festival senior students can attend a second regular weekly rehearsal
- Can attend performances in and outside of school;
- Can attend a weekend Music Camp
Parents
The Ensemble is entirely run by parent volunteers who assist with rehearsal set up, financial administration, planning and oversight. Parent involvement is expected and encouraged. Private Teachers & Instrument Hire Whilst we cannot specifically recommend particular tutors, information is available about local teachers and instrument hire. Please contact us for further details.
Music Camp
The annual Music Camp is an important part of the PHPS Music Program, and all String Ensemble students are required to attend. Children from K-2 attend for daytime only.
For questions about joining the ensemble, tutors or instrument hire or please contact us at phpsstrings@gmail.com
