The Howick School of Music is committed to the provision of orchestras, bands and string groups. It is our belief that the greatest enjoyment can be found in making music with others. Every effort is made to timetable lesson times on Saturdays so that the lesson either precedes or follows the appropriate orchestra or band for a student's level. There is no additional charge for HSM Orchestras (Sat.), Concert Bands (Sat.) or String Groups (Tues.).

HSM Orchestras

The understanding of orchestral skills and techniques, together with the study and enjoyment of music, enables students to attain a high level of competency on their instrument.

String Groups:

All violin / viola players who are at Stages 1 - 3 are expected to attend 'String' class on early Tuesday evenings.

Junior String Orchestra:

This is a continuation of the ‘String' groups experienced at Stages 1 - 3. Students eligible for this ensemble are Stage 4 violins, Stage 3 violas and Stage 2 cellos.

HSM Symphony Orchestra:

This is our Intermediate training orchestra and violins need to have reached Stage 5 level or equivalent. Violas and cellos are accepted at Stages 3 - 4. It is expected that the woodwind and brass players (Stages 4+) will audition for their places in 2010. Students not receiving tuition at HSM are encouraged to join this class at a cost of $100 membership for the school year.

HSM Youth Orchestra:

This is the top ensemble and is open to any of the more advanced players (AIP and IND) - roughly a Grade 4/5 and above ABRSM. Students not receiving tuition at HSM are encouraged to join this class at a cost of $100 membership for the school year.

HSM Concert Bands

Training Band:

This will cater for all the ‘Stage 1' woodwind and brass players. During rehearsals they will learn about playing in time with others and also learn to play in unison and simple harmony with other instruments.

Windband:

This group caters for all the Stage 2 and 3 woodwind, brass and percussion players. The students will learn further ensemble skills and perform in a range of different musical styles. Focus will be on listening, tonal development and playing together rhythmically as an ensemble.

HSM Concert Band:

This is a ‘new' band for 2010 (Grade 3+ ABRSM). It is hoped that this ensemble will create a further challenge for the wind and percussion players of HSM. Students will need to be competent performers at Stages 4, 5 and above and the repertoire will be varied and more challenging. Students not receiving tuition at HSM are encouraged to join this Band at a cost of $100 membership for the school year.

Chamber Group:

This is a ‘new initiative' for 2010 and will take place on Saturdays from 1.15 - 2.00pm and supervised/coached by experienced staff. Students who wish to form such an ensemble e.g. Piano Trio, String Quartet etc can approach the director and make known their interest. It is hoped that successful Chamber ensembles might enter the NZ Chamber Contest in June 2010 and perform in our concerts throughout the year.

From the Director

• I do hope that this year the more experienced woodwind and brass players will opt to play in both the HSM Concert Band and HSM Youth Orchestra.
• Auditions may take place in order to decide seating positions in the various ensembles.
• If a student has not made sufficient progress throughout the year in a particular band/orchestra, then they will be asked to spend a further semester in that same ensemble.
• Please attend your band and orchestra rehearsals each week and practise the music.