Outreach programmes in Christchurch schools are an important part of the CSM musical offerings. We currently operate outreach string, band, recorder, guitar and ukulele programmes in a large number of Christchurch schools giving hundreds of children the opportunity to participate in quality music programmes. Outreach music programmes normally consist of a group lesson along with participation in a weekly or fortnightly ensemble. At the end of the first year we encourage our Outreach students to join a CSM orchestra or band on Saturdays and become a part of our larger musical community.
OUTREACH BAND PROGRAMME
Co-ordinator: Jody Keehan
The Outreach Band Programme is run in several Christchurch schools. At the end of each year “blow tests” are held in participating schools where students have the opportunity to try out all the band instruments-flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, bass guitar and percussion. Once they have made their choice they can enrol in the programme for a weekly lesson with our great tutors and an opportunity to play in the training band. When good progress is made the students move into the school’s concert band. At around Year 3 students are invited to join the Con Brio Concert Band which includes students from the participating schools and meets on Fridays at 5.30. Jazz at 4 is another advanced ensemble where student learn to play big band jazz. Jazz at 4 meets on a Wednesday evening. Outreach band students have the opportunity to go on a camp and participate in several concert performances.
OUTREACH STRING PROGRAMME
HOD: Anne Robinson
The Outreach String Programme is run in a number of Christchurch schools. Students can learn violin, viola or cello in a small group and there is also an opportunity to play in a string ensemble. The outreach string players regularly join in CSM orchestras and are invited to take part in an annual camp with the Junior Symphony Orchestra
RECORDER and UKULELE
Outreach Programmes are also held in both recorder and ukulele in group lessons. Participants in the recorder and ukulele lessons are invited to be part of the Strum Strike and Blow Festival held in the Horncastle Arena in August.