Music Tech

All students come to music tech for 8, hour and a half blocks. A class is split into two groups – one group going to dance while the other is at music. During this time they learn skills on the various instruments. They cover both disciplines over a year.

Some of the things we get to do in music classes…

Keyboard Lab: Our keyboard lab consists of over 20 keyboards. This means that whole class can be in the keyboard room at the same time and it makes it easy for a whole group of students to play band music together on the keyboards. The aim is for all students to leave Gis Int with the ability to play a number of songs on the keyboard. For those that already play, there are many opportunities for them to extend themselves.

Bass Guitar: We have five good quality bass guitars and amplifiers and students are taught some basic skills on the instrument. As part of the music programme they have a chance to play bass as part of a class band.

Drum Kit: We own 3 drum kits and 1 electric drum kit. Students learn to keep a basic drum beat going. They get the opportunity to play as part of a group within the music classes.

Singstar: The Singstar is used as a fun way of encouraging students to sing. In year 8 students produce a band and we need singers! Singstar is a great, fun way, of getting singing happening!

Acid Music: We have 8 computers set up within the music room running Acid Music. This is a loops based music composing programme. Students are able to select loops and mix them together to produce music in various styles. This is similar to the software used at the Soundhouse at Capital E in Wellington. A great way to get in to music creation and composing.

Throughout the year at Gisborne Intermediate, students get to learn new instruments and improve their skills on instruments they already play.

Theory of music is developed alongside practical performance skills which are enhanced as a result of taking part in the many music ensembles which are available.

The music room is open at lunchtimes and many students take the opportunity to practise or seek help from the four music teachers permanently on site.

The Music Department
Raewyn Hunt, Adv Tchg Dip

Orchestra

Our orchestra is open to any musician who plays an orchestral instrument. Each year the orchestra consists of approximately 30 players ranging in ability from beginner to advanced. This provides an excellent opportunity to develop orchestral playing skills, sight reading ability and knowledge of theory.

Ensembles

Students will get the chance to take part in various small groups playing a wide variety of music from classical to jazz and rock. Ensembles are formed as needed, for busking, open night, school and public performances. Again this is a great chance for students to develop musical skills such as sight reading and group playing.

Rock Bands

All students have the opportunity to join a rock band at the beginning of the year. Ability in these bands ranges from beginner to advanced.

Jazz Band / Stage Band / Concert Band

A band dedicated to playing up beat, lively music ranging from TV themes and The Beatles to Jazz and Funk.

Friday Music Programme

The Friday music programme gives students the chance to learn a new instrument or continue their development in their current instrument. Friday becomes a cultural day when most lessons take place making it a focus of the school.

Specialist Music Classes

All students take part in class music lessons where they are taught the basics of music and learn how to play the keyboard, drums, and bass guitar. There are many opportunities for students who already play an instrument to extend their skills and knowledge within these classes.

Performance Opportunities

All of our musicians get to play out and about in public and school performances during the year. These have included:

Busking - Primary & Intermediate Music Competition - Various Public Concerts - Town Library - Treble Court

Cultural Trip

An annual event in which the orchestra and bands travel to other parts of NZ to perform, highlight being performing in Te Papa.

School Production and Variety Show

Our students get to show their talents in the biannual school production and variety show.