Term 4 has flown past, as we all knew it would. In the Music room, we got busy learning a few Halloween themed songs, and playing these on xylophones and marimbas. Children practised playing note patterns (melodies) at the correct time of the song, having already learnt these melodies “by ear.” After the excitement of Halloween died down (excuse the pun), it was time to focus upon Christmas. This year, all classes learnt to play Jingle Bells in many different ways. First we practised the words and the solfege hand signs (these visual cues help children distinguish changes in pitch), then classes learnt the notes on xylophones, and in the case of Gr 4W, on recorder. Gr 1/2C focussed on learning the chords on their ukeleles, reinforcing the chords we’d learnt earlier in the year. A really festive, joyous time to sing and play music!

Choir have been really busy as well this term, with our highlight-of-the-year performance at “Love East Devonport.” Thanks to all the parents who got their students there on time, and looking great in school uniform. We spent a big day climbing hills and playing in Pioneer Park for our Christmas Carolling excursion – fitting in 2 well-received performances at Melaleuka Home for The Aged and Orana Baptcare Day Centre as well. As I write these words, we are about to gather for our last rehearsal of the year, in preparation for our performance at the Gr 6 Leaver’s Assembly next Tuesday. A huge, huge thanks for the positive support I’ve had from Choir parents in 2024. You guys probably don’t realise how much you are appreciated, I don’t think I could run Choir without you all!

In summation, I’d like to say a humble and quiet, “thanks for having me,” as this is to be my last year teaching Music at East Devonport Primary School. I’ve seen really solid growth in students’ learning in my 3 years here, and I thank you all for all that you do for your kids. I’ll still be here as a parent next year, so don’t be a stranger. Stay safe and well over the Christmas break.