The Narbethong Music Program is an orchestration of fine-tuned
lessons focusing on individual developmental needs. The program aims to build self-worth, confidence and resilience and also supports the development of student’s communication,
fine motor and gross motor skills. This
is achieved through ukulele and piano lessons to help develop student’s pre-braille skills, the use of specially composed songs to develop specific movements for communication, as well as movement music classes to build on student's motor planning,
strength, balance, and spatial awareness. Students have access to a wide range of instruments including specially adapted instruments which meet the needs of students with special access requirements. Choir is offered to all students as part of our extra-curricular
activities as well as Drum Communication class.
Volunteers are an important part of our music program with
guest artists coming to perform throughout the year. Lessons on the Japanese Koto are also offered
to Narbethong students from a Koto Master Takako Nishibori.
The music program is an essential part of our school culture as it gives a voice to those who cannot talk, rhythm to those who cannot walk, and a platform for our students to grow as capable individuals through a shared love of music.
Music News!
In 2019, our music teacher Lee Strickland was nominated for the Telstra ARIA Music Teacher of the Year. Lee was nominated for the award due to her dedication to the students of Narbethong and for creating positive and enthusiastic learning environments which nurture each students' love of music regardless of their ability.
Lee was visited at school by Katie Noonan who took the opportunity to see the music program in action and to meet our wonderful students. Whilst Lee did not win the award, the whole Narbethong community is incredibly proud of her!
