JUNIOR ACCESS PROGRAM

The newly established Access Centre of the Elder Conservatorium of Music at the University of Adelaide offers a program for beginner string and piano players aged between 6 and 9 years. Tuition is provided by Elder Conservatorium staff in a small group format to encourage musical and social interaction and elementary ensemble skills. The program includes both an instrumental lesson and a 50 minute musicianship class using movement-based activities to develop rhythm, pitch and reading skills and promote the awareness of musical concepts such as tempo, dynamics and phrasing.

This holistic approach contributes to each student’s personal growth and assists their progression to further studies. Beyond the initial program, students can continue individual lessons, advanced musicianship and ensemble classes at the Elder Conservatorium.

What is the Junior Access Program?

This is a model program for the teaching of young beginners in stringed instruments (including guitar) and piano.  Tuition at entry level occurs in a small-group format. 

Students receive a 45-minute instrumental lesson with a Conservatorium teacher.  In addition, all students participate in a 50-minute musicianship class, based on the methodology of Dalcroze Eurhythmics, or music through movement. 

During Musicianship classes, students explore the concepts of music such as rhythm and pitch and the expressive elements such as dynamics, tempo, character and energy. They are also be made aware of the structure, form and the many styles of music.

Introduction to these elements is through movement-based activities and singing, which enable musical comprehension to develop ahead of instrumental expectations. The development of rhythm, pitch, aural awareness and the ability to react to music assists the instrumental learning.

As students progress through the Musicianship program, the emphasis on visual and theoretical skills is increased.

There may be a small number of places in the musicianship classes for students who are learning their instrument outside of the Conservatorium.

As part of the individual tuition classes, students are taught using innovative and creative methods which enable them to learn while also interacting with the teacher and each other. As individual strengths and needs become apparent, there will be the opportunity to move to smaller groups or one-to-one tuition, usually after one year in the program. At the more advanced stage, students will be encouraged to perform individually, and take AMEB exams if appropriate to their development.

Conservatorium students of Pedagogy (science of teaching) may periodically observe and assist with any lessons, and classes may be videotaped (with prior permission) for the tertiary teaching and learning program.  Students who remain in the program will progress to individual lessons, advanced musicianship and ensemble classes.

Who can apply?

Piano:   Children aged from 7 to 9 years
Strings:  Children aged from 6 to 9 years

How are Junior Access Program participants chosen?

Participants will be chosen on the basis of an interview with the child and parent/caregiver.  Consideration will be given to the child’s potential for successful and fulfilling participation in group learning activities together with general preparedness for learning an instrument, including the motivation to practise between lessons. Piano students will need to have daily access to a piano or keyboard.

What commitment is involved?

All lessons are held at the Elder Conservatorium on Saturdays during school terms.  Detailed schedules of classes and concerts will be issued to enrolled students.  100% attendance is expected and any classes missed cannot usually be 'made up' at a later date.

What are the costs?

Tuition Fees:  $350 per term
Instrument Hire (Strings): $100 per term

Administrative information

Classes are held on campus during the school term and run throughout the year. Class numbers are kept small to ensure positive outcomes for the students.

Interviews for 2009 commencement will take place in January and July 2009 and enrolments are limited.

Application forms for entry either at the start of the year or in mid-year can be completed and sent to:

Any inquiries please contact Susie Gold on 8313 0304 or email susan.gold@adelaide.edu.au.