Combined Strings

The Combined Schools String Ensemble offers string players a unique opportunity to rehearse, workshop and perform large-scale string works on the stage of the Sydney Opera House as part of the 2010 Festival of Instrumental Music. Individual schools are invited to nominate their string students for inclusion in this Festival. Participation is not limited to primary aged performers - students in Years 7 and 8 are also welcome. Successful students will appear in one performance only.

 

Please note - because of concurrent rehearsals being held in different locations, individual students may only nominate for one combined instrumental ensemble (recorders or strings).

String Standard

Music for the Combined Schools String Ensemble caters for for three different levels of player. As a guide, the levels are as follows:

• Beginner: Play 1st, 2nd and 3rd finger
• Intermediate: Play 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th finger in b and # positions
• Advanced: Play 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions

Schools should attempt to nominate a balanced ensemble in order to give their students the optimum experience, especially during school-based rehearsals.

 

String ensembles may also include players of viola, cello and double bass, but teachers should check the sample music before nominating players on these instruments.

2010 String Repertoire

In 2010, Fantasia on Scarborough Fair will be performed. This composition was issued to all schools as part of their 2009 repertoire. Schools applying for the first time in 2010 should contact Sue Hill on Susan.Hill2@det.nsw.edu.au for a copy of the music and teaching CD. The remaining three pieces of the 2010 repertoire will be sent to participating schools early in the 2010 school year.

 

Please note the following: Downloading and teaching this music DOES NOT constitute acceptance into the 2010 program. Teachers will need to download and complete an APPLICATION FORM.

Applications closes Friday 11 December 2009.

String Teachers Support Material

Teaching kits including CD, sheet music and teaching notes will be sent to your school upon acceptance into the program. Further assistance will be available at the combined rehearsals for all participating schools.

 

Use the navigation buttons to the left of this page to find out how to get your school involved in the 2010 Festival of Instrumental Music.

 

For further information concerning the Combined Schools String Ensemble in the 2010 Festival of Instrumental Music, please contact the Festival Coordinator, Susan Sukkar, Sydney Regional Arts Coordinator, at The Arts Unit, on 8512 1183 or email Susan.Sukkar@det.nsw.edu.au.