Music Specialist Program

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Our Specialist Music Program is a Department of Education Approved Specialist Program.

We have a rich and proud history of music accomplishment at the College. The program was introduced in 1966 and has grown to offer music to John Forrest Secondary College students as well as those from local primary schools.

Students have access to dedicated music classrooms and newly refurbished practice rooms.

The Specialist Music Program includes:

  • Development of advanced music theory and performance skills.
  • Weekly lessons with an Instrumental Music Services teacher.
  • Regular home practice.
  • Participation in two ensembles outside of class time.
  • The opportunity to attend a variety of extra music activities and concerts during the college year.
  • Music camps and public performances.

Students are expected to maintain a high level of achievement in Music and all other learning areas.

This prestigious program is supported by patron, Dr Ashley Smith - a former John Forrest student who has achieved international acclaim as a bass clarinetist and clarinet player. Ashley is Assistant Professor/Head of Winds and Contemporary Performance at UWA Conservatorium of Music and is an excellent role model.

Students have the opportunity to regularly perform in the following events:

  • ABODA Band Festival
  • WA Classical Guitar Festival
  • WA Contemporary Music Festival
  • WA Public Schools Choral Festival
  • WA Jazz Festival
  • John Forrest Concerts (three times per year)
  • Productions
  • Assemblies
  • Community Events

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

We are proud to offer students the opportunity to pursue their individual interests and strengths through participation in one of our four Specialist Programs.  The Specialist Programs are timetabled as electives.  Queries about the impact of this on student course selection may be discussed with the Deputy Principal.  The Music Specialist Program provides students with the opportunity to learn their instrument from an early age, continue to develop musically and then have the choice of studying music at Year 11 and 12 ATAR level.  Students in the program have many exciting opportunities to develop teamwork and leadership skills.  With those opportunities comes the responsibility to commit to the music program and their fellow musicians.  Music commitments are available here.

You can find more information about the program here or download a Specialist Music application from here.   You will also need to complete a general enrolment application for the College, which is available here.  If you have any other queries please phone (08) 9473 4035 or email JohnForrest.SC.SpecialistPrograms@education.wa.edu.au.

Applications for Year 7 2024 Specialist Music Program close on Friday 12 May 2023.

Applications received after this date will be accepted, however, placement in the program will depend on enrolment numbers.

Year 7 offers of placement will be posted by the end of June.