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Music

Foundational Statement

Foundational Principle: The inherent value of each individual

The Music School values the sense of individual worth and achievement of every music student, and strives towards the well-being of the whole person. We seek to develop individuals that value music both as part of a universal education, and as an essential expression of the human experience and spirit. The study of music fosters artistic development, critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and the pursuit of life-long learning. Through performing and responding to music, all boys develop individual skills, realise a sense of belonging, and establish connections to the community.

Foundational Question: How did the world evolve to be as it is and how might it be made to evolve for the greater good?

Music has great power to transcend borders. Every culture has its own music, and this fosters identity, and, in extreme cases, Nationalism (as can be seen historically). However, the fact that the notation system (for the most part) is common internationally allows musicians from many lands to make music together. The very act of this helps break down prejudice and ill-informed bias. Hearing musicians from other nations also helps foster international respect and broadens the minds of young performers

Just as there can be no music without learning, no education is complete without music.  It helps develop skills in boys that will give them intellectual and creative advantages that last a lifetime, and in so doing, enhances their quality of life. The goal of our music education program is to allow boys to gain an appreciation and understanding of some of civilization’s greatest achievements and, in turn, to nurture skills and abilities which form the basis of success in any area of study. Indeed, the very act of performance itself has great value. One has to manage oneself in a stressful situation, at a specific moment, in public, and understand how to control the associated anxiety. These are important skills. After all, most higher-level professions require attention to detail, precise expertise and, at times, like the music performer, an element of ‘risk management.’

Finally, there is the sheer beauty of music. Great music (like most worthwhile art forms) requires a degree of teaching and experience in order to truly understand its worth. We teach boys to play great music, and in doing so they learn to appreciate and love it. This is important, and goes beyond Scotch. In an era where music is often thought in terms of ‘fun’ or ‘the spectacular’ – with lights, dancing and students miming to pop music – there is a real chance that the great canon of Western art music could be all but lost. As the world evolves, so great music should be a vital part of it, and if we do not ensure its future, then who?

Scotch College Melbourne:
ABN 86 852 826 445 CRICOS 00624A