Strings Program

The SINPS Strings Program consists of an introductory program plus 5 ensembles. All ensemble students have a private lesson weekly in addition to ensemble rehearsals.

Fun with Strings

Fun with Strings is a “taster” for students brand new to the violin. It is a set of four weekly lessons offered in Terms 2 and 3.

The Music Program provides a music folder and a violin for the four weeks. At the end of the fourth week, students are awarded with a certificate of completion and any student wishing to pursue violin studies can make arrangements with a private tutor.

Please note: Lessons may be held during school time, however this is dependent upon approval from the school.

Elementary Strings

Elementary Strings is open to students playing the violin, viola or cello. It begins in Term One and has one one-hour rehearsal each week.

The aim of the ensemble is to experience making music in a group and for the development of basic ensemble skills, following the baton and gaining reading and listening skills.

The ensemble is led by Ms Katrina Papallo. Performances include Music Camp, Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival, school assemblies and the end of year school concert.

Entry criteria
1. No audition is required
2. Minimum 3 months private tuition and ongoing regular (at least weekly) private lessons
3. Be able to setup their own instrument (shoulder rest, bow, etc)
4. Be able to pizzicato and play with the bow
5. Have some basic music reading skills
6. Starting to use fingers on the fingerboard
7. Be able to focus and follow instructions from the Conductor

Junior Strings

Junior Strings is for children who have passed the Elementary Strings level but are not quite at the Intermediate Strings level. This ensemble is led by Mr Adrian Mansukhani.

Entry criteria
1. Entry to this group is by audition
2. Minimum 1 year private tuition and some basic reading, in particular D and A strings
3. Understanding of playing in tune correctly on fingerboard
4. In Preliminary Grade AMEB or working on Suzuki Book 2 or equivalent

Intermediate Strings

Intermediate Strings is led by Ms Katrina Papallo. It is designed as a 2-3 year course, although occasionally and by audition, students can progress into String Orchestra after one year. Every year, different repertoire is studied. The ensemble covers a wide range of different styles of music, including folk, cultural, celebratory, seasonal, modern, pop, baroque and classical.

The group participates in many wonderful performance opportunities inside and outside school, such as the school Music Camp, Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival, Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival, kindy orientation day and the end of year school concert. The ensemble has been very successful in the Australian School Band and Orchestra Festival.

Entry criteria
1. Entry to this group is by audition
2. Minimum 1-2 years private tuition
3. Be able to read music competently and confidently play in tune in first position
4. Completed Grade 1 AMEB or currently working in Grade 2 or equivalent
5. Have good concentration and focus

String Orchestra

String Orchestra is the school's most advanced string ensemble. Students' ensemble skills are further developed while their musical, technical and aural skills are expanded and challenged.

Led by Mr Adrian Mansukhani, the String Orchestra has won many prizes since its establishment in 2003. The group performs regularly at school, the Opera House, eisteddfods and various public and private venues.

Entry criteria
1. Entry to this group is by audition
2. Year 4 or above
3. Be committed to their instrument and be studying with a professional teacher
4. Working in AMEB Grade 3 or Suzuki Book 3 or equivalent
5. Consistently in tune in first position and have a strong reading ability
6. Ability to shift to nearby positions is desirable
7. Excellent dedication and focus
8. Participate in an end-of year progress check with the String Orchestra conductor

Chamber Strings

Offered as an additional option for String Orchestra students, Chamber Strings is a small ensemble group of 6 to 8 children who play more advanced and challenging music. The group is designed for students who are interested in playing music at a higher level and is led by Mr Adrian Mansukhani.

Students in the Chamber compete as a group in events such as the Sydney Eisteddfod, Ryde Eisteddfod, Festival of Instrumental Music and Arts Alive concerts.

Entry criteria
1. Entry to this group is by audition. Students re-audition each year after joining
2. Year 5 or above
3. Member of the String Orchestra
4. Working in at least in AMEB Grade 5 or Suzuki Book 5
5. Parents are to arrange own transport to performances and competitions

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