Ensemble policies

Every member of an ensemble at St Paul’s must complete the relevant online form acknowledging their understanding of and agreement to the Extra-Curricular Ensembles Policy at the beginning of each year. This outlines the commitments undertaken by ensemble members and demonstrates the willingness of each musician to keep these commitments. The policies contained within the Agreement are outlined below;

**Please note: While registrations for lessons can occur at any time, please be aware that applications will only be processed at the beginning and end of each term, not mid-term, so it may take some time for you to receive a response.**

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC LESSONS

All students learning with a Music Tutor at St Paul’s are required to be in an appropriate ensemble as per the Music Tuition Conditions of Enrolment 2024

St Paul’s students are able to be in a School ensemble even if they do not have lessons with a St Paul’s Instrumental Tutor, provided they are having private instrumental lessons with an instrumental music teacher outside school (with the exception of un-auditioned choirs). Students who have instrumental lessons outside school will be required to provide details for their instrumental music teacher so that the Music Department can make contact to confirm that the student is having regular lessons, and so directors can communicate ensemble practise requirements to instrumental teachers as necessary.

ENSEMBLE MEMBERSHIP AND COMMITMENT

Ensemble members are required to be available for all concerts, competitions and other performances.

Ensemble members MUST commit to a full year of ensemble membership. Students are not permitted to leave an ensemble part way through the year, as each ensemble member has been carefully selected via audition to fill a specific role in the ensemble and any changes have a significant impact on the musical success of the group. Students need to consider this when joining an ensemble, particularly when planning the balance of extra-curricular activities, including some that may start later in the year.

 Students must perform in a large ensemble in order to be eligible to perform in a small ensemble. Essential ensemble skills are taught in these groups that are not duplicated in smaller groups (due to time restrictions).