Introduction

Barker College offers a large variety of music programs.

The programs feature a vibrant and effective compulsory music program from Pre-K to Year 8 and a strong subscription to elective music courses from students in Years 9 to 12. Students from across the School are also engaged in a wide-ranging co-curricular music program. More than a thousand young people who attend Barker are involved in the instrumental and choral programs offered. The Music teachers at the School, both individually and collectively, have helped students achieve excellent levels of performance in a diverse range of musical styles for many years. The choirs and orchestras of Barker College have an outstanding reputation at the Sydney Eisteddfod and have been successful in both regional and national championships. The School is proud of its HSC results in Music 1, Music 2 and Music Extension. Students involved in Music at Barker College have a strong sense of identity and belonging to the Music Centre. The shared ownership of the resources, classes and activities, together with support from peers in Years Pre-K to 12 and leadership opportunities in a range of ensembles, ensures that all students gain exceptional pastoral care and growth through their involvement in music at the School. The McCaskill Music Centre is a purpose-built facility in which most music at Barker College takes place. At any time between 7.00 am and 5.30 pm – and often later – the sounds of music-making greet you from within the Music Centre. Instrumental or vocal lessons, students practising, bands rehearsing; this is a vibrant centre of activity. The Music Centre offers the following facilities: • The 120 seat Malcolm Williamson Recital Hall and choir rehearsal room

• The Peter Walmsley OAM rehearsal room • The Barry Simpson Book Collection • String rehearsal room • Composition suite • Music technology classrooms • Keyboard laboratory • Digital recording studio • Small ensemble rehearsal room

• Rock room

• 20 + practice studios • Purpose built instrument lockers for all instruments

• Music classrooms