Music boost for Iramoo primary

Iramoo Primary School pupils Joleen, Fayzan, Ashleigh and Bol. Picture: Damjan Janevski

Music classes at Iramoo Primary School have been brought into the 21st century with a much-needed upgrade of instruments.

The school was last week granted $5000 of state government funding to buy instruments.

Performing arts teacher Greg Packham is celebrating the development, which means his students can take part in a Musical Futures program which delivers “practical and developmental music in the classroom”.

“In order to do this program, we needed access to guitars, keyboards, and drums,” Mr Packham said.

“Our existing instruments were old and need updating.

“Music is an area where students who don’t necessarily achieve in other subjects, can do so. It gives kids a joy in life, a lifelong sort of love.”

Education Minister James Merlino echoed Mr Packham’s sentiment.

“Research shows exposure to music education results in better grades, better results and better attendance,” he said. “I hope students have fun making music with these new instruments and that some of them go on to become a part of our state’s bright, creative future.”

The grant will pay for three mixers, two electric drums, two bass guitars, and one electric guitar. It will also subsidise the cost of recorders for grade 3 students so they can each have their own.