Policies

Please refer to the policies below regarding involvement in curricular and co-curricular Music at Brighton Secondary School.

All students are highly encouraged to participate in co-curricular ensembles. Information about the co-curricular ensembles on offer at Brighton Secondary School is available on our ensembles page. Participation in co-curricular ensembles requires students to purchase a tie or pendant to wear with their performance uniform which is detailed below. The tie and pendant is available from the Music Secretary.

Ensembles Policy

Co-curricular Ensemble Eligibility

  • Entry into co-curricular ensembles is by audition, invitation or expression of interest at the discretion of the ensemble director
  • Instrumental ensemble members must be receiving regular instrumental tuition on the instrument being played in the ensemble
  • Students may participate in co-curricular choirs without studying classroom music or receiving voice lessons
  • Priority will be given to students enrolled in classroom music
  • All SIM students are required to participate in at least 1 co-curricular ensemble
  • All year 7-9 continuing string players are required to participate in Sinfonia
  • All year 10-12 continuing string players are required to participate in Symphony Orchestra
  • Year 10-12 continuing string players are strongly encouraged to participate in Brighton Chamber Orchestra
  • All SIM first instrument percussionists are required to participate in Percussion Ensemble 1, 2 or 3
  • Core and second instrument percussionists are strongly encouraged to participate in Percussion Ensemble 1, 2 or 3
  • All SIM first instrument guitarists are required to participate in Guitar Ensemble
  • Core Music guitarists are strongly encouraged to participate in Guitar Ensemble
  • All students accessing voice lessons are required to participate in the co-curricular choral program
  • Bel Canto, Brightones, Concert Choir and Treble Choir are non-auditioned core choirs
  • Concert Choir comprises students in years 9-12 from Bel Canto and Brightones
  • Participation in Concert Choir is optional for year 7 & 8 Brightones
  • Members of Jazz Choir 1 and 2 are required to participate in the appropriate core choirs i.e. Bel Canto and Concert Choir; Brightones and Concert Choir; Treble Choir; Brightones
  • Jazz Choir members who are in 4 or more ensembles (not including Concert Choir) are expected to commit to all relevant Bel Canto/Brightones/Concert Choir performances and at least 3 rehearsals prior
  • Membership in an ensemble is for a full year

A good ensemble member:

  • makes every effort to attend rehearsals, sectionals and performances
  • assists with setting up and packing up
  • is warmed up with all equipment in full working order at least 5 minutes before the start time
  • sits or stands with optimal playing posture and a clear view of the conductor
  • maintains frequent eye contact with the conductor
  • understands that everything discussed in rehearsals is relevant to them
  • adds markings to sheet music to improve accuracy, understanding and interpretation
  • contributes positively to rehearsals, sectionals and performances
  • treats others with respect and kindness
  • takes personal responsibility for learning individual parts outside of rehearsals
  • communicates effectively and in a timely manner

Performance Uniform Policy

One of the following options to be worn with the green glass Music pendant:

  • long black dress (at least knee length); plain opaque black stockings; black leather dress shoes
  • black skirt (at least knee length); black dressy shirt/blouses/top; plain opaque black stockings; black leather dress shoes
  • black dressy pants; black dressy shirt/blouses/top; black leather dress shoes, long black dresses – at least below the knee in length, ¾ length sleeves or with cardigan

The following to be worn with the Brighton Secondary School tie:

  • full-length black dressy trousers
  • black, long-sleeved, collared, button-up shirt (tucked in)
  • medium-length black socks
  • black leather belt with basic buckle
  • black leather dress shoes
  • black suit jacket (optional)
  • black waist coat (optional)
  • black braces (optional)

Please avoid the following:

  • sparkly, shiny, sequined, see-through, denim or leather fabrics
  • jumpers, Indian cotton, t-shirts, polo shirts, skivvies, leather clothing
  • sandals, open-toe shoes, sneakers, boots or high heels
  • visible undergarments

Other considerations:

  • discreet jewelry
  • friendship bracelets and wristbands must be hidden from view
  • light make-up may be worn
  • hair must not obscure the face from view
  • hair accessories must be black, bottle green or navy

Example of performance uniform with tie or pendant.

Guitar Ensemble performing at Music Spectacular 2022 in Brighton Concert Hall