Instrumental Music Program – Band (2026)
RISS students in Years 4 to 6 may enrol in the Instrumental Music Program - Band. Instrumental Music is a co-curricular subject that includes a weekly school ensemble (band) rehearsal (Monday lunchtime) and a 30-minute small group lesson timetabled during the school day, as well as structured practice activities completed at home. Throughout the year, band members participate in performances, events such as FANFARE, and combined school workshops.
Students who would like to apply to enrol in Instrumental Music may list up to three (3)
instrument preferences from the Brass, Woodwind or Percussion family. Through the recruiting process, students are guided towards instruments that they can experience success with if the right balance between learning and commitment is achieved.
Neuromusical research has found that there are numerous benefits of learning a musical instrument including:
- Improved reasoning capacity and problem-solving skills
- Improved literacy and numeracy performance
- Better memory
- Better prepared for transition to secondary school
- Improved social and team skills
- Developing creativity
- Cultural appreciation
- Improved overall grades
Before enrolling in band, parents and students need to consider the following:
- Enrolling in the Instrumental Music subject is a substantial commitment for students and parents but immensely rewarding.
- Students must commit to the subject for the whole year including performances and rehearsals.
- There are a limited number of instruments available for hire from the school.
- For students to have a quality musical experience and optimal success, a balanced ensemble (band) needs to be established. This means there are limited places available on some instruments and students may be encouraged to consider other options.
- There is an annual fee of $100 for hiring school instruments, servicing and repair costs, maintaining the Ensemble Music Library, upgrading accessories and equipment used specifically for the ensemble, purchasing items that are not cost effective for families to purchase individually, as well as costs associated with performances.
Fees
- $100 per year
Lessons begin in Week 3, 2026.
Conductor and Teacher
The instrumental music programme (band) is run by Dr Karen Lonsdale, a Senior Instrumental Music Teacher with Education Queensland. Dr Lonsdale teaches at Russell Island on Mondays. Dr Lonsdale is a practising professional musician, and a highly experienced music educator. You can read more about her at www.karenannelonsdale.com