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JSB is a forum for young string players. Its aim is to build and refine orchestral performance skills in a fun, learning environment. Professional educators are employed as the conductor and string tutors. A varied repertoire of classical, popular and original compositions and arrangements are used. Works are carefully chosen and designed to help further technical development and ensemble skills.
Player’s standard is AMEB Grade 1-4 (or equivalent).
Junior Strings of Banyule provides:
- a fun, educational environment for children
- attention to the learning and refinement of orchestral performance skills.
- a music camp (elective)
- concerts typically held in professional venues
- A strong musical team of professional violinists as conductor and string tutors
History of Junior Strings of Banyule
Junior Strings of Banyule is the most junior of the four ensembles which comprise the Heidelberg Orchestras Inc (HOI).
HOI grew out of an original orchestral forum named Heidelberg Youth Orchestra, which was founded in 1978 by Alma Robertson, a Heidelberg violin teacher.
Since that time, the RYO has evolved into an ensemble for intermediate level orchestral players whilst the JSB enables young string players to develop and acquire essential orchestral and music performance skills. The HSO caters for individuals of advanced standard.
About the Conductor
Sonia Rogers is the Head of Strings at St.Kevin's College in Toorak. She has a Diploma of Arts / Music from the Victorian College of the Arts, a Bachelor of Education (Music) from Melbourne University, and a Graduate Diploma in Education Administration.
Sonia has toured extensively throughout Australia, Europe, Great Britain and Singapore as a violinist. She is an AMEB examiner and has been a conductor and tutor at several State Music Camps and Melbourne Youth Music Summer Camps.
What players think of JSB
“Playing violin is much more fun when you share it.” Katherine
“I like the music we play and the conductor. We have a good time!” Kieran
“I joined JSB because there are no strings in my school bands and I love playing in a group.” Amy
“I enjoy the challenging music, the enjoyable environment, the easy-going people and different music for each concert.” Greta
And Parents?
"My daughter really enjoys the social aspect of Junior Strings. She finds it more fun than solitary violin playing. I am pleased to add this to her musical education." Mother
General Information
• Camp/ Workshop (elective)
A weekend music camp or a workshop (with another orchestral group) is held once a year. Players are invited to participate in other opportunities when they arise e.g. Carols on the Ivanhoe Boulevard at Christmas time.
• Membership
Each player is required to pay an annual membership fee. Details are available from the orchestra manager. Download membership form here
• Concerts
Concerts are usually held at the Performing Arts Centre, Ivanhoe Girls Grammar School. This venue enables players to learn professional pre-performance skills and to experience performing live in an quality acoustic venue. Its auditorium seating provides excellent viewing for the audience. There is easy access for disabled or elderly patrons
• Management
JSB is managed by Heidelberg Orchestras Inc (HOI) , a non- profit organization. The Board of Management of HOI includes parent representatives from the JSB in addition to the standard officers required.
• Rehearsals
JSB rehearses every Wednesday during school term in the St James Parish Centre, Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe from 5.00 to 6.30pm.
• Auditions
New members are required to audition to enable placement within the orchestral group. Placement is at the discretion of the Conductor and Orchestra Manager. Individuals are asked to prepare a short piece and be prepared to sight-read music. No accompanist is required .
• Contact Details
Simply call the Orchestra Manager, Diana Maxwell on (03) 9725 8904 for more information or to visit a rehearsal. Or download membership form here.
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