Junior Strings of Banyule
The 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 1-5 (or equivalent).
Junior Strings of Banyule provides:
– a fun, educational environment for children
– attention to the learning and refinement of orchestral performance skills.
– 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 three 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.
Now, the JSB enables young string players to develop and acquire essential orchestral and music performance skills.
About the Conductor
Sonia Rogers is currently the Head of Strings at Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School in Essendon. She studied violin at the Victorian College of the Arts and graduated with a Diploma of Arts in Music. She then completed a Bachelor of Education (Music) at The University of Melbourne as well as a Graduate Diploma in Education Administration.
Sonia is an AMEB Violin Examiner and has been a conductor and tutor at several State Music Camps and Melbourne Youth Music Summer Camps.
Sonia has been the conductor of the Junior Strings of Banyule since its inception in 1995.
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
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 9005 1792 for more information or to visit a rehearsal. Or download membership form here.
