Upon arriving at the Music Hangar at Sunshine Coast Grammar School, you will often be greeted by the vibrant sounds of instruments and excited students — this is the productive sound of creativity in action.
Starting with our Year 3 and Year 5 Music Curriculum Immersion Programs, we strive to provide students with an enriching music education experience led by industry experts. This immersive environment introduces students to the world of music and equips them with valuable skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
While we recognise that not every student wants to become a professional musician, we, as a department, are deeply passionate about the positive impact music education can have on the development of well-rounded, articulate, and mature individuals. Through music ensemble and group playing, students learn to respect one another as individuals and work together to achieve a common goal.
Leading researcher Dr Anita Collins from Bigger Better Brains (2025) has published literature showing how music training promotes neuroplasticity, improves cognitive abilities, and is beneficial for overall health and wellness. Research indicates that participating in music combines intellectual rigour with physical skills to provide a form of communication and emotional release that is crucial for shaping our future.
Educators like Philip Johnston (2018) suggest that adolescents typically have a “top three” list of activities that they are deeply passionate about and want to engage in daily. While daily practice shouldn't be enforced across all activities, when music becomes a top priority, intrinsic motivation naturally drives students to practice and achieve higher creative goals.
Currently, we have 208 students from Year 1 - 6 enrolled in private lessons with our on-site music specialists at Grammar. Approximately 50% of these students continue their music studies in Year 6 after completing the immersion program, demonstrating a strong commitment to their musical growth.
The Immersion Program offers students diverse performance opportunities, including an open rehearsal and showcase concerts. Additionally, students can also participate in the Masterclass and Live @ the Hangar Concert Series, offering further opportunities to perform for a supportive audience. After completing the Immersion Programs, students can join various ensembles, including vocal and guitar groups, and perform at events such as our annual Forest Fest and compete in various Queensland competitions, including MusicFest and the Sunshine Coast Junior Eisteddfod. These experiences further enrich the students’ musical experiences and connect them to the wider community.
Victoria Bradbury
Director of Music Performance
