School of Performing Arts

The College offers a rich and well-structured program of private tuition through our School of Performing Arts. Students can access individual or paired lessons across a wide range of musical instruments, voice, and speech and drama. Lessons take place during the school day using a rotating timetable, ensuring students do not miss the same class regularly.

A Program That Supports Academic and Creative Growth

Learning an instrument has well-documented academic, social, and developmental benefits. We encourage all students to undertake private tuition alongside their classroom learning, as this supports confidence, discipline, creativity, and long-term skill development. Our experienced tutors provide personalised instruction in dedicated tutorial rooms within the John Lambert Performing Arts Centre.

Music Practice Expectations

Private tuition requires commitment. Students are expected to attend every lesson and complete all practice tasks set by their tutor. Parent/carer support is essential in helping students develop consistent routines and strong practice habits. Further guidance on preparing for effective practice at home can be found here.

Tuition Fees and Billing

Lesson fees are set directly by each tutor and paid by parents/carers.

• Tutors issue an invoice at the start of each term outlining the number of lessons and payment details.
  
• Payment is required within two weeks.
  
• Lessons may be paused if fees remain unpaid, and missed lessons will be forfeited.
  
• Payments must be made electronically, as students should not handle cash.
  

The College's current recommended tuition fee guide is $48 per half-hour lesson*.

*Tuition fees are determined independently by each Music Tutor. The College’s recommended rate is provided as a guide only and does not represent a fixed or mandated fee. Actual lesson costs may vary and are at the discretion of the individual Tutor.

Lesson Scheduling

Lessons are held during the school day on a fortnightly rotating timetable so students do not miss the same class every cycle. Limited before-school, lunchtime, and after-school sessions may also be available depending on tutor availability.

Rescheduling and Absences

To request a rescheduled lesson:

• 1 week’s notice is required for planned commitments such as assessments, excursions, or school events.
  
• Tutors are not expected to track all College activities; students or parents/carers must communicate directly with them when event occur. This includes College carnivals, excursions, assessments etc.
  
• For illness, notification should be given as early as possible. Less than 24 hours’ notice may result in the lesson being forfeited at the tutor’s discretion.

Paired Lessons

Some tutors offer paired lessons when two students are at a similar level. Families are encouraged to connect with one another before arranging a pairing. If a pairing cannot be found, individual lessons are recommended.

Commitment and Discontinuation

It is our hope that students enrolling in private music lessons will commit to a full year of tuition.

If a student wishes to discontinue lessons:

• 30 days’ written notice must be provided to the tutor.
  
• Remaining fees for that term are forfeited.
  
• End-of-term withdrawals must be communicated before the term concludes.
  
• Any outstanding fees may be transferred to your school account.

Assessment and Examinations

Tutors will provide a progress report at the end of each semester. Students may also undertake AMEB examinations, either on site or at a nearby venue. Please speak with your tutor for examination guidance.

Performance Opportunities

Performance is an essential part of learning an instrument. Students will have opportunities to perform in College ensembles and other events. Many tutors also host studio concerts throughout the year for students wishing to perform for a small audience.

Ensemble Participation

Students learning instruments through the College are expected to participate in a College Ensemble. Private tuition supports and enhances the broader Performing Arts and elective music programs.

How to Enrol

To enrol in instrumental, vocal, or speech and drama lessons, please complete the online form below.

The HICES Music Festival brings together over 400 student musicians from HICES schools across NSW for an immersive music experience.

The 2026 festival will run from Sunday 16 to Wednesday 19 August and includes:

• Concert Band (Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium and Percussion)
• Symphonic Winds (Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium and Percussion)
• String Ensemble (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)
• String Orchestra (Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass)
• Vocal Ensemble
• Male Vocal Ensemble (Year 7 - 12)
• Jazz Academy - Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Guitar, Keyboard, Bass and Drums (Year 9 - 12)

In the lead up to the Festival Concert on the final evening at Sydney Town Hall, participating students and staff will spend 4 days in preparations and rehearsals at Music Camp at The Tops in beautiful Stanwell Park, south of Sydney.  This is a wonderful opportunity for students from all HICES schools to come together and share their love of music in an exciting, fun filled, action packed environment as they prepare for their big performance evening.

Participation

Participation is open to students from Years 5 - 12 with an emerging level of instrumental or vocal skill (not beginners).

Auditions will be conducted by Mr Jon Cavenagh, Head of Performing Arts, with final ensemble placement determined by HICES organisers.

There is also an opportunity for Secondary School students with an interest in photography and videography to participate in the event this year.

Expressions of Interest

To express interest for your child to participate, please completed the EOI by Wednesday 25 March, 2026 - Click Here.

Further Information

Click here to visit the HICES Musical Festival website for further details or download the below documents.