The Music Department is housed in the original Rathkeale Homestead, and we aim to make the most of our fantastic surroundings and facilities.
Performing
Boys at Rathkeale are involved in a wide range of musical activities outside the classroom. Ensembles which rehearse and perform regularly include the funk/jazz band ‘Sforzando’, a Concert Band, various rock groups, the Boys’ Choir for any boys, and the auditioned choir ‘Viva Camerata’. Performances take place in school as well as the local community.
Learning
An increasing number of boys learn a musical instrument from our team of specialist tutors; currently instrumental lessons are available on the violin, cello, double bass, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, voice, acoustic guitar and electric/bass guitars. We will find a teacher for a boy who would like to learn an instrument not already catered for!
Competing
Boys compete in the annual Smokefree Rockquest competition and Viva Camerata and the Boys’ Choir compete in the Big Sing Competition. The Battle of the Bands is a keenly anticipated annual event, raising money for a charity chosen by the students. All boys at Rathkeale take part in the annual House Music Competition at the end of Term 3, perhaps the biggest of all the various inter- house activities that take place during the year. The high standard of singing and instrumental performance at this event reflects the depth of talent and enthusiasm for music which exists at the school.
A strong link exists between music and drama and highly successful productions are staged with students from Senior College and Rathkeale. These productions are always hugely popular with families and the wider community, usually showing to full houses over 5 nights as well as a Matinee for schools and Rest Homes. Recent productions include
2015: Into the Woods, 2014: Oliver, 2013: Big River, 2012: Sound of Music, 2011: Chicago, 2009: Les Miserables