Specialist Dance and Music Programs
Performing Arts at Mount Gambier High School is a vibrant and inclusive part of school life, offering students from Year 7 through to Year 12 the opportunity to explore and excel in Dance, Music, and Instrumental Music. Whether students are discovering the arts for the first time or looking to deepen existing passions, the school provides a rich variety of learning pathways and performance experiences to support their creative development.
Dance
In Dance, students build skills in choreography, performance, and analysis, working across a range of styles and contexts. From Year 7 taster courses through to specialist Year 9 and 10 electives and into SACE Stage 1 and 2, students are encouraged to express themselves, tell stories through movement, and collaborate creatively with others. The program focuses on both technical and expressive development, with students regularly reflecting on their own growth as artists and performers.
Advanced Dance Program
The Advanced Dance Program is a full-year course offered to Year 9 and 10 students who are passionate about developing their skills and performance experience. The program is designed to build on students’ existing knowledge, including training gained outside of school, while providing the foundation needed for success in Stage 1 and Stage 2 Dance.
Students in this program will have the opportunity to create and perform original dance works for live community audiences on multiple occasions throughout the year.
A high level of commitment, dedication, and professionalism is essential, along with an understanding of dance etiquette, strong teamwork, and effective communication skills.
Course topics and assessment areas include:
- Dance technique
- Composition
- Performance
- Analysis
Entry is by application only. Application forms are available from the Student Office.
Music
Music at Mount Gambier High School is equally diverse and rewarding. Students engage in music-making through singing, instrumental performance, composition, and analysis of different musical styles. Music is introduced in Year 7 and becomes a specialist elective from Year 9 onwards, continuing into SACE with opportunities to specialise in performance, musicianship, or music technology. Classwork is complemented by access to recording tools and digital composition platforms, supporting students to compose and produce music in both traditional and contemporary formats.
Instrumental Music
A key part of the school’s music program is the Instrumental Music offering, available to all year levels. Students can learn a wide range of instruments including woodwind, brass, percussion, strings, and voice. Lessons are delivered by Department for Education instrumental music teachers during school hours, and students are encouraged to participate in school ensembles, bands, or choirs to develop their performance skills in a group setting.
Performance Opportunities
The heart of the Performing Arts program is performance itself, and each year students are given the opportunity to take to the stage in two major showcase performances at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre. These events are a celebration of student talent, dedication, and creativity, offering an authentic performance experience in a professional venue and fostering pride and confidence within the wider school community.
At Mount Gambier High School, the Performing Arts are more than subjects, they’re platforms for young people to connect, express, grow, and shine.