OWPS Band and Percussion Power
Music has always been a big part of Oatley West PS. Since the 1980s, students have flourished through the opportunity to learn, perform and grow with music. In addition to the classroom curriculum, dance program and school choir, students can join the Band Program or Percussion Power Program, both held before school and led by professional Music Directors.
These programs are proudly managed by the Oatley West PS Music Council, a sub-committee of the OWPS P&C.
OWPS Band
Led by our Band Director, Byron Westbury of Upscale Music, the OWPS Band Program offers students the chance to discover and learn an instrument, develop strong musical skills and be part of a group that shares a love of music. Along the way, students make new friends and experience the joy of playing together.
It’s a fun and engaging way for students to extend their musical life beyond the classroom and private lessons. The program caters for different abilities and stages of a student’s music journey - from complete beginners through to advanced players.
Why join the OWPS band?
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Fun, community & belonging - Students make friends across year groups, enjoy playing music together, and deepen their connection to the school community.
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Teamwork & collaboration - Students learn to follow the conductor, listen closely and create a group sound together that’s more fun than playing alone.
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Confidence through performance - Concerts let students shine, show off their skills and feel proud of what they achieve.
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Pathway for growth - The Training to Concert Band program keeps students challenged, excited and reaching new levels.
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Extended learning - Band adds to the classroom curriculum and private lessons, expanding their skills and the opportunities available.
Our Bands
Training Band Intermediate Band Concert Band Beginners, Year 3 and above, no prior experience needed Students who have completed one year of Training Band, or entry by audition. Students who have completed one year of Intermediate band, or entry by audition Rehearsal time:
Wednesdays, 8:35am–9:15amRehearsal time:
Wednesdays, 7:45am–8:40amRehearsal time:
Tuesdays, 7:45am–9:00am
Instruments students often play:
Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Drums.
Students with prior experience may also join on Keyboard, Violin or Cello.
What’s involved in being part of the Band?
Joining the Band is a commitment, and a rewarding one. Here’s what families can expect:
- Private Lessons - all band members must take lessons to develop their skills
- Instrument - each student must have their own instrument (hire options available)
- Attendance - students are expected to attend all weekly rehearsals and scheduled performances
- Band Fees - payable each term (around $150) to cover program costs
- Music Council - parents and carers are encouraged to join and support the running of the program
Performances include:
School Open Days, Kindy Orientation, Education Week, OWPS Community Festival, Bandsgate, ASBOF, Music Council Musical Showcase and more.
Interested in joining band or learning more?
Please contact: oatleywestmusiccouncil@gmail.com or office@upscalemusic.com.au
OWPS Percussion Power
Led by percussionist Shane Carpini, Percussion Power is a fun and energetic program for students in Kindergarten to Year 6. Classes are held on Mondays and Fridays and grouped by year level.
Students explore a wide range of percussion instruments including cajon, bucket drumming, djembe, shekere, snare drum, bass drum and more.
It’s a valuable way to add music to a child’s life, with no private lessons or prior experience needed, while building skills, confidence and teamwork. Shane creates a lively and engaging environment where students can discover rhythm, teamwork and the joy of making music together.
Why join Percussion Power?
- Skills for life - Playing percussion strengthens focus, coordination and musicality, all while having fun.
- Teamwork & collaboration - Students learn to listen, keep time and create rhythm together, building a group sound that’s exciting and energised.
- Confidence through performance - Concerts and class showcases give students the chance to shine and feel proud.
- Accessible for everyone - No experience or private lessons are required, no ‘home-work’, making it a low-commitment, easy entry point into music.
- Fun, community & belonging – Students make new friends, enjoy making music together and feel part of the school community.
Classes & Lessons
Classes are held on Monday and Friday mornings before school.
- Kindy Beginners- Kindy
- Beginners- Years 1 and 2 (Stage 1)
- Junior- Years 3 and 4 (Stage 2)
- Senior- Years 5 and 6 (Stage 3)
Performance Opportunities:
Kindy Orientation, Education Week, OWPS Community Festival, Music Council Musical Showcase and more!
What’s involved?
Joining Percussion Power is easy!
- All instruments provided during class
- Weekly sessions on Mondays & Fridays
- No private lessons required
- Term fees apply
Interested in joining Percussion Power or learning more?
Please complete the following google form: https://forms.gle/gCWc9jsrq81svVQq6
Alternatively, you could email oatleywestmusiccouncil@gmail.com
About Music Council
The OWPS Music Council is a not-for-profit group of committed parents and carers passionate about enhancing the school’s music programs. As a sub-committee of the Oatley West Pubic School P&C, the Council organise events, manages resources and collaborates with the school to ensure music thrives. Members also raise funds, purchase instruments and oversee subsidies to make music accessible for all students. The Music Council has a strong connection as a community of families, enjoying time together while supporting and watching our children grow through music.
Join the OWPS Music Council
Joining the Music Council is a great way to support and strengthen Band and Percussion for your child and other students. We meet once a term via Zoom to discuss general operations and identify ways to further enhance the program for all.
For more information please contact: oatleywestmusiccouncil@gmail.com