Music in Focus Specialist Program

Music in Focus is a four-year program, designed for passionate students wishing to extend their knowledge and performance abilities in music. It is also to prepare students for a career pathway in the music industry and for tertiary study at university.

The program offers a range of musical opportunities through sequential learning in solo, group and ensemble performances and instrumental lessons.

Music in Focus is a school-based specialist program designed for our local intake students currently studying an instrument with Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS), or who are receiving private lessons on a musical instrument.

We also offer intake for students accepted into the Gifted and Talented or Specialist Programs in Aviation, Graphic Design Media, or Netball, or those who may be out of area.

Music in Focus – Year 7 and 8

Students have Music in Focus class twice per week, where they grow their understanding of aural and theory, history and culture, composition, music technology, and performance.

Students will attend weekly IMSS lessons (or private instrumental tutoring), and an ensemble rehearsal.

Students will be involved in music masterclasses with industry professionals annually and will perform at school and IMSS music events each term.

Music in Focus – Year 9 and 10

Students have Music in Focus class four times per week, and they continue to grow and explore their capabilities in aural and theory, history and culture, composition, music technology and performance. This is extended with project-based learning, industry workshops, and excursions to universities and TAFE locations for further music extension.

Students will continue to attend weekly IMSS lessons (or private tuition), and at least music ensemble.

In year 10, students have the opportunity to engage in additional music studies by enrolling in the VET qualification ‘Certificate II in Music’, which is a practical and performance-based qualification. The one year course is delivered as an elective in addition to the Music in Focus classes.

Year 10 students will also begin their preparation to transition into the senior school music courses. Students choose from the following pathway options for Year 11 and 12:
a) Music ATAR
b) Certificate III in Music – two-year qualification with a specialisation in performance
c) PIMS – Instrumental and ensemble music. An endorsed program that contributes to a students’ WACE attainment.

Enrolment and Testing

Applications for 2026 have closed.

Enrolment in the Music in Focus Program involves a 20 minute test and a 20 minute audition for students in Year 6.

Complete an application below for 2027 entry or read more about the program in the Specialist and Focus Program Information.

Note: Students can only apply for Music in Focus if they live within the Melville Senior High School intake area or are enrolled in a Gifted and Talented or Specialist Program in Aviation, Graphic Design Media or Netball.

Students in other year groups are welcome to apply as vacancies arise.

Auditions and Intake

Testing and Auditions for entry in the 2026 Music in Focus program will be conducted onsite between Monday 12 May and Friday 16 May. 

Applicants will be required to complete a 40 minute audition consisting of:

Theory Test – Short assessment on music topic at Year 6 level.
Duration: 20 minutes

Audition -Performance of one current repertoire on a chosen instrument, and short assessment on aural skills (pitch and rhythm).
Duration: 20 minutes

Successful applicants will be emailed an audition invitation confirming all details and requirements.

Instrumental Music School Services (IMSS) Students

All IMSS students wishing to continue their instrument studies at Melville SHS will need to apply and audition for the Music in Focus program and gain a placement. It is IMSS policy that students must be enrolled in a music class to access free instrumental lessons.

Private Tuition Students

Students who are receiving private instrument tuition are welcome to apply for Music in Focus. Depending on the instrument chosen, they may be able to join the IMSS program (for instruments commencing in Year 7 only) if allocation permits, and we confirm this request with IMSS before offering a place. Students can elect to continue with their private tuition if the lessons are weekly and it is continuous for the length of the Music in Focus program.

Music Ensembles

Student participation in a music ensemble is a compulsory aspect of the Music in Focus program. Students are allocated an IMSS or extra-curricular ensemble based on their year level, experience and instrument they play. These are directed and conducted by IMSS and Music in Focus teachers.

Our music ensembles and class bands perform at school-based concerts each term, WA School Festivals, and performances in our local community.

The current ensembles are Melville Vox, Junior and Senior Contemporary Guitar Ensembles, Intermediate Concert Band, Senior Concert Band, and the Junior and Senior Classical Guitar Ensembles. Our school also offers extension for those students wishing to learn and perform jazz, funk and soul, with our school Swing Band. This ensemble is suitable for Year 9 students and older, with entry by audition or invitation.