Zoë van Drunen

The string ensemble class – just an instrumental lesson for a group?

Combining the learning from instrumental lessons, classroom music, and orchestral rehearsals into curriculum-based string ensemble classes. What makes a string ensemble class unique? How does it differ from private lessons, classroom music, or orchestral rehearsals? We will examine its role in a school setting and discover practical strategies to support student learning across all orchestral string instruments within the same class.

Let’s enhance our pedagogy as string teachers by thinking beyond instrumental lessons and orchestral rehearsals. Are there other contexts and opportunities for skill building that add to the musical development of children through playing strings?

Designed for teachers working with students in Years 2 to 8, but relevant for all string educators, this session offers ideas to engage students, make meaningful curriculum links, and apply learning in your context. Are you an instrumental teacher looking for ways to connect students’ classroom and instrumental learning? Do you lead ensembles and want fresh ideas? Perhaps you are an orchestral director wanting to make curriculum links? This is the session for you!

About Zoë van Drunen

Zoë van Drunen is a violinist, conductor and music educator with over 20 years experience as a teacher and performer in Australia and overseas. She has degrees from Perth (Notre Dame), Sydney (Australian Institute of Music AIM), Tasmania (University of Tasmania) and Klagenfurt in Austria (Kärntner Landeskonservatorium) and has studied with amazing violin teachers including Dr Robin Wilson and Brian Finlayson. She has a wealth of experience teaching a range from beginner students to ATAR string examining, and conducting educational ensembles.  In her role as Co-ordinator of Strings at Hale School, Perth, WA, she leads a team of 13 string staff and around 250 string students from PP-12. This includes six five string orchestras, a chamber program, and a classroom ensemble playing based program. Zoë is passionate about finding ways to engage all students in active learning, and offering opportunities for every student to reach their full musical potential.