MUSIC
The College is well-known for its music programmes and participation is impressive. We offer a wide variety of activities including composition, orchestras, concert band, chamber orchestra, choirs, jazz, pop and percussion groups. Music is encouraged at all levels and tuition for most instruments is provided by itinerant tutors. Student achievement in this programme has become a focus for community interaction and involvement through high profile music performances at all levels. In external exams, our students have performed consistently above the national average.

INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAMME
Specialist music tuition available at the school:
Flute, Trombone, Electric Guitar, Percussion, Clarinet, Euphonium, Bass Guitar, Classical piano, Oboe, Tuba, Violin, Keyboard, Bassoon, Voice (traditional/modern), Viola, Jazz Piano, Trumpet, Barbershop, Double Bass (jazz), French Horn, Classical Guitar, Drum Kit

MUSICAL ENSEMBLES
Experienced players are invited to audition for the following groups:

• Birkenhead College Concert Band (Advanced Brass, Woodwind & Percussion players)
• Birkenhead College Big Band (Full "Big Band" performing jazz and funk music of all types), Jazz Combos (Small Jazz ensemble featuring a rhythm section and instrumental soloists)
  

SPECIALIST GROUPS
School Production - Soloists, Chorus & Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, Brass Quintet, Saxophone Quartet, String Quartet, Chamber Groups

MUSICIANSHIP DEVELOPMENT ENSEMBLES
Intermediate Band (for Year 9 & 10 brass, woodwind & percussion players), Barbershop Quartets (auditioned groups, male and female working with vocal tutor), RockQuest Bands (contemporary groups entering the Annual RockQuest Competitions); Performing Arts Group (combination of music/dance, entering the Annual Stage Challenge), Harmony Choir (a school wide choir of both male and female singers)

MUSICAL EVENTS THAT TAKE PLACE DURING THE YEAR
School Production, Barbershop Festival, Local and Overseas trips, Arts Awards, Local schools' festival, Local Primary Schools' performances, Combined Concert Band with Intermediate School, Prize-giving Performance, Chamber Music Festival, Marching in Highbury Christmas Parade, Choral Festival, University Graduation Ceremonies, North Shore Secondary Schools' Choral Festival, Celebration of Music Concert, Barbershop Festival, Jazz Combo Playouts, Band Camp, Senior Solo Performances, Talent Quest, CD Recording, Auckland Secondary Schools' Band & Orchestra Festival, National Concert Band Competition