The Thornton Public School Rock Ensemble will keep the school and community dancing for another year after its funding was extended.
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Major sponsor Harvest delivered on the second of its three year commitment in May.
Investa Land, developer of Harvest, has committed to providing $5000 for a music tutor, instrument repairs and all performance costs.
School principal John Millburn said he was delighted the band would be able to take the stage for another round of shows.
“The band has gone from strength to strength and we’re extremely appreciative of the sponsorship,” he said.
The funding provides tuition to the school’s rock music program which gives kids from eight to 12 years-old an introduction to musical instruments needed to form a rock band.
About 20 students are currently developing their skills in the program, seven of these actively perform in the rock band.
Mr Millburn said the band performs regularly in the school and wider community.
“The highlight is at presentation days we also had our mothers and fathers day breakfasts where the kids performed to about 400 people,” he said.
“Coming up we have Father’s Day, the end of year concert and they’ll perform in September at Harvest for a community day.”
The band started in 2014 and put on its first shows last year.
Mr Millburn said the development of the students who participate, both in skill and confidence, is testament to the value of the program.
“Since then the students have developed skills in music but it has also put them on a path of confidence and greater self-esteem,” he said.
The benefits of the band have spread beyond the students enrolled, however. Mr Millburn said it has enriched the entire school community.
It’s a message echoed by the band co-ordinator Petra Yager.
“Our instrument tutor, Mr Shanks has been amazing at developing the children’s skills,” she said.
Part of the sponsorship funds covers the cost of a specialist music tutor to provide personalised support to the students as they learn their instrument.
