The Programme
BandLab gives students the opportunity to experience music beyond individual lessons by placing them into bands and guiding them through the process of playing, creating, and performing together in a collaborative way.
Bands rehearse once per week, similar to itinerant music lessons.
Sessions can run during school periods, lunch or after school.
Students are grouped into bands based on their instrument, experience and availability.
Scheduling and organisation are managed externally to minimise admin for staff.
BandLab emphasises practical musicianship: playing as part of a group, listening, adapting, and improvising, arranging songs collaboratively, developing original material, preparing for live performance, and learning how to record, produce and release music in a modern world.
Contemporary band environments often keep students engaged and motivated who might otherwise not enjoy being involved in other types of music.
Provides an entry point for students who may not be involved in traditional ensembles.
Consistent rehearsal and songwriting support leads to stronger entries for events like Rockquest.
Ideal for NCEA Music performances, as well as Duke of Edinburgh and William Pike challenges.
BandLab offers recording, production and mixing services to students. Bands learn to play to a click, overdub, and use recording techniques on pro gear, alongside DAW and mixing basics. Once bands have master recordings of their songs, they can release these out into the world.
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