By CASEY NEILL
GREATER Dandenong students will be making more music, thanks to recent grants.
The Dandenong South, Lyndale Greens, Athol Road and Springvale Rise primary schools were among 43 recipients of up to $5000 in the State Government Musical Instrument Grants program’s first round on 11 May.
Dandenong South principal Leonie Fitzgerald said the cash would help her school to set up ‘investigations’ boxes of instruments.
“We intend to have Koori instruments, Indonesian and African instruments and some unusual instruments that the children can explore,” she said.
“The school has an extensive arts program and values opportunities to provide the children with the chance to explore a range of instruments and to actively participate in making music together.”
Education Minister James Merlino said research showed exposure to music education caused better results and better attendance.
Music Ambassador and Eastern Victoria Region MP Harriet Shing said learning, practising and playing music was a wonderful way for students to develop new skills and confidence.
“I know first-hand the incredible fun and benefit of musical education, and I’m really looking forward to seeing more students get into the groove with new instruments and equipment,” she said.
