Band Parent Organization

Band Parent's Organization

Band Parent Connection

Band Parent Connection is an initiative by the Eden Prairie High School Band Parent Organization to reach out to band parents and teachers at the elementary and middle schools. The purpose is to provide information and support to give kids a great band experience. A fantastic beginning band program is the key to achievement at the high school level.

Like any sport or activity, mastering a musical instrument takes patience, practice and persistence. It also takes support from parents and teachers. Here are some ideas of how to help your student:

· Understand that learning to play an instrument is hard. Encourage your student with positive feedback.

· Most kids like to play in an ensemble, but they hate to practice. Support their practicing any way you can (ie: smart music, encourage to practice with friends, sign up for summer band opportunities, CMS ensembles…).

· If at all possible, have your child take private lessons.

· Enthusiastically attend every concert. Your child knows if you’re there, and showing them you care motivates them.

· For students going into grades 7 – 12, encourage them to go to Band Camp. It is the number one reason given by high school band kids as the reason they stayed in band. Band Camp is a wonderful way to change playing an instrument from hard work to fun.

· Get involved in your student’s band program. If you have time to volunteer, your child’s band director would love to have your help. If your student sees that you care about band, they will care about band.

Research shows that kids in music education have many advantages over those who are not. If your child is not having fun, work on improving their experience instead of letting them quit. The band directors and BPO volunteers can help.

Have questions or want see more information on the Eden Prairie Band Program? Go to www.edenprairiebpo.org You can see what is available and parents with many years of experience in the program will answer questions to the best of our ability or direct you to a resource who can help you.