Keyboard and fretted instruments are very valuable to the foundation of any child's music education, they're fun to play, and learning one can lead to a lifetime of musical experiences and enjoyment. That is why there are keyboarding, ukulele, bass guitar, and drum set components to general music classes (specials and electives) and why many students choose to take private lessons outside of school. Please contact us if you would like a recommendation for a local teacher or studio for piano, guitar, bass guitar, or drum set lessons!
Piano and guitar are not taught in small group band or orchestra lessons at school. While practically any instrument can be taught in a small group setting, including piano and guitar, every instrument taught requires resources (time, staff, etc.). We therefore focus on band and orchestra instruments that are traditionally part of the performing ensembles at school (e.g., violin, clarinet, trumpet, concert percussion, etc.). Our goals are to ensure that every student has small group instruction and related small and large ensemble opportunities.
Finally, students who study piano, guitar, and drum set outside of school may eventually want to audition for jazz band. Unlike band and orchestra lessons, which primarily focus on instrument-specific pedagogy, jazz combo and big band classes are heterogeneous instrument groups that primarily focus on ensemble playing in jazz and other popular styles.
Thank you, and please contact us with any additional questions!