5th Grade FAQs and Registration

2025/2026 FAMS Music Registration and FAQs

I want to play in band, play in Orchestra, or sing in chorus next year at FAMS… What do I do now?? 

Good question! Do you want to play in band next year, maybe sing in chorus, play in orchestra, ring handbells, or join jazz band? Here’s what you need to know…

Can I be in band AND chorus AND handbells AND jazz band next year?!?

YES! At FAMS you can participate in any music ensemble you want! You never have to choose between one or the other. Mr. Kozichek, Mrs. Hartman, and Mrs. Macy will make sure you’re scheduled for any ensemble you’d like. More than half of our students play in multiple ensembles!

I only want to be in one or two ensembles for now… Is that ok?            

Yes!

I'm actually really nervous about 6th grade, starting a new building, and not having time for anything. I'm not sure I can handle all this...

You are not alone! It's completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed with a new school year. Trust us when we say you'll feel better when you start at FAMS. After a few days you'll see how every teacher and staff member works to help you in any way we can, including the music teachers! We know the schedule, teachers, routines, and we we know how to make playing and singing easy and fun, NEVER stressful! We work with your teachers and classes to help you acclimate to your new year. All instrumental lessons are rotated weekly, and we always accommodate for any academic needs.  Stay involved, sign up now, and we'll help you every step of the way in the Fall. 

FUN FACT: There are more students involved in the music department at FAMS (band, orchestra, chorus, etc.) than any other team or club in the whole school!

Do they ensembles travel or go on any trips?

Yes, all the music ensembles take several field trips each year. We travel to many different places to share our talents. Every two years the music department takes an optional overnight trip to Boston, Massachusetts to perform and see the great sights of the city. Any student who participates in band, orchetsra, or chorus gets the chance to travel with us.

How do I sign up for Band, Orchestra, Chorus, or Handbells?     

You can sign up for any ensemble by having your parents fill out this Google Form no later than Friday, June 13th . In less than a minute you'll be registered! If you have any questions, ask your music teacher, or feel free to email Mrs. Hartman, Mr. Kozichek, or Mrs. Macy.

What if I never, ever played an instrument yet or sang in a chorus, but I really want to start learning... Is it too late?

NO! It is never too late to start learning and playing. Any of the FAMS teachers would be glad to give you some extra help to get you started in music performance. Please email any of the FAMS Music teachers with any questions about how to get started, and we can get you on your way this Summer. You can register on the Google Form above, but please reach out to us so we can get you started.

Where do I get my instrument from?

You're welcome to use any music store you'd like for an instrument rental. Most of our students use Miller's Sax Shop in North Haledon. Here's a link for renting an instrument:

https://millerssaxshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025-Miller-Sax-Shop-Rental-Contract.pdf

Please do not purchase an instrument off of Amazon or any other online retailers. The price is too good to be true; they're not authentic instruments. Percussion students do NOT have to rent any drums; FAMS has all the equipment they'll use. Percussion parents will receive an email in the summer for links to purchase a drum pad and drum sticks.

How do I sign up for Jazz Band? 

Look for information on Mr. Kozichek’s website in November for information about the Jazz Band. Auditions are held in November/December, and practices begin in January. Jazz Band students must be registered for Concert Band as well, unless you take private guitar or bass guitar lessons outside of FAMS.

How often does each ensemble meet?

                  Chorus                                       every other school day, during the school day

                  Concert Band                        Thursdays before school, plus one lesson per week. Schedule will be posted in the Fall. (typically 3 mornings per month, 4 mornings in December      and May. That's it!)

                  Handbells                                twice a week during your lunch

                  Jazz Band                               Extra-Curricular activity, once a week starting in January (usually Thursdays after-school)

  String Orchestra         One lesson per week, plus one practice. Schedule will be posted in Fall. (typically 3-4 mornings per month, that's it!)

Can I switch my instrument?

Outside of extenuating circumstances, instrument switching is not permitted. Just like in elementary school, your training, music selection, and band arrangements have been carefully planned out. If you rent an instrument, you are also building credit towards future rentals or purchases. Instrument switching is typically done in high school, where students can play multiple instruments in different ensembles (alto sax in marching band, soprano sax in jazz band, percussion in concert band, etc).  There are certain circumstances where it may be permitted, so please email Mrs. Bradley or Mr. Kozichek if you have any questions.

What do I need to do to get ready?

You’re already doing it! You’re playing, practicing at home, and learning! Just keep practicing throughout the summer, memorize all of your instrument fingerings, and read through your old music/method books. KEEP PLAYING AND SINGING! Even a little bit here and there will keep all the notes and rhythms you learned in your head. Remember to re-rent your instrument during the summer, don’t wait until the Fall. 

We look forward to making music with you next year!

Mrs. Hartman        Mr. Kozichek Mrs. Macy