Incoming Students

Students in Grades 5 & 6 participate in either Band or Chorus at Wilson Middle School, providing them with an opportunity to perform in a musical setting. Both groups perform two concerts a year. Additionally, students may choose to continue in Grades 7 & 8 but there are also some other options available.

In order to participate in band, students will need to have two things lined up prior to the beginning of the year:

1. Instrument
   • Students may attend our Instrument Petting Zoo on June 4^th at 5:00 PM at the Natick High School Cafeteria. This is an opportunity for them to see all of the possible instruments they can play in band and try them out.
   • Band uses the following instruments ONLY: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, and Percussion (percussion limited by number).
   • Students may rent through our rental company, Leonard’s Music or any other local music shop. There is a monthly rental fee but Financial Assistance is available to those who qualify
   • Parents may purchase an instrument but it is strongly recommended that you talk to the director prior to choosing an instrument
   • Parents who do not have access to an instrument should contact Mr. Morrill (smorrill@natickps.org)
2. Lessons
   • Those joining the band program in grade 5 are asked to take after-school group lessons. Additionally, students can sometimes take lessons prior to the start of the year. Options include some of our instructors (contact info available here: http://tinyurl.com/natickinstrumentalmusic and look for the “Instrumental Music Instructors and Staff 2014-2015” link on the left) or local music stores like Strike Up the Band or Music Go Round.
   • There is a fee for this but Financial Assistance is available.
   • Registration forms will be available on Wilson’s Virtual Backpack: http://natickps.org/Wilson/VirtualBackPack/Main.cfm
   • Band is a large ensemble class only.
   • There are no group lessons during the school day so it’s crucial that students get involved after school.
   • Preferential treatment on lesson times can often be given to METCO students for Tuesdays and Thursdays in order to be able to take the late bus. This can only happen if registrations come in early so please make sure to sign up as soon as possible

Most importantly, if you have questions or concerns, please email me at smorrill@natickps.org or call the school at (508) 647-6670 and ask for Scott Morrill