Questions & Answers

What is a "Go To Resource" class?

A "Go To Resource" class is a class that students can choose to take during the school day. Students that choose instrumental music as an academic pursuit attend these "Go To Resource" classes and leave their classrooms during the school day to attend. Instrumental music classes are held twice a week for 30 minutes. Lessons are the same times and days every week (please see the lesson schedule for more details).

When are instrumental music classes?

Classes are offered during the school day. Instrumental music is a "Go To Resource" class. That means students leave their classrooms to attend instrumental music as an academic pursuit (see lesson schedule for more details).

How much does it cost?

The classes are free! Parents are responsible for supplying an instrument, music stand, and a book for their student. The instrument and supplies can be rented from a local music store.

How do I know if my student is talented enough to play an instrument?

Talent in music is taught. Though some students come with varying degrees of natural talent, eventually all students end up at the same level with the right amount of effort. All humans have musical talent! Music making is one thing that is universal in all human cultures without exception.

How will instrumental music affect my students other academic courses?

Research indicates that students who are involved in instrumental music do better in school than students who do not take instrumental music. Though every student is different, research does indicate that music helps with other academic subjects. See the "Why Music" page for more information.

What instrument should my child play?

Many parents are concerned about choosing the correct instrument for their child. One thing to remember is that it is the child that is playing the instrument and this is an area where they should have the complete choice. Many students will choose an instrument because they enjoy the sound of that instrument or because it is the one that has always fascinated them. At the school assemblies students will have a chance to play all the instruments to help give them an idea of what instrument they want to play. Please do not discourage your child from playing a particular instrument because it is too big. If they enjoy playing you will be much happier when it comes time for practice. Practice time will not become a battle.

How do I register my child for classes?

For the 2007 - 2008 school year the instrumental music rental night will be on September 5 & 6. This will be a time where the local music stores will all be available to help you rent an instrument. Please go to the registration page on this site to register your student before the rental night. A letter will be sent home with your child the first week of school with more detail in it about music registration. Please see the calendar for the locations of these nights. If you are unable to attend one of these nights please contact Mr. Nelson or Mr. Hunt and we can answer any questions you have.

What does research say about music instruction?

There has been a great deal of research done about the affects of music instruction on children. Research indicates that music does help the brain to work faster and as a consequence students do better in school when they have music instruction.

My student is active in many other activities. How much time outside of school will this involve?

There are very few after school events that occur with involvement in elementary instrumental music. Students do have some after school rehearsals and concerts that are part of their grade in instrumental music (please see the calendar for a complete listing of these events for the school year). Students are also expected to practice at home. Generally students should practice anywhere from 20 - 30 minutes at a time about 5 days a week. Only consistent practice will help them to gain the full benefits of instrumental music instruction. Please refer to the section in the Handbook about practice for more detail.