FAQs

Q: I noticed that string instruments come in different sizes. How do I know which size to get?

A: Proper fitting of the instrument to your student's physical size is very important. Please be sure your student is present when you go to rent/purchase an instrument.

Q. When should my student bring their instrument to school?

A: Students should bring their instrument every day they have Strings class. Students should also take their instruments home over the weekends to practice.

Q: Does it matter if I get a cheaper shoulder rest than the Kun or Everest?

A: Although the 2 brands are more expensive, they are significantly higher in quality and will last longer. Cheap shoulder rests break and will be a hindrance to your student's learning.

Q: We aren't able to afford an instrument, but my student really wants to play, what do I do?

A: Please contact your respective teacher via email: jeerpelding@bluevalleyk12.org 

Q: Should my student get private lessons?

A: Beginning a new instrument and skill is a challenge. Some students may feel class moves too quickly, others may feel it moves too slowly. Private lessons that meet one on one with a teacher outside of the school help your student to move at their own pace. I highly encourage students to try private lessons if they can add it to their schedule outside of the school day.

Q: Is attendance required at all classes, before school and during the school day?

A: Yes, attendance is required at all classes. Although strings is optional for 5th graders, it is expected that your student will complete the academic year and attend all classes once they are enrolled. Feel free to reach out via email for individual circumstances that may impact attendance.

Q: Does my student get a grade in strings class?

A: Yes, they will receive strings class grades for 1st and 2nd semester (twice a year) as an addition to their report that you can view through ParentVue.

Q: Does my student have to attend the concerts? They have another event that meets at the same time.

A: I like to tell students that our concerts are like the BIG tournament that no one can miss. If our key players (your student) are absent, it impacts our entire musical team. Many students have a lot of activities that meet outside of school, but please prioritize the concerts. The dates have been provided for you with advance notice so you can plan accordingly (See the Schedule & Concerts tab)

Q: My student is SO excited to play, what do they need to know before they take out their instrument?

A: Please encourage your student to wait until we discuss how to properly maintain their instrument. Here is a great video that will inform them of how to store their instrument and care for it properly.

Q: My student is struggling with reading music. How can they practice music reading at home?

A: Doing a search for "*your instrument* note flash cards" can give you several options and there are some great apps. I suggest www.musictheory.net (under "exercises" then "note identification") which is web based and FREE. Set the timer and work on reading notes 3-4 times a week for 5-10 minutes at a time. Their goal should a first be accuracy and then trying to increase their speed AND accuracy. Or go old fashioned and make flashcards - it helpful to write down the notes and aids in memory.

Q: Do I need to help my student practice?

A: Yes! They need you to help them put it on their schedule outside of school, kindly remind them when it's time to practice, and applaud their progress. Beginner musicians need to practice almost every day (you may want to let them choose which day is their "day off" depending on the week), for at least 20 minutes. It is better to practice a little bit every day than to practice an hour the day before the playing test. You will know what they are supposed to do during practice times by reading my Weekly Strings Update email.