New to orchestra? We've got you covered. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by parents.
How do we know which instrument to choose?
We suggest that your student be allowed to choose which instrument to play for one simple reason: students who are drawn to the sound of their chosen instrument are more likely to continue playing as time goes by. The more fascinated they are by their chosen instrument, the better! This greatly helps with the challenge of encouraging a child to practice! However, if your family has grandma's violin, that's a good reason as well (make sure that instruments that have been in storage for awhile have been checked over by a qualified repair person).
How can I get an instrument for my student?
We recommend renting an instrument from one of our local music stores to start. We also have some instruments the school owns that you can rent for $100 for the school year. Please don't buy an instrument from Amazon and other sites that don't specialize in string instruments. If you would like to purchase an instrument, we recommend Eckroth Music, Sharmusic.com, robertsonsviolins.com and even some instruments from Craigslist. The Bozeman Friends of Music Instrument Swap is also a wonderful place to find a gently used instrument.
Where can I get a book?
It is very useful for students to have their own book that they can write in and keep to practice from over the summer. We use Sound Innovations Book 1. Eckroth carries them for $10.99. Be sure to purchase the correct book for the instrument your student plays.
How many days per week does orchestra meet?
In 5th grade, I will get to see your children twice weekly, most weeks. Once your student gets to middle school, performance music classes meet 5 days per week during your student's daily schedule.
Are private lessons helpful?
Yes, they are helpful, especially for students who are very dedicated or progress faster than the classroom pace. However, lessons are by no means required.
How do I know if my student is talented enough to learn an instrument?
Every student can learn to play an instrument because musical talent is taught. Some students come with a degree of natural talent or prior instruction, but the vast majority of students are beginners and with the right amount of effort, all students succeed. Music making is part of all human culture, so all humans can make music!
How will learning music affect my students other schoolwork?
Many, many research studies have proven that students who have music instrumental study as part of their daily life perform better in school than their peers who don't. In particular, students in music perform better in the languages, math and reading. Their GPA's are higher, standardized test scores are higher, and they even achieve higher grades on the SAT and ACT. It is also possible that higher achieving students are naturally drawn to study music. However, we consider these reasons to be happy coincidences when studying music. We want our students to leave our programs with a love of creativity, teamwork, responsibility, cooperation, belonging, friendship and a life-long love of music.
My student is involved in many other activities outside of school. How much time will this take?
As with any new skill, learning to play an instrument takes practice and effort. We recommend students build short, regular, dedicated practice time into their after school schedule 4-5 times per week. In 5th grade, these sessions can be as short as 10 minutes! With the exception of occasional performances, very few orchestra events take place after school hours. Therefore, a child involved in after school sports, dance, or other activities will not experience schedule conflicts very often at all. In fact, our athletes, intellectuals and artists are among our strongest musicians.
When can I expect that my student will start sounding good?
Students can make sounds immediately on a string instrument. As students receive instruction and practice, you will notice improvement every week. By the end of a month of instruction, students will be able to play their first songs!
How can I best support my student?
You can support your student by being their cheerleader! Help them set up a cozy location to practice and help them form a practice routine. Tell them frequently how much you enjoy listening to them play. Don't worry about the 'sour' notes--those will fade with time. Take them to concerts and other musical events. Share your favorite music with them. Send them music videos of their instrument from Youtube that you find enjoyable. Make music part of your family life. Never use music practicing as a form of punishment. Over time, your child will need fewer reminders to practice as the routine becomes self-rewarding. Encourage music study as a long term goal and enjoyable commitment.
Be sure to reach out to me when you have concerns or questions!