Band

Be part of the band!

Hey future CHMS band member! I am so excited that you are considering band next year! I've included some information here that will help you determine what instrument you'd like to play as well as some advice from current students. I look forward to having you as part of our band family next year!

-Mrs. Shives

You can fill out this form to be in the loop with Mrs. Shives: Future Band Member Information

What instrument should I play?

Choosing an instrument can be challenging! Here is a video that demonstrates some of the instruments in the band. When you start at Community House, you will have the option to start on flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone. We start all other instruments after our winter concert in 6th grade.

For the 2021-2022 school year, we will select instruments during the first two weeks of class.

Why do we wait?

Starting only the "big four" allows us to really focus on rhythm and note reading as well as tone production. This also allows us to give more attention to beginning students as all of our classes have all of the instruments!

What if I already play an instrument at my elementary school?

If you currently take band at your elementary school, you will be able to continue on your current instrument, but you will need to contact Mrs. Shives to let her know what instrument you play and what experience you already have!

"Band provides an amazing place for kids to make critical connections that help them in a time when they are growing and changing rapidly. Not only is the music good for their mind and heart, but the friendships are good for their soul."

-Robin McLaurin, parent of rising 10th grader, 7th grader and Bravo board member

Why should my child be in band?

There are SO many options in middle school and sometimes, it can be challenging to commit to something that requires both time and financial commitment. While study after study have shown the educational benefit of being in an instrumental music program, most musicians will quickly cite the social and emotional benefits to being a part of an instrumental music program. Over and over, we see students face failure and come out on top with a new attitude and coping mechanisms in their arsenal to face disappointment. Band is where many musicians learned to become independent and critical thinkers who are willing to try and try again until a problem is solved.

A Student Perspective

"If your child decides to band or orchestra that will be one of the best decisions you will make. If your child thinks they will not be good at an instrument tell them to just try. Going into band I didn’t think I would ever be good at an instrument and now I feel confident when I play. Mrs. Shives and Mrs.Guthrie are the best band and orchestra teachers in the world and they will help your child when they struggle. Soon after they help there will be no struggle because they teach in a way kids will understand. Good luck in band or orchestra! And remember if you want to excel with your instrument you have to practice. Also don’t be afraid to fail because that is how you learn! If you decide to do band or orchestra you will not regret it!" -Ethan B., Rising 8th Grader

"Practice practice and practice!" -Aatman M., Rising 7th Grader

8th Grade Night at Ardrey Kell High School

Page updated

Report abuse