Parkside 5th Grade Band
Parkside 5th Grade Band
Get ready to embark on the greatest adventure of your life—the BAND! In this band program, you are going to discover talents you never thought you had, experience things that no one else in the school gets to experience, and best of all–you’re going to become a part of the band family. These people are going to be your best friends. You’ll be with them until the day you walk the stage at your graduation from Lawrenceville High School! You will go through everything with your band family, and as you look back on these times when you’re grown, band will be one of your happiest childhood memories.
We know that you–a beginning band student–know NOTHING about band, and that’s okay! Remember that everybody else is in the same boat as you. Your directors will teach you everything you need to do know, starting as simple as how to sit and how to open your case. You’ll learn how to read all of the notes and rhythms, where to put your fingers, and how to play beautiful sounds and songs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. They are welcome to start at any point after 5th grade, but they will just be behind their peers. Anyone and everyone that wants to be in band is more than welcome to!
It's perfectly fine! Beginning band is introducing your child into band!
We will be sending a letter home with your child in April asking for information and giving you more details. You can go ahead and fill out the needed information with the QR Code below to get the process started.
We will test all 4th graders on instruments during their normal Music Class time. We have an evening meeting for the parents of students interested in playing on May 8th. After the meeting, The Music Shoppe will be there if you prefer to hear your student play the different instruments and to help with ordering instruments.
You will be able to order you child an instrument during our Parent meeting on May 8th or you can go to The Music Shoppe website to order there. They will deliver to the schools for free.
Please reach out to Ms. Knapp at aknapp@cusd20.net. At Unit 20, we want any child who wants to be in band to be able to do so. We can not help if we are not communicated with, so please reach out.
Does band cost money? How much? What if I can’t afford it–do I just quit?
Yes, band is an investment. We try to keep it as affordable as possible, and there are always ways to help as long as you communicate with the directors. We do not want ANY child to miss out on band due to money. The amount of money depends on what instrument you play. Talk to a director-DO NOT QUIT!
Your student is welcome to use it!
Every 5th grade band student will start once back in school in August. Another option is to start this summer, Ms. Knapp will be offering lessons if your student would like to begin early.
In the fall, your student will be assigned a lesson time and a full band day during school hours. We ask that a student tries to practice 10-15 minutes a day at home. It even be during commercial breaks while they watch a TV show. Practice makes all the difference when learning an instrument.
We will also play in some different events through year when possible. We strive to give families plenty of notice of when events happen.
Remember. We will only need a few evenings the entire school year coupled with 10-15 minutes of daily practice at home. That's it! That means you can still play your sport, go to scouts, dance at the studio, play video games, etc... and be in the band!! Our high school band has students who are playing in all sports and still playing!
If you have any other questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to email Ms. Knapp at aknapp@cusd20.net.