Parent/Guardian Information
Practice
All band members receive one lesson per each six day cycle. With the limited time we see students for lessons, additional practice at home is beneficial in reinforcing concepts that are taught in school. An average of 15-30 minutes of practicing per day is highly encouraged. Practicing for a little each day is better for skill development than practicing once a week for hours. Students who practice at home become better at playing their instrument which in turn sets them up for future success and opportunities like scholarships!
Ear Filters
Full Band days can be loud! We recommend ear filters for full band days to protect your child's hearing. Purchasing filters like those in the link below will still allow music to filter through, so they won't hinder your child's musicianship.
Obtaining An Instrument
Robert M Sides Rental Program
Rent or Buy
Our recommended instrument rentals and purchases are done through our local music representative, Robert M Sides. Everything your child needs to get started is included with the rental (method book, stand, cleaning kit). A representative stops by the school once a week, so you can place orders and pick-ups right to Liberty Valley! To Rent or Rent-To-Own an instrument, please visit the link below.
Clarinets and Saxophones will also need size 2.5 reeds - a box of 10 or more to start the year is ideal.
Already Own An Instrument?
If you already own an instrument, awesome! Please make sure it's in working condition prior to the first scheduled lesson so your child can be successful. In addition to their instrument, all students* will need Sound Innovations Book 1, a portable music stand, and a cleaning kit. Clarinets and Saxophones will also size 2.5 reeds (medium soft) - a box of 10 or more to start they year is ideal. *Percussionists will need "Alfred Snare Drum Book 1" and "A Fresh Approach to Mallet Percussion" instead of the Sound Innovations books.
Epic Percussion
Percussionists also have the option of renting through another local business in Williamsport called Epic Percussion.
