Mrs. Larson (orchestra) and Ms. Hahn (band) have met with all the 5th grade classes to discuss how band and orchestra works, demonstrated the instruments and told students to register on the website for their preference of instruments. Soon final recommendations will be made that are based upon your child’s interest and the balance of instruments in the groups. We will send information home regarding FINAL instrument choice in a few days.
To maintain a good balance of instrumentation in our groups, we have found that it is desirable to limit certain instruments in order to achieve this balance. Interviews may be necessary to determine which students will play certain instruments.
Some of the larger, more expensive instruments are provided for rent from the school at a cost of $50 per year. These instruments must be limited because we have a restricted number available for use by the 5th graders:
French horns- 4 Baritones- 2 Tubas- 2 Cellos- 4 String Bass- 2 Percussion 5-6
The following instruments are NOT limited:
Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Violin, Viola
If your child decides to play one of the following instruments, the instrument must be provided by the student and parents: flute, oboe, clarinet, alto & tenor sax, trumpet, trombone, violin, and viola.
You may choose to rent an instrument (from West Music or Schultz Strings, for example), or obtain a used instruments. West Music has representive that visits the school for deliveries and repairs. They also have a kiosk inside the ArtHaus in Decorah that carries some supplies. Schultz Strings visits Decorah Middle School often for deliveries and repairs. Click on the links to learn more about their online rental plans. Perhaps you know of a friend or relative who has an instrument your child could use. Have us or a music store check your instrument if you decide to opt for a used instrument. We want to make sure your student has the optimum beginning experience. If there is a financial burden, please talk to us. It would be best to wait until after the parent/student meeting before obtaining an instrument.
On Thursday, September 14th, we will be having our parent meeting at Decorah Middle School at 7:00 pm. We invite you to join us! See information below for the separate meetings. We will be sharing information about our programs and provide more information about renting instruments and the supplies needed. Music store representatives will be present to assist in the rental process. Please contact us if you are not able to attend and we will be sure to provide you with further information.
We look forward to meeting with you and welcoming you and your student to our fine music organizations! If you have any questions about the band or orchestra program, please call us at school or send us an email at:
emily.hahn@decorah.school (band) or jennifer.larson@decorah.school (orchestra)
Decorah Middle School Cafeteria
Decorah Middle School Band Room #140