Dear Parents,                                                                                            

Once again, it’s time for a new batch of 4th and 5th graders to have the chance to study a musical instrument and call themselves “musicians."  The tradition of musical excellence in Hemet is well known statewide, and elementary school band is the key.  The district offers free music instruction during the school day.  School instruction is available on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, baritone, trombone, and percussion. No experience is necessary to join. First year players will be taught all the basics of playing a musical instrument and how to read music. Most returning players will be in the Advanced Band class where they will continue where they left off last year.

LESSONS AND EXPECTATIONS: Students who join Band will have two lessons each week. Band in elementary school is a pull out program which means that students will miss some of their regular classroom time to attend the band lessons. To be in Band, students are expected to make up any class work they might miss while in their band lessons and to keep their grades up. We do our best to not pull students during math and language arts.  Band students are also expected to practice their instrument daily at home. Thirty minutes a day is the secret to success and growth. Band students will be expected to attend all lessons on time, practice at home regularly, bring their instrument and band book to each lesson, and be on their best behavior.

INSTRUMENTS AVAILABLE: GREAT NEWS!  Students no longer need to buy or rent an instrument. The school now has enough instruments for every student to borrow one for the year at no cost. To borrow an instrument, students will need to sign up for Band and request a school instrument. Parents and students will later be given an instrument check out form to complete. Instruments are free to use for the year, but parents are financially responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear or if the instrument is lost or stolen. Students will be taught how to care for their instruments. Students may use their own instrument if they already have one.

BAND SUPPLIES: If possible, I ask that parents please purchase two things for your student, the band book and a music stand for home practice. Clarinet and saxophone players will also need to get specific reeds. Please see the School Band Supply List letter on the back of this paper for more information. 

BENEFITS OF BAND: This week, students saw me demonstrate the instruments and learned about being in Band.  Now you need to have a discussion with your child to see if music is right for your family. The fellowship of music can involve your child in a wholesome, emotionally rewarding, and worthwhile activity with motivated people for the rest of their lives. Music helps to teach focus, goals, time management, problem solving, creativity, cooperation, and teamwork. Also, research shows that playing an instrument develops brain power. Band may even lead to future career opportunities. It did for me. 

HOW TO SIGN UP: All students who want to be in band need to: 1. Turn in a sign up sheet or sign up online. 2. Get a band book and music stand if possible. (I have some books to lend out for students that need help getting one.) Lessons begin the first week of September. I will be working over the next couple weeks on creating a lesson schedule and checking out school instruments.

If you have any questions about Band, most answers are available on the band website. See the QR code below. You may also message me with any questions. The best way to reach me is through the ParentSquare App or website. You can also email me. We are going to have an amazing year of making music. I hope your child is a part of it.

Sincerely,                                                                                                                  

Paul Fults

Cawston/Winchester Band Teacher  

(email) pfults@hemetusd.org