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, alto saxophone, trumpet, 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.

Students who join band will have two lessons each week. Band in elementary school is a pull out program which means that students must make up any class work they miss while in their band lessons. Band students are expected 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. 30 minutes a day is the goal. Band students will be expected to attend all lessons, practice at home regularly, bring their instrument and band book to each lesson, and be on their best behavior.

Every child will need their own instrument to use for the year. Perhaps you already have an instrument or can borrow one from a relative or friend.  Some people rent an instrument from a music store.  Most instruments rentals go for around $20-50/month (sax is more). There are also affordable new and used beginner model instruments for sale online ($120-$500). For more information about how to get an instrument, please see the letter called How to Get an Instrument for Your Child For those unable to afford their own instrument, we do have a limited supply of school instruments and band books available at no cost for those that need assistance. 

I ask that parents please purchase the band book and some instrument supplies to keep their child’s instrument working. For more information about what supplies your child will need and which book to get, please see the School Band Supply List.

This week, students saw me demonstrate the instruments and learned about being in the 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. 

All students who want to be in band need to: 1. Turn in a sign up sheet OR sign up online. 2. Get an instrument, some basic instrument supplies, and the band book. If you are getting your own instrument, please try to get an instrument and the supplies by our first lesson if possible. 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 and supplies to those students in financial need.

If you have any questions about Band, or how to get an instrument or supplies, most answers are available on the band website. You may also message me for further help. 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