Band - 6th Grade

To the students,

This year is the first year of something special in your life.  To this day I see friends I grew up with, many I have known since 6th grade band, at community band rehearsals, jazz band rehearsals, and other local groups with which I perform.  Some decided to major in music in college, but the majority of these friends did not.  They simply discovered their love and appreciation for music, and chose not to put away their instrument for the last time after high school graduation.  In the words of one of my mentors, “Band is lifelong.”

Growing up, my bandmates became my closest friends.  They were there to cheer each other on at performances, to lend a helping hand when needed, and at times, help each other through the not so great times.  Here we will learn the fundamentals of music, but also life lessons such as self discipline and personal responsibility.  We’ll make music together, and you’ll have your first performance of many.  You’ll be super nervous, but you’ll do great!  This is not simply a class, but the start of a journey.  You’re going to have lots of fun along the way.

To the parents,

At home, you’re going to hear lots of interesting sounds the next few months.  At times, they won’t be pleasant.  There will be squeaks, squeals, honks, and to the parents of percussionists, lots of drumming on things that may or may not be drums.  But slowly, those squeaks, squawks, and rhythms will turn into beautiful music.  You’re going to rent or purchase an instrument from a local music store.  At times, you’ll wonder why you did.  Then in December it will be time for your child’s first concert.  You’ll dress up and head back to the school that afternoon, and file into the gym.  You’ll take your seat on the bleachers with the other band parents.  Your child will be greeted by his or her bandmates dressed in their Sunday best.  They may be a little nervous.  You may be a little nervous.  I may be a little nervous.  But then it will happen, that first note of music during the first song, where your child is making music together with friends—actually performing, and you’ll realize why all of the interesting sounds you’ve heard at home, and that monthly rental fee from that local music store, was worth it.

Near the end of our band manual you will find a small list of advocacy facts on why music and band is important.  This list is nearly endless.  From having academic benefits, to helping children find a place in which to belong, to teaching self discipline, punctuality, responsibility, and teamwork, band teaches it all.  In the words of one of my mentors, “Band makes good people”.

Sincerely,  Kevin Smith, Director of Bands | General Music Teacher, Chapin Intermediate School

kjsmith@lexrich5.org