Why Band?

   Six Reasons why your child should join band:

1. For the shy child, music is self-expression.

2. For the awkward child, it's coordination.

3. For the impulsive child, its a way to channel energy into a rewarding accomplishment.

4. For the easily distracted child, it's concentration.

5. For the uncertain child, it's poise and confidence.

6. For the child who gives up easily, it's perseverance.


Private Lesson are Recommended When Learning an Instrument

Group classes work well for preschool music programs and theory lessons. However, when actually learning how to play an instrument, private lessons are far superior since in private lessons, it is hard to miss anything, and each student can learn at their own pace. This means the teacher does not have to teach a class at a middle of the road level, but has the time to focus to work on the individual student's strengths and weaknesses. For that lesson period, the student is the primary focus of the teacher. The teachers also enjoy this, as they do not have to divide their attention between 20-50 students at a time and can help the student be the best they can be. If you are interested in private music lessons, please contact Mr. McGee and a list of recommended teachers will be sent to you. 


Make Practicing Easier 

As with anything, improving in music takes practice. One of the main problems with music lessons is the drudgery of practicing and the fight between parents and students to practice every day. Here are some ways to make practicing easier: 


Time: Set the same time every day to practice so it becomes part of a routine or habit. This works particularly well for children. Generally the earlier in the day the practicing can occur, the less reminding is required by parents to get the child to practice. 


Repetition: We use this method quite often when setting practice schedules for beginners. For a young child, 20 or 30 minutes seems like an eternity. Instead of setting a time frame, we use repetition. For example, practice this piece 4 times every day and this scale 5 times per day. The child then does not pay attention to the amount of time they are practicing their instrument, but knows if they are on repetition number 3 they are almost finished. 


Rewards: This works very well for both children and adult students. Some adults reward themselves with a cappuccino after a successful week of practicing. Parents can encourage children to practice by granting them occasional rewards for successful practicing. Praise tends to be the most converted award - there just is no substitute for a pat on the back for a job well done. Sometimes we all have a week with little practicing, in that case there is always next week. 


HAVE FUN! Music should be something that you enjoy for a LIFETIME. So, try to put unrealistic expectations on yourself or your children to learn quickly. Everyone learns at a different pace and the key is to be able to enjoy the journey. :)