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This section has the practical information you’ll need to understand how the instrumental music program works. You’ll find details about scheduling, instruments, rentals and school-owned instruments, fees, program expectations, and other frequently asked questions.
About the Program
The elementary instrumental music program begins in Grade 5 and continues through Grade 6, giving students the opportunity to learn a band instrument, develop musical skills, and make music with others.
Instrumental music is a co-curricular program, which means that most instruction takes place during the regular school day. Students attend small-group instrument classes and, as their skills develop, rehearse in larger groups and full band. A rotating schedule helps reduce the amount of time students miss from any one classroom subject.
Students are expected to attend their scheduled classes and rehearsals, come prepared with their instrument and materials, practice regularly, and keep up with work missed while attending band. Instrumental music is an evaluated program, and students receive a band report card during each reporting period.
The program is designed to build both musical independence and ensemble skills. For many students, elementary band is the beginning of continued instrumental music in junior high, high school, and beyond.
Scheduling
Band schedules will be shared one month at a time throughout the school year so that students, families/caregivers, and teachers know what to expect.
Students will have access to a paper copy of the schedule. It will also be emailed to the caregiver addresses provided on the registration form, shared with homeroom teachers, and posted on each school’s page on this website.
From time to time, schedules may need to change or additional rehearsals may be added. When that happens, I’ll make sure updated information is shared as clearly as possible.
Getting an Instrument
Students playing a woodwind or brass instrument will need access to an instrument for the school year. Some families may already have an appropriate instrument available through family or friends, while others may choose to rent or purchase one from a local music store. Students assigned to percussion or mallet percussion will use school instruments during classes and rehearsals.
For students beginning band in Grade 5, please wait until an instrument assignment has been confirmed before renting or purchasing an instrument. Students will have an opportunity to explore the available choices and indicate their preferences before assignments are made.
Grade 6 students will generally continue on the instrument they played in Grade 5. Families are encouraged to rent or purchase an instrument where possible as students continue in the program.
School-owned instruments are available to help students access the program, with priority given to beginning students. Any instruments remaining after Grade 5 assignments have been completed may also be available to Grade 6 students.
If accessing an instrument is a concern, please reach out. I’m happy to work with families/caregivers to explore the options available.
Local rental options include: Long & McQuade and The Music Collection.
Fees & Materials
There is no fee to participate in the instrumental music program.
Students who use a school-owned instrument are charged a $60 instrument maintenance fee for the year. Families/caregivers will be notified if this fee applies once instrument arrangements have been finalized. Payment will be made through the school’s RYCOR system.
Materials will vary a little depending on the instrument and grade level. Grade 6 students should keep any band books, music, and other materials from last year and bring them to their first class.
Students assigned to percussion will need a pair of drumsticks and a practice pad for home practice. School percussion instruments will be used during classes and rehearsals.
Students assigned to mallet percussion will use school instruments during classes and rehearsals. Any additional mallets or materials needed for home practice will be shared once instrument assignments are finalized.
If any other materials are needed during the year, I’ll share that information with students and families/caregivers as it comes up.
Commitment & Assessment
Learning an instrument takes time, patience, and regular practice. Students who join the instrumental music program are asked to make a commitment to the program for the school year and to come to classes and rehearsals prepared to participate.
Students are expected to keep track of their schedule, bring the materials they need, practice regularly, and take responsibility for their learning as part of the ensemble.
Instrumental music is an evaluated program, and students receive a band report card during each reporting period.
If challenges come up during the year, please reach out. I’d much rather work through a concern together than have a student quietly struggle or step away from the program without support.
Looking for more?
Visit Meet the Instruments to explore the instruments offered in the program and hear what they sound like.
Visit the FAQ for answers to common questions about instrumental music.
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