Beginning Band

Beginning Band

Beginning band is our group for students who are new to band in grades 6-8. No experience is needed, only the will and desire to learn to play an instrument. This class focuses on the fundamental skills needed to be successful in band. Subjects covered include proper posture, embouchure, instrument carriage and care, tone production, rhythm and note reading, musicianship, and individual/group performance techniques.  

• The students meet daily in like-instrument classes (flute class, French horn class, etc.)

• It prepares students for the higher bands at CMS

• Encouraged to take private lessons

• Beginners will perform concerts in the winter and spring

• Beginners will perform a solo & ensemble piece in class

• Beginners have the opportunity to participate in a Spring Trip that includes a concert performance

• Daily Practice at Home:  Daily practice is the student’s homework in band and is absolutely necessary in order to make steady progress. Every student is expected to practice at home on a regular basis. We recommend a minimum of 15-20 minutes of home practice five days a week. Some students may need more than that to achieve their musical goals. Students will have specific exercises and songs to practice, in addition to reviewing material presented in that day’s class. You can help by confirming that they are indeed practicing and not just “playing around” on the instrument. It’s not the amount of time that is practiced that makes the greatest difference; it’s the quality of the practice session.

Director: Brian Edwards

Mr. Edwards teaches the following instruments: Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba

Director: Allegra Wolff

Ms. Wolff teaches the following instruments: Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone

Director: Scott Randall

Mr. Randall teaches the following instruments: Trumpet, Horn, Double reeds (oboe, bassoon),

Director: Hunter Langhans

Mr. Langhans teaches Percussion