Hello and welcome to another fun and exciting year at Perrywood, Arrowhead, and Phyllis E. Williams Elementary Schools! My name is Mr. Braxton and I will be your instrumental music instructor for this school year. It is my pleasure to welcome you to Instrumental Music for the 2024-2025 school year where we are going to be learning a number of new and exciting things. Throughout the year, students will learn to read music notation, play a musical instrument, expand upon our knowledge, and most importantly have fun! Before registering your child for Instrumental Music, please keep the following in mind:
● Instrumental Music is a year-long course that requires commitment and dedication. Once a student is registered for the course, they will not be removed unless discussed with Mr. Braxton.
● Academic grades are given to Instrumental Music students. Grades are based on attendance, effort, home practice, performances, and playing exams given throughout the year.
● Instruments that the students may choose from include: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, violin, viola, and cello. Note – Due to limited space, each students should select 2-3 instruments that interest them as they may not be able to play their first choice.
● Instrumental Music will meet twice a week this year for thirty minutes each session. The schedule will be available when lessons begin in September.
● Learning to play an instrument takes a great amount of patience and home practice. Students are expected to practice at home.
● Students are expected to practice at least 15-20 minutes a day, 4 days a week and record it in their practice logs.
● Students will be given a list of materials needed for their lessons as well as a list of vendors for instrument rentals and a schedule upon completion of the registration.
● Lessons for all students will start around the week of September 25th, 2025. Students should have their instruments and materials by the start of lessons, though there will a week grace period to obtain the necessary materials. Failure to acquire all materials may possibly result in dismissal from the class unless otherwise discussed with Mr. Braxton.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to working with your student this year!
Thank you,
Karl Braxton, Elementary Instrumental Music Director
karl.braxton@pgcps.org