Please address questions to the instrumental music director: 

Mr. Dignen, email: tim.dignen@pgcps.org

General information about the instrumental music program:
1. Instrumental music is an approved, graded, one-year instructional program. Instrumental music is a “life skills” course. It teaches responsibility and commitment.

2. Band and Orchestra meet as curricular classes during the regularly scheduled day. The band meets on "A” days and the orchestra meets on “B” days.

3. Parents must provide an instrument and supplies (local teacher-approved music stores). Students who play violin, viola, cello, and double bass grow and will eventually need to upgrade to larger instruments that music stores will provide if you rent from them. Woodwind and brass instruments are of better quality at music stores.

4. Instruction is for the entire school year: Students are expected to attend classes regularly and participate in winter and spring concerts. Students will receive weekly grades on their progress/attendance and will also receive a letter grade on their quarterly report card. There will also be other performance opportunities (solo and ensemble, group concert, etc.)

5. Many "specials" and "deals" can be found on the internet or in a store other than the teacher-approved locations.  These instruments will not last and will likely end up in the repair shop and cost you more money. Make the experience enjoyable and rewarding and take advantage of the specials at the rental stores!

Quality, quality, quality.  A used quality instrument is better than a poorly made new instrument.

When in doubt please communicate with Mr. Dignen.  I want to see each student succeed, which largely hinges on quality materials.  I empathize with a family's financial situation and want to help you find the best possible equipment that fits your budget.

INSTRUMENTS OF ODD COLOR WILL NOT BE PERMITTED IN REHEARSAL OR PERFORMANCE.

6. Students are required to practice regularly at home. Specific assignments for home practice will be given each class and students will be expected to master them before the next class. Specific practice requirements will be determined by Mr. Dignen.

7. Instruments taught are: 

Strings Brass Woodwinds Percussion

Violin Trumpet Flute   Snare/Bell Kit

Viola Trombone Oboe

Cello Horn Bassoon

String Bass Baritone/Euphonium Clarinet

  Tuba       Alto Saxophone

8. Dental work, such as braces, can make playing an instrument difficult, but not impossible. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with Mr. Dignen before you're able to buy the instrument.

9. Instrumental music students participate in at least two performances and up to seven each year.