Class Information
The following is information about how Instrumental Music classes work in all Prince George's County Elementary Schools.
The elementary instrumental music program is offered to students in grades four through six on strings (violin, viola, cello, bass), woodwinds (flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone), brasses (trumpet/cornet, french horn, trombone, baritone horn, tuba), and (at the teacher's discretion) Percussion (percussion students play both mallet percussion & snare drum). Beginning students are grouped in like-instrument classes. Intermediate and advanced students are provided group instruction as well as various types of ensemble experiences.
Classroom instruction is free of charge, and classes meet once or twice weekly for 30 minute periods during the regular school day. There will be two after school concerts during the year, which will be the only after school commitments. The class functions as a "pull out," students are released from classroom activities to participate in the instrumental music classes. Class times are rotated regularly so students do not miss the same class too often. Instruments and textbooks are furnished by the parent, though some schools have instruments available to be loaned to students.
An instrumental rental/purchase plan is recommended by the school system. All rental/purchase plans should be handled through a music store, and the outright purchase of an instrument is not recommended during the trial period. A folding music stand is also a necessary part of the student's equipment and should be included with the rental of an instrument.
Classroom instruction will include the development of:
Music reading skills
Individual playing skills on an instrument
Ensemble performance skills
For a more complete description of the program, and for a demonstration of the instruments please see the county’s instrumental music website www.pgcps.org/music