Incoming Students

Dear 6th Grade Band Families,

We hope this message finds you well. This event is a crucial step in helping students find the instrument that best fits them and setting them up for success in their musical journey.

Please note that students must be present for the entire duration of the event. Arriving on time is crucial so students have the opportunity to go through all of the band and orchestra instruments. The placement process is carefully designed to allow students to explore instruments, receive guidance from our music educators, and make informed choices. Your participation is essential in ensuring a smooth and successful experience. If you absolutely can not make this date work, please let us know via email and we will help you. 

Below is an outline of what to expect before and after the Instrument Placement Night:

Parent/Family Checklist before Placement Night:

✔  Read the “Instrument Selection Guide” online.
✔ Complete the “Getting to Know You” form with your student by Thursday, Feb 12th (takes about 45 minutes).
✔  Encourage your student to keep an open mind. We want your students to try all of the instruments, regardless of what instrument they think they want to play.

Parent/Family Checklist During Placement Night:

✔ Attend the short meeting in the Summit before placements begin. After this meeting, parents may leave for a break
✔ Remember: Parents are not allowed to be in the rooms with students during rotations. We have hired professional musicians to demonstrate and try the instruments. 

Step 1: Student Meet & Greet

• Students will gather in small groups for a brief meet-and-greet led by our music students before their instrument trials.

• If your child arrives late (3+ minutes), we cannot guarantee they will experience all instrument stations. We will do our best to accommodate them.

Step 2: Instrument Rotations

• Students will rotate through instrument stations, testing different instruments under the guidance of our instructors.

• Parents are not permitted in the rooms during this portion of the event.

Step 3: Checkout Process

When your child finishes their last rotation, they will meet you in the lunchroom/Commons to:
✔ Review their scorecard and discuss instrument choices with parents/families.
✔ Choose their top three instrument preferences.
✔ Receive a Save the Date Summer Music flyer. 

Special thanks to Sweetwater Music and James Barela for graciously donating instruments and for taking care of our music coaches during this event!

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your patience and support—we look forward to seeing you and your child at the rescheduled event!

Musically yours,

Andrea Frost, Band Director
Corry Petersen, Band Director
afrost@psdschools.org