3rd Grade Strings
Beginning Strings Instruction
Learning to play a stringed instrument is a challenging and rewarding process! Beginning strings instruction is unique and follows a slower progression than other instruments. For this reason, many school districts, including Roseland, offer strings instruction one year before band instruction. In 3rd Grade Strings, students will learn foundational skills that they can build upon and grow to become part of the orchestra or band program in 4th grade and beyond.
After an introduction to unpacking the instrument, sitting properly, and holding the instrument in playing position, 3rd graders will begin “Twinkle Bootcamp.” This curriculum uses rote-learning of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” to teach students how to change between notes and begin using the bow. “Twinkle Bootcamp” is designed to get students playing and feeling successful as quickly as possible without sacrificing the development of foundational skills.
Mid-year, students will transition to “3rd Grade Strings Karate” using the Essential Elements method book. Students will learn musical concepts and note-reading skills while being challenged to earn “belts.” A belt is earned by performing short excerpts from the method book. There are ten belts total; the first four are covered in 3rd grade, and the remaining six are covered in 4th grade.
Required Materials
Sheet music, method book, and folder
Instrument and bow
Rosin, shoulder rest (violin/viola), roc stop/seat strap (cello)
Music stand (recommended for at-home practice)
Classroom Rules and Procedures
Respect teacher and students in the music classroom. Handle instruments and other materials with care.
Keep hands to yourself and your own instrument. Do not trade instruments with other students.
Bring instrument and music folder to every lesson.
Enter the classroom quietly and set up your instrument.
Play instruments only when asked by the teacher.
No student will handle or retrieve materials or instruments from the music room without the teacher’s permission.
Always try your best!
Pull-out Lessons
Students will participate one lesson each week during the school day. Lessons will occur on the same day most of the time, although it could occasionally change due to vacation days, scheduling conflicts, etc.
Practicing
Consistency is key! Meaningful and consistent practice is the only way to improve skill level and create lasting results. Playing a stringed instrument is a physical, kinesthetic activity. New muscle groups must build strength and endurance. Students who spend even a short amount of time playing their instrument every day are immensely more successful than students who do not. It is recommended to practice for at least 15 minutes a day, at least 3 days a week.
Encouraging students to practice is a team effort between parents and teacher. Please do not hesitate to reach out regarding this matter. Practicing is similar to homework, even the most motivated student will need to be reminded from time to time.
Performances
Music is a performance-based activity. Every student is expected to participate in both 3rd Grade Strings performances. For performance dates and times, please see the calendar outline below. Please discuss these performance opportunities with your student. All instrumental music performances are group-based. Students will not be asked to perform on their own. These performances are an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their skills alongside their peers as a music ensemble.
Concert Dress: Concert dress for any type of performance is “smart casual.” Please avoid jeans and athletic pants/shorts.
Parents’ Responsibilities
Help your child be prepared to do their best at lessons.
Help your child find time to practice. Ask your child to show you what they have been learning in lessons.
Help your child care for their instrument and music folder.
Help your child have concert attire ready for performances.
Attend performances. Applaud your child and their friends; the recognition will be well-deserved!
Keep open communication with the teacher, especially if any difficulties arise.
Concert Dates:
Wednesday, December 13th - Winter Concert
Wednesday, May 29th - Spring Concert
Contact
Sean Gavarny - Roseland Music Teacher
E-mail: sgavarny@roselandnjboe.org