6th Grade Beginner Band
Beginner Band is an opportunity for 6th grade students who did not participate in band at Kensington or are new to the district to learn a band instrument and "catch up" to the rest of the 6th Grade Band. This class meets Mods 18/19 for the 1st Quarter and then students are filtered into one of the main sections of 6th Grade Band. Students (with the help of parents) choosing to participate in the Beginning Band option must be willing and able to do several things:
Choose an instrument with the guidance of Mrs. Baiera (Percussion is not an option in beginning band)
Procure an instrument, book and accessories from a reputable source (see Instrument Resources tab or Band Handbook); please ask Mrs. Baiera if you have questions about getting an instrument- do not purchase something sight unseen (i.e. eBay, Craigslist)!
Note: students MUST have instruments by Labor Day
Contact Mrs. Baiera if you have questions/concerns
Demonstrate their ability to participate as a positive active member of an ensemble
Work hard in class AND at home to learn everything that is necessary to join the full band
Seek out help from Mrs. Baiera if needed
With everyone's help, we will have a great experience and get a fast start on our instruments so that students can experience the joy of playing in a large performing ensemble starting in November!
Students will need:
Instrument in good, working condition, case must have luggage-style name tag on it
1/2” 3-Ring Binder with 5 dividers & blank, lined paper; NO plastic sheet protectors
Music
Standard of Excellence (Book 1, "The Red Book")
Sheet music as assigned
Pencil(s) with eraser
Accessories as necessary- cork grease, valve oil, cleaning equipment (soft cloth, swab, cleaning rod- depending on instrument), etc. All listed items can be found in the Instrument Resources section
Korg TM-60 Tuner/Metronome
Korg CM-300 Contact Microphone
Brass accessories (if applicable) - found on instrument resources section
Reeds/woodwind accessories (if applicable) - multiple good reeds, reed holder is required, found on instrument resources section
***Please note that reeds are not available for purchase through the school district. Reeds may be purchased through any music store, and Rettig Music delivers to the school every week.
Private Lessons are especially encouraged for all students beginning band in 6th grade. Click here to view the private lesson information.
Instrument Options for Beginning Band
Flute
Clarinet
Saxophone
Trumpet
Trombone
Baritone
Please note that percussion is not an option in this class.
Students who were in 5th grade band but would like to switch to a new instrument are encouraged to take Beginning Band to help them catch up. Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn, and Tuba are options for this, but do require additional private lessons.