Dear Parent/Guardian,
So your child is interested in playing a musical instrument. Like many other parents, you might be wondering what playing a musical instrument entails.
You’re in the right place. Let me be the first to congratulate you and your child for choosing this incredible opportunity. Music is amazing and creating music by playing an instrument is one of the most exciting learning experiences your child will have.
Students who participate in instrumental music perform better in math and on standardized tests, have higher rates of admission to college, and develop the critical and creative thinking skills that are necessary for success in today’s rapidly changing society. On top of that, music is a social activity. Students learn to interact with, and react to others while performing. All of these skills are wrapped up in the fun that is music and making music with their friends. You can check out information about studies that support this at the National Association for Music Education’s website: www.NAfME.org.
Salisbury’s instrumental musical program has had many successes! Students have represented Salisbury at Honor Bands including Lehigh County Band and PMEA District 10 Band. Our graduates have gone on to perform with many college bands including: West Chester University, Kutztown University, Millersville University, Lehigh University, and The University of Delaware. As part of their collegiate band experiences our graduates have had the opportunity to perform at some very high profile events including: The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a variety of collegiate bowl games, and even a performance tour of England which culminated in London’s New Year’s Day Parade.
I hope that gives you a big picture idea of what is possible when your child chooses to nurture the passion of music.
Ms. Rachel Reinecke, SHS Music