I'm so glad you're curious about playing an instrument! It is great fun and teaches you life skills like time management, teamwork, self-discipline, problem solving, listening, expressing yourself, and connecting to your emotions. You will make a lot of friends and play great music of many styles. I hope this page will answer some of your questions.
Watch this video demonstrating instruments available in our beginning band program at SMS.
Lessons happen during the school day. Your lesson will be 30 minutes once a week.
You will be in a small group of students learning the same instrument.
For 5th grade, the lesson will take place during 30 minutes of your specialist class.
For 6th - 8th grade, the schedule will alternate. That means your lesson time will alternate between two periods. (ex. period 2, next week period 3)
The most important factor in being successful at playing an instrument is practicing at home. You should practice 4 times a week for 15 minutes. Choose a time that will be consistent every day or add it to your homework routine.
Once you've learned some notes and rhythms on your instrument you will attend band practice. That's when all students learning instruments practice together! Beginning band will meet once a week during 1st period.
Hear members of the United States Marine Band discuss what they like about playing in the band and hear them perform some fantastic music in small groups!
Watch instrument demonstrations by members of the United States Army Field Band.
Please use this link to access the Beginning Band Information Night Packet. Please contact Mrs. Mosley or Ms. Reinecke with any questions. We're happy to help you navigate this process.
If you plan to rent an Instrument, please fill out Nazareth Music Center's rental request online.
The Be a Part of the Band website has great resources about the benefits of band, including this video of parents talking about what the experience has been like.