New Band Student

District 12 offers beginning band to students in the 4th grade.  However, in the past, we have started students in 5th-8th grade with moderate success.  There is an extensive amount of “catch-up” work to be done, and the majority of this responsibility is going to rest on the student's efforts and true desire to play an instrument. 

START HERE:

*Your child will need an instrument.  Because we are near the beginning of the year, it is likely that your child will be able to rent an instrument in the same program as the 4th-graders. If you are planning to rent an instrument, you can do so here at Quinlan and Fabish. You can also buy an instrument outright using my suggested instrument list (the best option to save money in the long run). Once your child has an instrument, we will begin.

*I begin band with students who start in 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades the same way I do 4th-grade students.  Otherwise, your child will need an Accent on Achievement book.  The cost for the book is $12-15 and can be purchased at Quinlan and Fabish or Music and Arts Center in Itasca (you can also find it on Amazon.com).

*Regardless of how your child starts, you should consider private lessons.  If your child has any hope of sticking with band, they will need extra one-on-one help outside of school.  We have a variety of available teachers, and this is the QUICKEST way to catch up.  

Many students who start the band program late quit very soon afterward.  Please consider joining the band very carefully before you make your decision.  Commitment is half of the battle.

If your child is planning to join the band, please contact me directly, and I will send you the sign-up form or DOWNLOAD THE FORM HERE. As always, you can contact me with any other questions as well.