Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this cost?!

We have been fortunate enough to work out arrangements with Quinlan and Fabish Music Company, who is able to offer discounts on the purchase of an instrument or can set you up on a monthly payment plan over the course of time. The rental program is perfect for your child because it protects you from investing money in an instrument while not being 100% certain that your child will continue in band. After your child's first year, we suggest that you trade in the rental instrument for a higher quality instrument for purchase on a monthly payment plan. Quinlan and Fabish will work with you to transfer the credit you have already put towards the beginning instrument. To find out more about the cost of the instruments, please come to our registration night at Holmes Middle School.

How many times will my child have a lesson each week?

Each week, on a specified day, Mr. Itzkowitz and Mr. Budrow will go to Whitman, Frost, and Twain Elementary Schools to teach the beginning band students. The students will be required to bring their instrument, their folder filled with music, and a pencil to every lesson. Every student in beginning band will receive ONE lesson each week with Mr. Itzkowitz or Mr. Budrow. The lesson will take place on the following days (unless otherwise noted):

Whitman - "E" Days

Twain- "E" Days

Frost- "A" Days

What is the expected time commitment outside of school?

As with any activity or class, the more a student plays his or her instrument, the better he or she will get. In fifth grade beginning band, we require the students practice at least 15 minutes every day. As a parent, you can help by encouraging your son or daughter to make sure he or she practices. See below for some tips for successful practicing.

• Set up a "practice spot" where your child can practice every day.

• Arrange a time for your child to practice every day (ex. - right before or after dinner)

• Have your child perform for family and friends when you have guests over.

What are "private lessons?"

Private lessons are a very important part of any successful band program, and that is no different here at Holmes. We are in the process of finding private lesson teachers for all the different instruments which we offer in band, including flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, basson, french horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion.

For more information about private lessons, contact Mr. Budrow or Mr. Itzkowitz