FAQ (frequently asked questions)

"My incoming 6th-grader has been playing guitar/piano/bagpipes for several years and is already proficient at their instrument. Is there a place in the MAT Music program for my child?"


I'm so glad to hear that your child is already learning to play an instrument. I think EVERY kid should have exposure to guitar and piano when they're little.

We don't offer guitar classes at school - we focus on band and percussion instruments instead. I usually urge incoming students that play piano/guitar/etc. to consider learning a NEW instrument in our band program.

Choices include:

WOODWINDS

Flute

Clarinet

Alto Saxophone


BRASS

Trumpet

Trombone

Baritone Horn (a small tuba)


PERCUSSION

Practice Pads

I encourage learning a SECOND instrument for several reasons:

  • A SECOND instrument is much easier to learn and pick up, so it won't be as laborious as learning the first one

  • Your child will be on equal footing with the rest of the class (a bright beginner) instead of being a bored intermediate student waiting around for the rest of the class to learn Lesson 1

  • Acoustic guitar and piano can't be easily heard within a modern wind or percussion ensemble, and one loud electric instrument can wreck an entire performance

Now, we do have some opportunities for advanced instrumentalists: The Advanced Band, which students can audition for as a 6th grader, and the Jazz Lab, which is reserved for 8th grade students. You can read about those groups here.

"My incoming 6th-grader has been playing A BAND INSTRUMENT or DRUMS for several years and is already proficient at their instrument. Is there a place in the MAT Music program for my child?"



YES! You child can continue to play their instrument in our band or percussion classes, but needs to realize the following:

  • They will be an EXPERIENCED student surrounded by ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS. This is often a boring proposition for a 6th-grade student, so I often suggest that they take the opportunity to LEARN A SECOND INSTRUMENT.

  • If they DO remain on their instrument they will have the opportunity to help Mr. Sutton teach other students, and be a leader in the class.

  • They can audition for the Advanced Band in the fall, and if they are accepted, will have the opportunity to play challenging music with a mixed group of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students.

The choice is yours to make - it depends on the personality and interests of your student.