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.