Join 6th Grade Band

Band is a wonderful option for young people to pursue at St. Clair Middle School.

It is a class that is open to all students and often leads to a lifelong love of music.

We hope your family will become part of the St. Clair Band Family by joining band at St. Clair Middle School.

We start beginners on the following instruments.

Flute

Oboe

Clarinet

Alto Saxophone

Tenor Saxophone

Trumpet

Trombone

Baritone

Percussion (bells and snare kit)

Why should my child join the band?

The beginning band is a great opportunity for your child to learn the art of music and performance and gain essential skills and behaviors for success in their future. They will be involved in a positive environment with students focusing on a strong work ethic and responsibility. Band is an opportunity in which the students work as a team to prepare their music for performances. This builds a cooperative relationship between students and creates an atmosphere in which students will be successful. In addition to these lifelong skills, the students will learn to appreciate music and cultures around the world, and open doors to different ways of looking at problematic situations. Also, band is just plain fun.

Did you know?

Music students tend to have higher test scores on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, and MEAP.

Colleges and Universities are interested in students with music experience, and in particular medical programs want students that can handle the pressures of on the job performance, of which music does offer.

Music students tend to have better problem solving skills.

Music students are typically better at expressing themselves and their ideas.

Music students tend to have higher achievement in math and science courses.

How do you select which instrument the student plays?

Port Huron Music Center does a performance test of every kid and gives a recommendation on which instrument they are best suited and will most successful. I take that information and compile it with the student's top three choices. I try to build a band with a balanced amount of instruments and no predominant parts. Sometimes a student may not end up with their first pick based upon the recommendation from the playing test, but I do my best.

How much does it cost?

This depends upon a few factors. If you already own an instrument in good working condition, the cost is minimal. If not, you will need to rent or purchase an instrument. The typical rent-to-own fees range from $30 - $70 depending upon the instrument, and purchasing prices may run from $500 - $1500. Oboes, Saxophones, and French Horns typically cost the most. Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, and Trombone are toward the lower end. You can call Port Huron Music Center at 800-284-7891 for a purchase or monthly rental quote. The initial investment may seem high, but consider that this instrument may be used for 7 years if they stay throughout high school band. Rentals are usually paid off in 2-3 years. Aside from that, there is an $10 book fee in 6th and 7th Grade. Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, and Bassoon students will need to purchase reeds throughout the school year in order to play their instrument. Clarinet and Saxophone reeds are about $3-$4 each. Oboe and bassoon reeds cost about $15 - $20, but last longer.

What if I want to buy from another retailer?

Buyer Beware! Many instruments you find online are not quality instruments. Purchasing or renting through the Port Huron Music Center will guarantee that you are getting a quality instrument that will last for your child's band career. You do get what you pay for. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Brand new instruments are an investment. If you want to save money, purchase a used instrument. You can find some deals out there, but you have to know what you are looking for. Instruments not purchased through the Music Center will probably need a little repair to make sure it is in good working order. Take the extra step to have it inspected so that your child can be successful playing that instrument.

Recommended Brands:

Oboes: Selmer, Yamaha, and Fox

Flutes: Armstrong, Gemeinhardt

Clarinets: Buffet, Leblanc, Yamaha, Selmer, Vito

Saxophones: Selmer, Yamaha, Vito, Cannonball

Bassoon: Fox

Trumpets: Bach, Yamaha, Jupiter

Trombone: Bach, Yamaha, Jupiter

French Horns: Conn, Yamaha, Holton

Tubas, Euphoniums: Conn, Yamaha, Bach, Jupiter

Note - an instrument that is available in a "pretty color" is almost always a red flag that the instrument is of poor quality. The metal may dent or bend easily or the instrument may break often or may not even play well in tune. Please - make sure you are getting your child an instrument that will ensure his or her success in band.

How often do they meet to practice?

All of our band classes meet every day during the school day as an elective class.

When do they perform?

They will perform in 4-5 concerts throughout the school year. All concert information can be found on this website in the fall. They have a performance at the East China PAC in December and May. They perform in the St. Clair Bands Spaghetti Dinner in March. All performances are graded and required of your child as a participant in the class.