5th-Grade Band

Students may start playing in band in 5th Grade. Students learn about all instruments during their time in the lower school general music class, but during their 4th-grade year, they receive special visits from older students who are in band. At these times, they get to see the instruments up close, hear how they sound, and talk to the upper and middle school students who visit them. In March, all 4th graders see a demonstration of their choices of music for the following year. In April, students have the opportunity to try the wind and string instruments, and by May they register for band, choir, or orchestra.

5th-Grade Band focuses on the fundamentals of playing an instrument alone and in an ensemble. Students may play flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or baritone. The full group rehearses every other day for about 45 minutes. Proper playing position, breathing, maintaining a steady pulse, and reading music are the key skills. The music is a mix of unison and multi-part arrangements. Students begin improvising using rhythm and small pitch sets.

The 5th-Grade Band performs at three concerts during the school year.

SCPA Band Syllabus

Habits Backing Tracks

Important Dates for 5th Grade Band:

• August 3 – 7, 2026 Beginning Band Camp

• (Tentative) August 2 – 6, 2027 Beginning Band Camp

 MBDA First Year Honor Band (5th Grade)

• Details TBD

• Usually the first weekend in May