Mr. Bloch's Band Page

Welcome to Mr. Bloch's Band Page for 2022-2023. This page is a work in progress. I will be updating it with things that you can use to get better at your instrument. I'm looking forward to a great year in band! If you need to reach me, my email is eric_bloch@upland.k12.ca.us

Attention beginners! Please make sure you watch the videos for your instrument on Beginning Band Boot Camp. You should watch the videos for assembling your instrument, caring for it, making the embouchure, and your first notes. Click here and find the playlist for your instrument.

Band Update 100422.pdf

Update for students waiting to borrow an instrument from UUSD (October 4, 2022)

Hi students and parents,

Please see the attached letter from the district regarding students waiting to borrow an instrument from UUSD. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks,

Mr. Bloch

How do I get an instrument?

Great question! There are 3 ways to get your instrument for Band:

  1. Rent it from a local music shop. This is a great option because it guarantees that the student gets their first choice of instrument. Most of the band instruments rent for around $25 a month (saxophone is more expensive). You can find a music shop by clicking the link above. These shops rent good quality instruments that play nicely and are easy to learn on. They also carry all the supplies and accessories you will need.

  2. Request to borrow it from UUSD. If a student requests to borrow an instrument from UUSD, we will try to find them one of their top 3 choices of instrument. An instrument contract will be sent home and needs to be signed by a parent. This process will take a few weeks. At the end of the year, the student will turn the instrument back in. There is no cost to borrow an instrument from UUSD, but students still need to buy their own supplies (about $20).

  3. Your family already owns a band instrument. You can use it if it is in good condition and is one of the instruments we teach in elementary band (flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone).

One more thing... I do not suggest that students buy an instrument for their first year of band. They need to figure out if they like band or not. Once they are ready to continue in 6th grade or middle school, it might be time to buy an instrument. If you do, make sure not to buy one from Amazon. Get a good quality instrument from a real music shop. These usually start around $400.

Oh... make sure to put your name on the case!

-Mr. Bloch (eric_bloch@upland.k12.ca.us)