INTRODUCTORY BAND

Here’s a look at an average year-in-the-life for an Introductory Band student at Eckstein Middle School.

Introductory Band (aka. "Beginning Concert Band") students previously have had very little or no music experience before this first year. They acquire skills and musical knowledge by playing concert music selections daily in class. Emphasis is spent on learning their scales and rhythms, and playing with the other band members in a full - sized concert band. As the year progresses, the choice o f musical pieces become increasingly more challenging and interesting, preparing them for the next level of performance in the 7th grade.

Introductory Band musicians are expected to practice their scales and music at home on a regular basis. At the end of each semester, students play a finals scales test during class for their grade.

Introductory Band students play in two evening concerts during the year – the Winter Concert and the Spring Concert. Both are held at Eckstein Middle School in the evening on a Thursday. Other than the required band attire for all musicians and the annual Enrichment Fee, there are no costs associated with this band.

Families are encouraged to become involved in the Eckstein band program by supporting their student’s activities through positive reinforcement, volunteering for band activities, and helping with fundraising activities as their schedules allow.

Introductory Band is led by the Eckstein Orchestra Director, Angie Kong. For more information, email Ms. Kong at aykong@seattleschools.org.