Ms. Roth
Instrumental Music Info
Instrumental Music Information for Fleet and Long Branch Elementary Schools in Arlington
Are you ready to register for Instrumental Music?
- Use this link if your student goes to Fleet Elementary School: Register for the 2022 – 2023 Instrumental Music Program at Fleet!
- Use this link if your student goes to Long Branch Elementary School: Register for the 2022- 2023 Instrumental Music Program at Long Branch
- Click on the links above to learn more about the Instrumental Music Choices.
Fall 2021 Playing Procedures
All string classes can be played inside, with masks on
Band instruments can be played inside, if they have bell covers
Bell covers will be supplied by Arts Ed, however, due to cost, as well as delays in supplies – they may not be available for everyone (especially those that may be providing their own instruments)
If one or more of the band students in the class don’t have a bell cover, we will have to either play outside, or the students without the bell covers will have to “finger along” and not blow
In case of rain, or bad weather – band classes with instruments without bell covers will have to be “fingered” and “sizzled,” or given instruction to work on at home.
So, my thoughts:
If your student is at vacillating between taking a band or a string instrument, I would choose a string instrument! There is a better chance that those classes will have fewer interruptions, etc.
The good news is that we have lots of string instruments available for rental from the school.
There is still a lot of “air” moving through the open holes of flutes, clarinets and saxophones - in addition to air going through the bells.
If a student starts on a string instrument, out of safety reasons, and wants to switch once the students can be vaccinated, I will be glad to move them to a different instrument, as long as I have one that they want!
FAQs for 2021 - 2022 Instrumental Music Program in Arlington Public Schools
Instrumental Music Guidelines for the Fall 2021 Semester
APS provides rentals first to students who qualify for free and reduced lunch
All information is subject to change according to Virginia Department of Education and CDC guidelines
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about the Instrumental Music Program
Will There be Elementary Instrumental Music in the Fall of 2021?
Yes!!
We will continue to meet at least once a week.
We will have in person classes in accordance with CDC guidelines.
What instruments are available for my student to play?
Instruments available for band (4th & 5th) are Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Percussion.
Instruments available for strings (4th & 5th) are Violin, Viola, Cello and String Bass.
Should we rent or purchase an instrument for Fall 2021?
We recommend that first year players rent from a reputable local music store.
Second year players may continue on their instrument from fourth grade.
Foxes Music, Music and Arts, Brobst Violin Shop, Potter Violins and Day Violins are all open.
Rentals can also be done through your teacher at your school. APS provides rentals first to students who qualify for free and reduced lunch. Fall distribution process being finalized.
How are lessons scheduled?
Lessons may be scheduled for in-person meetings as well as virtually through the use of Canvas, Seesaw, Flipgrid, and Essential Elements Interactive.
Lessons may be a blended model.
Lessons are usually 30 minutes, once per week.
Should my student practice?
Yes!! Please play your instrument a few minutes everyday!
Generally, aim to practice sixty minutes a week.
Will there be performances?
We hope so!! We will follow guidelines from the APS Central Office.
Performances may be in person, virtual, or recorded.
How can parents help their children practice?
It is very important to establish a consistent practice routine from the beginning. Perhaps have your daily practice before or after dinner.
Listen to your student practice and ask them to teach you what they are learning.
