Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Band and orchestra is the same way. Your child should sign up for an instrumental class even if you or they are unsure. Once you miss the boat on joining band, there is not really another opportunity. Don't let them miss out on a lifetime of brain benefits!
That’s OK! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes his or her first sound.
Learning an instrument is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week. We recommend a minimum of 60 minutes per week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more enjoyable!
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that the play something that they enjoy. We will help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what he or she wants, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that he or she will not only enjoy but will give him or her the best chance of musical success.
The costs associated with band depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. The school may have certain instruments available for use. If not, you can rent a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints prevents you from being able to do this, please contact us and allow us to help. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating.
The school provides many of the larger and more expensive instruments. We encourage students playing smaller, less expensive instruments to either rent or purchase their own instrument. More information regarding instrument availability will made available as each new school year approaches. Please also visit our "Rental Information" page for places to rent your instruments from.