Mary S Shoemaker

It is almost time to begin a band instrument! 

Ms Sheridan and some 8th grade students will visit for a presentation on Tuesday, Sept 23 at 9:40. They will demonstrate instruments and go over information on how to join the band.  Lessons will begin once rental  instruments are delivered or I have met with your child about other ways of obtaining an instrument. 

After school band will not be a weekly activity this year. We will wait until closer to a concert to gather as a group. More information about schedules will be available soon. Your student will receive a 30 minute 'pull-out' lesson once a week. 

If your student is sure of the instrument that they want to play, there are three ways to procure it:

1. Most students rent their own instruments. We have a partnership with Coles Music Service. They provide beginner instruments at a great rental price and also and take care of repairs through the school. You can use their online form here: Coles Music Service School Rentals

2. Many older instruments are very playable with regular servicing (much like a quality car). If you have an instrument from years ago, it can most likely be serviced and will work great for your beginner. Marketplace and Yard sale sites are great place to find quality instruments that are only in need of a little love. 

PLEASE DO NOT purchase a 'great deal' on Amazon. Most of those instruments are Chinese made "ISOs" or "instrument shaped objects." They may work for a few weeks but they are NOT REPAIRABLE and once something goes wrong, they are disposable. If it comes with white gloves (why?) it is NOT a reputable brand and will be more headache than it's worth. 

If you have questions about an instrument, feel free to message me at sheridan.s@woodstown.org and I will gladly help you find something affordable and long-lasting. 

3. We have a (very) few school owned instruments that I can let your student use for the year. This is first come first serve for deserving students who have no other way of participating. We also supply instruments for students who want to play tuba, bass clarinet, bassoon etc.
   
   

Once you have decided to join the band, please fill out this form so I can add you to my roster. I can't wait to meet our new musicians and start to make music together!