Participating in the Orchestra program:
Have an instrument and materials prior to the first lesson
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Attend all rehearsals and lessons
Practice at home and fill out a weekly orchestra practice chart
Take care of the instrument: keep it in a safe place at home (away from younger siblings, pets, heaters, extreme temperature changes, water, etc.)
Put forth their best effort! Learning an instrument is a rewarding experience. Keep track of your growth throughout the year!
Parent Expectations and Support:
Parental support in the beginning stages of learning an instrument is crucial and there are many ways to help your child as they embark on their musical journey, even if you have never played an instrument!
Student attendance at orchestra rehearsals is extremely important for your child to keep up with the group. Please keep these times in mind when scheduling appointments.
Home practice is necessary, however does not need to be a daunting task! Set up a routine right away with your child so that they have a daily practice time and space to complete their assignments. Set up a quiet place with a music stand and minimal distractions for your young musician to focus for that practice time. Students may need help maintaining this routine, especially at the beginning of the year or around busy times of the year.
Weekly practice assignments are given and each student is expected to complete a practice log. This is a way that I can communicate to you what your child should be working on, and what goals we have set. Check in with your child and help them use the practice log as a tool in their practice sessions.
Helping during practice is a great way to form a musical bond with your child, even if you do not have a musical background. Watch their posture as they play: are they standing (sitting for cello) straight? Is their bow moving straight? Are they stumbling over a passage? It could be that they are playing something too fast, or playing a too large section of music. Help them slow it down or break it down into smaller, more manageable passages. If you have any questions about practice strategies, I am just an email or phone call away!