WELCOME!
The start of a new year is always an exciting event. For new students entering Davis Drive, this is a special beginning. As a member of the Davis Drive Middle School Band program, you are associating yourself with some of the finest students in our school.
As a child, band was a very special experience for me. Many of my closest friends were in band and a great deal of my time was spent involved in some aspect of the program. Band was the place that gave me new and unique challenges that fostered skills beneficial in all aspects in life. My goal is to provide the same environment and opportunities resulting in the same positive impact to my students that I experienced. Ultimately, I wish for your children to be well-rounded, educated, lifelong participants and consumers of music.
Band students are challenged to achieve individual excellence through daily home practice, master a new “language” of written notation, achieve the common goal of the perfect performance by working together; perform their own part while simultaneously listening to what surrounds them and adjusting to blend and balance, the ultimate exercise in discipline and teamwork! All of this adds up to a direct correlation between academic success and participation in music starting with those who choose to play an instrument. The ability to focus on the above tasks develops the same traits that make for excellence across the curriculum.
Your child’s success is dependent upon your support. Please be involved in their music education. Ask them questions and have them perform for you often. This shows them your interest and that you care.
The other essential element to your child’s success is open communication with me. Most of the necessary information about the program, including required and recommended materials, can be found within this handbook or elsewhere on the DDMS Band website (www.davisdriveband.weebly.com) or go the school website (www.davisdrivems.wcpss.net), click on School, Departments, Fine Arts. Please be sure to check the website regularly for concert dates and other important information.
There are several forms that need to be completed, signed, and returned immediately, which can be found by clicking the “Forms” button on the navigation bar. They are:
Sincerely,
Chris Forgione, Director of Bands
CONTENTS
1. Grading
2. SmartMusic
3. Daily. Home. Practice.
4. Acquiring an Instrument
5. 6th Grade Band
6. School Owned Instruments
7. Performance Attire
8. Private Lessons
1. GRADING
Grading at DDMS is on a cumulative point system. Points are assigned per task as deemed appropriate; not all tasks will carry the same weight.
Almost all of students' playing assessment grades will be through the use of the practice/assessment computer program, SmartMusic (SM). SM enables students to submit their practice and assessment results to a central grade book where grades are automatically entered. ALL STUDENTS WITH AN iPAD OR HOME PC/MAC WITH MINIMUM NECESSARY HARDWARE/MEMORY REQUIREMENTS MUST SET THIS UP AT HOME. The program includes practice and assessment for method books, technical exercises and solos literally numbering in the tens of thousands…literally!! This enables students to submit the sample that best represents their highest level of achievement, and is just a fun way to practice. All students will receive a Minor Assessment grade either weekly or bi-weekly depending on assignment volume. This grade is based on completion with effort rather than grades assigned by the program.
Any student without a home PC/Mac or is for some reason unable to utilize SmartMusic at home must complete all assignments at school during class, before or after school. I will set up his or her own account on a band room computer. Although this is not ideal, it gives everyone ample opportunity to complete all assignments
Practice logs may be factored in as well. SmartMusic automatically documents time spent practicing. At the end of each week, practice logs are automatically submitted on their due date. Students without SM will need to complete a hard-copy practice log that I will distribute. Simply write in what and duration of practice each day. Parents then sign the log that is turned in the first day the student has band each week.
Attendance at all performances is mandatory. They are an integral part of your child’s band experience and are a part of each student’s quarter grade. Absences will be excused only as per WCPSS board policy 6000 or extenuating circumstances that are pre-approved by the director. Please note that these do not include sports recreational league events. All performances are posted on the band webpage calendar and the DDMS online master calendar. The reasons for an excused absence are as follows:
2. SMARTMUSIC
SmartMusic is a computer software practice and assessment program. SmartMusic has literally tens of thousands of exercises, solos and full ensemble titles that are all included in a $40 annual subscription. Our method books are included as well as many others. The program provides music on the screen along with many different types of accompaniments. The student can manipulate the tempo to slow exercises down for purposes then gradually increase it. The program assesses the student’s performance and provided immediate feedback as to what they played correctly and incorrectly and assigns a numerical grade. Completed assignments are then submitted online.
ALL BAND STUDENTS with an iPad or a home PC or Mac with internet service are required to have a subscription to SmartMusic as this is the primary method of assessment. Students will be given playing assignments regularly and must complete them by their due dates. With SM at home, students may practice each assignment as often as possible to correct errors then send in the results they are satisfied with as opposed to in class playing tests where students have only one chance. Students without a PC/Mac and internet service will be able to complete an abridged list of exercise requirements at school on computers in practice rooms at school.
To order a SmartMusic subscription –
You will need to purchase the SM microphone as well except if you use an iPad. This can be ordered on the SmartMusic website. Their mic is designed specifically for musical instruments and it has been the experience of many families that most others simply do not work well. Should you experience difficulties with the program not picking your child's performance properly, technical support cannot assist unless you are using their microphone.
3. DAILY. HOME. PRACTICE!
Learning to play a musical instrument is a long, ongoing process where skills must be reinforced daily. The task is very complex, utilizing reading skills, abstract reasoning skills, eye-hand coordination, and aural (listening) skills, simultaneously! The process can be tedious and at times, frustrating. Our students need to learn that it is acceptable…even expected that they will fail…over and over again, because playing an instrument is challenging. With persistence however, comes success, and with success comes high self-esteem and enjoyment. Here are some tips for parents to help ensure your child’s success.
- Make sure your child’s instrument is in good working order
- Provide a quiet place with a firm chair and music stand (or computer screen when practicing with SM).
- Practice the same time each day whether it’s as soon as you come home from school, immediately after dinner, etc. With consistency, daily practice becomes habit. Good habits result in success.
- Encourage regular informal home performances. Let your child show off to you often!
- Encourage and praise often. Count on more errors than not at first.
DAILY HOME PRACTICE...
THE IMPORTANCE OF, HOW MUCH, HOW OFTEN
DAILY home practice is essential to your child’s success. Please be sure a specific time is set aside to practice every day, not just “when I get to it.” Once practicing becomes routine, you will witness steady, consistent improvement. Practicing an instrument parallels training for a marathon; a runner cannot train once per week rather, training is a methodical routine which takes place over the course of many months. Likewise, a musician cannot practice one or two long sessions per week and expect to improve!
With that said, how much is expected? Beginners, initially, need no more than 10 minutes. After the first few weeks, the requirement will be a minimum of 20 minutes per night, 5 days per week. 7th and 8th graders are required to practice a minimum of 30 minutes per night, 5 days per week. More is certainly welcomed however; this is the bare minimum that I require. The cycle is simple…
4. ACQUIRING AN INSTRUMENT, PARTICULARLY FOR 6TH GRADERS
Read this article first!!!
www.myschoolband.com.au/purchasing-a-musical-instrument/
The first step is deciding on an instrument. Some instruments must be limited for a variety of reasons. The two that must have prior approval by the director are percussion and flute. The other choices for 6th graders are clarinet, trumpet and trombone, all of which are not limited. If your 6th grader is still undecided by the beginning of school, we will discuss options.
It is the responsibility of each family to acquire an instrument. WCPSS approved school music dealers have least to own options that are reasonable. A complete list of dealers can be found on the band website. Be cautious…inexpensive “deals” particularly from stores that are not school music dealers are usually instruments of poor quality. For a detailed explanation, please refer to the Beginning Band page on the website.
5. 6th Grade Band
6th Grade Band is a beginning level band class where the majority of students start having absolutely no musical experience other than introductory concepts on the elementary school level. While prior experience is helpful, it is not necessary. 6th grade band students are placed in one of four classes, grouped by instrument. Each class meets every other day on an A/B schedule. Your child will alternate days between band and keyboarding. Band is a year-long elective.
Students may choose one of the following four instruments to play: Trombone, Clarinet, Trumpet, and Flute. Trombone, trumpet and clarinet availability are unlimited and will start as many of these instruments as possible. If one of these instruments are your first choice, go ahead and secure an instrument to play. Upon director recommendation, students may move to other instruments (oboe, bassoon, saxophone, euphonium, horn, tuba, and percussion later in the year.
Each beginning band student will need to supply his own instrument, instrument cleaning supplies, SmartMusic subscription and band book.
Instruments should be in good playing condition. Those that are purchased from a source other than a school music dealer will need to be approved by Mr. Forgione, as some instrument brands are less reliable or difficult to repair.
Flute is limited to 12-15 due to ensemble balance. All students interested in flute will be screened to be sure they are able to produce a clear tone on the headjoint. If flute is your child’s first choice, be sure to have a second instrument choice.
Due to the excessive number of students interested in PERCUSSION each year, it is not offered as an option for the beginning of the school year. Because the number of percussion slots is limited, I want to ensure the best students are chosen. Any student interested in percussion may start on TROMBONE, TRUMPET or CLARINET. A limited number of students will be selected to switch to percussion immediately after our December concert. This will allow me to accurately assess students over the course of several months, which I feel is the most fair process.
If your child’s first choice is percussion, please choose either TROMBONE, TRUMPET or CLARINET. I recommend leasing one until a final decision is made. Music and Arts, the school music dealer that services our program will apply all prior rental payments to the Ross Scholastic Marimba, the instrument I prefer all percussionists to play on at home. If your child is unsure what other instrument to try, I will guide them during the first weeks of school towards a decision.
Percussion will be limited to 8 due to ensemble balance and the simple fact there are a limited number of percussion instruments and parts to play. Please be aware that percussion instruments include all instruments that are struck. First year players focus on mallet technique as well as snare. If your child is wishing to play only “drums,” percussion will not be the best choice. All prospective percussionists will be screened, evaluated on coordination and pulse, ranked, and selected. If necessary, remaining slots will be filled through a lottery. Class behavior and success on the instrument chosen for the first semester will also be heavily factored. Percussionists are the only section where students move from instrument to instrument in the back of the room independently. These students must be motivated and able to follow instructions!
All Instruments - I strongly recommend renting an instrument rather than purchasing. This allows us to be sure that the instrument is a good fit for your child before you have invested a large sum of money with a full purchase.
Music and Arts Center is a local WCPSS approved school music dealer that services our band program. A road rep visits our school weekly and is able to stop by upon request. You are under no obligation to obtain an instrument from any particular company, but be sure to seek the guidance of the band director prior to committing to an instrument!
Instruments to NOT EVER purchase . The quality of the instrument your child plays can correlate with your child's success. Unfortunately, many parents base their decision for the wrong reasons whether its’ cost, convenience, or well-intentioned word of mouth.
In recent years, store such as Sam's, BJ's, Wal-mart, and many internet sites have offered inexpensive instruments that to the untrained eye, appear to be comparable to brand name instruments. This is not the case. These instruments are made of cheap materials, with parts being manufactured by the bidder with the lowest cost rather than being machined by computer-guided equipment. These shoddy parts are then altered to fit together. The instruments are more difficult to produce a tone on and are literally impossible to play in-tune. When a part breaks, they cannot be replaced and the instrument cannot be returned. Although it is inexpensive to replace the entire instrument, the new one will have the same problems. You the consumer are mis-led in that one can purchase quality merchandise in such stores...with the exception of musical instruments. They need to be taken off the shelves. A good rule of thumb...Never purchase an instrument from a store which also sells underwear!
Mom's or Dad's instrument from their school days. Like anything else (automobiles, computers, sports equipment, etc.), instruments have evolved. The reality is that the student model horns (by reputable manufacturers) are better than the pro model horns from 20 years ago. I recently attended a workshop presented by the national head of instrument repair for one of our local music dealers who is a former repair technician for the service bands in Washington DC. and Army Band trumpet player for 20 years. The $775 Jupiter Capital Edition trumpet plays nearly as well as the Bach Stradavarius he played for all those years. I agree...I have played the Capital Edition trombone and it is by far, the best student model horn I have ever played and feels very similar to a Bach Strad...what I play. The other problem with older instruments is replacement parts. Manufacturers will only make replacement parts 10 years after they stop making a given model. The parts then must be custom made by a repair technician. In other words, a 7-cent screw on a 20-year-old clarinet suddenly costs $15 because it has to be custom made as the item no longer exists.
The point of this is, please acquire a newer, student model instrument from a QUALITY MUSICAL INSTRUMENT manufacturer. Go to a reputable dealer that specializes in them and ask questions about their customer service. Remember who is playing the instrument ...kids...they will break. A quality horn will spend less time in the shop, and more time in your child's hands.
6. SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS
Our school has a limited inventory of background instruments, which include; oboes, bassoons, bass clarinets, tenor and baritone saxophones, horns, euphoniums, and tubas. These instruments are assigned at the discretion of the director based on need and student interest. When a school instrument is issued, an Instrument Loan Agreement form must be completed, signed, and returned. Students and their families are financially responsible for the repair of any excessive damage or loss of the instrument.
When a school instrument needs routine repair, the director or parent will take it to a WCPSS approved repair facility, at the directors’ discretion. The school will then be billed for services.
7. PERFORMANCE ATTIRE
Students are to dress appropriately for all performances. No exceptions to this outline will be made. All students will arrive at performance sites COMPLETELY dressed, with ties tied and shirts tucked in.
6th& 7Th Grade Bands
Boys: White oxford dress shirt, necktie (any color), dress pants, dress shoes & dark socks.
Girls: Skirt/dress pants with blouse (any color). All skirts must be below the knee when seated. Girls wearing skirts above the knee will not be allowed to perform.
Absolutely no jeans of any color, boots or tennis shoes.
8th Grade Band
Same as above except the color is to be all black. Boys may substitute a black turtleneck for the shirt and tie. Again, absolutely no jeans of any color, boots or tennis shoes.
8. PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are not mandatory but are strongly encouraged. All students will benefit tremendously from private instruction and, the better players individuals become, the better the ensemble becomes! One on one time with a specialist on your student’s instrument will challenge the student who is already advanced as well as those falling behind and need assistance catching up. Individual time with a professional will allow your child to learn the nuances for that particular instrument they will not learn in class. The relationship between private teacher and student is different than that with me. There is no grade associated with private lessons; only the goals set by the instructor to maximize your child’s potential. Lessons are typically weekly or every other week. Cost varies from teacher to teacher.
You will find a complete list of private teachers on the link on this website. If you would like my recommendation for one, please feel free to email me.
The start of a new year is always an exciting event. For new students entering Davis Drive, this is a special beginning. As a member of the Davis Drive Middle School Band program, you are associating yourself with some of the finest students in our school.
As a child, band was a very special experience for me. Many of my closest friends were in band and a great deal of my time was spent involved in some aspect of the program. Band was the place that gave me new and unique challenges that fostered skills beneficial in all aspects in life. My goal is to provide the same environment and opportunities resulting in the same positive impact to my students that I experienced. Ultimately, I wish for your children to be well-rounded, educated, lifelong participants and consumers of music.
Band students are challenged to achieve individual excellence through daily home practice, master a new “language” of written notation, achieve the common goal of the perfect performance by working together; perform their own part while simultaneously listening to what surrounds them and adjusting to blend and balance, the ultimate exercise in discipline and teamwork! All of this adds up to a direct correlation between academic success and participation in music starting with those who choose to play an instrument. The ability to focus on the above tasks develops the same traits that make for excellence across the curriculum.
Your child’s success is dependent upon your support. Please be involved in their music education. Ask them questions and have them perform for you often. This shows them your interest and that you care.
The other essential element to your child’s success is open communication with me. Most of the necessary information about the program, including required and recommended materials, can be found within this handbook or elsewhere on the DDMS Band website (www.davisdriveband.weebly.com) or go the school website (www.davisdrivems.wcpss.net), click on School, Departments, Fine Arts. Please be sure to check the website regularly for concert dates and other important information.
There are several forms that need to be completed, signed, and returned immediately, which can be found by clicking the “Forms” button on the navigation bar. They are:
- Student Information/Contract - complete by opening this form and typing responses so I can read email addresses correctly. Please print, sign and have your child hand it in.
- Personal Property Waiver - for brass/woodwind students who own or lease their instrument
Sincerely,
Chris Forgione, Director of Bands
CONTENTS
1. Grading
2. SmartMusic
3. Daily. Home. Practice.
4. Acquiring an Instrument
5. 6th Grade Band
6. School Owned Instruments
7. Performance Attire
8. Private Lessons
1. GRADING
Grading at DDMS is on a cumulative point system. Points are assigned per task as deemed appropriate; not all tasks will carry the same weight.
Almost all of students' playing assessment grades will be through the use of the practice/assessment computer program, SmartMusic (SM). SM enables students to submit their practice and assessment results to a central grade book where grades are automatically entered. ALL STUDENTS WITH AN iPAD OR HOME PC/MAC WITH MINIMUM NECESSARY HARDWARE/MEMORY REQUIREMENTS MUST SET THIS UP AT HOME. The program includes practice and assessment for method books, technical exercises and solos literally numbering in the tens of thousands…literally!! This enables students to submit the sample that best represents their highest level of achievement, and is just a fun way to practice. All students will receive a Minor Assessment grade either weekly or bi-weekly depending on assignment volume. This grade is based on completion with effort rather than grades assigned by the program.
Any student without a home PC/Mac or is for some reason unable to utilize SmartMusic at home must complete all assignments at school during class, before or after school. I will set up his or her own account on a band room computer. Although this is not ideal, it gives everyone ample opportunity to complete all assignments
Practice logs may be factored in as well. SmartMusic automatically documents time spent practicing. At the end of each week, practice logs are automatically submitted on their due date. Students without SM will need to complete a hard-copy practice log that I will distribute. Simply write in what and duration of practice each day. Parents then sign the log that is turned in the first day the student has band each week.
Attendance at all performances is mandatory. They are an integral part of your child’s band experience and are a part of each student’s quarter grade. Absences will be excused only as per WCPSS board policy 6000 or extenuating circumstances that are pre-approved by the director. Please note that these do not include sports recreational league events. All performances are posted on the band webpage calendar and the DDMS online master calendar. The reasons for an excused absence are as follows:
- Illness or Injury
- Isolation ordered by the NC Board of Health
- Death in the family
- Medical or dental appointment
- Court appointment*
- Religious observance*
- Other pre-approved educational opportunities*
2. SMARTMUSIC
SmartMusic is a computer software practice and assessment program. SmartMusic has literally tens of thousands of exercises, solos and full ensemble titles that are all included in a $40 annual subscription. Our method books are included as well as many others. The program provides music on the screen along with many different types of accompaniments. The student can manipulate the tempo to slow exercises down for purposes then gradually increase it. The program assesses the student’s performance and provided immediate feedback as to what they played correctly and incorrectly and assigns a numerical grade. Completed assignments are then submitted online.
ALL BAND STUDENTS with an iPad or a home PC or Mac with internet service are required to have a subscription to SmartMusic as this is the primary method of assessment. Students will be given playing assignments regularly and must complete them by their due dates. With SM at home, students may practice each assignment as often as possible to correct errors then send in the results they are satisfied with as opposed to in class playing tests where students have only one chance. Students without a PC/Mac and internet service will be able to complete an abridged list of exercise requirements at school on computers in practice rooms at school.
To order a SmartMusic subscription –
- Log onto http://www.smartmusic.com/ - please watch the video, “SmartMusic for Students.”
- Click on ‘Order Smartmusic’
- In the right column, click on ‘Order Now’ under the ‘Home Subscription’ heading for the annual subscription
- Then follow the easy instructions.
- Each subscription is per student and can be accessed on any computer with the free SmartMusic program on it.
You will need to purchase the SM microphone as well except if you use an iPad. This can be ordered on the SmartMusic website. Their mic is designed specifically for musical instruments and it has been the experience of many families that most others simply do not work well. Should you experience difficulties with the program not picking your child's performance properly, technical support cannot assist unless you are using their microphone.
3. DAILY. HOME. PRACTICE!
Learning to play a musical instrument is a long, ongoing process where skills must be reinforced daily. The task is very complex, utilizing reading skills, abstract reasoning skills, eye-hand coordination, and aural (listening) skills, simultaneously! The process can be tedious and at times, frustrating. Our students need to learn that it is acceptable…even expected that they will fail…over and over again, because playing an instrument is challenging. With persistence however, comes success, and with success comes high self-esteem and enjoyment. Here are some tips for parents to help ensure your child’s success.
- Make sure your child’s instrument is in good working order
- Provide a quiet place with a firm chair and music stand (or computer screen when practicing with SM).
- Practice the same time each day whether it’s as soon as you come home from school, immediately after dinner, etc. With consistency, daily practice becomes habit. Good habits result in success.
- Encourage regular informal home performances. Let your child show off to you often!
- Encourage and praise often. Count on more errors than not at first.
DAILY HOME PRACTICE...
THE IMPORTANCE OF, HOW MUCH, HOW OFTEN
DAILY home practice is essential to your child’s success. Please be sure a specific time is set aside to practice every day, not just “when I get to it.” Once practicing becomes routine, you will witness steady, consistent improvement. Practicing an instrument parallels training for a marathon; a runner cannot train once per week rather, training is a methodical routine which takes place over the course of many months. Likewise, a musician cannot practice one or two long sessions per week and expect to improve!
With that said, how much is expected? Beginners, initially, need no more than 10 minutes. After the first few weeks, the requirement will be a minimum of 20 minutes per night, 5 days per week. 7th and 8th graders are required to practice a minimum of 30 minutes per night, 5 days per week. More is certainly welcomed however; this is the bare minimum that I require. The cycle is simple…
4. ACQUIRING AN INSTRUMENT, PARTICULARLY FOR 6TH GRADERS
Read this article first!!!
www.myschoolband.com.au/purchasing-a-musical-instrument/
The first step is deciding on an instrument. Some instruments must be limited for a variety of reasons. The two that must have prior approval by the director are percussion and flute. The other choices for 6th graders are clarinet, trumpet and trombone, all of which are not limited. If your 6th grader is still undecided by the beginning of school, we will discuss options.
It is the responsibility of each family to acquire an instrument. WCPSS approved school music dealers have least to own options that are reasonable. A complete list of dealers can be found on the band website. Be cautious…inexpensive “deals” particularly from stores that are not school music dealers are usually instruments of poor quality. For a detailed explanation, please refer to the Beginning Band page on the website.
5. 6th Grade Band
6th Grade Band is a beginning level band class where the majority of students start having absolutely no musical experience other than introductory concepts on the elementary school level. While prior experience is helpful, it is not necessary. 6th grade band students are placed in one of four classes, grouped by instrument. Each class meets every other day on an A/B schedule. Your child will alternate days between band and keyboarding. Band is a year-long elective.
Students may choose one of the following four instruments to play: Trombone, Clarinet, Trumpet, and Flute. Trombone, trumpet and clarinet availability are unlimited and will start as many of these instruments as possible. If one of these instruments are your first choice, go ahead and secure an instrument to play. Upon director recommendation, students may move to other instruments (oboe, bassoon, saxophone, euphonium, horn, tuba, and percussion later in the year.
Each beginning band student will need to supply his own instrument, instrument cleaning supplies, SmartMusic subscription and band book.
Instruments should be in good playing condition. Those that are purchased from a source other than a school music dealer will need to be approved by Mr. Forgione, as some instrument brands are less reliable or difficult to repair.
Flute is limited to 12-15 due to ensemble balance. All students interested in flute will be screened to be sure they are able to produce a clear tone on the headjoint. If flute is your child’s first choice, be sure to have a second instrument choice.
Due to the excessive number of students interested in PERCUSSION each year, it is not offered as an option for the beginning of the school year. Because the number of percussion slots is limited, I want to ensure the best students are chosen. Any student interested in percussion may start on TROMBONE, TRUMPET or CLARINET. A limited number of students will be selected to switch to percussion immediately after our December concert. This will allow me to accurately assess students over the course of several months, which I feel is the most fair process.
If your child’s first choice is percussion, please choose either TROMBONE, TRUMPET or CLARINET. I recommend leasing one until a final decision is made. Music and Arts, the school music dealer that services our program will apply all prior rental payments to the Ross Scholastic Marimba, the instrument I prefer all percussionists to play on at home. If your child is unsure what other instrument to try, I will guide them during the first weeks of school towards a decision.
Percussion will be limited to 8 due to ensemble balance and the simple fact there are a limited number of percussion instruments and parts to play. Please be aware that percussion instruments include all instruments that are struck. First year players focus on mallet technique as well as snare. If your child is wishing to play only “drums,” percussion will not be the best choice. All prospective percussionists will be screened, evaluated on coordination and pulse, ranked, and selected. If necessary, remaining slots will be filled through a lottery. Class behavior and success on the instrument chosen for the first semester will also be heavily factored. Percussionists are the only section where students move from instrument to instrument in the back of the room independently. These students must be motivated and able to follow instructions!
All Instruments - I strongly recommend renting an instrument rather than purchasing. This allows us to be sure that the instrument is a good fit for your child before you have invested a large sum of money with a full purchase.
Music and Arts Center is a local WCPSS approved school music dealer that services our band program. A road rep visits our school weekly and is able to stop by upon request. You are under no obligation to obtain an instrument from any particular company, but be sure to seek the guidance of the band director prior to committing to an instrument!
Instruments to NOT EVER purchase . The quality of the instrument your child plays can correlate with your child's success. Unfortunately, many parents base their decision for the wrong reasons whether its’ cost, convenience, or well-intentioned word of mouth.
In recent years, store such as Sam's, BJ's, Wal-mart, and many internet sites have offered inexpensive instruments that to the untrained eye, appear to be comparable to brand name instruments. This is not the case. These instruments are made of cheap materials, with parts being manufactured by the bidder with the lowest cost rather than being machined by computer-guided equipment. These shoddy parts are then altered to fit together. The instruments are more difficult to produce a tone on and are literally impossible to play in-tune. When a part breaks, they cannot be replaced and the instrument cannot be returned. Although it is inexpensive to replace the entire instrument, the new one will have the same problems. You the consumer are mis-led in that one can purchase quality merchandise in such stores...with the exception of musical instruments. They need to be taken off the shelves. A good rule of thumb...Never purchase an instrument from a store which also sells underwear!
Mom's or Dad's instrument from their school days. Like anything else (automobiles, computers, sports equipment, etc.), instruments have evolved. The reality is that the student model horns (by reputable manufacturers) are better than the pro model horns from 20 years ago. I recently attended a workshop presented by the national head of instrument repair for one of our local music dealers who is a former repair technician for the service bands in Washington DC. and Army Band trumpet player for 20 years. The $775 Jupiter Capital Edition trumpet plays nearly as well as the Bach Stradavarius he played for all those years. I agree...I have played the Capital Edition trombone and it is by far, the best student model horn I have ever played and feels very similar to a Bach Strad...what I play. The other problem with older instruments is replacement parts. Manufacturers will only make replacement parts 10 years after they stop making a given model. The parts then must be custom made by a repair technician. In other words, a 7-cent screw on a 20-year-old clarinet suddenly costs $15 because it has to be custom made as the item no longer exists.
The point of this is, please acquire a newer, student model instrument from a QUALITY MUSICAL INSTRUMENT manufacturer. Go to a reputable dealer that specializes in them and ask questions about their customer service. Remember who is playing the instrument ...kids...they will break. A quality horn will spend less time in the shop, and more time in your child's hands.
6. SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS
Our school has a limited inventory of background instruments, which include; oboes, bassoons, bass clarinets, tenor and baritone saxophones, horns, euphoniums, and tubas. These instruments are assigned at the discretion of the director based on need and student interest. When a school instrument is issued, an Instrument Loan Agreement form must be completed, signed, and returned. Students and their families are financially responsible for the repair of any excessive damage or loss of the instrument.
When a school instrument needs routine repair, the director or parent will take it to a WCPSS approved repair facility, at the directors’ discretion. The school will then be billed for services.
7. PERFORMANCE ATTIRE
Students are to dress appropriately for all performances. No exceptions to this outline will be made. All students will arrive at performance sites COMPLETELY dressed, with ties tied and shirts tucked in.
6th& 7Th Grade Bands
Boys: White oxford dress shirt, necktie (any color), dress pants, dress shoes & dark socks.
Girls: Skirt/dress pants with blouse (any color). All skirts must be below the knee when seated. Girls wearing skirts above the knee will not be allowed to perform.
Absolutely no jeans of any color, boots or tennis shoes.
8th Grade Band
Same as above except the color is to be all black. Boys may substitute a black turtleneck for the shirt and tie. Again, absolutely no jeans of any color, boots or tennis shoes.
8. PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are not mandatory but are strongly encouraged. All students will benefit tremendously from private instruction and, the better players individuals become, the better the ensemble becomes! One on one time with a specialist on your student’s instrument will challenge the student who is already advanced as well as those falling behind and need assistance catching up. Individual time with a professional will allow your child to learn the nuances for that particular instrument they will not learn in class. The relationship between private teacher and student is different than that with me. There is no grade associated with private lessons; only the goals set by the instructor to maximize your child’s potential. Lessons are typically weekly or every other week. Cost varies from teacher to teacher.
You will find a complete list of private teachers on the link on this website. If you would like my recommendation for one, please feel free to email me.