Fairbanks Road School Instrumental Program Parent Information Night

Mrs. Osgood – Fairbanks Road School Music Teacher Grades 1,2 and 4 General Music Grade 4 Chorus Grade 4 Instrumental Lessons Grade 4 Band

Woodwind Instruments Flute Oboe Clarinet Saxophone

Brass Instruments Trumpet French Horn Baritone/Euphonium Trombone

Percussion Snare Drum Mallet Percussion/Bells

String Program Violin, Viola and Cello. Space will be limited to five violins, three violas and three cellos. Students studying a string instrument will not be in the band program. Lesson groups will be combined before concerts to rehearse. One or two after school rehearsals. MS string orchestra meets regularly.

Music is a Core Curriculum Music is a creative outlet for healthy expression and fosters a positive attitude toward learning. Research shows a link between music instruction and overall intelligence, academic success, problem solving and creative thinking. Students who study music outscore their peers on both the verbal and math portions of the SAT.

Studying a Musical Instrument Helps to develop self discipline, confidence and self esteem. Promotes personal organization. Develops enhanced concentration, physical coordination and memory skills. Gives opportunities for leadership, cooperation and coordination with others. Improves critical thinking and attention to detail. Creates an appreciation for cultural heritage.

Program Components Weekly 30 minute lesson in small groups of like- instruments from September-June. Students will leave class on a rotating schedule for lessons. They are expected to make up any missed work with their teacher. Weekly band practice begins in December. Band practice takes the place of 4 th grade chorus practice following the fall chorus concert.

Home Practice is Essential! Time in lessons is limited. New concepts introduced in school must be reinforced through daily practice. Practice develops physical coordination, endurance and muscle strength. Beginners start with 60 minutes per week. Practice time is increased as a student gains endurance.

Practice on a regular basis. Fill out daily practice chart and get it initialed by parent each week. Remember to bring your instrument and binder to each lesson and band rehearsal. Remember to come to your lesson at the assigned time. (Check the lesson calendar) Let Mrs. Osgood know as soon as there is a problem with your instrument. HAVE FUN! Student Responsibilities

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities Provide a quality instrument, lesson book, binder, page protectors, and needed accessories. Set-up a place for regular at home practice. Initial practice chart each week. Check binder for notes/information from teacher. Help your child to remember his/her instrument and binder on lesson and band days. Be encouraging to your child.

Communication and Grading Instrumental lessons and band are graded together on the student report card at each ten week marking period. Grades are based on effort, skill, practice habits, preparedness and attendance at lessons, band rehearsals and concerts.

Acquiring an Instrument A quality instrument is an investment in your child’s future success. Used instruments should be evaluated by an instrument repair technician and repaired before lessons begin. Instrument dealers provide rent-to-own programs, free delivery and repair/maintenance programs.

Frequently asked questions Most questions can be answered by referring to the Grade 4-6 Band Handbook for information. Keep the handbook for reference throughout the year. Concert dates for the school year are listed on the parent/student commitment form in the handbook. Necessary accessories and supplies. How do we get them?

More FAQ Which do I need? Clarinets: Wood vs. Plastic (Resin) Flutes: Open Hole vs. Closed Hole Trombones: Trigger (F-Attachment) vs. Non-Trigger Cello pegs Should I buy or rent an instrument?

Instrument Dealers Renting vs. Purchase Insurance Suggested Dealers * Atlas and Music and Arts come out to our school each week * String instruments: Stringed Instrument Services and The String House

A child’s musical study provides a sense of accomplishment that the entire family can share