Why play an instrument?
Music learning has SO many benefits for the brain that help in all areas of life and school! See the video above.
Program Information (How it works)
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Lessons will be 30 minutes twice per week
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Instrumental classes are “pull-out.” This means that students will attend Instrumental Music in place of another course for two 30–minute segments a week. Missed work still must be completed by the student. Students are pulled from other content areas for less than 4% of that content time per 4 week rotations.
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There will be two concerts during the course of the year. Concert participation is expected of all musicians because it is an integral part of what they are learning. Fifth grade students and advanced fourth graders may earn extra performance opportunities.
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PRACTICE: Students will have practice assignments as homework in addition to school day lessons. Time to complete these assignments should be split up into three–four 15-20 minute increments throughout the week. Frequent short practice will benefit the students more than one long practice session. Extra credit is offered through the practice incentive program.
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While the classes are offered at no cost to you, you and your child must provide his or her own instrument. This can be purchased or rented at local music stores.
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A limited number of school instruments are available for free if a need exists. These can be requested during completion of the registration form. Any damage to a school instrument while in the students’ possession is the responsibility of the family.
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Lesson books are PROVIDED BY THE SCHOOL. Lost books must be replaced by the family.
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A complete supply list will be forwarded to families once registration is complete.
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Musicians’ PPE is available in music stores if you have a concern about your child’s protection while playing.
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Please contact Mrs. Dickinson if you have additional questions.
Syllabus
Parents click here to see practice expectations & how grades are determined. See the information above for more details about how Instrumental Music works.
Karate
Band & Strings Karate is a practice incentive program that begins in February for 4th and 5th grade students ONLY. Karate students will earn practice points toward their report card grade based on how many “belts” they are able to achieve. Students will be given time at the end of certain Instrumental class periods to demonstrate their capability to correctly play all notes and rhythms from select book exercises. You can always check your child’s Karate progress on this special website.
#1: ALWAYS try your best. It’s ok if it is far from perfect. If you are doing all you can, that is all I can ask. In ALL classes, students should always follow the school expectations.