BEGINNING BAND INFORMATION
INFORMATION FOR BEGINNING BAND
Fourth grade band begins around the first part of October, after all the students have been tested to help them decide which one is best for them.
On Monday, September 22, a representative from Eckroth Music of St. Cloud was here to make instruments available for you to rent or purchase.
You may acquire an instrument elsewhere, but be wary of inexpensive, unfamiliar brand names. It’s a good idea to check with Mr. Anderson before you buy.
*During the first several weeks, the students have individual or small group lessons only, (not the whole group) to get them started. These weekly lessons last for about 15-20 minutes, and continue throughout the entire school year.
*Around the first part of November, we start meeting as a group three times a week; Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday for one half hour, from 8:30-9:00 am.
*Playing an instrument can be very enjoyable and rewarding, but it does require commitment.
Each student is required to practice a minimum of 90 minutes per week. This comes out to be about 15 minutes per day. The student’s grade is determined entirely on the amount of practice time they record. There is a practice record sheet inside their book.
*Please help them succeed by encouraging regular, scheduled practice, and after November 1st remind them to bring their instrument and music every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
*All band members must pay a $45 per year fee to help us cover cost of school owned instruments, music, stands, repairs, etc. You may pay this in 2 payments of $22.50 if desired.
INSTRUMENT PURCHASE INFORMATION:
There are many ways to purchase an instrument including stores, catalogs, Internet and private individuals. Many times these non-school music stores will offer what seems like very inexpensive instruments. With these instruments, there is no after-sale support; no repair service and the instruments are typically of low quality.
When you are ready to purchase an instrument, here are a few “pointers” to help you choose a good instrument.
Musical instruments are NOT toys!
• A usable instrument is a well-constructed work of art, combining both the latest technology and the time-tested old-world craftsmanship.
Watch out for Internet auction sites!
• Often students/parents who purchase instruments from auction sties end up frustrated due to the poor quality of instrument, or because the instrument is in serious need of repair. Not all manufacturers build instruments according to specific standards with up to date technology.
Purchase your name-brand instrument from a reputable school music dealer
• Non-brand name instrument manufacturers often do not make parts available to repair centers. Therefore, locate a good name brand from your teacher or school music store.
An inexpensive instrument can be a waste of time and money
• Cheap instruments are usually just that, cheap! If you purchase a “questionable” instrument, you may spend more on repairs just to make it usable. Many discounted instruments may be factory seconds or instruments that have been restocked many times.
Don’t be afraid of school music store salespeople
• These people are a great resource. They are typically professionally trained and often work hand in hand with your school band director and make regular visits to the school.
Consider the value after your purchase
• Repair is an inevitable fact of life. Alternate sources often do not offer maintenance and repair programs.
If you are looking for an inexpensive instrument, Eckroth Music has a supply of used instruments that are in excellent playing condition. They can offer you an extended maintenance and repair program.
Sincerely,
Mr. Anderson
Band Director
PIANO LESSONS
Being a drummer requires a keen sense of rhythm and a continuing knowledge of music theory and keyboard skills. A beginning drummer has to “know more” before he/she enters band than players of other instruments. They need to know keyboard hand positions and be able to read notes in treble and bass clef before entering band. Realizing the importance of having drummers that are adequately prepared for such a challenge, I am now requiring students to have 2 years of piano lessons. Other schools also have this requirement. That means if your son or daughter would like to play drums in fourth grade, they need to begin piano lessons in second grade. Drummers need to continue piano lessons through their school years.
There are 2 piano teachers that visit our school and give lessons during the school day; Kathy Bahmer; 632-3512, and Helen Pikal; 632-6149. Students are sometimes excused from class as scheduling allows. Lessons are also available at the St. Francis Music Center 632-0637.
Our MOL vocal/classroom music teacher, Mr. Austreng is also interested in giving piano lessons.
I also give piano lessons before and after school. My fee is $13 per one half hour lesson. If you have questions or comments, please call me.
Mr. Anderson
632-5408
Mary of Lourdes Elementary is privileged to have their own Yamaha electronic piano keyboard room since spring of 2004. This tool is meant to aid in teaching the elements of music, along with basic piano skills in the fourth and sometimes third grade.
Mary of Lourdes School
GR.4_LESSONS_1_5-9xls.pdf