Dear Third Grade Families,
In the coming weeks your students will have an opportunity to enrich their education with instruction on a band instrument. One of the most positive experiences you can offer your child is the chance to learn self- discipline at the highest level via participation in band. In addition, their cooperative talents, self expression, coordination, poise, sense of accomplishment, self confidence and creative mind will all be nurtured through their study of instrumental music.
The process is as follows:
Students have reviewed the world of instrumental music during their general music classes.
This week I will present and demonstrate the instruments to all third grade classes.
We ask that students select an instrument or two that interest them. A balanced instrumentation will play a part in the final selection. For instance, we can not have a band of 40 percussionists and 2 flutes. If there is an overload of one instrument, participants will be chosen based on recommendation from their classroom teacher and Mr. Califano.
Students will bring home a letter with their suggested instrument.
For your convenience, arrangements have been made with John Keal music to provide a rental program so that instruments are readily available. Greenwich has worked with them for many years and have had wonderful experiences with their customer service and the quality of the instruments. We have a representative from John Keal who visits our school weekly, making repair and purchase needs very convenient.
You are free to obtain an instrument from any source you like, but I ask that you please contact me before you make a purchase to confirm that it is a reputable brand. Recently many online discount retailers have been trying to pass off “instruments” which are of extremely poor quality. Because of this, instrument repair shops are unable to service these instruments. Should you already have an instrument appropriate for your child, I ask that you please bring it to be checked for proper playing condition. This is especially important for instruments that have not been played regularly for a year or longer. Few things are more frustrating to a child than trying to learn on an instrument that will not play correctly.
We will not turn away a child from participating in band due to financial hardship. Please contact me directly should your circumstances prevent you from renting/buying.
What’s next?
Monday, June 5th at 6PM is the band recruitment meeting. Information regarding instructional material, lesson and rehearsal schedules, the commitment required of students and parents, as well as the cost of obtaining an instrument will be explained. The objective is to present information and answer questions to help you decide whether or not playing an instrument is something you want for your child. John Keal will also be there for you to answer any rental questions you may have. I would encourage every parent to attend the meeting, unless you have had a child go through the band program within the past several years.
Beginning Band Recruitment Meeting
Monday, June 5 · 6:00 – 6:30pm
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/cdy-qi...
Or dial: (US) +1 657-234-1746
PIN: 542 127 289#
Unable to attend the meet but still have questions? Call or email me and we can make other arrangements.
The deadline for enrolling your students in the beginning band is July 1. This timeline is necessary because our first lessons will begin the second week of school. I need some time to finalize the lesson schedule and get it to teachers by the end of the first week.
I look forward to meeting you and guiding your child on their musical journey.
Sincerely,
Ms. Kristin Savoie
MG Band Director
Ready to join? Register here