Dear Parents of prospective music students,

Band Roundup 2011:   
Students will be attending music class until Mid-September. In early September, all students who choose to try band out will come to the band room and meet with Mr. Brand, to be individually fitted to an instrument. Students who choose not to be in band will stay in alternative classes.  Students are not required to buy their instrument from Marshall Music, but Marshall Music will have a PARENT meeting Tuesday, September 20, 2011 in the evening at 7:00 pm in the band room where parent and student can rent an instrument from Marshall Music. The meeting will last a little over an hour, and the instrument that is rented can be taken home that evening. Then your student will be ready for band the next day. 6th Grade Band 2011-2012 begins on Wednesday, September 21, 2011.

How to get the correct instrument: 
(Don't be taken advantage of by off brand instruments!!)

Last year, all 5th grade students took a musical skills evaluation. The results from this evaluation as well as individual physical characteristics will be used by an instrument-fitting specialist coming to Inland Lakes this fall. The students will receive the best service if they are open minded as to what instrument they would like to play.

The first year commitment:
All students are to remain in band for one full year. They are required to practice six times each week for 20 minutes each time, and even more practice when they get frustrated. They are also required to turn in practice slips weekly. Frustrations will come during the first year. PLEASE ENCOURAGE your student to practice through them. When they learn their instrument, the ENJOYMENT really kicks in.

Estimated Costs:
Students will need to obtain a properly made instrument, a beginning band book and a uniform. I recommend; Marshall Music in Traverse City or Northern Instrument and Repair in Wolverine (nir@voyager.net), for purchasing or renting quality instruments.

A ‘Standard of Excellence (enhanced)’ beginning band book, about $15.

The Director:

Mr. Brand

 

Optional

Subscribe to Smart Music for the computer.

Recommended.