Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions 
of students and parents.

1. When can my child start and instrument?
2. Can a student start an instrument after 4th grade?
3. Why didn't my child get his/her first choice?
4. How much time should my child be practicing daily?
5. When are the concerts?
6. What is concert dress?
7. What do I do if a string breaks?

When can my child start and instrument?

Students start lessons in 4th grade.  Recruiting begins in the 
spring of 3rd grade.  Students attend an assembly where they are introduced to 
the instruments available.

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Can a student start an instrument after 4th grade?

Yes.  If the student is new to the school in fifth grade or did 
not play an instrument in 4th grade.  Students are not allowed to switch 
instruments.

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Why didn't my child get his/her first choice?

Just as it is important to have balanced teams for sports, it is 
important to have a balanced orchestra and band.  It would be very boring to 
have an orchestra of only violins or a band of only clarinets.  Students 
are asked to be sure they would be happy with their first AND second choices 
when selecting an instrument.

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How much time should my child be practicing daily?

4th Grade students are asked to practice 15 minutes daily in 
September and should be practicing 20 minutes by December.  5th Grade students 
should be practicing 25-30 minutes daily.  Encourage your child to practice 
daily, even when their schedule is very busy.  Even a few minutes playing 
scales or working on a small section of orchestra music is time well 
spent.  Be sure to write down the number of minutes practiced on their practice chart and sign 
it at the end of the week.

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When are the concerts?

The 4th and 5th grade orchestras perform in the Winter and in the 
Spring.  You can check the exact date under "Concert Schedule".

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What is concert dress?

Boys- Pants (no jeans), shoes (no sneakers please) and a collared 
shirt.  
Girls- Dress, skirt or dress pants and an nice top.

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What do I do if a string breaks?

I generally have a number of spare strings on hand in the case a 
student breaks a string.  If I have the correct size, I will put a new 
string on and ask that you order a string to replace the one I put on so I 
will have it for other students.  If I do not have the correct size, you may 
order a new string in the correct size and I will put it on for you.

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