Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- Our child wants to join the band. What do we do?
- How often will my band student need to practice?
- When are the concerts?
- My child is playing the recorder this year. How much are the recorders and what is the process of getting my child started?
- I have very little musical knowledge. What do you suggest I do if my child becomes frustrated when practicing their instrument at home?
Our child wants to join the band. What do we do?
Wait for a letter announcing Family Band Night to come home with your child.
Attend the meeting. Ask as many questions there as necessary. If you are
unable to attend the meeting, or if you have missed the meeting, please
contact me by e-mail, and I will gladly respond to any questions you may have.
How often will my band student need to practice?
As with anything, in order to improve, we must practice. I ask that your
child practices not less than 20 minutes per day, at least 6 days per week.
Four 30 minute practice sessions per week would also be acceptable, but know
this is only a minimum. The latest brain research supports this. By doing
this, your child will make consistent progress, and their learning will become
permanent. For a perfect score at each band lesson, a parent must sign that
the student has practiced at least 90 minutes for the week, and it should be
apparent that the student has indeed practiced that amount of time.
When are the concerts?
Winter Concert- January 12, 2010, 2:30 and 7 p.m.
Spring Concert- May 25, 2010 at 2:00 and 7 p.m.
My child is playing the recorder this year. How much are the recorders and what is the process of getting my child started?
Recorders are available for $5.00. A note will be sent home during the first
two weeks of school regarding the purchase of recorders. Recorder money is to
be sent to the music room in an envelope with your child's name and the name
of their homeroom teacher. Students may also purchase recorders anytime
during the school year if theirs is misplaced.
I have very little musical knowledge. What do you suggest I do if my child becomes frustrated when practicing their instrument at home?
Becoming frustrated when learning how to play an instrument is completely
normal. I would suggest that you allow your child to take a break and go back
to their practicing later that day. Encourage them to practice the parts of
their assignment that are easier for them. Encourage them to circle the
selection or concept that is causing them to be frustrated. Remind them to
talk to me about what is frustrating them during their lesson time, and I will
give them strategies to help them master what is challenging/frustrating to them.