Instrumental Music Program

Mr. Gurick
Mr. Weidman

 

All students in fourth and fifth grade are encouraged to study a musical instrument.Their choices include the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone horn,violin and cello.

All beginner students receive a class lesson once a week. Once they have a working knowledge of their chosen instrument, can read music notation and apply the basics of music theory (rhythm, pitch, time/key signatures, etc.) to the playing of their instruments, a beginner band is formed (usually by February or March). The Beginner Band has one performance each year in the Spring Concert.

All second year musicians receive a class lesson once each week, and, in addition, participate in the Advanced Band, which rehearses once a week, before school. Students work on more challenging music of various styles ranging from classical, folk, patriotic, jazz, rock and pop. In addition, once each "section" of the Advanced Band has attained a certain level of proficiency, they are featured in a solo in either the winter or spring concerts.

Participation in the instrumental music program not only fosters a love and appreciation for listening to and making music, but also builds self esteem, character, team spirit and pride.