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WHAT INSTRUMENT CAN I LEARN HOW TO PLAY? The Instrumental Music Program at Grafton Elementary School is open to any fourth or fifth grade student who wishes
to learn how to play a band instrument. Students have the opportunity to choose to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone,
trumpet, trombone, or snare drum.
IF I PARTICIPATE IN BAND, CAN I ALSO BE IN CHORUS?
Yes. Lessons and band rehearsals does not conflict with chorus rehearsals.
WHAT ARE GROUP LESSONS?
Every week, students attend a 30-minute group lesson during the school day throughout
the school year at no cost. The size of the lesson group is between 5-10 students. Group lessons are held during
class time on a pull-out basis.
In lessons, students will learn how to play the instrument with proper technique, learn how to take
proper care of the instrument, learn how to develop music reading skills such as music notations and rhythms, and establish
good practicing habits.
I AM A FIFTH GRADER PARTICPATING IN THE BEGINNER PROGRAM, WILL I BE ABLE TO
MOVE UP TO FIFTH GRADE BAND?
Yes, but it is up to the individual student to show the desire to work hard in order to be
promoted to the Fifth Grade Band. A student needs to demonstrates fast and steady progress on the instrument,
consistent practicing, coming prepared, and a positive attitude to learn. However, it is the decision made by Mrs.
Crockwell.
WHAT DO I BRING TO MY WEEKLY LESSON?
At each lesson, you will need to bring:
- Your instrument
- The "Essential Elements" method book and/or music folder
- A filled out and signed practice chart
- A pencil
- Any necessary accessories or equipment such as reeds, valve oil, or drum sticks
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WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS AND RESPONSIBLITIES? Band offers an opportunity to expand skills such as technique, reading, interpreting, and appreciating music in a unique
environment. It is a highly active atmosphere that might not be present in other academic classes. Each member in the ensemble
plays an important role because everyone is a team member. Students are expected to:
- Be responsible for conducting themselves in a proper manner that reflects behavior that is expected of all
students.
- Be cooperative, courteous, and helpful to other members of their section and to other members of the band.
- To attend all rehearsals, lessons, and performances. Students will be notified of the dates in advance
about the concerts and performances.
- Practicing at home is expected
DO I NEED TO PRACTICE MY INSTRUMENT AT HOME?
YES! Practicing your instrument is homework for band. It is a skill that requires regular practice at home, and it is
an important part of a student’s musical experience. This is how musicians learn their music, improve their skills,
and develop confidence in themselves and their abilities. Practice is the key to success in music. There are no shortcuts.
To get some tips on how to practice, go to the "How To Practice at Home" link. Remember – PRACTING IS HOMEWORK!
WHERE CAN I STORE MY INSTRUMENT WHILE I AM AT SCHOOL?
Instruments can be stored in the band room the day you have a lesson or band rehearsal. Make sure you take
your instrument home at the end of the school day. Instruments are not allowed to be left over the weekend or over school
vacations. However, if it is necessary for you to leave your instrument in school over night, it is safer to store the instrument
in the band room rather than in your room or locker. The band room is always locked when school is not in session.
HOW DO I KEEP MY INSTRUMENT IN GOOD PLAYING CONDITION?
A musical instrument is an expensive item and needs to be properly maintained. It should be well cared for
and in good playable condition. Taking care of your instrument properly will guarantee the life of your instrument. For brass
instruments, valves and slides should be oiled and lubricated. Also, empty spit valves after playing. For clarinet
and saxophone, grease the cork joints when needed, and all woodwind instruments should swab the instrument after playing
each time. Always keep your instrument in your case if you are not playing.
MY INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED, WHAT DO I DO?
Although newer band instruments rarely need repair, it is easy for an instrument to not work properly if dropped or assembled
incorrectly. If you rent the instrument from David French Music, parents can call the music store and inform them of the situation, and have the instrument be picked up at GES. Request
an instrument loaner to use because depending on the damage, repairs can take at least two weeks. Before taking it to the
shop, Mrs. Crockwell would gladly assess the need for repair and/or perform simple repairs, if possible at no cost.
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DO I RECEIVE A GRADE ON MY REPORT CARD?
Yes,
you receive a grade for each semester. Your grade is determined by your practice time each week, being prepared for lessons, attending
lessons, and participation in concerts.
WHAT IS BEGINNER BAND?
Beginner Band
provides the opportunity for students to join together and learn how to play in a large musical group. Beginner Band starts
in late January. Band rehearsals are during the school day on Tuesday afternoons. Students will continue to attend their weekly
instrument lessons in addition to attending band rehearsals.
DO WE PERFORM IN ANY CONCERTS?
Of course! The Fifth Grade Band particpates in many performances including concerts and parades.
The Beginner Band partipates in the spring concert in June to showcase their hardwork and talent. Check the
Performance Calendar for specific dates.
DO I NEED TO TAKE PRIVATE LESSONS IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BAND PROGRAM?
NO! Although it is not required, students of all levels and of all abilities are highly encouraged to take
private music lessons. Taking private lessons will provide an individual one-on-one attention and it can further develop the
individual’s playing and musical skills with a private teacher. There are many well-qualified private teachers in the
local area. Ask Mrs. Crockwell for a Private Lesson List if interested.
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