Telegraph Beginning Band
Music is for EVERYONE!
WHY JOIN BAND?
Involvement in band is not only fun, but studies have shown that it improves academic performance, organization skills, and higher-order thinking skills. In short, participation in band develops the whole child. Band also is a training ground for the following skills and attributes that will transfer into success in other studies (academic, athletic, etc.)
*Develop a habit of persistence that will help them through the tough times in life and keep them on task when it would be easier to quit.
*Learn to be more responsible and see that mistakes are anopportunity to grow and make necessary corrections on the pathway to success.
*Master the skills of cooperation so they enjoy working with their counterparts in every realm of personal and professional life.
*Create a set of personal values that allow a prosperous and fulfilling lifelong journey, and find a way to express these understandings.
*Find a meaningful form of contribution that is significant to self and others.
Frequently Asked questions
What grade does band begin?
The Jefferson R-7 Band program begins in the 5th grade.
When does band meet?
Band is a year-long class that meets every day for 40 minutes. We will perform two concerts throughout the year. Once your child is enrolled, he/she will be in band the entire year. Enrollment is renewed at the end of each year.
How do I enroll my child in band?
Your child will report to band on the first day of school next year. During the first week of school, your child will try out several instruments to see which instrument is the best fit for him/her. Final enrollment will happen at the music display night on August 21.
Does my child need to know how to play an instrument before I enroll him/her in band?
No, that’s what I’m here for.
What instruments are offered in beginning band?
Flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, trombone, and baritone. Percussion is not offered in 5th grade. Students interested in percussion will audition at the end of 5th grade to begin percussion in 6th grade band.
Do I need to get an instrument during the summer?
No. We will find the right instrument for your child at the start of the school year.
Do you limit the number of students in band?
No. However, we have to limit the number of specific instruments in band to make the band balanced. A band works as a team and we need players at every position to be successful.
How will we choose the right instrument for my child?
In the first week of school, your child will try out every instrument that he/she is interested in. I will document each ‘mini-audition’ looking for finger dexterity, lip shape, lip size, hand size, and teeth. My goal is to match your child’s natural physical attributes with the right instrument to ensure success, limiting frustration as much as possible.
What does a balanced bandlook like?
For a school our size: 5-7 flutes, 10-12 clarinets, 3-5 alto saxes, 7-10 trumpets, 8-10 trombones, and 2 baritones\
Can band students also play sports and participate in other activities?
Absolutely, YES!
It is the philosophy of the band program that every child deserves a well-rounded, education that includes curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities.
Teachers, Coaches, Administration and staff work together to make sure each child has an opportunity to develop all of his/her talents. It’s one of the many benefits of being a small school.
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