Here are a few frequently asked 6th grade band questions:
Q: How do I go about obtaining a band instrument?
A:For the most part, parents participate in rental programs designed especially for school band programs provided by qualified music dealers. Meyer Music has serviced the TK schools for well over 20 years and has proven to be fair and reliable with excellent customer service. The advantage of a rental program is that in the event that the student does not continue in band past the first year the instrument can be returned with no further obligations.
Q: We have an old instrument sitting in our attic. Is it in good enough shape to play?
A: Chances are it will need some maintenance to get it into playing shape. Woodwind instruments tend to have bigger issues than brass instruments after having been stored for a long period of time. Have it checked out by a reputable music repair shop. Meyer Music has an excellent repair shop. Marshall Music is another music dealer in the
Grand Rapids area with a repair shop. They can let you know if it is worth repairing or not. In some cases the repairs cost more than the worth of the instrument. However, in other instances these “elderly” instruments can provide an excellent value with a small investment.
Q:Should I buy the band instrument I saw for sale at Walmart?
A: Some chain stores have begun carrying “off brand” band instruments. I have found these instruments to be of poor quality with little or no customer service. When buying an instrument, make sure to purchase it from a store that will stand behind the product and make needed repairs when necessary. Also, be wary of buying instruments on the internet. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Q:Are there any other items that I may need to purchase for band?
A: You will also need to purchase the band method book, Band Expressions – Book One. This book comes with a CD to aid the student in their home practice. Clarinet and Saxophone players will have to purchase reeds on a regular basis. Brass players will have to occasionally purchase valve oil. You may also want to obtain a folding music stand for home practice.
Q: We are experiencing some financial challenges at this time. Can my child still participate in band even though we cannot afford to rent or purchase an instrument?
A: Yes! The school owns a limited number of instruments for students to use who are in this situation. Please contact me and I will make sure your child has an instrument to play in the fall. As there is a limited number available, you may not get your first choice of instrument. But, I will make sure that each child is able to participate in band regardless of financial status.
Q: How does band fit into the school schedule?
A: 6th grade students attend band every other day during their exploratory hour. Each day is designated either “A” or “B”. Some students are assigned to the “A” day band and others are assigned to the “B” day band. Here is what a 6th grade students schedule might look like:
1st Hour – Integrated Arts; 2nd Hour “A” Day – Band; 2nd Hour “B” Day – Physical Education; 3rd Hour – Math; 4th Hour – Science; 5th Hour – Social Studies; 6th Hour – Language Arts.
In this sample schedule the student has band on “A” days and Physical Education on “B” days. During the second semester the student would still have “A” day band, but the class in the “B” day slot would rotate to a different exploratory class (Art, Spanish, Tech Ed, etc.)
Q: What kind of activities do band students participate in?
A: In 6th grade we concentrate on learning the basics of the instrument, performing only a Winter and Spring concert. This year the 7th and 8th grade bands performed winter and spring concerts, played the National Anthem at a Grand Rapids Griffins game, and participated in the Michigan Wind and Percussion Festival held at Portage Northern High School in March. The combined 7th and 8thgrade bands will also be marching in the Middleville Memorial Day parade. The middle school bands do not perform at middle school football games. Students will also have opportunities to perform solos and in small ensembles at some point during their middle school career.
Q:Do sports conflict with band at TKMS?
A: No. We work hard to coordinate our performance schedule with the athletic department so that there are no conflicts. In fact, most band students also participate in one or more sports during the course of the school year.
Q: Does my child need to practice their instrument at home?
A: Yes! I suggest at least an hour a week at home, broken into three 20 minute practice sessions. If a student simply brings their instrument home each weekend they can easily fulfill that recommendation. Band is more fun and enjoyable with regular home practice.
Q: Are students graded in Band Class?
A: Yes. For the most part, the grade is based on class participation. Students also have a written test on music fundamentals each marking period, as well as a playing test. For playing tests students are assigned a song to practice and perform on their own. They may perform it for me during class, or before or after school if they prefer. Students also earn points towards their grade by taking part in our Winter and Spring concerts.
