Instrumental Music

Students who are entering third grade may choose only the violin, viola or cello as their beginning instrument. Students entering grades four or five may choose any one of the stringed instruments (violin, viola, cello, or bass), woodwinds (flute, clarinet, oboe, alto or tenor saxophone), brass (trumpet, French horn, baritone horn or trombone) or percussion instruments (all first year beginning students will start on the orchestra bell kit, which includes a snare drum practice pad). All students receive thirty-minute small group lesson per week. These lessons are held during the school day and students are pulled out of their regular class. When possible lessons are rotated. When rotation is possible, students will only be missing a particular thirty- minute period once every eight weeks. Students are also expected to participate in their school band and orchestra. Fourth and fifth grade band and orchestra meet as a group ensemble before the school day begins for forty- five minutes (8:00AM-8:45AM) once per week. Each performing ensemble meets on separate mornings by experience level first year learners or second year learners. Students perform two concerts per year, as well as for school assemblies. All second, third, and fourth grade students receive a demonstration of all the musical instruments that are being offered in the elementary schools. This assembly takes place in March and parents are invited to attend. Watch for announcements/dates. Ms. Muccia, Amelia (strings) Ms. Kate Whiteley (band)