Fifth Grade Band

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Unique to the ICRS music curriculum is the opportunity for students to learn to play a wind or percussion instrument.   Because of this year long process, it is important each student spend some time considering the instrument they wish to learn.  The decision to learn a musical instrument is a serious and rewarding experience.  The student must understand that to learn a musical instrument will take time, patience and concentrated effort.

Beginning Band will meet on Tuesday and Thursday from 1:15-2:00. Each Beginning Band student needs to have the instruction book “Essential Elements 2000” for their instrument.  This book comes complete with practice accompaniments and other practice tools.  I also suggest that each student has a wire music stand that they can use at home. Music stands provide each student with the proper posture for developing good tone.

In Beginning Band, I suggest the student start on one of the following instruments: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone and Percussion.  The reason is that at this level is to it is easier to concentrate on:    
1.  Developing an acceptable tone on the instrument:  Proper posture, breathing and embouchure development
2.  Developing individual sense of rhythm:  Steady beat, independent rhythmic counting
3.  Developing Notation reading:  Musical staff, bass clef, treble clef, note values, rest values

Why only these instruments?

It is my experience that students can develop the above concepts of tone, rhythm and notation reading on these instruments more quickly.  After successfully mastering one of these instruments the student will be able to transfer to a variety of similar instruments. However, if a student wants to start on any instrument not mentioned above, they are more than welcomed to.

Cost is another factor.
Students in beginning band need to be provided with a quality instrument.  For most, this means renting an instrument.  The cost of renting one of the above instruments seems to be a more reasonable investment for your child.

Renting an instrument.
To assist in your child's success I strongly believe they should be provided with an instrument that is in excellent condition.  There are a few music stores in the area that have instrumental rental programs:

The Music Shoppe, 2401 Meridian, Bellingham, 360-647-9160
Hugo Helmer Music, 1025 Goldenrod Rd.  Burlington, 360-757-0270

I STRONGLY SUGGEST YOU DO NOT PURCHASE AN INSTRUMENT FROM COSTCO, OR SEARS.  They may be inexpensive but they are of inferior quality.

Here is a website that has answers to more frequently asked questions: www.beginband.com. I would be happy to answer any of your questions or give guidance on the selection of an instrument.  Please feel free to call me at school (428-3912) or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Vince Fejeran

Band Instructor