The instrumental program offers students the opportunity to develop musicianship through performance on an instrument.  Students have the opportunity to choose from the Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, and Percussion.  After a year of study, students may choose to switch to more advanced instruments such as French Horn or Oboe, Tenor or Baritone Saxophone.  All students in fifth or sixth grade are welcome to study an instrument.  If family finance is an issue, we will try to help.  No students will be denied for that one reason.

Every instrumental student has a weekly group lesson on a rotating schedule, where they prepare and play assignments from the lesson book.  As each student progresses they will come to the point where they will be ready to perform in the elementary band .  There is not a set time for entrance into band as each student is allowed to progress at their own pace.  Some students will be ready sooner than others.

The Elementary Band rehearses every Wednesday from 2:30 - 3:20. They have at least two concert performances during the year.  Students have the opportunity to perform in co-curricular musical activities including All-County Elementary Band and NYSSMA Solo Festival. 

 

 Required materials:  All fifth and sixth grade students must purchase Accent on Achievement Book 1 for his/her instrument available from John Keal Music or any local music store. 

Woodwind players must have at least TWO working reeds at all times, cork grease, and a swab.

 Brass players must have valve/slide oil.

Percussionists must have at least one pair of 5B drum sticks, and a practice pad or snare drum.

 

Band participation is based on the growth of musical skills throughout the year, attendance at lessons and concerts, preparation for each rehearsal with instrument, music folder, and a pencil, and behavior during rehearsal.