A letter to Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble parents was sent home today in class.  You can download a copy by clicking here.  Please take a few moments to read over this information.

SMS Beginning Band,

The first two weeks of school have gone by very fast and our students have learned a great deal as they begin their musical journey.  Students have started to learn the basics by learning the alphabet, the staff, clefs, basic breathing exercises, and counting very simple rhythms.  This week, they will start to learn how to apply the alphabet to the staff, which is the start to reading music.  They will also learn more simple rhythms as they begin to make sounds on their instruments.

Mini-School

Please join us at Smith for Mini-School on Monday, September 9 beginning at 6pm.  You will follow your child’s schedule to meet their teachers.  Either get the schedule from them or bring them along Monday evening.

Instruments and Supplies

Last week we started to explore our instruments by making our first sounds.  This will continue this week.  By next week, students will be allowed to take instruments home, after they pass a test.  If you have not secured and instrument or supplies, please take care of this as soon as possible.  We don’t want your child to fall behind at the beginning of instruction.

Please start making plans for what will happen when instruments are allowed to go home.  Find a place for your child to practice.  Make sure they have the ability to take it home and bring it back to school each day.  Large instruments are often not allowed on the school bus.  These students may opt to come in early or stay late to practice.  Mandatory/graded practice will not begin for  few more weeks.

Fundraiser

We kicked off our fundraiser with Cherrydale Farms last week.  If your child sells six items, that will cover their band fee (for t-shirt, binder, etc.).  Prizes can be earned by selling just one item.  You can also sell online by following the instructions in the packet.  All orders and money are due by September 17.

Finale

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your child’s band director.  Email is often returned quicker than a voicemail.