Essentials for Success!

As the boys and girls begin 5th grade, there are many opportunities for learning and growth.  One of these exciting opportunities is beginning our instrumental program.  By now, most of the boys and girls have had 1-2 small group lessons and 4-5 large group band rehearsals.  We have covered a lot of new material about playing their instruments, reading music, learning new fingerings/notes and new rhythms.  The most important ESSENTIAL for success on their instrument is PRACTICE AT HOME. Please help your child establish a consistent practice schedule at home right from the start! 

This practice is neccesary in order for them to develop their embouchures, memorize fingering patterns, memorize note names, learn rhythms, develop lung capacity and endurance, and develop a sense of steady beat.  This will help your child enjoy playing their instrument when they experience success on their respective instrument. 

Another ESSENTIAL for success is providing all of the materials that your child will need.  These include the method books, an instrument in good working condition, reeds, valve oil, music stand (these can be purchased rather inexpensively through the music store, and a well-lit area to practice in, free from distractions such as the TV, DVD, radio, and video games. 

One of the most important ESSENTIALS is the SUPPORT OF PARENT(S)/GUARDIANS.  Take the time to listen to your child play his/her instrument.  Ask them to play their favorite song for you!  They can already play some familiar tunes!  Compliment them on their tone, fingerings, rhythms, etc.  Be their biggest 'cheerleader'!!

Until next week, keep practicing...
Mr. Hubers

Welcome to a new year of 5th Grade Band!

Welcome to a New Year!

What a great first week of rehearsals!  It is always exciting to begin a new year with the 5th graders.  We are going to have an excellent year working together to develop our talents on our instruments.  We will learn alot of new notes, rhythms, dynamics, tempos and articulations as well as being introduced to a wide variety of musical styles. 

Parents/guardians:  please help your child develop good practice habits right from the beginning as this will set the tone for their development throughout the whole school year.  They are expected to practice 90 minutes a week on their new instrument.  This will help them develop their embouchures (lip, cheek, chin muscles), memorize fingerings and rhythms, develop lung capacity and breath support, and apply all of the concepts that we work on in band and small group lessons to their own playing.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns regarding your child and the 5th grade band program in the Brandon Valley School District. (Del.Hubers@k12.sd.us)

Until next week, keep practicing.....

Mr. Hubers