Visual Arts

Beginning Band:
Beginning Band is open to all 6th graders. Beginning Band is where students choose a concert band instrument that they would like to learn. It is expected that students will continue on with band all through their middle school and high school career, although it is understood that it is not always possible.

Students have a choice between taking Band or Performing Arts. It is important that students and parents know that if students have any interest in Band whatsoever that they must join their 6th grade year. 6th graders must join by the end of the second trimester or it is too late. After the second trimester it is too hard to get caught up and learn all the important skills to participate and be successful.

Click for Guidelines

Instrument Selection:
Students will have the opportunity to try all instruments to see what they are truly interested in and can be successful at. All instruments are important. Students who take the Jump Start to Band class will have first choice of instrument, (all students are asked to consider at least 3 different instruments). It is important that students and parents know that students will not always get their first choice, although it is always what I strive for. Having a well balanced band is important, so that students will get the most playing time possible and so that they will get the full sound of the music they are playing. Students that are considering percussion must meet at least one, if not both criteria in order to even be considered for the percussion section. Any student interested in percussion must have at least 2 years of piano lessons or be taking private lessons (not just on trap set.)

What Brand of Instruments Should We Be Considering?:
It is very important that you do not purchase your instruments from any retail store like Sam’s, Wal-Mart or a JC Penny Catalog. These instruments are made very cheaply. They usually break within one week of owning and they are not fixable because they are not made with real parts. The $150 you spend on a cheap instrument could be used towards the rental of a good instrument that will last your student a lifetime. Most music stores offer great deals where all of your rental money goes towards the purchase of your instrument. Great places to look for your instrument are Music Depot in Greeley, www.wwbw.com, pawn shops, Craigslist, and even Ebay. Below is a list of instruments and the brands that are going to be the best investment for you.