6th Grade Parents

As a parent, you are always looking out for what is best for your child.  You want your student to have experiences that help them grow, gain confidence, explore their creativity and develop lifelong skills that will serve them well into adulthood.  Check out the information below on how being in a band class can benefit your student!

How will band class help my student academically?

Our students are constantly being pushed to excel in their classwork and it’s easy to assume that music participation is a luxury we can’t afford.  However, you may be surprised to learn that studies prove that middle and high school students who study instrumental music score significantly higher than their non-band peers on standardized tests, including college entrance exams.  Children who are active in school music programs get the unique opportunity to be part of a truly cocurricular class.   Participation in band, orchestra or choir fosters creativity, teamwork and a sense of cooperation among students.  Furthermore, music majors are the most likely group of college grads to be admitted to medical school with an impressive 66% admittance rate.  (Only 44% of biochemistry majors were admitted.)  And most importantly, music is a fun and rewarding activity that can be pursued for a lifetime.

What happens at an instrument try-on and how do I sign up?

There will be a facebook post sent out and reminders sent to your school on how to register your student for the try on night. You can also sign up through the tab that says "Instrument Try On Sign Up". When you sign up for an instrument try-on, your student will select three instruments to try out. A Paige's Music representative will show them how to make sounds on the instruments so that everyone can see what instruments might be a good one for your student.  This is a great way to see what instrument will give them their greatest chance at success!

The instrument try-on is a no pressure, fun way to explore the all of the instruments, meet your middle school band director and find out more about performing arts! The time we spend with your child during the instrument try-on helps us to provide an appropriate placement for them.  We highly encourage parent participation in the process! It is always fun to encourage your student as they begin their musical journey with this first step!

What kind of time commitment is involved?

All band classes meet during the regular school day. We know our students participate in a lot of activities so we keep our after school events are at a minimum. Our only after school activities are limited to two to three nights per year depending on what grade your student is in. This does not include our optional after school group events that happen throughout the year (for example our movie night). Dates for these events will be given to all students and parents the first week of school. Students in band are also responsible for practicing their instrument at home in order to create a higher rate of success in class.

Can I still participate in after school activities if I am in Band?

Absolutely!!!!  Because  band rehearsals are during the school day, you can easily participate in after school activities without conflict.  A large percentage of our student musicians are actually members of a number of activities! We have everyone from robotics to athletics! 

When does my student need to have an instrument?

At the beginning of the school year we like to take a week or two to review what your students might remember from their Elementary music classes. We recommend having an instrument either at school or on the way by the end of the first week of school. 

What is the cost of participation?

The primary expense of band participation is that of providing an instrument for your child.  Most parents will choose to rent an instrument at the start.  Rental fees for instruments are very affordable and apply toward ownership of the instruments.  More information can be found at www.paigesmusic.com