Joining the Moon Area Instrumental Music Program
As a 4th Grade student, your child finally has the opportunity to do what so many successful students have done before them, play an instrument!
During the beginning weeks of 4th grade, students are introduced to each of the band instruments that they will have the opportunity to play. Instruments in 4th grade include: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Baritone, and Trombone. After the demonstration of the instruments each student has the opportunity to try whichever instruments they wish. Trying a variety of instruments is important to make sure you choose the right one! While trying each instrument a music teacher will help to guide the students to ensure optimum success.
We understand that for many of you, this will be your first exposure to instrumental music education. Music education is more than just learning an instrument; it is about immersing your child in a culture of successful students and teachers who are dedicated to furthering their education. It challenges students to use the creative side of their brain while, at the same time, learning a foreign language... MUSIC!
Every destination starts with the decision to embark on a journey. Now is the time to start your child in music and the Moon Area is the place to do it! We can’t promise that your child will be a prodigy, but we can promise that they will learn, laugh and grow along the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are there any requirements for music in middle school?
Yes, The National Standards in the Arts and the PA State Standards in the Arts and Humanities recommend proficiency on a basic level in music. Every middle school student is required to participate in band, orchestra, or choir.
Q. What if I am not sure if I want my child to do band?
Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Band is the same way. Your child should sign up to play an instrument even if you or they are unsure. If at some point you decide that band is not for you, drop the class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when everyone else has already started.
Q. How much out of school time is required?
Band is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun.
Q. What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something that they enjoy. I will also help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what he/she wants, you know your child, and I know music. Together we will find the instrument that he/she will not only enjoy but will give him/her the best chance of musical success. For video demonstrations of band instruments visit: www.bepartoftheband.org.
Q. What are the costs?
The costs associated with band depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. We wish funds were available for us to provide every child with an instrument, however, this is simply not possible. You can rent a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do this, please contact the music director and allow them to help. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating.
Q. How do I procure an instrument?
We encourage students to either rent or purchase their own instrument. More information on renting instruments will be distributed at a later date.
Q. Can my student participate in both Choir and Band?
Absolutely, students can perform in both, choir and band. In fact, Students are ENCOURAGED to perform in both!