How Band Class Works

Students enrolled in the program will receive:

• One small group lesson (one-half hour) per week on any band instrument.
  Band instruments include woodwinds (flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone); brass (trumpet, cornet, horn, baritone, trombone, tuba); and percussion (percussion kit that includes the orchestra bells and a drum or practice pad is required.)
• Strings, guitar, and piano are not included in MCS band classes.
• Band classes are held mostly during the school day, though some classes are immediately before or after school. Most students miss some regular class time each week to attend band classes.
• One band/ensemble rehearsal (45 minutes) per week in schools where an adequate number of students are enrolled. (Normally five or more band students per school.)
• Two joint-schools concerts per year – one in December and one in May. Attendance at both concerts is required for participation in the MCS band program.
• Participation in special activities such as Beginning Band Olympics, Band Clinic, Solo/Ensemble Festival, Honor Band, and Pepband events.
• Band music and lesson books are provided. Some band instruments are available through MCS.

Expectations

As part of the instruction, we expect students to:

• Practice on their own regularly – a minimum of twenty minutes of daily, individual practice at home is ideal.
• Come to band classes on time and bring their music, instrument, and music stand.
• Not leave their instruments, stands, and music at school overnight.
• Make up any school work missed because of band classes.
• Complete lesson assignment sheets and practice charts each week and get a parent signature.
• Give fliers/memos to parents as soon as possible.
• Attend concerts and extra activities to fully experience band.

Curriculum

Take a look at our Curriculum Guide to learn more about the specific outcomes and milestones students should achieve by band level.