The instrumental music program is designed to develop musical understanding and instrumental proficiency. All fourth and fifth graders are encouraged to learn an instrument and become an integral member of one of our performing groups. Instruction is offered on one of the following band and orchestra instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone horn, tuba, and percussion

All students enrolled in the program will receive a thirty-minute weekly group lesson on their instrument during the school day. Fourth grade string players will meet twice a week for thirty minutes.

As students progress on their instruments they are becoming comfortable with the mechanics of producing a beautiful musical tone – proper position and posture, control of the bow arm for strings, appropriate embouchure and articulation for winds, etc. As music- reading skills are acquired, many concepts learned in the vocal music classroom are reinforced. Students are learning the language of music (i.e. rhythm, meter, dynamics, etc.) as they develop more advanced listening skills. In addition to learning all the fundamental technical aspects of a specific instrument, an important goal of the program is to develop a foundation of musical understanding and appreciation that will last a lifetime!


PRACTICE AND PRIVATE LESSONS

"You need to practice only on the days that you eat."
Shinichi Suzuki, music educator

Beginning students should practice a minimum of 15-20 minutes a day. Second year students should practice 20-30 minutes a day.

Private lessons are an excellent way to enhance and develop instrument learning, although by no means a requirement. Studying with a professional instrumentalist provides an opportunity for the child to hear the instrument at its best. If you are interested, please see Mrs. Streifer for a list of highly recommended teachers on all instruments.

The most common thread among successful instrumental students is a supportive and encouraging parent or helper at home. Remind your child to bring his/her instrument and supplies to school on each lesson day and attend all lessons and rehearsals. Discuss what your child learned and listen to a "mini performance" often. Encourage daily practice at a regularly scheduled time and take pride in musical growth. Thank you from your child and the music teachers for your encouragement and support.

PERFORMANCE ORGANIZATIONS: BAND and ORCHESTRA

SCHOOL WIDE
As the children grow, the music department recognizes student readiness for additional musical responsibility and challenge in the fourth and fifth grades. In addition to the regular instrumental music lessons, students will also participate in large group ensembles, which meet before school once a week. Our instrumental ensembles meet as follows:

Grade 4 Orchestra – Mondays @7:45, starting in late January

Grade 4 Band - Wednesday @ 7:45, starting in late January

Grade 5 Band – Thursday @ 7:45, starting on September 25

Grade 5 Orchestra - Friday @ 7:45, starting on September 26

Smith School presents two formal concerts each year that highlight the musical talents of our students. Our concert dates this year are December 12 and [TK]. We hope to see you there!

TOWN WIDE
Outstanding upper elementary students who are responsible members of the choir, band, and orchestra may be nominated to audition for the town-wide Inter-Elementary Music Festival performance organizations. The Inter-El groups rehearse once a week, after school, from February through May with students performing at the Bushnell Memorial Auditorium in Hartford, and other elementary schools on the traditional Tour Day.

Your child's musical development in elementary school continues to grow with your support!! Please contact Mrs. Streifer if you have questions about our music curriculum.

We look forward to an exciting year of music making!