Instrumental Music Enrollment Information

 

Instrumental Music – The Basics

Band and orchestra students:

  • Begin instruction on an instrument in fifth grade.
  • Participate in weekly group lessons at the elementary school during the school day.
  • Participate in weekly after school rehearsals (mid October-March).

Instrument Choices

Students can choose to be in band or orchestra.

  • Band instrument choices are flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone.
  • Orchestra instrument choices are violin, viola, and cello.

Required Materials

Students are required to have a suitable instrument (usually rented from a reputable music store), a music book and a music stand. There are also required supplies that are specific to each instrument. Students should not rent an instrument until their enrollment is confirmed in the fall.

Instrument Selection

Students are encouraged to consider the following important points when deciding which instrument to play:

  • The sound of the instrument should be pleasing to the student. Pick something that you will enjoy hearing yourself practice!
  • ALL songs can be played on ALL instruments.
  • Play what you want, not necessarily what your friends will play.

Please take some time to learn about the instruments below.

  • Flute – highest sounding band instrument; blow across a hole and push keys to make the sound
  • Clarinet – lower sounding than the flute; blow across a reed and push keys to make the sound
  • Trumpet – highest sounding brass instrument; buzz into a mouthpiece and push valves to make the sound
  • Trombone – lower sounding than the trumpet; buzz into a mouthpiece and move a slide to make the sound
  • Violin – highest sounding orchestra instrument; rests under the chin; pluck or bow to make the sound
  • Viola – lower sounding than the violin; rests under the chin; pluck or bow to make the sound
  • Cello – lowest sounding orchestra instrument; rests on the floor and is held between the knees; pluck or bow to make the sound

We look forward to enrolling our new band and orchestra students soon!

If you would like more information about the District 54 Instrumental Music Program, please visit the District 54 Instrumental Music page. Included on the website is a list of highly qualified music stores in case you would like to find out more about instrument rental.