♪East Providence Elementary Instrumental Music Program♫
Dear 5th Graders & Parents,
My name is Miss Carpenter and I am the Elementary Instrumental Music Teacher. I’m writing to you in regards to our new beginning band program. Music is an essential subject area to explore at all grade levels. Participating in music teaches students discipline, provides a sense of accomplishment, allows for a creative outlet, and most importantly is FUN! 5th grade students will be provided the opportunity to participate in beginning band. These are the following areas of study that will be addressed throughout the school year: 1. Reading Music Notation a. Reading notes in treble and bass clef b. Reading note values (eighth notes, quarter notes, half notes, whole notes) c. Performing using music notation 2. Instruments (Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone) a. Set up/breakdown b. Instrument care c. Holding position d. Posture e. Breathing f. Embouchure g. Sound production h. Fingerings/Slide positions Do I qualify for Band? After I receive interest forms from 5th graders interested in band, I will consult with 5th grade classroom teachers and general music teachers regarding overall student academic performance and behavior. The students that qualify will be added to the official 2018-2019 5th grade band roster. Rules and Expectations If approved to join 5th grade band, all students must abide by the following rules… 1. Be prepared with instrument and method book at every rehearsal 2. Always put forth 100% effort 3. Be respectful of both teacher and peers 4. Good academic standing Students who do not follow the rules listed above will be sent back to their 5th grade classroom during band rehearsal. Each student will be provided with three strikes. If a student receives three strikes, they will no longer be able to participate in band. The principal, Miss Carpenter, and 5th grade classroom teachers are all able to remove a student at any point throughout the school year. Choosing an Instrument 5th Grade students who participate in band will be fitted to the instrument most appropriate for them. Students will pick their 1st and 2nd choice of instrument. I will make a recommendation based off of the information above. Available instruments to play in band: flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone. *THERE IS A CHANCE THAT YOU MAY NOT PLAY YOUR 1ST CHOICE OF INSTRUMENT. If any students want to switch to another instrument when they join 6th grade band, they may talk to band directors Susana Pimentel (band director at Martin Middle School) or Mark McGuire (band director at Riverside Middle School). The Rental Program Through Rick’s Musical Instruments, students are able to rent their own instruments at a reasonable cost. If the student chooses to continue in band, these rental payments will go towards the price of the instrument. The method book, Essential Elements, can be purchased at Rick’s Musical Instruments as well. Instrument Rental Night (TBA): Once all registration forms have been received, I will notify parents and students when rental night is scheduled. Rental night will take place in late September/early October. Performance All students will participate in an end of the year concert. During this concert, students will take the audience members through a year of band, starting by displaying the concepts ever taught and end by showcasing what they have learned through musical performance. Performance Dress Code Boys: White button down shirt, black dress pants, black socks, black dress shoes Girls: White button down shirt, black dress pants or skirt, black tights, black dress shoes. Girls may wear black dresses if more convenient. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions. I look forward to working with the 5th Grade students! Sincerely, Miss Carpenter |