Band and Orchestra (Instrumental Music) – What Parents Need to Know

Pine Crest ES – Bill Gregory, Instrumental Music Teacher

Welcome to the wonderful world of school band and orchestra! This is the beginning of a journey which will givestudents a hands-on experience that enhances their understanding of music, prepares them to participate in various musical ensembles throughout their years in school, and that can provide students with a satisfying hobby as an adult or open the door tomany career opportunities in the arts. This is a great age for children to quickly learn the basics of music performance, and even if they choose not to continue playing an instrument after fifth grade, they will certainly retain an understanding of some of the mechanics and joys of this wonderful art form.

A quick note about my background:

I have taught public school music for twenty years. For the last ten years, I have specialized in teaching beginning instruments at the elementary school level. This year, I will be teaching at Rolling Hills ES(on Tuesday and Wednesday) as well as Pine Crest ES (Monday, Thursday, and Friday). In my past teaching, I have directed high school bands, jazz ensembles, and orchestras, most recently at Damascus HS. My wife, Karen Gregory, is the principal at Maryvale ES in Rockville. We have a daughter and a son - both of whom are out of college – my daughter is living in Cambridge, England with her husband and, and my son is living in Shanghai, China. My college degrees are from The Juilliard School, Northwestern University, and the University of Cincinnati. Previous to my career in education, I spent seven years as the principal trombonist of the Icelandic National Orchestra in Reykjavík, Iceland and then five years as a freelance orchestra conductor in Europe and the US. My hobbies outside of musical pursuits include sailing and mountaineering. In addition to my love of playing band and orchestra instruments, I also play classical guitar for my personal enjoyment.

Choosing an instrument

  • Students are usually most successful on an instrument that they help choose
  • They should be attracted to the sound and appearance of the instrument
  • There are no “boy” or “girl” instruments
  • “Band” instruments:flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, trombone, baritone, percussions (drums)
  • “Orchestra” instruments:violin, viola, cello
  • Some physical characteristics may make an instrument easier or harder for students
  • String instruments are sized to fit the student – it is very important to get the right size
  • More choices open up in middle school, i.e. cello, string bass, oboe, bassoon, bass clarinet, all saxes, French horn, baritone, tuba, percussion

Obtaining an instrument

  • Usually best to rent at first
  • Get information from several local vendors (see the music store handout) – the rental plans vary quite a bit – plan on spending around $150 for the year on rental fees, insurance, and supplies. (Some instruments will be more expensive.)
  • Be sure to get the basic accessories that are needed for each instrument (see the handout about what is needed for band and orchestra)
  • If you borrow or purchase a used instrument, be sure it is in good working condition – it can cost more to bring a used instrument up to playing condition than to purchase new or rent an instrument. I am happy to inspect used instruments for you.
  • MCPS has a very limited number of instruments to loan–there is a request form for these.
  • A music stand makes practicing at home easier.
  • Some inexpensive off-brand instruments are available at stores like Costco, or online. Some of these instruments are usable by students for a couple of years, but be sure there is a good return policy if the instrument is not suitable.
  • If you are thinking of purchasing a new instrument, you should expect a substantial discount off “list” price.

Instruction book

  • Band: “Essential Elements for Band, Book 1” - A CD ROMis included with the book
  • Orchestra: “String Basics, Book 1” (1st year students only) – a DVD is included with the book
  • MCPS will provide a book for beginning students, but you may purchase your own
  • Available at area music stores and from online sources (see the music store handout)

Important items regarding registering and scheduling

  • There will be an introductory assembly for students in the first week of school
  • Lessons will begin the week of September 22
  • Lessons are taught in groups and last for about ½ hour per week
  • Students will rehearse in large ensembles at some points during the year
  • Students will miss classroom instruction during this period of time and must make up the work
  • Our lesson schedule rotates so that students do not always miss the same time from their classroom
  • Students may participate in both chorus and instrumental music

Performances

  • We will have 2 concerts during the year
  • Performing is the best part of learning an instrument!
  • There may be chances for small groups of musicians to perform at other events during the year

Grading and progress information

  • Grades are based on mastery of specific objectives as outlined in the MCPS curriculum guide
  • Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery at each lesson
  • Students receive a weekly “lesson sheet” that contains a practice chart and information about the material to be practiced.

What is needed for success

  • Regular attendance at lessons
  • Practice at home (see the practice tips handout)
  • A desire to be involved in a fun and challenging performing art!

Contact information

(this is the best way to contact me)

You may also leave a phone message at the school for me or send a note through the office.