Welcome to Beginner Band!
Members of the Irma Marsh Beginning Band have the unique opportunity to be divided into like-instrument classes throughout the school day. Students will learn music theory fundamentals, instrument care and maintenance, and set the foundations for learning their chosen instrument! All five members of our band staff team teach our beginning band classes each day to provide our members with the best opportunity for success! The beginning band is combined a few times a year to perform at one concert contest and the annual Holiday and Spring Concerts.
BEGINNER BAND INSTRUMENT TRY OUT DATES WILL BE IN APRIL - MORE INFORMATION TO COME!
Frequently Asked Questions!
When does beginner band start?
Beginner band begins for all interested students in 6th grade. During their 5th grade year band directors will reach out to all 5th grade students and parents to talk with them about band.
What instruments are used in 6th grade band?
The instruments that we use in 6th grade band are flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, alto saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion.
How is beginner band set up?
Each instrument meets as a separate section each day in class (ex. all trumpets with trumpets, all clarinets with clarinets, etc). This helps us keep class sizes small and ensures that each student receives the most personal attention possible.
What are the goals of the Irma Marsh Middle School Band Program?
Our goals are to encourage and promote musical technique so that our students gain a higher appreciation in music throughout the rest of their lives.
How much time outside of class am I expected to practice?
While we try to cover most issues with our concert repertoire in class, we encourage our students to practice a minimum of 120 minutes per week outside of class. This helps our students to continue to reinforce what we teach during class as well as serving to further their own playing ability.
Can my child participate in both athletics and band?
The answer is absolutely YES! We want our students to be as well-rounded as possible! We only ask that students and parents let us know when there is a conflict so that we can resolve it and come up with a better solution for everyone.
When does the band perform?
In the weeks approaching a concert or contest, directors will pass out information regarding attire, concert itinerary and concert order. As always, please feel free to e-mail or call us if there are issues with dates or times!
Do the students go on any trips?
Yes! We like to reward our students for all of the hard work they put in over the year! More information will go out weeks in advance to any trip we take!
Do I need to purchase an instrument or can I borrow one from the school?
All students are encouraged to own their own instrument with certain exceptions (French Horn, Baritone, Tuba, Percussion).
Instrument and supply lists -https://tinyurl.com/instlist
Music Stores - https://tinyurl.com/stropt