FAQ | dles

Will I miss any classes to participate in instrumental music?

When and how will I decide what instrument to play?

Here are the answers to a few commonly asked about the instrumental program:

String instruction starts in 3rd grade while band instruments start in 4th grade. An instrument demonstration will be presented to each grade during the first weeks of school. Afterwards, students will be asked to indicate the three instruments they would like to tryout.

Beginning the week of August 31st, I will be working with the students individually to try their top three choices and find their best fit based on their interests as well as the physical requirements of each instrument. In some cases we may get an overload of certain instruments or due to varying physical attributes, a student may not be suited for an instrument. If this happens, I will most likely suggest a similar instrument where your child has the chance to have a more positive and successful experience, performance opportunities may be greater and which will maintain a balanced in the band or orchestra.

After I work with each student, they will receive an official welcome letter from me indicating their final approved instrument selection and more detailed information about the program.

Yes, however the schedule is designed on a 4 week rotation to avoid being pulled from any class more than once in a month. Students will not miss lunch. Full ensemble rehearsals will be held during recess.

Yes! Daily practice is expected and essential to improve on any instrument and will be required of all DLES musicians. The good news is, the more you practice the more fun it becomes! Check your CANVAS page regularly for your homework assignments.

Being in a band or orchestra is alot like being on a baseball team. A great baseball team needs players in all positions: first base, catcher, right field, short stop. Just like baseball, a music group has a variety of positions that need to be filled for success!

The key to a fabulous band sound is a balanced mix of high and low instruments. Ideally, our DLES team would consist of the following:

In a group of 70 students:

10 Flute, 12 Clarinets, 2 Oboes, 2 Bassoons, 4 Alto Sax, 2 Tenor Sax, 10 Trumpets, 4 French Horns, 12 Trombones, 4 Baritones, 3 Tubas, 4 Percussionists.

In orchestra, the same concept applies. In a group of 30, an ideal orchestra would have 13 violins, 5 violas, 8 cellos, 4 basses

In order to develop the concept of balanced instrumentation, we are encouraging students to consider playing one of the less frequently chosen instruments. Some of these instruments include:

Viola, Cello, String Bass, Oboe, Clarinet,
Trombone, French Horn, Baritone and Tuba

By choosing one of these instruments, your child may have more playing opportunities available to him/her as they progress in their musical education. They will also be making an important musical contribution to a better-balanced group.

As a parent, please take the opportunity to discuss with your child the many different instruments from which they may choose. Your student may already have more than one instrument in mind. Talk with them and guide them in thinking through the many reasons for choosing a particular instrument. Remind them that this can be a joyful lifelong pursuit.

What does it cost to participate in the band or orchestra?

What instruments do you need in the band and orchestra?

I'm sure you have questions!

Do I have to practice at home?

What do I need to participate in class?

See the specific band and strings page for a detailed list of class materials:

Band

We want every child that is interested in playing an instrument to be able to participate in the DLES instrumental program! If the cost of renting an instrument is a financial concern, please call me at 410-313-5050.

The price of rental instruments can vary from store to store, however here is a general idea of rental costs. Note that many stores will put your rental fees towards the purchase of the instrument (often called a "Rent to Own" program).

See the specific instrument pages for a list of other music dealers.

From Menchy Music: www.Menchey.com

Basic Instrument costs: (Trombones and Violas may be available through DLES, please contact Mrs. Townsend if interested. All other basic instruments are in limited quanties through DLES)

Flute/Clarinet/Trumpet/Trombone/Drum Kit/Bell Kit/Violin/Viola-

$19 for the first 3 months, $27 to follow

Alto Sax- $42 a month

"Color Instruments"- Please note that DLES has MANY of these awesome instruments available for fee-free loan. Please contact Mrs. Townsend to see if they are available:

Oboe/Bass Clarinet/Cello- $42 per month

Tenor Sax, Bassoon, French Horn, Baritone, String Bass, Tuba- $55 a month