Instrumental Music

The North Merrick music program provides a variety of "hands-on" musical experiences designed to encourage self-expression, creative performance, and acquisition of major musical elements such as rhythm, harmony, melody, and notation. Through opportunities to play rhythmic and melodic instruments, learn musical notation, and listen to a variety of the finest forms of musical expression, students come to learn about, enjoy, and appreciate the world of music. In addition to stimulating the intellectual and emotional growth of students, the music curriculum is designed to contribute to the students' understanding of a variety of cultural music traditions and styles.

Opportunities are provided for student involvement in the instrumental music program in fourth grade. As students gain proficiency, they may join the junior band or orchestra (4th gr.), district band or district orchestra (5th & 6th gr.), our audition for our advanced ensembles including: Chamber Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Band (5th & 6th grade). 

BAND LESSONS BEGIN MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19th (DAY 5)

Please find all our welcome back materials including lesson schedules, welcome letters, rehearsal schedules, supply lists, renting/buying guides, and more below.

If you have any questions, please contact us.

Welcome To Band Packet (4th gr.)

Welcome Back Letter (5th & 6th gr.)

Lesson Schedule - HDF - Mr. Brunson - Day 4 & 5 (5th gr.)

Lesson Schedule - OMR - Mr. Brunson - Days 1 & 2 (4th & 5th Grade)

Lesson Schedule - OMR - Mr. Brunson - Day 3 (5th Grade)

NYSSMA Registration Google Form

NYSSMA Information Letter

• After playing, put your instrument away in its case properly. Remember what your instrument looks like and how it is positioned in its case before you take it out so you can put it back correctly each time. Hopefully this will help you to avoid damaging the instrument.

• Try to avoid placing any extra objects in the instrument case where they may not belong in order to keep your instrument safe from unnecessary harm. Shoulder rests, rock stops, cello anchors, tuners and other accessories are objects that should be stored out side the instrument case in a separate storage compartment if possible.

• If a string on your instrument happens to break,       DO NOT attempt to replace it yourself. Notify and bring the instrument to your teacher ASAP so we can assess the damage and fix it quickly. It is a good idea to have an extra set of strings in your instrument case at all times. Due to the limited supply of emergency replacement strings for students who may encounter an unpredictable string popping/breaking during lessons or rehearsal, students may be asked to purchase the required replacement string(s) at a local music store. Once the string(s) is/are acquired by the student, the store salesperson or teacher will then be able to replace it correctly.

• After playing your string instrument, clean it properly by wiping all excess rosin from the strings and body of the instrument. Rosin is a very sticky substance that, over time, can build up and can become difficult to remove. Only use fabric that is designed for this purpose. DO NOT use napkins or paper towels as they will leave particle residue that obstructs the path of the bow when playing. You can purchase a cleaning cloth from any local music store. 

• ALWAYS loosen your bow when you are finished practicing to avoid unnecessary stress that can lead to warping and breaking of the bow. This can affect your progress and performance on your instrument.

• Keep your string instrument safe by keeping it out of extreme temperatures like extreme cold that can crack or fracture wood and extreme heat that can melt the glue that holds that instrument together.

• Do your best to never leave your instrument unattended. You are responsible if someone else damages your instrument. Keep it in a safe place.

• All ways wash your hands before playing your instrument in order to keep it clean.

• Treat your string instrument with respect and care so it will sound good for you when you play it. Be delicate with your string instrument and it will last a long time. String instruments are fragile and may break easily if mishandled.   

Related Files

TAKING CARE OF YOUR INSTRUMENT-1.doc

The excitement of a new adventure is enough to provide an ample supply of positive motivation for the first weeks of the band/orchestra experience. Once the initial enthusiasm wears off, it is important to immediately develop wholesome practice habits that will guarantee a successful and personally gratifying process for your child. Your support and guidance will be the key factors in establishing the practice schedule insuring the attainment of musical goals.

The most effective home rehearsal programs are based on a daily half hour dedicated to quality practice. It is suggested that you and your young musician(s) mutually agree on a practice time, and a special area of your home designated for their area of musical study. Purchasing a music stand for your child is also very important. A final five minute recital is effective in building performance confidence. Every instrumentalist enjoys the opportunity to display their talents.

You should all have a practice record that is to be filled in by you and your child.  This sheet serves as a motivational chart that encourages and rewards good practice habits. My grading system is explained on the  back of the practice sheet. Please help in establishing a solid foundation of growth by creating a disciplined practice schedule. 

Remember, positive reinforcement is the most effective communication you can share.  Please look for every opportunity to compliment your child as they explore their talents.  ENCOURAGEMENT IS THE KEY INGREDIENT FOR SUCCESS .

Related Files

establishing practice routine.doc

SmartMusic

Practice software

Online Band Teacher

A Youtube channel featuring videos made by a real band teacher. Includes beginning lessons, NYSSMA solo lessons, recordings, and more!

Listening Library

Bandmate Tuner app - Google Play

Bandmate Tune app - iTunes

Wind Ensemble Percussion

Jazz Band: Drum Set, Piano, Bass, & Guitar

Baritone T.C.

Baritone B.C.

Trombone

French Horn

Trumpet

Alto Saxophone

Clarinet

Flute