INCOMING NEW BAND STUDENTS and PARENTS:
As you look ahead towards middle
school, I know that there is probably much anticipation and excitement as well as some anxiety. This past spring
and during the summer, you made some choices about the elective classes that are offered to you in middle school next
year. You and your child are invited to become a part of our “band family” at Greenwood Lakes Middle
School. At this time, you may not know a lot about the middle school band program at GLMS. We hope that this information
will answer any questions that you may have.
First, the band is made
up of students just like you. The basic instruments that most students begin to play are flute, clarinet, French horn, trumpet,
trombone, tuba and snare drum/bells. Most of them have never played an instrument before and cannot yet read music, so do
not worry about that. No experience is necessary to be a part of our band program. We teach you everything from the very beginning.
Students only need to have a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and practice. All students may play in band regardless
of financial situations. These are handled on a private, individual basis.
Band is a positive organization where students can make many friends;
learn organization skills, teamwork and a sense of belonging to a quality group of people. Last school year, 225 students
were members of our band program. We will continue to have a strong parent booster organization where the parents are very
supportive of our young people.
I hope that this information
has answered many of your questions about our band program. Please feel free to navigate around this website or call
the band office at 407-320-7705. Please continue to check this website for updated information.
I look forward to meeting
you, and once again, welcome to Greenwood Lakes Middle School.
Sincerely:
Mr. Allen - Director of Bands
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q. Do I need any previous music training to be in Band?
A. No! We
teach all of the skills needed to read music and play an instrument. Almost all
of the students in band never played an instrument before they started in a beginning class.
Q. How do I know what instrument I will play?
A.
The Band Director will help each student in the selection process. Each child
will be asked to try 3 different instruments. The goal is to get the student
on an instrument where he or she will be most successful. We are usually able
to get the student’s 1st or 2nd choice. The final decision is based on
student performance, physical differences, and the number of each instrument needed to get a good full band sound.
Q. Will BAND interfere with my other classes or other
activities at school?
A. No! Students meet as a class everyday just like Math,
Science, English, P.E. and other classes do.
Q. How do I get an instrument once I
know what I will play and what does it cost?
A. Most music stores offer a variety of rental plans
that can fit almost any budget! Used instruments are fine to have,
but must be in good playing condition. The Director should be contacted before
you buy a used instrument to assure you are getting a good deal. The school owns
a few instruments that are available for a small, one-time rental fee. School-owned
instruments include Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn, Baritone, and Tuba.
Q. Can I be in BAND and be a part of other activities?
A. YES! We
have students involved in every activity and sport you can think of. BAND does
not interfere with other activities. Band students are given a yearly calendar
listing school and band events. You are not required to stay after school for any Band activities.
Q. Can I be in BAND if I wear braces?
A. YES! Wearing braces is rarely a problem. If needed, waxes are available from your orthodontist to limit lip irritation. Playing an instrument does
not affect the length of time that braces need to be worn.
Q. How do I sign up for BAND?
A. Students who want to take BAND should simply check
off BAND on their registration form. If you turned in your registration form
but didn’t sign up for BAND, it’s not too late! Call the Guidance
Department at GLMS to add BAND to your schedule.
