INFORMATION FOR BEGINNING BAND

Fourth grade band begins around the first part of October, after all the students have been tested to help them decide which one is best for them. 
On Monday, September 28, a representative from Eckroth Music of St. Cloud will be here at 7pm in the Mary of Lourdes Elementary gym to make instruments available for you to rent or purchase. 
You may acquire an instrument elsewhere, but be wary of inexpensive, unfamiliar brand names.  It’s a good idea to check with Mr. Anderson before you buy. 

*During the first several weeks, the students have individual or small group lessons only, (not the whole group) to get them started.  These weekly lessons last for about 15-20 minutes, and continue throughout the entire school year.
 
*Around the first part of November, we start meeting as a group three times a week; Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday for one half hour, from 8:20-8:50 am.

*Playing an instrument can be very enjoyable and rewarding, but it does require commitment. 
Each student is required to practice a minimum of 90 minutes per week.  This comes out to be about 15 minutes per day.  The student’s grade is determined entirely on the amount of practice time they record.  There is a practice record sheet inside their book.
Lesson times will be posted in the 4th grade classrooms and on the Mary of Lourdes website, under Mr. Anderson.

*Please help them succeed by encouraging regular, scheduled practice, and after November 1st remind them to bring their instrument and music every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.

*All band members must pay a $45 per year fee to help us cover cost of school owned instruments, music, stands, repairs, etc.  You may pay this in 2 payments of $22.50 if desired.