Frequently Asked Questions:
1. When does my child have orchestra rehearsals and lessons?
Your child will have one small group lesson and two orchestra rehearsals during each six day cycle. Lessons are on Day 2, 4, or 6 on a rotating schedule and rehearsals are on Days 2 and 4 from 12:10-12:45. Students are responsible for being prepared with their orchestra folder, Orchestra Expressions book, instrument, and a pencil. The orchestra and lesson schedule will always follow the six day cycle and will change with any cancellations, snow days, etc. Cello and bass students have instruments provided at school since those instruments are not allowed on the bus. Violin and viola students are responsible for bringing their instruments into school for lessons and rehearsals.
2. When does my child have Twinkles class?
Twinkles classes meet once during each six day cycle for thirty minutes. Mrs. Musa's class meets on Day 2. Mrs. Deyo, Mrs. Linaberry, and Mr. Ruffo's classes meet on Day 4. Mrs. Thorner's class meets on Day 6.
3. How do I get an instrument for my child?
Instrument rental is strongly recommended over instrument purchase. String instruments come in various sizes based on height and arm length. Students will move up to different sizes as they grow and mature and can trade in rental instruments throughout the year. Additionally, rental instruments can be repaired or fixed by the shop that the instrument is from, while purchased instruments can potentially incur additional repair fees. Overall, it is best to wait to purchase an instrument for your child until they are older and have reached their full adult size.
5th Grade students may borrow a loaner instrument from the school for the year. There are a limited number of instruments available and they will be distributed based on need. Students are also welcome to rent an instrument from any of the great music stores in our area. 4th Grade students are not required to rent an instrument for home practice, but are welcome to if they wish. 4th Grade students will be provided with an instrument to use during class, but may not take the instrument home. Parents are encouraged to rent an instrument for their child if they are able, because this gives the school an opportunity to provide instruments to students and families in need.
4. My child's instrument is really out of tune. Can I tune it myself?
Please do not attempt to tune your child's instrument yourself. It is very easy to break the instrument if it is tuned incorrectly, which will make it impossible for your child to play. For violins and violas, have your child bring it in to school for me to tune on the next school day. For cellos and basses, email me to set up a time during the school week to bring the instrument in to be tuned.
5. My child wants to quit. What should I do?
We encourage all students to continue orchestra through the end of the school year. Please contact me when you think your child may be having trouble, extra help is available upon request. It is very likely that with this extra help and support, I can encourage your student to keep trying and continue in the orchestra program. All students progress at different rates and have different needs, which I fully appreciate. Every orchestra member plays an important role in the group and contributes to the sound of the ensemble when they are committed to the group and motivated to practice and learn.
I look forward to a great year of music with your child!
Ms. Nick