We are very excited that your child has selected BAND as their 6th grade related arts choice! We believe that band helps to create some of the best kids that come through Springfield Middle School. Below are a few items we want to make sure everyone understands about our band program. While we do have ALL the fun and students love being a part of our program, we do expect a lot from our students and want to ensure everyone is aware of the following:
1) Band takes hard work and practice. We are teaching and developing a skill that requires muscle memory. Therefore, it must be practiced on a daily basis for a student to truly be successful. (15-20 minutes, 6 days per week)
2) Band requires that every student practice their instrument at home. (There MAY be an option for larger instruments to have 2 instruments: one at home and one at school.)
3) Band teaches students about responsibility, preparedness, team work, and self reflection. Sometimes failure in a safe environment is the BEST way to learn.
4) Individual private lessons will be strongly encouraged for every student in our program.
5) Band does have some financial investment in your child's future. However, the benefits of this investment are tenfold! Scholarships are available, if needed.
6) Band is a family and we all work together. We know we can teach each student best when we are all on the same page and working towards the same goals.
7) We hold our band students to very high behavior expecations both in our classroom and in their other classes. Band kids are the BEST kids everywhere!
8) Band is life-changing! Students who enter our band program come out better people and musicians.
While most of this seems obvious, we wanted to make sure you understand that band is a special place at Springfield Middle School and we take pride in our students being awesome. Welcome to the awesomeness and.... The SPRINGFIELD BAND!!