Frequently Asked Questions from Parents/Adults who Care
What if I don't know anything about music?
That's ok! I will teach your child everything they need to know, step-by-step. Everything from how to assemble and care for their instrument to reading notes and rhythms, I will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude, commitment to arranging rides, and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.
How much out of school time is required?
Band is no different than any other school subject. I ask that your child spend some time with their instrument 4 days per week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun!
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something they enjoy. I encourage you to visit the "Choosing an Instrument" page and watch the video about the instruments with your child, and discuss the different options. In addition to available spots at each school, there are also some developmental factors to consider as well – I've outlined them on the "Choosing an Instrument" page. Simply put: Your child knows what they want, you know your child, and I know music. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will also give them the best chance of musical success.
What are the costs?
The costs associated with band depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. I wish funds were available for us to provide every child with an instrument, however, this is simply not possible. The school may have certain instruments available based on need and availability. If not, you can rent or buy a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints absolutely prevent you from being able to do this, please contact me and allow me to help. I do not want financial constraints to keep your child from the band experience.
How do I get an instrument?
Buying a quality instrument is the most cost-effective approach. If you child isn't sure if band is "their thing" yet, renting is a great option. The school has a limited supply of instruments to loan for the school year. Contact me if financial constraints absolutely prevent you from being able to buy or rent an instrument and I will do my best to help.
What if I am late to pick up my child after band?
I teach at all 6 Elementary Schools as well as SGMS and at my own private studio. This means that when your child is done with band, I may not be available to wait with them because I only have 10 minutes before I need to teach at another school 7 minutes away. It is so important that you pick up your child on time. If you are going to be late, text me at 951.922.5323 to let me know and we can work something out. Any student left for longer than 15 minutes after band was scheduled to end will be considered "abandoned by their guardian" and reported to the Beaumont Police Department.
What if I have other questions?
Please know that I am here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Due to the busy nature of our program and schools in general, it is sometimes difficult to contact me by phone. The best way for you get your question answered is to scour BeaumontElementaryBands.com first, then if you still need to reach me, email me at [email protected].
That's ok! I will teach your child everything they need to know, step-by-step. Everything from how to assemble and care for their instrument to reading notes and rhythms, I will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude, commitment to arranging rides, and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.
How much out of school time is required?
Band is no different than any other school subject. I ask that your child spend some time with their instrument 4 days per week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun!
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something they enjoy. I encourage you to visit the "Choosing an Instrument" page and watch the video about the instruments with your child, and discuss the different options. In addition to available spots at each school, there are also some developmental factors to consider as well – I've outlined them on the "Choosing an Instrument" page. Simply put: Your child knows what they want, you know your child, and I know music. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will also give them the best chance of musical success.
What are the costs?
The costs associated with band depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. I wish funds were available for us to provide every child with an instrument, however, this is simply not possible. The school may have certain instruments available based on need and availability. If not, you can rent or buy a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints absolutely prevent you from being able to do this, please contact me and allow me to help. I do not want financial constraints to keep your child from the band experience.
How do I get an instrument?
Buying a quality instrument is the most cost-effective approach. If you child isn't sure if band is "their thing" yet, renting is a great option. The school has a limited supply of instruments to loan for the school year. Contact me if financial constraints absolutely prevent you from being able to buy or rent an instrument and I will do my best to help.
What if I am late to pick up my child after band?
I teach at all 6 Elementary Schools as well as SGMS and at my own private studio. This means that when your child is done with band, I may not be available to wait with them because I only have 10 minutes before I need to teach at another school 7 minutes away. It is so important that you pick up your child on time. If you are going to be late, text me at 951.922.5323 to let me know and we can work something out. Any student left for longer than 15 minutes after band was scheduled to end will be considered "abandoned by their guardian" and reported to the Beaumont Police Department.
What if I have other questions?
Please know that I am here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Due to the busy nature of our program and schools in general, it is sometimes difficult to contact me by phone. The best way for you get your question answered is to scour BeaumontElementaryBands.com first, then if you still need to reach me, email me at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions from Students
What if it's too hard? What if I fail?
You're going to be terrible in the beginning. Were you a professional "walker" or "talker" the first week you were born? No. You won't be a professional musician your first week, either. I'm here to teach you everything you need to know. I'm 100% here for you. I promise.
What if I forget my instrument or music at home on a band day?
Come to band. Tell me the truth. Learn from your mistake. Remember it from now on. Excuses and wasted class time to call home is not "big kid" behavior. You're a big kid now. I expect you to act like it if you want to be in band.
What if I'm late to band?
Come to band. Get set up unless I instruct you otherwise. Talk to me at the end of class – be responsible and come to me yourself. If I have to chase after you, we will need to have a talk about accountability.
You're going to be terrible in the beginning. Were you a professional "walker" or "talker" the first week you were born? No. You won't be a professional musician your first week, either. I'm here to teach you everything you need to know. I'm 100% here for you. I promise.
What if I forget my instrument or music at home on a band day?
Come to band. Tell me the truth. Learn from your mistake. Remember it from now on. Excuses and wasted class time to call home is not "big kid" behavior. You're a big kid now. I expect you to act like it if you want to be in band.
What if I'm late to band?
Come to band. Get set up unless I instruct you otherwise. Talk to me at the end of class – be responsible and come to me yourself. If I have to chase after you, we will need to have a talk about accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions from Teachers
Coming Soon!
Thank you for your continued support!
Thank you for your continued support!