Parents
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- Knowing and Working with the Band or Orchestra Director
- Giving Your Child the Best Chance for Success
- But I don't know a thing about music!
- We know the excuses...
- Glossary of Terms in Instrumental Music
- Do's and Don'ts of Instrument Care
- Choosing a Music Store
- Consider Private Lessons
- What Else Can I Do?
- Educational and Motivational Articles on Music Education
- For Your Instrumental Music Teacher
- About Conn-Selmer, Inc.
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Your child's band or orchestra director
Have you met the dedicated teacher who serves as your child’s band or orchestra director? Maybe you had a chance to talk to him or her at “band night” or “rental night.” If not, make sure to introduce yourself at a parent-teacher conference or after a performance. If you have pressing concerns or questions, simply set up a time to meet privately.
Like most teachers, the band or orchestra director is responsible for lesson plans, grading, discipline, and the many other duties faced by those who have dedicated their lives to education. In addition, however, the band or orchestra director is an administrator, fund-raiser, drill instructor, instrument repairman, conductor and—most important—a musician. The director’s mission is not only to instruct your child, but to inspire your child.
Both your child and the band or orchestra program as a whole will benefit greatly if you, as a supportive band or orchestra parent, make the effort to become an ally of the director. The simplest way to build this relationship is to stay in touch. You’ll want to attend any scheduled conferences, of course, but you should also feel welcome to phone or e-mail the director to ask about your child’s progress. Most directors will be more than happy to spend the time with you.
Keep in mind that the band or orchestra director may teach more children than any other faculty member
in the school. Bands and orchestras are large groups, and the band or orchestra director may be responsible
for hundreds of students, so it’s impossible to work closely with each child individually. If
you feel that your child is struggling, by all means, make time to discuss the problem with
the director, who may recommend private instruction or advise you regarding better practice
methods at home.
Many young musicians find that band is their favorite school activity. Not surprisingly, the director becomes not just a teacher, but a friend and mentor. Your own supportive relationship with the band or orchestra director can help strengthen the respect that is the basis of your child’s relationship to the director.
You can help instill the disciplines that are necessary for your child to succeed within a large group. Every school band or orchestra program has its rules and regulations. These are typical:
• Be on time.
• Attend all rehearsals and performances, unless excused by the director.
• Be attentive and courteous during rehearsals.
• No eating, drinking or gum-chewing during practice.
• Take proper care of music and instruments.
• Practice daily at home.
1. Knowing and working with the band or orchestra director
2. Buying or renting an instrument
3. Helping your child learn
4. Some common misconceptions
5. Glossary of Terms in Instrumental Music
6. Do's and Don'ts of Instrument Care
7. Choosing a Music Store
8. Consider Private Lessons
9. What Else Can I Do?
