BAND INFORMATION for GRADE 4
September 2023
The philosophy of the Music Program at Sippican School is:
To expand each student’s musical education, demonstrate the benefits of consistent effort, instill the need for accountability and team work in each student, and to have FUN.
At Sippican School, every student is encouraged to give a solid try to playing a musical instrument. 95% of graduating 6th graders have been a part of the program at some time, and 85% of Sippican School students play for all 3 years. Bands practice at a grade level, and team work is a critical element to success. Students know their band will only sound as well as the student next to them is playing, so they encourage and support one another. All three grade level bands are pulled together to make the Sippican School Marching Band, which performs in the Memorial Day Parade. Often with up to 200 members, the Band has a local reputation for taking their role in the parade very seriously, for looking good, and sounding great!
In 4th grade, students receive 1 lesson a week during the school day. Lesson are scheduled in FLEX blocks or Lunch/Recess, so students do not miss academic time. Beginner Band is at 8AM Friday mornings.
Instruction is offered on all band instruments: flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba, xylophone and drums. Videos describing each of the instruments are below, as well as a video describing the entire program.
PROCUREMENT OF INSTRUMENTS
Most families opt for the Symphony Shop* rent-to-buy program: it is the most affordable method in the region for putting quality instruments in your child’s hands on a payment plan with insurance and a maintenance contract. Neil Sylvia from the Symphony Shop takes care of all our Sippican students.
Used instruments are often a good option, but do let me check out the instrument to make sure it is functional. The school does own a few instruments if you are unable to rent one at this time, but they are limited in quantity and quality. If this would make it possible for your child to participate, contact me, and all conversations will be strictly confidential.
DATES
INFO MEETINGS:
September 11, 6:30 LIVE in the Band Room
September 12, 6:30 ZOOM
Zoom Meeting
https://oldrochester-org.zoom.us/j/8230861554?pwd=ZDJCL0U4UC9zMzBjdWU4M04zSEN6QT09&omn=99605158215
September 20, 6PM Symphony Shop brings instruments to the Band Room for pick-up. Bring 1st payment in cash or check, and bring an ID. You are welcome to pick up the instrument in the shop earlier.
September 23 - Lessons start (during school day)
October 25 - 8AM Band Rehearsals start (before school, all instruments together).
Questions or concerns: email me ANYTIME at [email protected], or send a note to school.
* Symphony Music Shop, 94 State Rd, North Dartmouth, MA 02747 (508)996-3301
https://www.symphonymusicshop.com/rentals.htm
VIDEOS
These videos were put together during the COVID pandemic, but can be useful when thinking about the different instruments.
Introduction to the Band Program at Sippican School
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WqzYxiWezdT8yT-s4WQi3dkftXtVXK2h/view
Introduction to the INSTRUMENTS
Introduction to the FLUTE
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XQERKAYSsnMGjGZOlHJO7F-h1hh1MnI2/view
Introduction to the CLARINET
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AhJnhXb-wYyDq1PySnIPEAUrwQa3W_Fy/view
Introduction to the SAXOPHONE
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1m5BTttMJ5yA2XC6vn1Hv35f1rGhNr00a/view
Introduction to the TRUMPET
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gprerSz_JsLsBQvjqFX7AFdER28HG4xU/view
Introduction to the FRENCH HORN & TUBA
https://drive.google.com/file/d/11ep5-c2s0TxLYiOADBeX_5MoKazkMRbT/view
Introduction to the TROMBONE
https://drive.google.com/file/d/10rYl-EifiK20KL7xQmj-LHmT9Y7zDa7d/view
Introduction to PERCUSSION
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PpetRmfNWQOwsXFHfygb93_8K90sk9bi/view
GRADE 4 CONCERT
May 14, 2025 - Wednesday at 6:30PM
Dress: White Shirt, Black pants or skirt
This is a terrific celebration of all that this fantastic group has accomplished this year, and a kick-off to our parade season.
Go to the Memorial Day TAB for ALL Memorial Day Parade details