Let’s look back at our past. Some people had chances to learn how to play instruments when they were young. If parents chose one string instrument for their child, violin or cello, the lesson might be started as young as 3 years old. If a child was an ordinary student, he/she must have a long and lonesome journey of learning how to play well. Sometimes parents switched the instrument from piano to violin or vice versa, because there was not much progress. Parents had to manage all the schedules for lessons and practice sessions for their child, often with frustration. Why did they do that? Maybe parents thought that their child would thank them if he/she could enjoy playing an instrument as an adult. Maybe parents wanted to watch with pride as their child played beautiful music. But, it requires time and patience from parents and children. Money matters, too. However, one thing is certain. Parents loved music. They wanted to do something to help their child learn and enjoy music more than they did. Didn’t they?
The school band program amazed me when I moved to America a decade ago. Middle school students are not babies anymore. Once they choose the band program as their elective, they feel that they are responsible. In their classroom, they learn how to play their instruments, how to read music, and what to practice at home. You don’t have to take them to private lessons unless they want to learn more than they do in the class. They learn, practice and then play many selections in front of an audience at the end of the school year.
Take advantage of it, parents! Why not let your child try for a semester? If your state or county has the school band education in middle school curriculum, meet the director of the band before your child starts middle school. Help your children find joy in music, let them have better quality of life.
What are your thoughts?
Please, feel free to leave comments, experiences, and ideas about American school band.
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