parent's corner
FAQ's
How much practice?
First of All, all practice should be done in Moderation. Never practice one specific area for long periods of time. ex. practice double tonguing for a couple of minutes each day, rather than 30 minutes once a week. Overall practice should be done for 30 minutes a day rather than 2 !/2 hours on one day of the week.
What to practice?
At the beginning level, assignments are made daily on exercises found in their beginning band book (Essential Elements 2000). As the band progresses students work on concert pieces more frequently.
Specifically students can always work on technique; i.e. correct positions, fingering, scales, arpeggios, and articulation*.
Long Tones Playing long tones in the lower range of the inst. develops good tone, fundamental pitch memory, and exercises good warm-up technique
*Articulation Tonguing (single, double, and triple tonguing)
Phrasing How music is grouped together (like sentences) Music should flow from one idea to the next smoothly.
What are the benefits of my child's participation in band?
Discipline, musicianship, structured social interaction, leadership, and most importantly... MUSIC!
I can't afford a brand new instrument, can my child still be a part of band?
Yes. Central Secondary music programs offer instruments to students for a one time (annual) payment of $35. These instruments mainly include Baritone, Tuba, Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn.
Should I upgrade my child's instrument?
This is totally a decision left up to the parents and student. Reasons for upgrading instruments include; buying instruments with a bigger bore size, purchasing an instrument now that you know that band is something your child will continue, some instruments offer more keys or advantages in playing such as trombones with an F attachment. If you're not sure, ask a band director if upgrading is a good idea or not.
Does my child have to participate in Marching Band?
No, marching band is optional, but why would you want to miss it? Today's marching band is innovative, fast paced, competitive (in a good way), fun, and a discipline producing machine. The students offer a lot of leadership in this organization and have a lot vested in its success.
Year-Round concert band available.
Athletes can play an instrument at Central High School without any conflict. Our band class meets during the school day.
Why participate in Marching Band?
Students are highly encouraged to participate in marching band beginning in 9th grade at CHS. What's in it for them? Early on band parents will find their child having a sense of ownership in belonging to a musical ensemble such as band. These students begin developing a work ethic not found in other activities. The social structure of the band program encourages students to work together and become successful through the activity of music.
What's involved? Lots of hard work, marching band contests, parades, and performing at home football events. Most parents new to the marching band program say "I had no idea how great this was". Meaning, marching band is an activity worthwhile, exciting, fun, hardworking, and memorable.
What kind of ensembles does Central offer?
Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Freshman Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Solo and Ensemble Festival, and All-district band tryouts available.
How Do Students Earn Their Grade?
Other questions please contact Mr. LaMar or Mr. Keys