Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: Is there any musical experience required, such as reading music or playing another instrument? A: Nope, we cater to beginners.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: Which instrument is easiest? A: The instrument that your child spends the most time practicing. Playing a stringed instrument is a complex process. Each instrument has some aspects that make it easier and some aspects that make it harder to play than other instruments. The only thing that makes an instrument easier is practicing.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: How does a child choose which instrument to play? A: Your children heard all three instruments played at school. They should each choose the instrument whose sound they like the best and/or the instrument that they will be most motivated to practice.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: My child plays piano. Will he get confused about reading music? A: Violins read the same clef as the right hand of the piano (treble clef) and cellos read the same clef as the piano left hand (bass clef). Reading music for either of these instruments is simpler than reading piano music because strings typically play only one note at a time, especially in the beginning years, while pianists often play chords and countermelodies.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: My child is left-handed. How do you accommodate for this? A: With rare exceptions for significant physical disabilities, all Strings players play on the same side: instrument in left hand and bow in right hand. Lefties may actually have an advantage in the earlier years.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: Can a child switch instruments from year to year? A: The WPS Strings Program is designed for students who begin an instrument in third grade and continue on the same instrument each year. In reality, each year one or two motivated children switch instruments with the help of a private teacher outside of school.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: What comes with an instrument rental? A: All rented instruments include the instrument, the bow, the case and rosin. Rental day vendors David French and Music & Arts provide the required materials free with rental.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: What do I need to get besides the instrument? A: Third graders need a copy of Essential Elements 2000 Book 1. Violinists and violists need a Poly-pad sponge or shoulder rest. Cellists need an endpin strap. All instruments need a soft cotton cleaning cloth, like a piece of an old t-shirt or towel.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: Where do the students leave their instruments at school? A: In a designated area in or near the Strings room at school. Occasionally, classroom teachers will have a storage area for Strings and Band instruments.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: Do the instruments have to come home at night? A: Yes, because that is where your child will complete his or her five nights of weekly practicing!

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: I don't have any musical experience. Can I still help my child learn? A: Absolutely! We use the book called Essential Elements 2000 for Strings, which clearly describes and illustrates all concepts and techniques. Your child's Strings teacher is available to answer clarifying questions that you have after reviewing the book. [cont.]

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: I don't have any musical experience. Can I still help my child learn? A: [cont.] You can also help your child progress by reminding him or her to practice at convenient times, providing a quiet space for practicing, and sharing *specific* compliments about his or her playing after practicing. You can create a culture supportive of music by commenting on music that you hear in any context and starting a conversation with your child.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: How will I know if what they are practicing is correct? A: Hopefully it will sound like music to you! If you have questions, you can always contact your Strings teacher.

Strings Parent Night FAQ Q: This program sounds amazing. How do I sign up? A: Visit http://westfordk12.us/strings and click on ”Elementary Strings Registration.”