1. For parents of new and returning SFES band and strings students
Back to music night
For parents of new and returning SFES band and strings students

2. A little about ms. miller

3. Expectations for students
Arrive to class on time and ready to learn (10 points per lesson)
Complete all practice and homework assignments
15 minutes a day, 5 days a week minimum
Practice journals
Attend all mandatory concerts
Make up all work missed while in sectionals
Band members work together as a team, and attendance problems can have a great impact on the team as a whole. Students who forget to bring their instrument to class three times in a row or five times in a semester may be asked not to perform in the concert.

4. Practicing at home
Provide a quiet, distraction-free space for practice time
Encourage your child to schedule a consistent daily practice time
Avoid criticizing your child’s sound– it will get better!
Practicing is not a punishment; when done correctly and consistently, it brings great rewards!
Get involved! Have them show and tell about what they’ve been practicing.

6. getting an instrument If the price is too good to be true…
See your folder for local music stores.
I recommend that strings students rent, not buy, until they are ready for a full size instrument.
If you are planning on purchasing an instrument, contact me or see the website for appropriate brands.
If the price is too good to be true…

7. Caring for an instrument
Never, ever, EVER leave the instrument in the car.
Avoid doing your own repairs, cleaning, or tuning your own string instrument.
Encourage your child to treat the instrument as they would their most prized possession- keep it in a safe place, return it to the case between practice sessions, don’t let others play it, don’t rest it where it might fall, etc.

8. accessories
Students cannot be successful on their instrument without the required accessories.
Students experiencing sticky valves, chipped reeds, or discomfort from the lack of a shoulder rest may become discouraged and quit.
Please see the website, your student’s supply list, or your student’s handbook for the accessories they will need for their instrument!

11. IMPOrtant dates September 26th November 15th January 18th May 2nd
First day with instruments for new students
November 15th
Stringapalooza field trip and evening concert
4th and 5th graders only
January 18th
Winter Concert
May 2nd
Spring Concert

12. Questions?