LETTER TO PARENTS LETTER TO PARENTS Dear Fifth Grade Parents and Students:
The opportunity for your child to participate in band begins next year and it is not too early to begin thinking about finding an instrument. My expectation is each child will have an instrument and band book, ready to play, by the first full week of school. Below I will discuss some options for you to consider as you begin looking for a band instrument. Please keep in mind this is a life-long activity your child is about to embark on. The instrument you start them out with will ultimately determine whether they succeed and continue or become frustrated and quit. Playing an instrument is a challenge. Playing an instrument that does not work correctly compounds this challenge and often leads to failure.
If you already have an instrument – Great! Make sure it is in good playing condition – pads, corks, springs, valves, etc. deteriorate with age and need to be reconditioned. Your child’s initial success depends upon having an instrument that works well. Have the instrument checked by a reputable music repairman. Below are listed business names, addresses, and phone numbers.
Purchasing a new or used instrument from a music dealer is a preferred method by most. Your child will potentially play this instrument for eight years at Choteau Schools and who knows beyond that! The businesses listed below have rental/purchase plans for beginning band students. Now is a good time to approach these businesses, as they are getting back rental instruments from other students who may be giving up band or changing instruments – you can purchase an “almost new” instrument for a “used” price.
Please avoid purchasing instruments from chain-store retailers when the price seems “too good to be true.” These instruments are not built to last and may not get your child through the first year of band. Their quality in construction, tone production, and part replacement is very questionable. Also, if you decide to purchase through the classified ads or Ebay, keep in mind descriptions and photos do not tell the entire story. Please make sure and verify the condition of the instrument and have it examined by a music repairman.
Your child has been told that Mrs. Depner will only accept two-three drummers for the fifth grade band. This is done on a “first come, first serve basis”. They are required to purchase a snare drum, sticks, and band book. If your child is interested in percussion, they must talk to me beforehand and get approval. No exceptions.
The high school office will have the band books for sale. The cost is $6.99. You can also purchase them from the music stores listed below if you so choose. The name of the book is the “Ed Sueta Band Method – Book One” (it is tan in color).
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call me. My home phone number is 466-5638. I look forward to working with your student in band next year and want it to be a fun, positive experience! Have a great summer!!
Sincerely,
Lorran Depner
Choteau Band/Choral Director
Morgenroth Music Center
Times Square
525 Central Ave.
Great Falls, MT 59401
452-0837
Rod’s Music & Sound (Eckroth Music)
721 Central Ave.
Great Falls, MT 59401
771-1314
Bud’s Band Box
615 Central Ave.
Great Falls, MT 59401
761-5507
Kittleson Band Instrument Repair
Great Falls, MT
268-1098