• Dear Parent/Guardian,

     

    The excitement of a new adventure is enough to provide an ample supply of positive motivation for the first two weeks of the band experience. Once the initial enthusiasm wears off, it is important to immediately develop wholesome practice habits which will guarantee a successful and personally gratifying learning process for your child. Your support and guidance will be the key factors in establishing the practice schedule insuring the attainment of the musical goals.

     

    The most effective home rehearsal programs are based on a daily half hour dedicated to quality practice. It is suggested that you and your child mutually agree on a practice time, and a special area of your home which is designed as their area of musical study. Every effort should be made to establish a disciplined pattern which is encouraged and acknowledged by you. Ask your child from time to time if it’s okay for you to listen in for five minutes or so. Sometimes the instrumentalist enjoys the opportunity to display his/her talents. You might even ask for a paragraph of what new progress was made during the practice. A special calendar can also serve as a reminder as well as a reward poster for the commitment needed to accomplish the assigned material. Remember, positive reinforcement is the most effective communication you can share in this important quest.

     

    It is vital to develop a discipline which makes home practice a natural part of the day. Although many of the new concepts will be taught during lessons, the limited time does not afford the development of technical facility required for the upcoming years of musical exploration. The cooperative efforts of: the instrumental instructor, the student musician, and the willing parent/guardian(s) constitute the proven recipe of success.

     

    Instrumental music means more to your son/ daughter than just playing an instrument. It offers an opportunity to experience a new level of communication. This artistic language will be with them for a lifetime. These formative years of music education can open up a world of aesthetic possibilities which will bring new meaning to the growth and development of your child. Let us join forces in establishing a solid foundation of growth by creating a disciplined practice schedule at the onset of their band career.

     

    Please feel free to contact me at any time with your thoughts and/or questions. I look forward to banding together.

     

    Musically Yours,

    Neil Forte

    Instrumental Instructor/Band Director

    Drums and Freeland Elementary Middle Schools

    Email: forten@hasd.k12.pa.us

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