Thank you for your decision to be a part of The Assumption Catholic School Band Program. You are beginning a part of your life that is rewarding for both the student and family.
For all band students, at any level the band program has always been a source of growth, fulfillment, and fun. Students of the band program make new friends, have unique and exciting experiences, and may have opportunities to travel. The family has an opportunity to become involved in their child’s education like never before. Studies show a strong correlation between student participation in music and academic success because of music’s contribution to cognitive development. That is why we always like to say to all of our students: “BE IN BAND!!”
Our goal is that the experience of all our band students will outweigh any investments you make. We encourage our students and families to consider the contributions the band program makes for the community and what it can do for everyone in the program. Please contact me if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions!
Welcome to the ACS Eagle Band! I’m sure you are wondering how to get started, especially, what instrument to choose as you begin your journey in the Eagle Band. This post is geared to help navigate your questions!
A Quick Note: For the purpose of ongoing posts, I would like to refer to our two groups as the ACS Beginning Band (new members- information in red) and the ACS Concert Band (returning members -information in blue).
Let’s start off with the instruments of the band: flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion.
In the ACS Eagle Band, we focus on the 4 main wind instruments. They are called “wind” instruments because they require our breath to play them. The other instruments (i.e. oboe, tuba, etc.) can be played in high school where resources are far more vast!
ACS Eagle Band Instruments:
Flute
Clarinet
Trumpet
Trombone
Each of the 4 above instruments are unique in their own way, so let’s dive right in!
The Flute
The flute is a member of the “woodwind family,” though it is typically made of a metal, like silver. It produces a delicate, smooth sound. Flute players produce sound by blowing air across the tone hole, much like you would blowing across the top of a soda or water bottle.
The Clarinet
The clarinet is another member of the “woodwind family!” While it is often made of wood, some reliable beginner models are made of resin. Clarinet players produce sound by blowing air across a reed (made of cane) that is secured against the mouthpiece.
The Trumpet
The trumpet is a member of the “brass family.” It has three valves that, with the help of a mouthpiece placed against vibrating lips, produces different sounds!
The Trombone
The trombone is another member of the “brass family.” Rather than valves or keys, the trombone has a slide that is brought in or out to produce different notes. Like the trumpet, the trombone uses a mouthpiece placed against vibrating lips to produce a sound.
When able, check out these videos! If you like what you see and hear, that’s a start!
For students interested in percussion, please pick one of the four “wind” instruments as a second choice! Parents, please contact Mrs. Creech to set-up an appointment to interview for the percussion section.
Remember, band is a full-year commitment. Choosing an instrument means you are dedicated to at-home practice and maintaining care and maintenance. It can be overwhelming at the start, but the juice is worth the squeeze!
