MMSBand-Home

1. HONOR YOUR CHILD'S COMMITMENT.

Clear your calendar of conflicts with performances. Visit www.mannheimband.com for up-to-date information about concerts, contests, and other band events. Attend all the performances that your child gives throughout the year.

2. ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO PRACTICE.

This is the big one!! There is no magic that can work in class if a student has not practiced. Those that succeed are those that work. It is best to spread practice time consistently throughout the week. Provide a space and a time that your child can be undisturbed while they practice. The perfect amount of time is 15-25 minutes five times per week. (They always have something they can practice!)

3. PROVIDE PRIVATE INSTRUCTION.

A student will maximize his or her experience and potential in band with the help of a good private instructor. We strongly recommend that all students try to find a lesson teacher, if it is possible economically. When combined with regular practice, private lessons give a student the tools to excel on their instrument. A good teacher can help any student at any level of ability.

4. SHOW THEM YOU ARE INTERESTED.

Ask your child to show you what he or she is working on in class. Encourage them to practice the same way you would want them to study. Listen to them play for a few minutes now and then. If they have improved, let them know that you notice! If your child senses that music and practicing are important to you, it will help encourage them.

5. SHOW PRIDE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR CHILD.

Have a positive conversation after the concert! Your child will naturally critique themselves and how they performed. Comment on their poise, professionalism, and the commitment to music they are making. You are the best person in the world to remind your son/daughter how much they have improved since their first concert, and that the hard work is paying off – YOU notice they are a more mature musician.

6. HELP YOUR CHILD BE ORGANIZED.

Sit down with your child and develop a practice plan. Help them stick to their schedule. Your child may protest at times, but the self-discipline they develop will stick with them for life. Everyone goes through times when practicing is a drag. The difference between those that quit (or aren’t very good) and those that excel is work and determination. Stick-with-it-ness is the most important characteristic that a student can have in any subject.

7. TRUST THE DISTRICT 83 MUSIC TEACHERS.

We understand instinctively that the best music education for your child may not always result in a quick or easy solution. Please trust your child's teacher when your son/daughter does not see the immediate benefit of following a prescribed path. Trust us to make the best choices for your child until they are able to make the best choice on their own. Each program policy for the entire music department is based on a fundamental educational philosophy, and they exist to guarantee the best education for ALL the music students in the program.

Your child will have an exciting and terrific year in band with our guidance, their efforts, and your support!