In their first year of instrumental music students should learn: how to properly assemble, hold and care for their instrument; how to produce a pleasing tone; how to produce a variety of pitches; play a variety of rhythms (probably whole through 8th or possibly 16th notes); and students should experience the joy of making music collaboratively with others.
I would organize an opportunity for students (and hopefully parents also) to hear an ensemble of older students (possibly the 8th grade..."see what you will sound like in three or four years") and then an opportunity for them to try out various instruments. I would then provide information regarding rentals of instruments and how being in band or orchestra works to the parents and have some sort of an orientation night. I would be sure to stress that it is best to join now, because it would be very difficult to catch up in the school program if they decided a year later that they wanted to play in an ensemble. I would also point out that great opportunities, both curricular and extra-curricular exist for students in music through high school, into college and throughout a lifetime! :) Music is one of few areas where you truly have the opportunity to continue and improve outside of the frame of scholastic involvement.
You are on the right track here. Obviously this is a topic that could be answered in many pages, so narrowing down to a couple of paragraphs is tricky.
ReplyDeleteAs for recruiting, as long as you generate enthusiasm and get parents involved, you should be in good shape. Finding your won special approach takes a couple of times doing it. You are exactly right that catching it during the first year is important.
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