4th Grade Instrument Matching

Transition to Band, Percussion, and Strings

The Goal: Our goal is to match your child with an instrument that he/she will enjoy, play comfortably, and produce good tone easily.  If we achieve our goal, every student will experience rapid growth and success in 5^th grade band, percussion, or strings.

The Considerations:

Accurate Positioning: Size and weight of the instrument compared to child’s height. All fingers should rest easily on the keys/valves/strings/drumsticks. Child should be able to hold the instrument comfortably while playing

Quality of Sound:

·         Embouchure (Wind Instruments): Positioning and manipulation of the lips and mouth on the mouthpiece. A potential player will have an easy, clear tone without “forcing.”

·         Bow Control (String Instruments): Positioning and manipulation of the bow to create sound across the strings. A potential player will have a strong tone that is steady and continuous.

·         Articulation (Percussion Instruments): Relaxed wrist when striking and Right/Left Hand awareness. A potential player will allow the mallet or stick to rebound lightly.

“I like this instrument”: It is important for the child to feel happy and optimistic about their instrument choice.

The Process:

1.    Learn about the Instruments: All 4^th Grade students will learn about the history of each instrument and how the instruments produce sound. They will complete a preliminary playing exercise on all of the instrument options. All students will demonstrate how to play a basic tone on each instrument, and they will notice which ones were easier or more comfortable for them to play.

2.   Pick 3: Students will pick 3 instruments that they are most interested in playing for next year’s 5^th grade ensembles. Their choices will be based on their knowledge of the instruments and their experience playing them.

3.   Instrument Decision Sheets: All 4^th Grade students will complete the Instrument Decision Sheet with rubrics for all three considerations, as listed above. Your child’s music teachers will guide him/her through the selection process and give feedback.

4.   Student-Led Conferences: Your child will show you their Decision Sheets and demonstrate playing the instrument of their choice. An instrument will be selected with help from parents and teachers using their knowledge, experience, and reflections on the Instrument Decision Sheet.

   

5. Final Confirmation Letter: Congratulations!  Your child is ready for 5th Grade Music! A confirmation letter will go home celebrating your child’s instrument choice. The letter will include information about buying or renting instruments, items that your child will need in 5th grade, and other pertinent details.