5th Grade Information

Intermediate band is a great way to not only learn how to play an instrument but to also make great friends and be a part of a winning organization.  Everyone in our band program starts off in one of our beginner band classes where they learn the very basics of both their particular instrument as well as understanding how to read and comprehend music. 

It is more than okay if you have never played an instrument or read music before joining the band!

If you are currently in 5th grade, make sure you put BAND as your 1st elective choice on your choice sheet for 6th grade.     

In order to be part of our band and a Future Member of the Clear Brook Band & Clear Lake Band, band must begin in the 6th-grade year.

Each spring, we host an instrument selection day for our incoming band students. This is an opportunity to meet the band directors, some of our private lesson teachers, and to see what your instrument options are! Here we will be able to see which instrument you enjoy the most and also which is best suited for you.  Once you are placed on an instrument, we will enroll you in the class and give you the materials list of what you will need for the class. Students are expected to have all materials on the first day of school; we recommend doing this as soon as possible! 

Here is some general information about the band program that might help answer some of your questions:

• No prior musical experience is necessary.

• There is no outside of school commitments in 6th grade.

• Students can be in band AND athletics (7th & 8th grade)

• There are 2-3 concerts a year

• Classes meet daily and are grouped by like instruments.

​As your child progresses through our program to a 7th and 8th-grade performing band, they will also get to perform in many concerts, compete in full band contests as well as individual competitions, and go on fun and exciting trips.  Overall, band is a great learning experience and better yet, it is a lot of fun! 

1. Playing a musical instrument is fun!

Sure it can be a lot of hard work but there is no denying playing an instrument is fun. Once you get better at it, opportunities will arise for you to share your newly learned skill with your family and friends. Who knows, you may also consider playing professionally in the future. Playing a musical instrument opens up a lot of good possibilities that will surely enrich your life.

2. Playing a musical instrument makes you smarter

Many studies have been conducted on the effects of music to the brain. Scientists say that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument, do better in school than those who don't. Recent research suggests exposure to music may benefit a child's reading age, IQ and the development of certain parts of the brain. Adults can benefit from learning to play an instrument too because it helps the mind to be alert and active eventually helping to sharpen the memory.

3. Sense of achievement

If you're a beginner learning to play your first piece, it can be frustrating. But once you've mastered it, the satisfaction you'll feel is priceless. Never mind if it's just a simple piece, believe me you'll never forget the first piece you've mastered. You are one more step closer to achieving your goal and that is certainly something to be proud of.

4. It teaches discipline

Learning to play an instrument is like learning to speak another language and it can be challenging at times. One of the qualities musicians possess is discipline. You have to be disciplined in order to master playing your instrument. You have to set time each day to practice, practice and practice some more.

5. Playing a musical instrument relieves stress

We all have days when we are so stressed out and we just want to take a break from it all. Have you ever noticed that when you hear soft, soothing music you feel more relaxed? Playing an instrument can do that and more, especially if you're the one playing. Music is one of life's simple joys; it helps calm the mind.