Tips For Band Parents
How You Fit In
Always keep in mind that your support is key in your child’s success with Music. Get involved with our program. There are many ways you can be involved; check out www.allcityband.com.
Schedule Practice Times
Music achievement requires effort over a period of time. You can help your child by:
- providing a quiet place in which to practice
- remaining nearby during practice times as often as possible
- scheduling a consistent, daily time for practice – at least 120 minutes/week
- praising your child’s effort and achievements
- helping your child keep a daily record of his/her practice (in the front of the EXCELLENCE book)
- making sure that your child’s instrument is properly supplied with Care & Maintenance materials as well as extra reeds at all times
- following the Band Course assignment and test schedule to ensure that your child is always “looking ahead” when practicing.
What To Do
To give your child the best possible support you should:
- keep in mind that in the beginning stages, efforts often resemble noise rather than a polished musical tone – listen for improvement
- offer compliments and encouragement regularly
- expose your child to a wide variety of music, including Concerts and Recitals, as well as recordings
- encourage your child to talk about his or her Music class
- make sure your child’s instrument is always in good working order
- listen to your child practice and acknowledge improvement
What Not To Do
Your child’s progress will be greatly enhanced if you ...
- don’t use practice as a punishment
- don’t insist your child play for others when they don’t want to
- don’t ridicule or make fun of mistakes or less-than-perfect playing
- don’t apologize to others for your child’s weak performance
- don’t expect rapid progress and development right away
"Practice is the best of all instructors."
Syrus
Benefits
For Your Child
Music participation enhances:
- problem solving
- teamwork
- goal setting
- self-expression
- coordination
- memory skills
- self confidence and esteem
- concentration
- poise
- and much, much more!
For Your Family
A child’s music study also offers opportunities for shared family experiences, including:
- attending musical events
- family music making
- performing solos for, and with family and friends when your son/daughter chooses to
- a sense of pride and accomplishment for the entire family
