 |
 |
|
|
|
The schedule for beginners is adjusted before each school year based on what times are best for the parents involved. Classes begin first week of September and end in May. There will be two weeks off at Christmas/New Years. See below for current general schedule or visit the Schedule and Fees page. Class locations - 2005/2006
Fees/payment -The cost for beginner class is $20 per month (family rate of $30). The more advanced classes cost $25 per month for one child. ($35 for more than one student in either band class.) Payment is appreciated the first class of the month. You are also welcome to pay for the entire semester if that is more convenient. Please put student’s name on the check if it is different than the name on your checking account. You will not receive a bill, and credit will not be given for missed rehearsals due to illness, vacation, etc. on your part. If you pay with cash, kindly put it in a sealed envelope with your child’s name on it. Top THERE IS AN ADDITIONAL MUSIC SUPPLY FEE OF $10 EACH YEAR. Please include the supply fee with your first month tuition. From this fee I purchase music and any future books needed for the remainder of the year. These materials are the property of the band, and you will be responsible for replacing any lost or damaged materials. I do borrow from other home school band directors in the St. Louis area to try to keep costs down, but we must also purchase some items yearly. Any money not needed for music will be used toward the purchase of band equipment or instruments for the group. This supply fee is NON-REFUNDABLE! I cannot ask the music store to refund your money after we have used the music. Make checks payable to Mary Bowler Top
Fund raising -We no longer do a fundraising drive. All costs are covered in the fees charged. Top
Supplies - 1) The instrument and necessary oil, mouthpiece brushes, reeds, etc. 2) All students should provide a folding music stand ( please put your name on it) 3) A small notebook for writing down assignments, if possible. 4) Two pencils (already sharpened, please!), I will provide music folders in which you should keep your pencils, notebook and lesson book. Top
NO UNATTENDED SIBLINGS OR OTHER CHILDREN IN THE CHURCHES ! The churches have a policy that MUST be enforced by both band and choir that no children may stay unattended in the church. Neither the church staff, nor I, can be responsible for children roaming around the church. Please note we are allowed to use their facilities free of charge and this privilege can be lost at any time. I am not allowed to leave the church until all children have left, so I would appreciate your promptness in picking up. Top
Encourage your child to practice regularly, without making it a "chore". 15-20 minutes is probably a good amount of time for a new beginner, as they will tire easily for a few weeks (especially flutes). They should progress to about 25-30 minutes by mid-semester, and I will build in some little competitions to add some extra incentive. The more your child practices, the more progress he will make. I will ask your child to record the practice times and for you to sign or initial to verify it. I will use this record for occasional treats. For beginners, things will move a bit slowly in the first few weeks, and then the pace will pick-up as the children become more adept and comfortable with playing their instruments. All will learn to read the note names and count the rhythms throughout the class, and part of the rhythm instruction includes patting the foot to "feel" the beat. THIS IS NOT OPTIONAL!! Some children for some reason do not believe this is important, but it is, both in class and at home. As the rhythms become progressively more difficult, the foot patting helps them more. Trust me on this! Please call me if a question or problem arises. Top
Private lessons are encouraged for all students, but they are not a requirement. I do not currently offer private lessons but you may me ask for recommendations. In general when you look for a tutor for private lessons, you should seek a tutor who is experienced with children your age, somebody who specializes in your child’s instrument, and with whom you feel comfortable talking. Especially as a beginner it is important not to have a mis-match, like a trombone player trying to teach a child the clarinet. There are techniques and nuances that if not taught properly can lead to poor habits and a frustrating experience. Top
I'm sure that all of you will have to miss occasionally, as I will, because of holidays, summer camps, vacations, etc. I would appreciate a call in advance when possible, so that I will know not to wait for your child. Also, absences sometimes affect what I choose to rehearse during class and it helps me plan a more efficient rehearsal. Thanks. Top
Snow policy – I will e-mail or call by noon if we are not meeting due to inclement weather in winter. Please do not assume we will not be meeting because of public school decisions. Often the roads are poor in the morning but are fine by class time. Top
How old is old enough to start band ?Suggested age to start music is age nine and older. Top
Must my child already read music ? No experience is needed for Beginner Band. More advanced band membership is by audition for experienced players. Top
How do I get an instrument ? You do NOT have to buy an instrument upfront. Most stores have “rent-to-own” policies for as little as $15 per month to allow time to try the instrument. Perhaps you can also borrow an instrument by asking relatives or by putting a notice in your church bulletin. Occasionally there are instruments available from the home school band. Top
Which instruments are taught ? The Home School band is composed of traditional band instruments including flute, clarinet, trumpet, French horn, baritone, trombone, saxophone, tuba, and a limited number of drums. Top What is the class size ? Children receive both individual and group instruction in classes ranging in size from approximately 10 to 20 students. Top Who is the teacher ? Mary Bowler teaches classes. She has degrees in Music Education and Music Performance from Louisiana State University. Mrs. Bowler has been conducting the St. Charles Co. Home School Bands since 1997. The Concert Band has received ratings of “Superior” in band festivals under her leadership. Top How do I register or get more information? Call Mrs. Bowler at (636) 447-3879 or e-mail her at bowleremail@juno.com. Classes begin the first week of September.
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||