Welcome Fifth Grade Parents!
Dear Parents:
As a sixth grader, your child finally has the opportunity to do what so many successful students have done before them, Be Part of the Music!
On February 6, 2024, your child will see the different instruments that are available to them to learn as beginning band members in sixth grade. We know that for some of you, this will be your first exposure to music education and we wanted to take a brief minute to share some information with you.
Below is information regarding our program and the different opportunities it provides for your child. This is a time where the both of you can explore the different options and get help choosing the experiences and classes that will help them be successful in high school and beyond. If after reading these materials you still have questions, please feel free to contact us at any time using the info listed below.
Music education is more than just playing an instrument. It is immersing your child in a culture of successful students and teachers who care about education. It challenges each child to use the creative side of his brain while, at the same time, learning a foreign language…MUSIC!
All of the current data clearly states that, students involved in music education, academically out-perform their non-musical counterparts. But, more importantly, studies are showing that music students are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drugs and alcohol.
Every destination starts with a decision to embark on a journey. Now is the time to start your child in music and Dempsey Middle School is the place to do it! We can’t promise that every child will be a musical prodigy, but we can promise they will learn, laugh, and grow along the way.
Sincerely,
- Anne Brandyberry, Dempsey Middle School
(740) 833-1800 x2806
brandyan@delawarecityschools.net - Alan Notestine, Dempsey Middle School
(740) 833-1800 x2864
notestal@delawarecityschools.net - Bill Fowles, Hayes High School
(740) 833-1010 x4039
fowleswi@delawarecityschools.net
Explore the Instruments
These instruments are all played at Hayes High School! You can start on one instrument and later switch to another – trumpet to french horn or tuba; clarinet to saxophone, oboe, or bassoon – or you can fall in love with the instrument you choose in sixth grade and play it all the way through high school.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the important dates?
February 6, 2024 from 7:00-8 p.m. – Informational Parent meeting in the Dempsey Middle School Commons
February 26 & 29 – Instrument Fittings and percussion tryouts at Dempsey Middle School in Suite 172 (Music Room). Please visit this link to sign up for your fitting.
Who can participate?
Sixth Grade Band is open to EVERY incoming SIXTH GRADER! Any interested student will be fit for an instrument by a trained musician. If you are already in strings or also interested in choir, you can do both!
What are band fittings?
Band fittings determine your child’s natural ability on each of the band instruments. We strive to fit each child for an instrument where they will be successful. However, we can only strongly recommend an instrument; the final decision is up to you. Please contact us with any questions regarding instrument selection.
What if I can’t make the informational meeting or fittings?
Please reach out to Mrs. Brandyberry to schedule an individual fitting time and be sure to register your child for band in the upcoming information packet.
What is the cost?
The nominal instrument rental fees associated with band are well worth the investment into your child’s overall education. Music education is not just limited to people that have the means to afford it, EVERY SIXTH GRADER CAN PARTICIPATE IN BAND! We are lucky to have excellent programs for qualified students that provide a limited number of instruments and supplies for a nominal cost.
How do I help my child be successful in band?
Support and encouragement! Starting an instrument is difficult, and while the beginning months can be painful, you will be amazed at the progress they show! Each student should practice 60 minutes a week, that’s less than 10 minutes a day! Parents, your support in establishing a quality practice routine is crucial. Band is fun, and it does take a commitment from both students and parents. It is through this commitment that values such as responsibility, reliability, and working together toward a common goal are instilled.