A Q&A discussion of some FAQ about beginning band mouthpiece testing and beginning strings instrument fitting. We are here to help!
COVID-19 Instrument Cleaning Guidelines
COVID-19 and Instrument Cleaning: The NFHS, NAfME and NAMM recommend the following guidelines for handling musical instruments during the COVID-19 school shutdown period. These guidelines are designed for use by music educators and educators may use these guidelines when teaching students and parents how to clean instruments.
An Open Letter to Parents of Future Band and Orchestra Students
Congratulations! Your child has chosen to start band or strings class this fall! This is exciting! But naturally, you are also apprehensive – “How much will this cost?” “Will my child like it?” “How do we choose the right instrument?” “Will my child stick with it? After all, he’s tried karate, gymnastics, piano, and soccer ... and quit them all.” “Does my child even have any musical ability?”
Why Mouthpiece Test?
One of the best ways to help a band director to ensure his new students’ success in band, and to ensure they stay in band, is to do careful and detailed mouthpiece testing, or “play testing,” as some retailers call it. If you take your time to do this, you will begin to build relationships with the beginning students and their parents, and help your band program a take a huge step forward at the same time.
