Mark Santori Email Mr. Santori Mr. Santori's Webpage 651-683-6969 VM #92056

Getting Started
Red Pine students begin their band experience in the spring of fourth grade. At that time the instrumental music teacher helps the fourth graders choose an instrument, helps their parents arrange for the rental of that instrument, and sets up a summer lesson schedule to give those students their beginning instruction. The students receive 7 - 45 minute lessons in groups of 5 to 7 like instruments. There is a tuition fee for the summer band lessons.

The Lessons
As fifth graders, these students continue their instruction with 20 - 30 minute small group (2-3 students) or individual weekly lessons. At home practice for these lessons is essential. Students should spend at least 5 days practicing at least 30 minutes. Six days of 30 minutes is even better. Remember that consistent practice is the best way to guarantee success! Practicing should consist of 3 parts:

1. Play the warm up sheet. This is a sheet of basic skills designed for each instrument. Students should do these every time they practice.
2. All brass and woodwind students are also asked to name, tap, andfinger. This is abbreviated as "NTF". This means they are to say the letter names of the notes in their assigned music as they finger (or "position" for trombone students) their instrument and tap a steady beat with their foot. Percussion students should say the letter names of the notes as they play the bells and count the rhythms out loud as they play the snare drum.
3. After they have successfully "NTF" the music they are to play the music on their instrument as they continue to tap a steady beat with their foot.

The Rehearsal
During October, all of the new band members are joined together for their first weekly band rehearsal. These rehearsals are held once a week for about an hour before school starts, from 8:00-9:00 am.

The Concerts
The Red Pine Fifth Grade Band presents two concerts during the year so that parents, friends, and other relatives have the opportunity to hear their music and observe their progress. The concert dates and times are listed on the school calendar. These concerts are open to the public
and all are welcome!

The Philosophy
At Red Pine the students are treated as individuals and are allowed to progress according to their own ability and effort. The band experience provides a wonderful opportunity for building self-confidence and selfdiscipline. Band members also learn a great deal about music and experience the thrill of making music together.