Getting Ready for Fourth Grade Music

It’s that time of year again when third graders have to choose the instrument they will be playing in band and/or orchestra next fall.  I remember when I was in third grade I really wanted to play the drums, but my parents convinced me to try clarinet instead (thank God, since I have a pretty poor sense of rhythm).  I didn’t know it at the time, but becoming a clarinet player was one of the most important things I have done so far in my life.  Playing an instrument was fun and challenging.  It was also a socially enriching experience — for me, band and group lessons were much more fun than most of my other classes.  And because I stuck with it through high school and beyond, I was able to attend all kinds of competitions and festivals (including a trip to Disney World), and play in the pit orchestra for some of the school musicals.  I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.  

Choosing an instrument is a big decision for a third grader, and many parents understandably don’t know much about musical instruments.  If you are a parent helping your child choose their instrument for the first time, ask questions.  Talk to the fourth grade music teacher if you can, or visit our store, where everyone knows about all of the instruments and can help you make an informed decision.  We will also be presenting our rental instruments at our open house on Saturday, May 21.

If you played an instrument growing up, I would love for you to share a comment about which instrument you chose, why you chose it, and the positive experience you (hopefully) had with it.  The more stories we can share with other parents and students, the more helpful we can be.  Thank you in advance!

— Michele Stivalo