Should my student start a band instrument early?
There is no need to start early on a band instrument. We actually prefer to start students ourselves. In 6th Grade, we have band class every day and can monitor progress and help reinforce good habits. Without this daily coaching, many students can develop issues that can be difficult to resolve.
Some students are very eager to start learning an instrument and just can’t wait! In this case, we HIGHLY recommend piano lessons. Learning piano will teach students to read music notes and rhythms and will help improve finger coordination. All of these skills will transfer directly to any band instrument.
Special Statement About Saxophone and Percussion
There are two band instruments that are very popular because students probably see and hear them more than others. Both the saxophone and percussion sections are the first and second choices for almost EVERY student interested in band. However, we must limit the sizes of each of these sections. If we do not, then there would not be enough parts for them to play in 7-12th grade band.
Starting early and taking private lessons on any instrument will play no factor in your student being chosen for that particular instrument. In fact, we are looking for certain natural physical characteristics for each instrument that we know increase the likelihood of success. Students will be chosen for instruments based on these natural physical characteristics without regard to previous experience.