I'll be visiting every 5th grade classroom in every building over the next couple of weeks giving everyone a chance to try out on the instruments. We'll talk about instruments you may already have at home, and we'll take a look at the formation of the lips and teeth to find just the right fit for each student.  It's easier and more fun to play an instrument that is suited to your strengths!  Our goal is to find an instrument that "fits" your individual physical structure, as well as one you think would be fun to play. Although we hope everyone will give band a try, simply trying the instruments does not obligate the join the program. Once we've met, I'll send home a letter recommending the instrument or instruments that we decided upon as well as the necessary information to get started.

Ok, so we've picked an instrument. Now what?

The Council Bluffs Community Schools will host two instrumental displays.  The display will give you the opportunity to enroll in the program, meet your band director, and rent or buy an instrument.  Two reputable instrument dealers will be on hand to help you.  The majority of parents chose to start a “Rent-to-Own” program with one of these two recommended music stores.  The instruments are rented, with the payments applied to the purchase of the instruments.  The rental plans generally begin with a 3 or 4-month “grace” period during which no payments are made.  This is a great way to make certain that the student is happy and committed to the instrument before making any further financial commitment.  You are under no obligation at these displays, and the music instructors will be on hand to answer any questions and to check any instruments obtained elsewhere to make sure they are in playing condition. 

Both displays run from 6:30 until 8:30 in the evening, and you can visit either at any time during the display.  Before each display we'll have a brief informational meeting at 6:00 for anyone who wishes to attend. In these meetings we will provide information and answer any questions you may have about the band program or the instrument rental/purchase process. The dates and sites are:

• Thursday, August 27 at Hoover Elementary School, 1205 North Broadway
• Tuesday, September 1 in the Thomas Jefferson HS Commons

What if I can't attend either display, or would rather get my instrument somewhere else?

You are certainly free to get an instrument anywhere you wish. However, I recommend visiting or calling Schmitt Music Center, near 72nd and Dodge Streets (391-5588) in Omaha, or calling Moore Music (800-947-9139) of Creston, Iowa.  Either store can deliver an instrument to the school.  You may also get an instrument on your own, but a word of caution: many used instruments may be in need of expensive repairs, and other new instruments may be of such poor quality that they are not maintainable, or end up spending so much time “in the shop,” that they hinder your child’s development.  If you’ll allow me, I’ll do everything I can to help you find the right instrument for your child. Even if you do get an instrument elsewhere, or already have one, please stop by the display so you can register and purchase your book! 

Ok, I'm sold. How do we sign up?

Just stop by one of the displays or see your band director at school!  If you have questions, please contact Mark Mendell at 328-6537 (school), or email at mmendell@cbcsd.org.

When do we practice?

Depending on the time of year, students will receive 1 or 2 instructional meetings per week: a 20-minute small-group or individual lesson, and a longer large group rehearsal.  Our lessons are done during the school day.  Depending on the building, our large-group meeting may take place before or after school. In years past, we have provided transportation to a large ensemble rehearsal on Monday afternoons after the early dismissal. Although our schedule is unsettled right now, we hope to be able to continue with these Monday rehearsals this year. They will not begin until later in the year, and we will send information home with students well before they begin. There are also expectations for a small amount independent practice at home for all band students.

When do we perform?

Beginners perform our first concert in January.  A list of dates will be distributed as soon as they are finalized and will be posted in the Concerts/Events section of the web site and sent home with students.