Providing Access to Music Education in Your School
By: Richard K. Breske
So how are your school band and orchestra ensembles doing this year?
Is it just a coincidence that the best students seem to be those in these music performance groups? Actually, national studies show that participation in school band and orchestras help students improve their math and language skills. In this day and age of “learning to test,” it is encouraging to know that music performance not only helps students in other core curriculum; it also teaches creative thinking – a resource that drives the innovation so necessary for success. With the recent growth in school choice for parents, a successful band and orchestra program can be critical component to attract more families to your school.
Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas believes the arts must play an essential role in the K-12 education of every child. It is this understanding of the transformative power of the arts that led Governor Huckabee to choose the arts in education as the focus of his ECS 2004-06 chairmanship.
"The research tells us what parents and education policymakers have known all along but haven't been able to prioritize on a national level," says Governor Huckabee. "The arts are critical, not only as a link to student productivity but also as a key to a competitive workforce."
According to the American Attitudes About Music by The Gallup Organization, whether increased funding for school music becomes a national trend in the public sector is yet unknown; however, it is a practical sign of the widely held belief that music education is a desirable curriculum for students. Privately funded schools often have greater opportunity to offer music performance for their students, and religiously based schools have a tremendous amount of music heritage from which to draw.
Are you ready to support this educational effort? Do your beginning bands and orchestras have the necessary equipment?
There are some easy solutions to funding a band and orchestra program. Actually, considering the return on this education investment, you could easily be found guilty of both growing your arts budget and shrinking your overall budget at the same time.
Hiring a Qualified Music Teacher
Are you looking to start an instrumental music program at your school? There are several good sources for the right teachers. Your general music teacher will likely know several candidates. Your local school music retailer has a very active knowledge of the directors in the area and can usually recommend several. Teaching one class of beginning students does not have to be a full-time job, but after the first year, you will need to plan on a full position.
Create a Co-Curricular Schedule
The strongest music programs are those that meet every day during regular class time; however, many schools develop “pull-out” schedules. With these, lessons are given during the school day to homogeneous instrument groups (i.e., flute I, flute II, clarinet, etc.). Lessons to these groups are on a rotating schedule during the school day so that students do not miss the same class week after week. Students are assigned a day for their lesson. This is done so they can more easily remember to bring their instruments to school; the student only has to remember to bring the instrument on Monday, for example.
Dr. Steven Sacco started the first instrumental music program in the Rochelle Park (New Jersey) School District in 2002. Here is his description of his ensemble schedule.
“Our performing ensembles rehearse Tuesday through Friday from 7:15 till 8:00 a.m., before homeroom,” he said. “We have two bands—a beginner band and a concert band. Each rehearses twice a week--concert band on Tuesday and Thursday, and beginner band on Wednesday and Friday. After about six months, every new instrumental student is placed in the beginner band. The beginner band is the “farm club,” to use a sports analogy, for the concert band.
“Arriving in the beginner band, students start to progress through the book at a much faster pace,” he continued. “They don’t see me just once a week for their lesson, but three times a week—a lesson plus two band rehearsals. Even if they don’t practice at home as much as I would like, they have just tripled the time they play in front of me at school simply by their being placed in band.”
Equipment
Basic school-owned equipment can be a slow growth process. You will need music stands--one for every two students. You will need chairs (it’s best not to share these!). Add a bass drum and cymbal set. For a simple first-year program, that’s all the school needs to purchase.
Dr. Sacco’s district consists of one school, pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, with about 475 students. The music program is available to students in grades four through eight.
“Considering the small numbers and stature of the children in this age group, I thought it best to limit the size of the instruments we offered initially,” he said. “We began the program by offering flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion.
“Parents were responsible for renting instruments such as winds, brass, snare drum and bell kits for their children through a rent-to-purchase contract from the local school music dealer,” continued Sacco. “This arrangement offers several benefits to the music program—avoiding large start-up costs for the district, letting parents partner with children in committing to the music program, and giving students a stake in the responsibility for care of their instrument. In addition, while under contract, student instruments are insured against theft, and any repairs needed are made at no charge.”
The parents can rent most instruments on a monthly basis. School music dealers provide very good student instruments with reasonable rent-to-own programs. These instrument outfits usually include the method book and an at-home music stand. Parents may choose to obtain instruments from any variety of sources, but since there is an expectation of progress, it is important that the instruments be capable of supporting this educational process. Your instrumental music teacher should approve all instruments allowed into the music classroom.
Also, it is not unusual for a student to start on one instrument and switch. Rent-to-own programs are perfect for such situations.
Planning for the Second Year
It is during the second year that the band can fill out, adding baritone horn, tuba and a more complete percussion section. These instruments can last for years, so including them as capital expenditures can help maintain a level annual budget.
There are a variety of way to purchase these items, including direct purchase and bidding. Lease/purchase programs can spread the payments over a number of years, interest free. Some in the music industry offer a series of annual leases that automatically renew but do not require a multi-year commitment. You either simply make the next payment or return the instruments. Depending on the size of the purchase, such programs are available over three, four or five years. Since instruments can last up to 20 years, there is still plenty of life remaining after the last lease/purchase payment is made.
Which Instruments Should We Buy?
Since band music is written for particular grouping of instruments, it is important that roster of instruments is balanced. The number of ensembles, and the size of each, dictates which instruments are necessary to complete a band. The accompanying chart outlines ensembles of various sizes.** These configurations are the ultimate goal for high school groups.
Elementary and middle school directors will work to develop the right “feeder” system so that students will be prepared to carry on their band or orchestra career and enjoy the challenges and benefits of ensemble music throughout their school careers.
There are various quality levels of instruments available for school use. Makers of all quality levels can provide music retailers with custom store brands at all price points. Even a very knowledgeable music instructor will have a difficult understanding all of the brands of instruments that come and go like the wind that goes through them.
Well-known manufacturers (at least well-known to music educators) have built a trust factor that includes a generous warranty policy, a sufficient access to repair parts, and good quality for the price point. The acoustical nature of instruments is complex.
Manufacturing experience means that professional players and educators have had good opportunity to play these instruments, and these manufacturers have made appropriate adjustments over the years to balance the need for excellent sound properties with the need to wear well in the school environment. Newer brands do not have this experience and often rely on one or two musicians that may not fully understand acoustical design. The result could be acceptable, or it could result in instruments in inferior quality either in performance or longevity. The best solution is to rely on the experience of instrumental music teachers in the area. Again, your director and the local dealer will have strong contacts with musicians in your area.
Judging Success
How will you judge the success of your program? For individual students, music performance gives valuable exposure in learning a new, international written language. Their interaction with authority and with peers provides a positive social experience in group dynamics. Public performances not only provide for school spirit and parent pride; they also give students excellent experience in front of larger groups of people.
According to supportmusic.com, music education can be a positive force on all aspects of a child's life, particularly on their academic success. The study of music by children has been linked to higher scores on the SAT and other learning aptitude tests, and has proven to be an invaluable tool in classrooms across the country.
However you measure success at your school, music performance education can have tremendous impact on your students. The costs of getting started are low, and parents have a knack for funding programs that are good for their children.
Richard K. Breske is director of communications for Conn-Selmer, Inc., www.conn-selmer.com. He is a product of parochial school music programs and earned his degree in music-business from Elmhurst College.
Sidebar
Instrument, Orchestra and Vocal Choral Storage Solutions
By Timothy R. Brantley
With operational budgets getting pressure and discretionary spending having to go further than ever before, areas within the school that are seeing added competition are the band, orchestra and vocal departments. Several manufacturers are now offering solutions for these specific areas and are giving schools more options to consider when renovations are planned.
Factors that need consideration should include, but are not limited to, price, quality, customer service and warranty. One area that should never be compromised is “student safety.”
As with other “specific” areas within the building, band, orchestra and vocal choral rooms have different requirements. Each requirement should be evaluated and prioritized so that you can achieve maximum return on the investment.
When selecting storage cabinets, several options are available. Types of cabinets range from open shelving to specialized instrument storage. Here are some things to consider.
Quality
* How are the cabinets constructed?
* When “field modifications” are required, can they be performed by the custodial or maintenance staff?
* Are specialized tools required?
* What is the ease of installation?
* Is it fully assembled?
* Does it have a warranty?
Design
* Is an individually secure compartment necessary for each student?
* What door options are available?
* Do the cabinets have “adjustable shelving” that allows for changing enrollment numbers?
* Can the cabinets be relocated if required?
* Can the cabinet stand alone?
Manufacturer
* How long have they been in business?
* Do they offer “on-site” assistance?
* Do they support your local “professional furniture specialist?”
* Can they supply room layouts and samples if needed?
Even if the project is being financed by “outside sources,” it is not uncommon for the “wishes” to exceed available funding. Working with a local furniture specialist that has the expertise to evaluate, design and propose a total solution package can save time, frustration and mistakes. Just as you would want a “professional” if you had a healthcare concern, your “furniture supplier” should be viewed in the same manner.
Although “low price” doesn’t always relate to “low quality,” you should always remember that “price and cost” are not the same. The initial cabinet price is only part of the total cost of ownership. Site verification, shop drawings, delivery, installation and clean-up should all be factored into the overall project cost. Product durability also significantly impacts the cost of ownership.
When making an investment in your instrumental or choral programs, be sure to do your homework and select the product that gives you the most for your money. When you do, the only thing remaining is to sit back and enjoy the music.
Timothy R. Brantley is the national account manager for Fleetwood Group, Inc.
Product Roundup
Classical Capo and Silver Capo by Planet Waves
Manufactured especially for the wide profile of a classical guitar neck utilizing a sleek, ultra-light design, the Planet Waves NS Classical Capo is easily adjusted on the neck and provides accurate voicing to unlock more of the mysteries of the classical guitar. The lightweight aluminum construction adds virtually zero weight to the guitar, maintaining the crucial balance necessary for the intricate fingering of the classical style. The design allows for one hand while playing, making it easy to either remove the capo or adjust it to another position.
www.planetwaves.com
SheetMusicPlus.com
SheetMusicPlus.com offers many options for instrumental methods, band sets and choral pieces to meet a school’s needs. The company’s huge selection of more than 400,000 sheet music titles means that schools can find the music they need at one place. SheetMusicPlus.com offers discounts for schools, and schools can apply to pay by invoice.
www.sheetmusicplus.com
Kaplan Premium Rosin with Easy Applicator/Storage Case
The new Kaplan Premium Rosin by D’Addario comes in an easy applicator that doubles as a storage case. Available in light and dark, Kaplan Premium Rosin is suitable for violin, viola and cello bows. The special Kaplan recipe produces less dust, keeping hands and instruments cleaner. The rosin comes attached to the inside of the applicator case, which locks shut for clean, easy storage in an instrument case or bag. Once the tabs are squeezed to open the case, the rosin is then applied right from the case, where it can be rotated for uniform wear and maximum use.
www.daddariobowed.com
Steinway Pianos
The Steinway Model O Grand Piano offers remarkable power, depth and resonance while requiring less space than full-sized concert grand pianos. Steinway pianos are popular choices at the world’s most prestigious music schools. The strong sound and response of the pianos permit longer practice and less fatigue. Additionally, it allows students unbridled freedom of musical expression.
www.steinway.com
Rico Reed Vitalizer
The Rico Reed Vitalizer has been modified to further enhance its most attractive features. The Reed Vitalizer control bag has been resized, and the smaller dimensions allow it to more easily fit inside instrument cases. The humidity control packs are now packaged in a special foil wrapper that lengthens the shelf life and ensures that they are always ready to go. The Reed Vitalizer uses a two-way humidity control system to self-adjust in any climate, keeping the reeds inside at the perfect humidity, which ensures that they play consistently from day to day. Each control pack lasts between 45 and 60 days.
www.ricoreeds.com
EC Snare Series by Evans Drumheads
The EC series is Evans’ most popular new technology, appreciated for its proprietary design on the underside circumference that tweaks desired overtones and eliminates unwanted ones. Not merely a blanket pre-muffling system, the EC-treated head is fine-tuned to retain a focused fundamental while retaining contemporary ambience, sustain and sensitivity. The Evans EC Snare series is available in diameters from 10 inches through 14 inches. Each head has a sophisticated edge control system that banishes unwanted overtones.
www.evansdrumheads.com
