Participating in the school band program is enjoyable and rewarding for students. By playing in the band students have the opportunity for creative expression, developing acute aural skills, and improving physical coordination. Our Fairfax Villa Band performs several times during the year and is an integral part of the school. Students may continue in band at the middle and high school levels where there are additional opportunities to participate in many exciting school, area, and state bands. High school students who participate in the band earn credit toward graduation and some even receive college scholarships for music!

HOME PRACTICE TIPS

Home practice is band homework. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your home practice time.

• Always play with correct posture and use a music stand.
• Never start out practicing a piece up to the tempo (speed). Always start it slow and gradually speed up to tempo until you can play the piece or section comfortably and correctly.
• Break it down! Take phrases or sections of the piece you are working on and practice them at slow tempos then speed them up little by little. Next, add another phrase or chunk to the one you just worked on. Don't try to play the whole piece right away. Break the piece down and you will be much more successful.
• If you are stuck on a specific rhythm, put your instrument down in a safe place and clap and tap the rhythm out until you can get it. Then add your instrument and play the rhythm. If you are still having trouble, try writing the rhythm in above or below the notes.
• Three times is a charm. Before moving from one phrase or section to another, be sure you can play the phrase or section correctly three times in a row; then you can move on.

SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO REMEMBER YOUR
INSTRUMENT ON BAND DAY

• Place your instrument at the front door or with your book bag the night before class. Don't put it in the car!
• Find a "Band Buddy." You can call each other the night before (or morning of) class.
• Leave a note for yourself in a visible place: at the breakfast table, at the front door, etc.

How Parents Can Help (PDF Format link)

Remember how much Ms Ammirati looks
forward to hearing you play each week!