Common Misconceptions
It is a common misconception that any student can play any instrument if they just work hard enough. While a strong work ethic is definitely a requirement for any successful musician, every student has physical characteristics that make them better suited for some instruments and less suited for others. Therefore, it is important to match students with instruments on which they will have the greatest chance of success. Please read the information below to help guide your student in the selection of an instrument best suited for them.
Be warned that there is no such thing as a “boy” instrument or a “girl” instrument. Countless case studies and research into the effect a person’s gender has on their success in playing a particular instrument has yielded no evidence that boys play better on some instruments and girls play better on others. What research DOES show is that boys and girls who make good grades in other academic classes, have the self-discipline to focus their attention in class, and practice their instrument regularly at home, are almost assured a successful and enjoyable band experience on a well chosen instrument.
Instrument Choices
All beginning band students at Sun Valley Middle School start on one of four instruments: flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone. A band program must have a balance of these instruments to create a good sound, much like a good cake recipe must contain a perfect balance of ingredients to taste good. Therefore, each student should select TWO instruments that they are interested in playing in case their first choice is not available.
FLUTE: Click HERE to find out more information and to listen to the sound of a flute.
TROMBONE: Click HERE to find out more information and to listen to the sound of a trombone.
Future Opportunities
As students progress through the school-year, we began holding auditions for "Specialty Instruments." These instruments include (but are not limited to): Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, French Horn, Baritone, Tuba, and Percussion. Students will be selected on the basis of how
well they adjust to the instrument, the quality of sound they can produce,
their work ethic in class, and their commitment to practicing at home. The number of students selected for these instruments is limited to protect the integrity of the full-band sound. Students selected for these instruments are expected to remain in the Sun
Valley band program at least through the end of their 8th
grade year.
