Organized and Run Through the SEMS Band Boosters; a 501 (c)(3) organization
The Beginning Band is open to
any student interested in music,
grades 6 through 8,
even if you've never
touched an instrument.
Each student in Beginning Band must have the Essential Elements book 1 for their instrument. These books are available at most music stores in San Marcos and Escondido and on Amazon.com.
Schedule
All Beginning Band students have band class everyday.
RECOMMENDED INSTRUMENTS FOR BEGINNING BAND STUDENTS:
Trombone, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, & baritone. For more information, click here for a quick FAQ on instruments.
PERCUSSION & BASS GUITAR
Due to the unique aspects of percussion instruments and the bass guitar, these instruments have certain restrictions. Please contact your band teacher with any questions.
Also, please note: bass guitar players are only allowed in Beginning, Jazz, and Concert Band. The Golden Eagle & Wind Symphony (our top bands) do not have electric bass guitar players but instead the students in these bands have learned to play upright bass.
MUSIC BOOK
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS 2000 Book #1 (for their instrument). Students might also want to have a music stand for practicing at home. There is also a code in the front of the book to access EEI online for additional practice materials.
INSTRUMENT RENTALS:
GOOD NEWS! It is not necessary to purchase an instrument immediately. Rather, you may rent instruments from local music stores. The cost for rentals is approximately $20 to $35 per month for flutes, clarinets, trombones and trumpets and $40 to $65 for Saxophones. Percussionists need mallets or sticks (size 2A or 5B) and a practice pad. Some stores also offer rent to own options.
It is important that you rent the highest quality instrument possible.
If you are looking to buy a new or used instrument, note the brand and feel free to ask Mrs. Homes or Mrs. McInnis. We want to ensure that your student is set up for success! For more information, click here for a quick FAQ on instruments.
Beginning Band Attire
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Band T-Shirt
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Black Pants or Skirt
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Black Socks or Tights
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Black Shoes (all black sneakers are ok)
Instrument Information
It is not necessary for your student to know what instrument they would like to play before starting Beginning Band. Usually, during the first few weeks of school your student will have the opportunity to try different instruments in the classroom.
However, if you want a head start, Mrs. Homes, Mrs. McInnis and the San Diego Music Studio have set up an instrument petting zoo so that they can work with your student to help them to determine which instrument they would like to play. Click here for more information on the petting zoo.