What instruments are allowed in the HMS Bands?

The Heatherwood Bands build skills on the following instruments: flute, oboe (usually beginning in 7th grade), Bb soprano clarinet (which will provide skills for the entire clarinet family), alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone (beginning in 7th grade - please ask about exceptions), trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba , and percussion (mallets, snare, timpani, bass drum, accessories). NOTE: Beginning percussion students must start on a wind instrument and audition after the first performance.

Alto sax, tenor sax, baritone sax, trumpet, trombone, guitar, bass guitar, upright (acoustic) bass, piano, and drumset are welcomed into our Jazz Band following a successful audition in September.

Where can I get an instrument?

You can find instruments in local music stores, on-line, in classified ads, in pawn shops, in thrift stores, at garage sales, and from family members. Please be aware that instrument quality, service, and warranty are issues that you should consider. If you have questions about a pending purchase, please feel free to contact Mr. Lundquist for his input.

Heatherwood Middle School has some of the larger band instruments which can be rented on an annual (school year) basis. These instruments are bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, french horn, baritone, and tuba. These larger instruments are usually reserved for 7th or 8th graders, but please contact Mr. Lundquist for availability and options.

What if I want to upgrade my child's instrument?

Many older middle school students and their families want to upgrade their band instrument. I recommend that as a family you consider these questions:

· Has the student demonstrated a commitment to practicing already? Sometimes a student will tend to practice more on a new instrument, but that is not guaranteed in the purchase price!

· Is the student intending to play in band only through middle school or continue through high school?

· What level of instrument do we want to purchase? Band instruments are usually designated as "Beginner" (starter instrument), "Intermediate" (after 2-5 years of playing), and "Professional" (appropriate for self-motivated, diligent middle schoolers through college players).

 

Parents, please contact me before you consider purchasing an instrument! Some instruments are simply not needed in the HMS bands; other instruments are sold as "professional" quality, but are actually lower quality; other instruments are simply junk. I can help you make a wise investment.

 

What about Jazz Band?

Jazz Band is an "extra opportunity" for self-motivated students and their families. Students in 7th grade or 8th grade are eligible to audition for Jazz Band. Jazz Band usually meets 2-4 days a week 7:30 - 8:05 AM in the Heatherwood Band Room and we perform at a variety of school and community events. Auditions are held in September.

The HMS Jazz Band is a learning group which focuses on building a strong foundation of jazz fundamentals: articulations, improvising, sectional playing, stage presence, etc. We will performa at a few local festivals.

My child wants a greater challenge; what "above and beyond" opportunities are there for motivated band students?

Our bands are full of students who want to do "more"! Here are some ideas...

• With a SmartMusic subscription, students can work on music for next year, for high school, or even for college. Occasionally in band we look at up-coming playing targets and students can always work ahead in SmartMusic at their own pace.
  

   
• Students can learn all major scales and all minor scales before the end of middle school. We will work on major scales in 6th, 7th and 8th grade and minor scales in 7th and 8th grade. But your child can learn these crucial skills at his or her own pace right now! When they accomplish these scales, there are plenty more to master.
  

   
• Many students love to compose music. There is free music notation software available for download. Just have your child ask Mr. Lundquist for the information.
  

   

• All HMS Band members are encouraged to participate in the Mt. Pilchuck Music Educators' Solo & Ensemble Contest held in May. This is a classic solo/ensemble contest: play for a judge who will award one of three levels of distinction.
  

   
• Jazz Band is our only audition group at Heatherwood Middle School. Self-motivated & committed 7th and 8th graders who play standard jazz instruments are invited to audition in September.

• Private music lessons are the single most impacting activity which can provide extra challenge and greatly enhance your child's band experience

 

Learn more about Band instruments and what it's like to be in band at www.bepartofthemusic.org

 

Contact Mr. Lundquist at 425-385-6461 or mlundquist@everettsd.org