FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions:
This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents:
How old does a child have to be to play an instrument?
This depends on the child, his or her interest level, his or her reading
ability, attention, and coordinaton dexterity, and the instrument.
Please see me if you are considering an instrument and I will be glad to
interview your child.
How much should I practice my instrument
A good rule for kids 3rd grade and up is about a half hour a day on lessons
and more if desired to play for fun. Children younger than 3rd grade should
practice about 20 minutes a day. Practice should be at a regular time of day
whenever possible. If you miss a day, just get back to it as soon as
possible. ( This is a good Bible Study practice as well!)
How does my child qualify for band?
Band is a wonderful team experience that will help your child grow in real life skills. Kids interested in being in the band need to audition with Mrs. Turner. Generally students can participate in their 2nd year. We can accomodate almost any instrument in our band if the student is faithfully practicing and ready. Preferred instruments are woodwinds (flute, trumpet, sax, clarinet), brass (trumpet, trombone, tuba, french horn), percussion(snare or set), guitar and string bass. More advanced piano players may also participate. Band is a privilege and is open to students in grades 3-8 who take regular instrument lessons, whether or not they take school lessons. Entry into FCA Band is subject to instrument balance and by audition only. Band student will be required to purchase the music we need for band unless it is borrowed from DCMEA. It is expected that band members will participate for at least 1/2 school year, since we depend on and need one another to make the band work. All County band and Jazz band participants will be selected from the FCA band. See Mrs. Turner if you are considering being part of band.Do you know of a good piano tuner?If you need a good piano tuner, call me (462-0266) at school and leave me a message and your email or phone number and I will give you a few recommendations.Where can I rent or buy an instrument?
I have several recommendations, depending on the instrument you are considering. Please call me at school and we can discuss this.Who services instruments?Diefes and Mikolajeski on Rt 44
Is it better to rent or buy an instrument?I personally believe it is better to buy an instrument if you can afford it. Most instruments, if well cared for, will last 20 or so years and can be resold for most of the purchase price. The exception is rental to see if an instrument is right for your child. I would recommend this for up to 6 months. Rental costs are not recoverable and rental prices toward a purchase often cause the item to be overpriced. Also be careful with brands and ebay purchases. Please see me if you are considering a purchase. I can talk to you about what to look for. I encourage prayer for all these decisions.