8TH GRADE PARENT INFO

8th Grade Students & Parent Info

8th NOTES! A message to 8th grade students and their parents

We welcome you and you’re soon to be high school student, to one of the most exciting and rewarding educational ventures our school has to offer – BAND or ORCHESTRA! Those of us who have chosen careers in this field have found many rewards which may not be apparent when one first considers, “Why should I be in Band/Orchestra?”

Recent statistics prove that young people who participate in music are among the academically strongest in their school.  Music students also have higher SAT score averages than their fellow non-music classmates. Their adult lives are filled with success which is a direct result of their band/orchestra experience: self-discipline, group cooperation, high self-esteem, understanding teamwork, developing a sense of persistence and performance confidence. Band/Orchestra can provide this foundation for your child.

As your child progresses in his/her understanding and command of the instrument, you will see how this same desire for excellence applies to every subject in school and serves as a training ground for dealing with many aspects of adult life.

The opportunity to enjoy a new level of communication and self-expression is the goal for every young musician. Creativity is within all of us, and the language of music serves as a perfect vehicle to allow this personal growth and development. For you, the chance to become involved is a bonus. We all know the importance of supporting our children in whatever they choose in life. You are encouraged to work with your child in this exciting learning process. Much can be said with music that is impossible to say with words.

Most of all, if your student enjoyed his/her Middle School music experience, he/she is going to LOVE music in High School. Some students are hesitant to sign up for High School music and this would be a HUGE mistake. You won’t know if you will like band unless you give High School    music a try first. Parents, please encourage your student to sign up for Band his/her 9th grade so your student won’t miss a great opportunity to continue music in his/her life with one of the finest music programs in the state of California.

Welcome to the world of High School music and the enjoyment of art!