String and Band News

Anne Arundel County is pleased to offer instrumental music lessons to students in grades 3 – 5.  These classes meet during the school day and are free of charge.  Strings instruction is offered on violin, viola, cello, and bass to students in third through fifth grades.  Instruction on band instruments (flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, french horn, baritone, and percussion) is available to fourth and fifth grade students.  Percussion instruction will cover the entire percussion family, therefore those students will need bell kits.

Learning to play an instrument and belonging to the school orchestra or band opens up a whole new world of friendship and fun. Instrumental music provides a great foundation for your child in all aspects of life.  In addition to music, students learn self-discipline, group cooperation, problem-solving, goal-setting, self-expression, memory skills, concentration, poise, enhanced physical coordination, high self-esteem, and the importance of teamwork - skills in great demand in almost every aspect of life. 

Like all the arts, music has a profound effect on the academic success of students as well.  A variety of research shows that music students are among the academically strongest in their schools and score higher on the SAT than other students.  Most colleges and universities now look for more than good grades on an applicant’s transcript.  They want well-rounded students who have been able to accomplish more than just textbook knowledge.