Whether you saw MASH band perform during their packed Holiday Concert, or not, you’re in luck! The band will perform again on June 16th, 2015, with the Chorus.
Eighty two kids are participating in band this year. Mr. Ralph Idarola, the new band teacher, has been working hard with Patrick and Mr. L, Yale student musicians, to help our students practice their instruments.
Mr. Idarola and his band students are being quiet about what songs we will hear at the concert. Mr. Idarola said, “No details will be given about the music for the concert, you have to be there to find out!
Band practice is done by instrument and grade level. Some students sign up and practice during morning band from 8-9:15 or do pull-outs during the school day.
A total of between 1-5 kids usually show up in the morning. Mr. Idarola recommends that students practice at home for at least 15 minutes a day.
Students get to pick what they want to play, and if they don’t like their choice, they can abandon it and pick a new one.
This year, students had the chance to pick strings for the first time. There are ten violin players and one viola player.
4th grader Sarah Murray says, “I wanted to try something new.” Also 4th grader Kaylee Bacchus says “I think violin is an interesting and cool instrument.”
According to Mr. Idarola, the most popular instrument is clarinet because it is one of the easier instruments to learn and also most fun.
He also says the hardest instrument is the trombone. It is because “you have to move your lips to make different sounds.”
The least played instrument is oboe.
4th grader Marcus Duff Says “Band is a great experience. Mr. I is a great teacher.” Martin Duff added that band is fun and I learn a lot.