Research of the past 20 years tells us that learning a musical instrument is one of the most valuable activities for a child’s developing brain. Opportunities to learn an instrument in school are very limited until 6th grade. This brings us to a really neat, and fairly new, organization called The Indianapolis Children’s Band.
According to Josh Ellis, The Indianapolis Children's Band Program Coordinator and West Division Director, the group was founded to provide opportunities to learn Band instruments where an opportunity did not currently exist. “This led us to developing the three levels we offer: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced for children from all educational backgrounds (public, private, and home schools)."
The Beginning Level
This level is open to children in 1st through 5th grade. Mr. Ellis noted that “We (the teachers) focus on teaching the students how to correctly make a sound, play the first 3-5 notes, how to read music, how to read and play basic etudes, and how to play a few songs. After each of these classes, we invite the parents in to hear where the students are at in their progression and discuss what to practice for the upcoming week. The first time we play a sound or a song for the parents it is always an existential moment to watch the parents react with surprise and joy and what their child is able to do!”
Students may play any traditional band instrument (Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Sax, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone (Euphonium), Tuba, or Percussion (West division only). For the younger students who don’t already have an instrument, we recommend ‘small-hands’ instruments. These are instruments made of a plexiglass/plastic composite that make the instruments much lighter and more durable than their traditional counterparts. These instruments (Nuvo Flute, Clarineo, pTrumpet, and pBone) are also cheaper options that make learning a band instrument more accessible to the younger children.
The Intermediate Level
Intermediate Band is open to children in 2nd through 8th grade who can play their first five notes. These are students who already took the beginning level, or students who are in a beginning band at their school and want more time playing their instruments. “In this environment, we are concerned with learning and playing music (songs). This provides extra motivation for the developing students. We bring out fundamentals of playing in a group and build on the fundamentals that they already know. Students in this group participate in a side-by-side experience with a local community band and will need to practice on their own to progress.”
The Advanced Band
The advanced level is open to children in 2nd through 8th grade who can play a full octave, and have played their instrument for at least a year. “This group will play a wide variety of band music, and have several performance opportunities in the spring. Our intention is that this group will become a haven for great experiences for students who like to play band instruments.
The ICB has two locations this year: Avon and Greenfield. Spring performances will combine the two locations to create a larger band performance that will be something special to behold!
Parents can register their child at www.childrensband.org. Practices begin the week of September 15th.
