In the Spring of 4th Grade

4th grade students at all elementary schools are introduced to the 5th grade band program during their regularly scheduled music classes. Students will have the opportunity to try out different instruments and choose one that suits them. Parents will attend an introductory meeting and then will enroll their student in the 5th grade band program.

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Early September

Parent can attend an Instrument Rental Night to attain instruments for their students for the year.

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Mid-September

The 5th Grade Band program will kick off with two evening lessons. Students will attend both of these lessons at the High School.

 

End-of-September

Morning lessons begin. 5th grade band students will have two morning classes a week at either IMS or MIHS –  one class with a specialist on their instrument, and one full band class. Classes are held 8:15 to 9:00 AM. Days of a particular students classes will be provided in September. Students generally ride the middle school buses to band class, and then MISD runs special buses to transport students from music classes to their elementary school.

 

Mid-October

All Island Band Night is truly a night to be remembered. It’s the 5th grade band’s debut at a Mercer Island High School Football game. The program starts with the 5th graders’ traditional rendition of “Hot Cross Buns”, includes performances by the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade bands, and concludes with a spectacular performance by the Mercer Island High School Band. With over 700 musicians on the field, it’s something parents look forward to year-after-year.

 

End-of-January

Parents attend a Band Curriculum Night at IMS to learn about the middle school band program.

 

Early June

The year concludes with the Spring Band Blast concert which showcases the 5th, 6th and 7th grade Bands.

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