How to Keep the Beginning Band Momentum Going

Now that beginning band has kicked off, students are making their glorious first sounds and learning their first notes. Band class is getting into the groove and, hopefully, routines and procedures are in place.

If your students started in late August or early September, perhaps some of the newness and excitement has now been replaced with frustration. The reality of beginning band has set in, and students are starting to realize that it is challenging! Winter concerts seem so far away, and often students could use some motivation or a goal to work toward that is a little closer than December.

Consider adding an "In-formance" to your fall schedule. This could be a stand-alone performance or, if your beginners are in a school with upper-level band students, their In-formance could be part of the fall concert. An In-formance is a "no pressure" concert where students are allowed to make mistakes and the music does not need to be polished.

The purpose is to show the student body, or parents, how much the students have already learned. This can include how to put the instrument together, correct posture, how to tap their toe, and even correct embouchure. They can demonstrate how to play their first note or play a warmup on the mouthpiece. If you have a few lines of music ready to play for the audience, go for it.

I also highly suggest teaching the students a brand-new line in the method book right there in front of everyone. This shows the audience how the kids learn and gives them a real look into what beginning band is like.

If you can’t fit an In-formance into your fall schedule, consider inviting classroom teachers, a general music class, or your principal to your room to demonstrate the techniques mentioned above. It will go a long way in keeping students motivated during these crucial early days of beginning band.