I went to the local middle school band concert last night. My son, who is in Seventh Grade plays in the band (bass clarinet) and I went primarily to fulfill my parental obligation. Much to my surprise, I really had a good time. The show consisted of pieces performed by the seventh and eighth grade bands. Remember, these are 12 and 13-year old kids playing in a large band (almost a hundred students each). Perhaps it is my inability to read music that left me completely impressed with the performance of these kids. Performing relatively complex pieces (they played a medley of John Williams songs, The Monkees' I'm A Believer, and several other pieces) as part of a band can't be easy. While the size of the band does cover up some individual goof-ups, there can't be too many otherwise it would sound awful.
The band was for the most part coordinated and you may think me biased, but I honestly believe the seventh grade band was better than the eighth grade band. The entire performance got me thinking that such activities must be good for these kids. While I know it must develop some social or cognitive skill, I have no idea what it might be. I was proud of my son (when he practices at home, he actually sounds good!) and would love to hear from any of you how you think kids benefit from being part of the school band. Is there any skill or ability they learn that will serve them well once they're done with band? I guess it must help to know not only how to read music "on the fly" but also listen to other players at the same time to make sure you're in sync. Anyone have any other ideas?
1 comment:
Such skills build confidence. If you have confidence in yourself for one ability, you'll find it easier to excel in other things. It just builds and builds.
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