Traveling in the Fast Lane!

Seems like ever since we got back from Spring Break, we've been on the fast track to our BIG concert on May 19! We're very busily preparing our 4 full-length feature pieces and 1 more full-length Family Band piece. Those band members who have family members that play instruments will want them to join in on the last song of our concert for something we call "Family Band." It's where family members will join in with the 5th and 6th graders! More information will be coming home about this soon. Please make sure that you have this concert marked on the calendar. Although there have been some optional performances lately, this concert is not optional. We need everyone there. The next few weeks, the bandlings will be coming home with quite a few papers. Here's a list of papers to be looking for within the next three weeks: 6th grade Band registration form: I'd love to see all the kids stick with band next year! It's such a great way to transition to a new school. With so many new and uncertain things in their middle school schedule, band is a place where they're sure to feel some familiarity and lots of friends! Band Camp flier and registration: The NMS band director (Mr. Nowickas) and I run a concert band camp for 6th-8th grade band members for one week in July (date still TBA) It runs Monday-Friday from 8am-Noon with a concert to showcase all that was worked on during the week on Friday evening. It's a great way for the 5th graders to meet some of the other incoming 5th graders and get to know Mr. Nowickas and the band room at NMS. I really hope you consider signing your bandling up for this great summer activity. Summer Private Lessons registration: All of the music staff in the district offer private lessons to those who are interested during the summer. Family Band participation: The last song that we play for our big concert on Thursday, May 19 will performed by a family band. This means that all family members that play a band instrument will be invited to join in! Turn this form in by the due date so that I can get music to those band members that would like to participate. Permission Slip for Bus Ride to NMS: On the day of the big concert (May 19...have you memorized that yet?) All of the 5th grade bandlings will take a bus after lunch and travel to NMS to have a combined rehearsal. The concert will not feature two 5th grade bands, but one hugmongus 5th grade band! We'll need to rehearse together once to get used to how it sounds. It's such an exciting time for us! I can't wait! If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to let me know.