Five Ways Parents Can Help Their Band and Orchestra Student Succeed

Band and orchestra programs are excellent outlets for kids to work at something and see the results! Here are some ways parents can set their child up for success as they begin or continue their musical journey.

1. Ensure your band and orchestra student has the necessary materials

Keep an eye out for the list of recommended materials that the band or orchestra director will send out at the beginning of the year. Method books, cleaning supplies, reeds, rosins, and music stands are an example of items that may be on the list. Once you have the list, visit your local music instrument store for help on picking out the items that will best suit your child and fit your budget.

2. Make your band and orchestra student’s practice time a priority

Practicing at home will help both band and orchestra students improve their skills and retain what they're learning in class. Schedule a time to practice so that it becomes part of your student's daily and weekly routine. Helping your students create a fun and functional practice environment at home is key to facilitating their at home practice.

And if your student is comfortable, pull up a chair and listen to your students while they practice. Feel free to ask questions about what they’re working on, their favorite songs or scales, or what challenges they might be facing in case you can help them find solutions. Some directors will have at home practice guides for their band and orchestra students, so feel free to reach out in case they have some additional resources!

Get creative! After a few months of playing, students can begin to experiment with fun genres of sheet music to supplement their method books. Are they a Taylor Swift fan? Disney? Star Wars? Your local music store will have a huge library of sheet music to explore.

3. Encourage your band and orchestra student’s musical progress

There may be times when your student feels overwhelmed or discouraged about their musical progress. This frustration is natural, and as parents, it can be hard to see. Continue to encourage them by complementing their progress and helping them to set realistic expectations. Positive feedback will nurture your student's confidence and keep them interested in playing.

Keep in touch with your student’s music teacher regarding their progress. If your student is struggling, their teacher can provide advice and will appreciate parents showing a desire to help strengthen their band and orchestra students musical development.

4. Private lessons for band and orchestra students

Private lessons can be a wonderful way to encourage your band and orchestra student's musical journey even further. Before signing up for lessons, either virtually or in-person, check with your band or orchestra teacher to see if they have any suggestions on which skills they recommend the student work on.

PM Music Center offers fun and engaging private lessons in a safe environment along with performance opportunities. Lessons are one-on-one with the instructor and are typically 30 minutes each.

5. Support your music educators and their program

A great way to support your band and orchestra student is by supporting their teachers and the school music program. Many school music programs hold fundraisers throughout the year to help pay for new instruments or other materials. By participating in fundraisers, whether through volunteering or donating, you help strengthen the program your student is a part of. Some schools also have music booster organizations that support the music program in a variety of ways!