Welcome, New Wolverines!
Students: Watch This First |
Adults: Watch This First |
Six Reasons to be in Band or Orchestra
Music Electives at Benton
As Benton is a Visual-and-Performing-Arts Magnet, we value providing our students with a well-rounded education, including a well-rounded arts education. It is important for middle schoolers to try new or different things. As such, all 6th graders enroll in at least one music elective. No prior experience is necessary– students will learn everything they need to know to be successful in our music classes.
Students in music classes are able to take other electives simultaneously thanks to our 4x4 block schedule. Many of our music students are involved in other activities and organizations on campus as well, such as ASB (Associated Student Body), sports, theater, cheer, clubs, etc.
Music electives offered at Benton include Band, Orchestra, Guitar, and Choir, as well as our unique Labs. For more information about Benton's musical course offerings please refer to the Course Catalog.
Musical Instruments
All students who are enrolled in an instrumental music course (Band, Orchestra, or Guitar) will need a musical instrument. Choir students do not need an instrument.
In general, there are three ways of providing your student with an instrument.
1. Rent [recommended]: Imperial Band Instruments, Morey's Music, and other local vendors offer affordable, high-quality rentals. Contact them directly to arrange for a rental. You can also rent from Music & Arts. Benefits of renting include:
2. Own: Some students may already have their own instruments (hand-me-down from an older sibling or relative, etc.) or some parents may choose to purchase instruments for their students. It is strongly recommended that you consult with the student's music teacher prior to purchasing an instrument.
3. Borrow: Some students may need to borrow an instrument from the school. School-owned instruments are available on a first-come, first-served basis for students whose families cannot afford to provide them with an instrument in any other manner. No one will be turned away– every student who wants or needs an instrument will have access to one.
Choosing an Instrument
Many new music students are not yet sure what instrument they would like to play. That's ok! We learn about the different instrument options for each class during the first week of school and some students may have an opportunity to "try out" some different instruments in a safe and sanitary manner.
In general, students get to choose their instrument. It is important that your child loves their instrument– if not, they are unlikely to practice! However, there may be some instances where a student is asked to play their second or third choice instrument. Musical ensembles are “team sports” and, just as a baseball team with 17 pitchers and no outfielders would not win very many games, a band with 17 percussionists and no flutes would not sound very good!
New students are encouraged to spend some time on our Be Part of the Music recruiting page exploring the different instrument options and utilizing the Instrument Matching Tool.
All students interested in percussion must complete and submit the Instrument Matching Tool prior to enrollment.
Questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance with anything at all, please do not hesitate to reach out to Mr. Summers (Band & Orchestra) or Ms. Lin (Guitar & Choir).
- It can make you smarter: Scientific research has shown that musical training builds intellectual skills, raises IQs, improves memory, and develops creativity.
- It teaches self-discipline: Music students learn that if they apply themselves, they can master a skill and achieve results they want. Learning to play a musical instrument teaches self-discipline, the value of persistence, and the rewards of hard work.
- It can increase your self-esteem: Music is a self-expression. Performing music in public, individually, and as a member of a group, builds confidence. Making music means every musician plays a part that is important to the group.
- It can relieve stress: Music helps calm the mind. It's been shown that music students experience less test- and performance-anxiety than students who don't study music. And according to studies, college-age musicians are emotionally healthier than non-musicians.
- It provides travel opportunities: Band and Orchestra members travel often-- for various Festival performances, concerts, and other events.
- It’s fun & social: Playing music in a group teaches teamwork, ways of working together, and the joy and rewards of group accomplishment. Band and Orchestra members share efforts and experiences, and often become friends for life.
Music Electives at Benton
As Benton is a Visual-and-Performing-Arts Magnet, we value providing our students with a well-rounded education, including a well-rounded arts education. It is important for middle schoolers to try new or different things. As such, all 6th graders enroll in at least one music elective. No prior experience is necessary– students will learn everything they need to know to be successful in our music classes.
Students in music classes are able to take other electives simultaneously thanks to our 4x4 block schedule. Many of our music students are involved in other activities and organizations on campus as well, such as ASB (Associated Student Body), sports, theater, cheer, clubs, etc.
Music electives offered at Benton include Band, Orchestra, Guitar, and Choir, as well as our unique Labs. For more information about Benton's musical course offerings please refer to the Course Catalog.
Musical Instruments
All students who are enrolled in an instrumental music course (Band, Orchestra, or Guitar) will need a musical instrument. Choir students do not need an instrument.
In general, there are three ways of providing your student with an instrument.
1. Rent [recommended]: Imperial Band Instruments, Morey's Music, and other local vendors offer affordable, high-quality rentals. Contact them directly to arrange for a rental. You can also rent from Music & Arts. Benefits of renting include:
- Try before you buy!
- Generally newer, better quality than school-owned instruments
- Free repairs!
2. Own: Some students may already have their own instruments (hand-me-down from an older sibling or relative, etc.) or some parents may choose to purchase instruments for their students. It is strongly recommended that you consult with the student's music teacher prior to purchasing an instrument.
3. Borrow: Some students may need to borrow an instrument from the school. School-owned instruments are available on a first-come, first-served basis for students whose families cannot afford to provide them with an instrument in any other manner. No one will be turned away– every student who wants or needs an instrument will have access to one.
Choosing an Instrument
Many new music students are not yet sure what instrument they would like to play. That's ok! We learn about the different instrument options for each class during the first week of school and some students may have an opportunity to "try out" some different instruments in a safe and sanitary manner.
In general, students get to choose their instrument. It is important that your child loves their instrument– if not, they are unlikely to practice! However, there may be some instances where a student is asked to play their second or third choice instrument. Musical ensembles are “team sports” and, just as a baseball team with 17 pitchers and no outfielders would not win very many games, a band with 17 percussionists and no flutes would not sound very good!
New students are encouraged to spend some time on our Be Part of the Music recruiting page exploring the different instrument options and utilizing the Instrument Matching Tool.
All students interested in percussion must complete and submit the Instrument Matching Tool prior to enrollment.
Questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance with anything at all, please do not hesitate to reach out to Mr. Summers (Band & Orchestra) or Ms. Lin (Guitar & Choir).