This One Time at Band Camp

Over the past 3 weeks, Eric and Jonathan have had 3 field trips related to transitioning to Middle School next year.  Two of these were Band related field trips, as band is one elective offered to 6th grade students.  First, they were treated to a mini-concert by the 8th grade band.  Then, they went to the Middle School to 'try out' different instruments with one of the band/music teachers with Mandan.  The teacher assessed each student on a variety of different aspects, then gave a score for the instrument.  If you received a score of 3 or 4 on an instrument, it was 'recommended' for you.

Next fall, we will have these 2 instruments practiced in our home.  Our own jazz band!

Eric tried out for percussion and trumpet.  He earned a score of '3' for percussion.  He says he 'failed' the trumpet :-).  Seems like a fitting instrument for him.  He got his first drum set the day before his 1st birthday.  He was a natural!

Jonathan tried out for alto saxophone, trombone, and flute (yes....the flute....no idea where that came from).  He earned a 4 on the sax, 3 on the trombone, and 'failed' the flute (thank the Lord.....I am not particularly fond of the sound of the flute).  He originally was not interested in signing up for band, but since he got a perfect score on the saxophone, he thought that would be a good thing to pursue.
I do not have any pictures of Jonathan playing alto sax a day before his first birthday, but wouldn't that be cool if I did?

Apparently Mandan has a pretty good music dept.  Sadly, I really don't know much about it, as I have never attending any of their concerts.  They have a unique set up for 6th grade band.  They teach each instrument group separately, instead of all band members being in one group.  Bismarck Public Schools is even bringing our Band instructors to give a seminar on how to teach band this way, as they are interested in changing their methods of teaching band.

To add to the fun, Megan is on a waiting list for piano lessons, and could possibly be starting next year.  It will be a noisy home.