6th Grade Band
The Ludington Area Schools 6th Grade band is comprised of students beginning their 6th grade year from Foster Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, Ludington Area Catholic, Covenant Christian and individual home schooled students. All Ludington 6th grade students during the first two weeks of school have a chance to meet both directors as they travel to each school to answer any questions pertaining to the Ludington Band Department.
All 6th grade students are individually tested on recognizing rhythm and melody during this two week period. After testing is done, a date is selected for instrument fitting. The fitting is a chance for students to play one of the four instruments (flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone) that Ludington starts students on. The students are observed by music professionals and are recommended for an instrument that both suits their physical features and their aural strengths. The fitting is done by Masteller Music from Battle Creek, MI. The fitting takes no more than 20 minutes and is done right in the band room. Students start band the week following the fitting. Auditions are held in late January for other instruments such as saxophone, percussion and tuba. Selection for these instruments are based on attendance, work ethic and their ability to play the current instrument. A schedule is then posted to tell students when to come based on their instrument. A bus schedule is also posted. Morning transportation to the school is provided by the parent or by taking an early bus on a high school route. Transportation after class to the student’s respective school is provided by the district.
The band hour starts after school at 2:45pm and ends at 3:25pm. Students will be involved in two concerts throughout the year, one in December and one in May. Throughout the year these new musicians work diligently to hone their skills to enable them to perform and move on to their 7th grade band experience. Parent involvement is the key to the student’s success. Practice and commitment will enable our band students to realize their full potential.