So your Child Wants to Play a String Instrument

The adventure begins…

Everything you need to know to get started

Halifax Schools String Program

Consists of 2 classes/week (violin or cello)Grade 3 to 6 at your schoolGrade 7-9 All City Orchestras + school

ensemble+class (3 clases/week)

(add viola & bass)

Grade 10-12 Orchestra+ class+ theoryString students can join All City groups including HSSO, Honour Violin, FiddleFax Choirs and Jazz Groups

Parent/Guardian’s Role

Set a practice schedule, sign reports, LISTEN to your child Help with tuning and problem solvingSupport child with their Long term

commitment to the programEncourage and praiseAsk questions

Student’s Role

Set a practice schedule, fill in reports, Attend all lessonsBe preparedAsk questionsDon’t give upHave fun!!

Teacher’s Role

Motivate and encourageAdapt instruction Develop students skillsAnswer any questionsProvide Performance Opportunities

The Dynamic Flow

Teacher

Learner

Home

Consistent communication is key!

The Fine Print

Where do we begin??

Cost

Parents provide instrument (rental or purchase), method book and incidental expenses.

Incidental expenses include rosin, strings, music stand, tuner, shoulder rest or floor anchor.

Instruction is a benefit of supplemental funding. You have paid already!

Rent or Purchase ???

RentRental office and

teacher provide maintenance and support

Swap sizesLoaners available

PurchaseParent responsible for

all maintenance Choice of bow and

caseAvailable to others in

family

Buying a string instrument

Please consult string teacher before purchasing an instrument

Correct sizing for your childHigh quality instruments are easier to playBetter sounding instruments sustain

student interest.

An alternative to purchase

Halifax Music Centre has a large inventory of high quality string instruments in many sizes available for rental at modest cost.

We have all sizes available.

We have all sizes available.

We have all sizes available.

Rental Office

Cost is $120.00 for school year.Insurance (add a rider to household /

tenants’ insurance)

Notes to students

Responsibility, respect, and cooperationCare and Pride of “ownership”Your instrument is not a toy.Read and follow teachers’ special

instructions.

Rental Office – 3rd Floor QEC

Hours and location

Your Pick-up Night

Thursday, October 7th

anytime between

3:30 pm and 7:30 pm

Class Times:

Grade 3 Violin

Thursdays 10:45 – 11:45 am

Fridays 11:55 am – 1:05 pm

First Class: Thursday, October14thGrade 4/5 Cello

Mondays 1:15 – 2:15 pm

Tuesdays 11:55 am – 1:05 pm

First Class: Tuesday, October 12th