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Band info for 5th grade students

⚔️ Rice Incoming and new RJH Students ⚔️

Rice JH 6th grade BAND INFORMATION

for

5th grade parents & Students or new to rice CISD

Eagle Lake Intermediate • Garwood Elementary • Sheridan Elementary

How do I contact a Band Director at Rice Junior High?

Mr. Chitmon is the Director of Bands for Rice CISD and will be happy to answer all questions you may have regarding band at RJH, Instruments, Concerns about your child playing the instrument best for him or her, etc.

Mr. Chitmon can also help you with general questions you may have about Rice Junior High, not just band related questions.

How to contact Mr. Chitmon:

• Email: kchitmon@riceraiders.net

• Band Office: (979) 234-3531 Ext. 1908

Are there videos about band or band instruments I can watch with my child ?

Yes! The Raider Band YouTube Channel has a playlist dedicated to parents & students with short, but informative videos.

Check them out here!

Incoming 6th RJH Band Member Info • bit.ly/ricebandinfo

Raider Band YouTube Channel • bit.ly/riceraiderband

My child doesn't know how to read music or play an instrument...

There is no previous experience needed to be in 6th grade band at RJH! Most all band students start band with the same level of previous knowledge about band: Zero! None! Zilch! Nothing at all!

Will I have to help my child with their band homework like other classes?

I don’t know anything about music...

That’s ok! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.

How much time is required for band outside of school?

Band is no different than any other class your child will take at RJH. We only ask they spend some time playing their instrument each and every week. This can be done at home or in the band hall either before school or after school. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun!

What instrument will my child play?

The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important they play something they enjoy!

The Rice HS and JH Band Directors will be visiting with your child in late November through early December to help them choose which instrument may be best for them and their success as the newest member of the RJH Raider Beginning Band!

I encourage you to visit the website bit.ly/ricebandinfo, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. I will also help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability.

Your child knows what he/she wants, you know your child, and I know band - Together we will find the instrument that he/she will not only enjoy but will offer the best chance of musical success.

Isn't Band Expensive? What are the costs?

The costs associated with band depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you possibly already own an instrument. Rice CISD will always provide certain larger, more expensive instruments for student use from the school. For other smaller, less expensive instruments you can rent a quality instrument at a reasonable price from a local music store. Collins Music in El Campo is the most convenient for most Rice Band families.

Please DO NOT allow your household financial situation determine whether or not your child should participate in band! If your household finances and/or budget is a concern, please contact Mr. Chitmon so we may work together, in confidence to find the best solution for you and your child.

We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating. There are several options available other than renting from a music store for your child to play an instrument and be part of the Rice Raider Band!

Have more questions about band at RJH? Let Mr. Chitmon help you get you the answers you need!

kchitmon@riceraiders.net • ‭(979) 234-3531‬ Ext. 1908

or

Incoming Parents & Students are ALWAYS welcome to schedule a time after school to tour the

Rice HS/JH Band Hall Facility & visit with Mr. Chitmon.

🎉 Congratulations! 🎉

You've just made your best first decision as a new junior high student! We're excited for you to join our Raider Band Family

and can't wait to watch you learn & grow in the

Rice Raider Band!