Dear Parents of Sixth Grade Students,
Greetings from the band department! Please allow me to introduce myself once
again. My name is Kris Olderman and I’m the sixth grade band director here in New
Berlin. Today I was able to speak to your child’s classroom about being a sixth grade
band member. You are receiving this letter now because your son or daughter has
expressed an interest in being a part of the band this year. I have had the opportunity to
speak with your child on an individual basis about band and we have discussed which
instrument your son or daughter may wish to play.
When selecting the right instrument for each individual student, I take the
following into consideration. First, which instrument the student personally prefers,
second, which instrument the student will be physically the most successful in playing,
and third, the basic instrumentation needs of the band as a whole. In order to make sure
all of these goals are met, you may see that your son or daughter has either one or two
instrument choices listed on the enclosed sheet. All students wishing to play either
percussion or saxophone must list an alternate instrument as a second choice. The reason
for this is, due to the popularity of these instruments, I must set a limit on the number of
students for each of these sections. If there happens to be a large number of students
interested in either one of those instruments, a set number of students will be selected
based on a lottery system. All students interested will have an equal opportunity to play
their first choice instrument. Many times students find band to be very enjoyable no
matter what instrument they are playing! Also, for your information, saxophone rentals
are the most expensive. For percussionists, I prefer some piano experience, if possible.
I have encouraged any student who is interested in being in band to sign up today.
I firmly believe that any student is capable of being successful in the band program as
long as they are willing to put forth the hard work and dedication. Also, students are able
to participate in both the orchestra and the band program in sixth grade.
Thank you for your time and consideration of the band program for your son or
daughter. I feel that your child will find band to be an enriching, exciting experience, and
will allow them to develop a skill that they will be able to use for the rest for their lives.
Sincerely,
Kris Olderman
6th Grade Band Director
New Berlin Public Schools
(262) 789 – 6590 ext. 2646
Kristin.olderman@nbexcellence.org
Please return this form to the band room (a folder will be on the door)
by Thursday, September 10th. Please check the bottom line only if it has
been decided that your child no longer wishes to participate.
I understand that my son/daughter____________________________
(name)
is interested in joining band.
Instrument selections: CHOICE #1__________________________
CHOICE #2__________________________
Signed___________________________________________
If necessary, I prefer to be contacted by:
___ Phone - number____________________________
Or
___ e-mail – address____________________________
___We have decided against our son/daughter being a part of the band
program.