I am interested to hear as many different ideas as you all have to help change a negative image held by students at school concerning the band. I realize there is no single panacea and that all situations are unique, but if anyone has any thoughts on this matter, I would be greatly appreciative.
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Turning around a negative image of band
Started by dtaylor87, Oct 01 2012 02:25 PM
2 replies to this topic
#2
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- Gender:Male
- Location:Hannibal Public Schools, Missouri
- Interests:Horn playing - I also teach college applieds; running, weight lifting, family
Posted 26 October 2012 - 05:13 PM
This may sound simplistic but I have been in this situation and you start by getting beginners to think you are really cool and that band is cool. Recruit heavily the kids who are deemed the leaders and others follow. This takes a few years and a few beginner classes in a row where this is done and within 5 years, you can see growth. If you can bring one of your older ensembles to the elementary school(s) and have those in the band who are out for a sport wear their jerseys or a shirt that identifies their sport, youngsters can see that they can be in band and sports. Constant communication via email, phone, and snail mail to parents regarding band happenings and positive feedback about their kids is a tremendous tool.
Do you have support from administrators for your program?
Do you have support from administrators for your program?
Michael Saul
Band Director
Hannibal Middle School
Hannibal, MO 63401
Band Director
Hannibal Middle School
Hannibal, MO 63401
#3
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Posted 18 February 2013 - 06:32 PM
I think the suggestions above are good ones. Band has to be "cool" and in order for it to be cool, the cool kids have to be in there. It does take awhile to change a negative image, and some years are going to be harder than others in that respect. It has to be fun; the kids have to know you want them there and that you value them being there, too.
