Contact teachers
Anja Schiebold
Vanessa Kwai
What do we offer in our Music program?
In grades 5 and 6 we offer the opportunity to play in a band and learn an instrument within the framework of the regular music lessons. Two grade fifth classes (5a and 5b) will be established as a Band-Profile-Class throughout fifth and sixth grade.
What is the concept of a band class?
In the band, we will teach all students an instrument over the course of the two years. This does not require any prior knowledge of music or the instrument. All of the classes follow the principle of „Teach music by making music “, therefore all lessons will showcase a very hands-on approach to learning an instrument. It’s also a great opportunity for personal growth as making music together greatly improves one’s ability to concentrate and to perform well in group settings. Every success is a success for the whole group!
Which instruments are available for my child?
Trombone, Trumpet, Baritone Horn, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Flute (Querflöte), Clarinet and Percussion Instruments.
How is the Instrumental Music taught?
Ms Schiebold (Woodwinds), Mr. Gutowski (Brass Instruments) and Ms Kwai (Percussion) are teaching the children at the beginning from grade 5 to play their instruments in small groups. After Fall vacation we bring the groups together as a band. Small group (register) lessons will continue throughout the course.
Does the school offer other instrumental lessons within the school time?
There are extra-curricular offers for or all Band-Instruments at NMS. Please talk to the music teachers.
How many Bands does the school have?
Each grade level has its own band. Those who learn an instrument in the 5th Grade become the 5th Grade Band. In the following year they will become the 6th Grade Band.
Does the school provide instruments for the children?
Yes. A yearly fee of 80€ is charged for the instrument.
What does the rental fee of 80€ cover?
The fee includes the insurance of the instruments, minor and occasionally major repairs, drumheads, cases for the instruments, oil, mouthpieces, reeds, cleaning supplies etc. Not included are repairs caused by neglect or damage done intentionally. The rental fee of 80€ is very low with regard to the high quality of our instruments. Books and music are provided by the NMS educational fund.
Am I responsible for the repairs of the instrument?
The teaching team is responsible for the general maintenance and repairs. It would greatly help us if damaged instruments could be brought to the repair shop (please talk to us).
The teaching team is responsible for the general maintenance and repairs. It would greatly help us if damaged instruments could be brought to the repair shop (please talk to us).
Is financial assistance available?
Please contact the „Friends of NMS“ (Förderverein), as some financial assistance is available. In addition there is an official “Bildungs- und Teilhabe Paket” that could provide some support.
What happens if my child does not get the instrument of his/her choice?
If your child does not get the instrument he or she wants, you have the possibility to rent an instrument from a music shop. We would ask you to consider the importance of a balance among the various band instruments.
Is it important for the children to practice on their own between the band classes?
Yes, very important! We use the method book “Essential Elements” for Band. It includes a practice CD/DVD. The children should practice at home with the playbacks which meanwhile are available online as well.
Do the children get graded for Band-Music Lessons?
Yes, the children are graded on individual abilities to play the instrument, knowledge of music theory (assessed in a written test), playing and performing in an ensemble.
Is it possible to change to another instrument?
In some cases, yes. Since we teach group lessons, we only have very little time to provide children with individual lessons on a new instrument. The child must have private lessons outside of the school music program.
Will there be concerts?
There will be a Winter Concert (December or January) – usually the new 5th Grade Band is ready to perform by then – and a Summer Concert before the Summer holidays begin. Other possibilities include school activities (i.e. Assemblies or Spring Festival)
Are the children required to perform at the Concerts?
Yes! The purpose and goal of the Band is to present their repertoire at the concerts. All children are required to be present. Concert dates will be announced well in advance. Any absentee exceptions are to be presented in writing.
What happens after Grade 6?
In recent years the program went on to grade levels 7 and 8. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. Students have the opportunity to join the workshop ‘Schulorchester’ in secondary school. We will try to extend the workshops on offer in the future.
Fotos: 1-3, 5 Florian Lonicer; 4, 6 Thomas Langlotz