Q: What are the different band instruments you teach?
A: VEMS Beginner band teaches trumpet, trombone, euphonium, flute, clarinet and saxophone. For grade 4 learners, we restrict this to trumpet, flute and clarinet because the other instruments are too big normally for grade 4 children.
Q: How do I rent an instrument?
A: VEMS has a preferred supplier that we recommend, but a parent may use any source for one of the instruments.
Q: Should our family rent an instrument or buy one?
A: We recommend renting at first as students’ preferences change.
Q: How does our child pick an instrument?
A: At the beginning of the session, a survey is sent to families to choose their top three choices of instruments offered. The VEMS team tries its best to assign #1 preference. However, we cannot have a band all of, say, flutes.
Q: How often does my child need to practice?
A: Short daily practice of 10 to 15 minutes will make the world of difference. The band instructors will provide what to practice. Providing a safe space to practice helps children remember to practice.
Q: Does my child need to read music?
A: No. We don’t have any prerequisites for reading music.