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The Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau Band program begins late in the fourth grade year with several activities designed to introduce students to the various instruments. Some of these activities include instrument tryout days, special performances by the high school and middle school bands, and an information night to help educate both students and parents about the benefits and responsibilities of participating in the band program.
Students begin instruction on band instruments during a three week summer school class, taught in groups of ten to fifteen students grouped by instrument. The progress of students through this daily attention is amazing and sets us up for a great start in the fall.
The first concert is always a showcase of our fifth grade musicians' new found talent. Not only do the bands perform as a group for the first time, but they also demonstrate their ability and enthusiasm through solos, duets, and small ensembles. The sixth grade offers their perspective as "veterans" on their instruments through exciting full band arrangements and holiday medleys.
The pinnacle of the year is the annual combined elementary concert held the Tuesday before Easter. Students get the chance to meet their future middle school classmates and make wonderful music in a very large group setting. Audience response is always very enthusiastic, adding to the thrill of performing in this awesome concert.
After the combined concert we begin to say goodbye to the sixth grade band members and begin to prepare them for the new challenges of middle school
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