Beginning Band

The Beginning Band is the organization which lays the foundation for the entire Instrumental Music Program and is open to any District 140 fifth grader who expresses interest in learning to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument.  Beginning Band members participate in two concerts during the school year.

Recruitment is held annually in September to enlist for membership. The dates for 2024 are Wednesday, September 25 and Thursday, September 26. Previous instrumental music experience is not required. General requirements include a desire to excel musically and a willingness to conform to the District 140 Band Guidelines. Mr. Szczasny, Mr. Hodges, and Mr. Forlenza team-teach the Beginning Band.

Each Beginning Band member receives a 30 minute lesson at his/her home elementary school per week. In addition to the weekly lesson, all Beginning Band members join together for an hour long "full band" rehearsal. Students can attend the Monday after school practice at Grissom (4:15 to 5:15 PM) or the Tuesday after school practice at Prairie View (4:15 to 5:15 PM).