Band at École John Stubbs
Our band program focusses on the Concert Band setting, but we have a lot of fun playing a whole variety of music! Students in the band program have class twice a week in the timetable. For the 2023/2024 school year, beginning band 6 & 7 will run, as well as grade 8 band.
Frequently asked questions
Band Classes:
Beginning Band 6 & 7: We are so happy that band 6 will be coming back in the 2023/2024 school year! As we had a one year hiatus from band, Band 6 and 7 will both be run as beginning band, where we will learn all the technique and reading basics together from square one. No experience necessary!
Band 8: Band and/or music experience is strongly recommended. Students without band experience should speak to Mme Daykin to make a plan for getting caught up.
All classes run in the timetable during "Arts Block" which means students choose between band and art. Band students do partake in ADST exploratory rotations.
What is the process for choosing an instrument?
In a normal year, we do an instrument "petting zoo" where students try each instrument and make a choice based on that process. During COVID, students will listen to a variety of recordings of each instrument. Students will select their top 3 choices, and Mme Daykin will make the final decision. I try very hard to give everyone their first or second choice.
What are the instruments I can choose in beginning band?
Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Upright/Electric bass, Percussion
In their second year playing, students may move to French Horn, Bass Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone or Tuba
Are there any band instrument restrictions?
Percussion - Musical experience strongly recommended (drum or piano lessons), 1-2 students per class- we often find opportunities for wind players to cover extra percussion parts
Electric Bass - max. 2 per class
Upright Bass - max. 1 per class
When should I rent an instrument?
Once Mme Daykin has posted the final decisions on instruments, students can rent or purchase an instrument from Tom Lee, Long & McQuade or Tapestry Music. There is usually the option to ship to the school which is super convenient in my mind!
Can students switch instruments?
If a beginning band student finds that their instrument isn't working for them, students are allowed to switch after a month of playing. I do ask that they stick with it for a bit, as many instruments have a steep learning curve.
Another great option is to speak to Mme Daykin in June regarding instrument switches. A new instrument can be rented over the summer to get caught up by September.
Ultimately I want everyone to feel motivated and excited to learn.
Please see Mme Daykin if you have any individual questions about this process, or even if you just want to ask about the program!
Beginning Band 6 & 7: We are so happy that band 6 will be coming back in the 2023/2024 school year! As we had a one year hiatus from band, Band 6 and 7 will both be run as beginning band, where we will learn all the technique and reading basics together from square one. No experience necessary!
Band 8: Band and/or music experience is strongly recommended. Students without band experience should speak to Mme Daykin to make a plan for getting caught up.
All classes run in the timetable during "Arts Block" which means students choose between band and art. Band students do partake in ADST exploratory rotations.
What is the process for choosing an instrument?
In a normal year, we do an instrument "petting zoo" where students try each instrument and make a choice based on that process. During COVID, students will listen to a variety of recordings of each instrument. Students will select their top 3 choices, and Mme Daykin will make the final decision. I try very hard to give everyone their first or second choice.
What are the instruments I can choose in beginning band?
Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Upright/Electric bass, Percussion
In their second year playing, students may move to French Horn, Bass Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone or Tuba
Are there any band instrument restrictions?
Percussion - Musical experience strongly recommended (drum or piano lessons), 1-2 students per class- we often find opportunities for wind players to cover extra percussion parts
Electric Bass - max. 2 per class
Upright Bass - max. 1 per class
When should I rent an instrument?
Once Mme Daykin has posted the final decisions on instruments, students can rent or purchase an instrument from Tom Lee, Long & McQuade or Tapestry Music. There is usually the option to ship to the school which is super convenient in my mind!
Can students switch instruments?
If a beginning band student finds that their instrument isn't working for them, students are allowed to switch after a month of playing. I do ask that they stick with it for a bit, as many instruments have a steep learning curve.
Another great option is to speak to Mme Daykin in June regarding instrument switches. A new instrument can be rented over the summer to get caught up by September.
Ultimately I want everyone to feel motivated and excited to learn.
Please see Mme Daykin if you have any individual questions about this process, or even if you just want to ask about the program!