Fostering musical excellence for the home schooling communities of Southern Maryland
The Home School Band is dedicated to providing a traditional concert band experience for the homeschooling communities of Southern Maryland, including Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary's counties. Under the expert guidance of our experienced music teacher, we offer a nurturing environment where students can grow as musicians and performers.
We cater to all skill levels through our three-tiered program
Ideal for students just starting their musical journey
Weekly hour-long lessons focusing on fundamental skills
Supportive and encouraging atmosphere
For students with over a year of experience on their main instrument
Weekly two-hour rehearsals
Diverse repertoire to enhance playing skills
Advanced group tackling complex pieces, admission by director's invitation only
Weekly ninety minute sessions
Incorporates contemporary elements like drum set, bass, rhythm guitar and other instruments
Our students have the chance to shine in two main concerts each year, as well as various local venues such as festivals. These performances allow students to showcase their hard work and share their music with the community.
The home school band is a collection of homeschooling student musicians who want to experience the joys of learning and performing music! We have regular weekly practices and perform two full concerts per year, plus other small concerts. Instruments include traditional concert band, e.g., brass, woodwinds and percussion. We do not currently include strings.
Homeschoolers 5th grade and older who are available during the day and can commit to weekly practices and all major concerts.
Fees are $100 per student, for a maximum of $300 per family.
The band meets weekly from September through May, with extra rehearsals near concert times, which are late December and early May. Practices are scheduled on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
Practices and concerts take place at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Pomfret, Maryland.
If your student is already proficient on an instrument when they join, they can continue on that instrument. If your student is a complete beginner, the band director schedules a session with the student before the season begins to help the student choose the instrument they are best suited to. The decision is a collaborative effort between student's interest, director's suggestion, and parent's consent.
Students are required to provide their own instruments. Those who do not currently own an instrument may be able to borrow one during the semester on a case-by-case basis. Island Music in La Plata also has instruments available to rent.
Absolute beginners are welcome! The band director will assess each student's abilities and determine their appropriate placement in the band. There are no formal try-outs or auditions. All are welcome!
Students will be assessed by the director, with the option of starting in concert band if the student's abilities are appropriate. Ensemble is by invitation only. A student cannot only participate in Ensemble. Ensemble members are drawn from the concert band.
The homeschool band is not allied with any sect, denomination, political affiliation, organization or institution. However, because we meet on church property for rehearsals and concerts, we ask all students and their families conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful and in accordance with the Catholic Church while on church property.
Private lessons are not required, but highly recommended.
Join the Home School Band and let your child's musical journey begin!
Complete this form to get more information!
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