5th Grade Band

Rental Quick Start

1. Sign up for Band (Form above).

2. Choose your instrument.

3. Order your Rental (Music Store Links Above)

If you order through our preferred vendors, your instrument will be waiting for you in the band room on Day 1!

🎶Join the Cavalier Band!🎶

Make Music. Make Friends. Make Memories.

As your 4th grader prepares for 5th grade, it’s time to consider joining the school band! Students recently enjoyed a demonstration concert from the High School Band, and excitement is building for next year.

4 Simple Steps to Join the Band

Step 1: Decide to Join

Band is a fun and rewarding part of a well-rounded education. It builds confidence, friendships, responsibility, and lifelong skills.

Step 2: Choose an Instrument

Students should choose an instrument they are excited about and that fits them physically. Success is highest when students follow their own interests rather than choosing based on friends.

Instrument Fittings & Open Houses

Join Mr. Ruckman and team for hands-on help selecting an instrument, checking used instruments, or answering questions.

• Wednesday, March 25 4:00–5:30 PM — Band Room

• Thursday, March 26 6:30–8:00 PM — Band Room

Information on rentals, supplies, and instrument repairs will be available

Step 3: Sign Up

Online Permission Form Due: April 10

• French Horn students need a recommendation from Mrs. Petersen.

• Students interested in Percussion need a recommendation from Mrs. Petersen, and must audition the week of March 16.

Step 4: Stay Connected

Sign up for Remind texts by the end of April.

Text @cavband34 to 81010 to receive important updates.

🎵 Join the Cavalier Band Family Today! 🎵

How to Get an Instrument

🎷 Renting (Highly Recommended!)

• If you don’t own an instrument, renting for the first 12 weeks is strongly encouraged.

• After the trial period, you can rent-to-own, purchase, or return if needed.

• Some students may be asked to switch instruments for better suitability.

🎶 Trusted Local Music Store that rent instruments and sell supplies:
✅ Rettig Music (Weekly school visits for instrument/supply needs)
✅ Celina Music  

⚠️ Purchasing a Used Instrument from a private seller? Beware!

• Low-quality online instruments often cause frustration and slow progress.

• Contact Mr. Ruckman for trusted brand recommendations.

🔧 Already Own an Instrument?

• Have it checked at a music store before school starts to ensure it's in good playing condition! You may drop them off at one of the Open Houses.

Supplies List

All Instruments need a copy of the band book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician- Please make sure you order the book that corresponds with the instrument you are playing. You may  order these from the music stores listed above.

🥁 Percussionists will need:

• Innovative Percussion F8 Marimba Mallets

• Innovative Percussion Lalo Davila Snare Sticks

• Protec Heavy Ready Stick Bag

• Recommended for home: Real Feel Apprentice Practice Pad

5th Grade Summer Band Camp! 

Want to get a head start and hit the ground running? Here's where the magic begins with instrument-specific training at our summer camp: 

August 3rd, 4th, & 5th

9:00- 9:45 am: Flutes & Percussion 

9:45-10:30 am: Clarinets, Trumpets, & French Horns 

10:30- 11:15 am: Saxophones & Trombones

Frequently Asked Questions

🧐 What instruments are taught?
🎺 Flute, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Percussion

📅 When does band practice?

• Monday: Full Band

• Tuesday: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone

• Wednesday: Trumpet, Horn, Trombone

• Thursday: Full Band

• Friday: Percussion

❓ What instrument is best for my child?
Some physical traits (bite alignment, lip shape, finger size, etc.) can impact success on certain instruments. Mr. Ruckman is happy to meet individually with students to help them choose the best fit!

🎼 What effort is expected?

• Regular home practice

• Properly maintained instrument

• Attendance at rehearsals and concerts

• Strong parental support and encouragement

⚽ Can my student do band AND other activities?
Absolutely! 🏀🏈⚾🎭 Many students participate in sports, clubs, and extracurriculars. Our school administration ensures scheduling conflicts are minimal. Band is a great way to be well-rounded and involved!

Dan Ruckman, Director of Bands
📧 ruckman.dan@coldwatercavs.org
📞 419-678-4821

Action Required – All Families

Please complete the Online Permission Form indicating whether or not your child plans to join band.

5th GRADE BAND FORM

We need a response from every family for planning purposes.

Thank you for helping us make this process smooth and organized. We are excited to get started with our future band members! 🎶

Online Permission Form Due: April 10