Reply To: Why band must be a year course and not a semester course:

[nafmeadmin]

You can try to point out how playing an instrument is a skill that must be developed over time. Just like reading we do not show Kindergardners how to read and than never have a reading class again. It is a skill that must be used or it is lost. Unlike Shop classes, technology classes or other electives there is not one project that can be accomplished in instrumental music that will allow a student to than go out into the world and create on their own. It is a process/skill that must be developed over a long time. Instrumental music is also something that is gradually learned so someone who has never played before cannot just “sign up” and fit easily into the ensemble without a great deal of extra effort like you can in a shop or technology class.

Don’t think that you are alone in this. Check out the Advocacy section of this site you may be able to connect with someone that has research to back you up. Also talk with your band parents in the Elementary, Middle School and High schools. Let them know that there is an issue and that their children’s music opportunities are threatened. At an advocacy weekend I found out it only takes 5 contacts for government officials to take notice, if I remember correctly. What if an administrator(s) started hearing from parents.

I would also try to find out WHY he/she is pushing for this change. That may help you combat the problem as well.