CCSD15 Instrumental Music Program

Program Basics

Welcome!

Welcome, families! We would like to share basic information about the 5th grade Instrumental Program so you can choose whether or not to enroll your child for their 5th grade year. Please review this information carefully. When you have determined if you would like your child to participate, you can complete the form below.

**Important note: the form will also be emailed to you with a very important number (Student ID) included. You will need this to register your child. If you do not know your child's student ID or did not receive the email, you can reach out to the school office and then complete the form.

Family Introduction Slides

The Basics

Experience

No prior knowledge of how to play an instrument is needed! This program is inclusive of all abilities, needs, and languages as much as possible. Students should think of band/orchestra as at least a 1-year commitment (though we hope they continue on through middle school, high school, and beyond).

Fees & Fee Waiver/Educational Benefit Support

Students must have the required supplies (ex: instrument) which may cost money.
The instrumental music fee waiver/scholarship program is based on the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch program. If your family applies and qualifies, your child can receive an instrument and materials provided by District 15.
To qualify, you must have an up-to-date application and information on file with the district. You can find more information about how to apply here. Applications should be returned to your child's school.
Eligibility is determined yearly.

Instrumental Music Registration Form 2025-2026

Deadline for completion for students to do instrument interviews with teachers: December 6, 2024
Deadline for completion for students who know their instrument choice: January 15, 2025

Program Model

Grading

Standards-based grades will be given in band/orchestra around the Illinois Arts Learning (Music) Standards. These will be shared on report cards alongside other subject areas.

5th Grade Program

5th grade Band/Orchestra is the first elective class students can take in elementary school. Lessons take place during the school day. Students are expected to attend all weekly lessons. Students are pulled out of other classes on a rotating basis whenever possible. Please note- lessons may be canceled for teacher professional development or building-wide events, however we try to do this as little as possible. Some less common instruments are played at middle school only.

Middle School Program

Middle School Band/Orchestra is a daily elective class with an entire ensemble (band, orchestra, or mariachi). Students are pulled out of other classes on a rotating basis for lessons every 1-2 weeks. Participation happens during the school day.

Rehearsals vs. Lessons

Lessons are smaller, with similar or complementary instruments together. Rehearsals are larger sessions, typically with an entire ensemble.

Rehearsals - Middle School - During the elective class period
Rehearsals - Elementary - Before or After School
Lessons - Middle School - Pull-out every 1-2 weeks
Lessons - Elementary - Pull-out 1-2 times per week

Information about Instruments

Community Consolidated School District 15 requires that students enrolled in the program need to provide their own instruments and supplies for use in class unless they qualify for the waivers above. More information about instrument options and policies below.

Materials Needed for Participating in Band/Orchestra

Materials for All Instruments

1) Sound Innovations Book

Band: Sound Innovations for Concert Band, Book 1 (instrument specific)
Orchestra: Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1 (instrument specific)

2) Instrument

3) Folding music stand with a carrying case (preferably the 2 piece plain metal style)

4) Specific instrument supplies listed in the link below.

Instrument Options & Policies

Instrumental Program Details

Our Directors

If you have additional questions about the program, you can review the detailed program below or contact the band or orchestra director at your child's school.