The Mt. Ephraim Instrumental Music Program is first offered to students in the 4th grade. Each year in September,  a demonstration assembly is performed at Mary Bray School explaining all the instruments offered for school lessons. Currently we offer flute, Bb clarinet, Eb alto saxophone, Bb trumpet, trombone and baritone and snare drum (percussion) to beginners. Other band instruments may be considered depending on the make-up of the class and as the schedule permits. Some instruments are offered as starter instruments with the idea of switching later on, for example a student may start on trumpet and later switch to French horn. These special cases are at the discretion of the director. The first step to join is to return the completed permission slip and get on the band list.   Older students may be considered on a case by case basis for beginning band lessons as the schedule permits. 

Currently the Music & Arts Company is offering a reliable rental program in our schools. Music & Arts sends a representative to the school about a week after the assembly to meet with parents of beginners. This meeting is open to all beginners regardless of age. Other local music companies also offer major brand rentals. A very limited number of school-owned instruments are available each year for student loan. 

Once in band it is understood of a members obligation to remain in the program until the end of the concert cycle. Concert participation is mandatory. Concerts are presented each year in December and May at Kershaw School and in May at Mary Bray. Dress rehearsals for concerts are mandatory. Home practice is mandatory. A minimum of student effort is required to maintain adequate playing ability to remain in the band. Seating in band is determined by the director based on  merit and on the instrumentation needs of the band. Band members must maintain their instrument in good working order and must participate faithfully in band lessons and rehearsals. Proper attire is required for all concerts and includes "concert dress" which is black pants and white shirts, dress shoes at R.W. Kershaw and dressier school clothes for some events. Participation in band lessons is part of the band grade. The band schedule meets on a rotating schedule. Students are expected to learn the schedule and attend regularly. 

Rehearsal etiquette must be followed at all times- no talking during rehearsals! Pay attention and stay on task! Likewise good etiquette is required at concerts. Respect for others and for the teaching staff is mandatory. 

All trips and special events are intended as rewards for proper participation, hard work and effort in band. Fundraising is sometimes offered to help defray the costs of the events. 

Jazz ensemble and other special groups are formed each year at Kershaw School and are considered extra credit towards the band grade. Honors Band is a locally select group for 5th & 6th graders. All-South Jersey Jr. High Band is also available for selected students who prepare for the audition open to grades 6-8 in January of each year. 

The Mt. Ephraim Instrumental program is taught by a part-time teacher who considers the band a full-time program! Together we can enjoy the power of music and learn skills that will lead us to a lifetime of musical performance. Thanks to all parents for their overwhelming support of our band program!

Mrs. Manion