A Letter from Mrs. S.


Welcome to a new school year!  We’re here to help you bridge the gap and create music in a meaningful way.  I am committed to making music class a bright spot in your child’s day.

As we begin on this journey together, I know you have many questions. Will my child be any good? Will they be able to handle the responsibility of music along with everything else they do? Will it be worth it? 

The answer to all of these questions is a resounding YES!

With your support and mine, the possibilities for your child are wide open. Certainly, there will be moments of frustration as your child learns the new skills of music, but the rewards are many.

As your child embarks on this new journey, we encourage you to take videos to document their musical progress. It is often difficult to see the slow arc of growth when they are just starting, but these videos will be proof of how far they have come and how much they have learned. Plus, they have the added benefit of being fun to watch in the future. The sounds may not always be pretty, but they will be special! And, it’s a fun way to reminisce when they are in high school or beyond.

I hope you are as excited as I am to embark on this new journey together. If you have any questions, musical or otherwise, please don’t hesitate to contact me anytime.
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Sincerely,
Melissa Sapienza
msapienza@gladwinschools.net

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Instrument Petting Zoo From Our Friends at CMU!

What Do I Need to Start Band?

  • An Instrument.  Herter Music was at school on March 10 to fit students with instruments.  We want your child to be successful, so consider the recommendations made by Herter Music Center.  If you're not sure what recommendations were made, you may call Herter Music Center at 989-893-4545 or contact me at 989-330-2582.  A list of reputable music stores is provided below for you to order your instrument!  Many price points are available to you from any stores listed.  Please, do NOT purchase your instrument via Amazon or another online store--these instruments break down often and many times cannot be fixed.  I've seen parents actually purchase a SECOND instrument within a semester because they initially purchased an online instrument.
  • A Book.  This year, beginners will be using the book titled Essential Elements 2000, Book I.  You may also purchase this book through any of the music stores listed.  Remember to purchase the book that coincides with the instrument your child is playing this year.
  • Necessary Oils, Reeds and Care Kits.  The music store is your best friend this year.  The initial up front cost goes down considerably after kids get going for a few months, just like any other activity.  Their expert advice won't steer you wrong.
  • A pencil.  Students will need a pencil every day for class.  We write lots of notes in our books during the first year of music lessons.
  • A Music Stand (optional).  The stand would be for use at home.  Daily practice is important for students; it reinforces what they've learned in our brief lessons together at school.  We definitely want them to have a nice, quiet place to practice daily. 
  • Support from Family.  Your support in the young musician's experience is above all, the most important part of the process.  You won't be cheering in the stands every Saturday like you do for soccer or football, but your support here is just as important.  Constant encouragement, even when it doesn't sound like "music," (it gets so much better, I promise), will go a long way!

Music Stores in Our Area

What's the greatest thing about ordering your instrument and supplies from either of the following stores ?  They deliver direct to our school weekly and will pick up your instrument for any repairs right at the school, too!

Herter Music Center (Bay City):  989-893-4545
​Marshall Music (Traverse):  231-922-9503