Crazy about Band

The East Helena Schools are CRAZY about Band!!!!
We had to push hard to get Liberty involved because they actually start the kids here in 5th grade. If you don't start then- you are out of luck. Fortunately, because Liberty had piano experience they were willing to give her a shot. She's adjusting alright but it's tough. After 5th grade, they don't do instruction anymore. It's all about learning the new songs for the next concert coming up. Luckily, she is making great "Percussion Buddies" and they are teaching her the ropes (or the notes as the case may be LOL). She is really enjoying it! She's also gone a couple times after school to get a little extra instruction. She's a quick learner so she should be fine.

Justice decided to try his luck at the trumpet. It's been tricky for him to learn how to blow the silly thing but he has a great attitude about it. He practices everyday until his head hurts. I'm really impressed! I think he'll get the hang of it.

They both have the same Band teacher, Mr. Pipinich. He's very enthusiastic and great with the kids. He'll be good for them. He's very open with communication with the parents as well. They each have several concerts scheduled during the year. I think it'll be a great fun!

Unfortunately, with a Band-crazy community comes lots of expenses. Holy Moly!!! I about died this week when I got them all set up with their instruments and books. It was painful! They have rental agreements at the local Piccolo's Music Store for band students to get their instruments [due to it being the only music thing that all of Helena & East Helena elementary/ middle school kid's can get into, the schools can't supply everyone an instrument). You can do a rent to own program at Piccolo's but they charge a 15% interest rate for the next 2 years OR you can get a 20% discount for buying it up front. To the Seamons Fam, that's not even a question. Interest that you pay SUCKS! So we bucked up and bought all the stuff. [Insert heart-attack] A nice whoppin' $661.98 (Bells & Snare Drum: $256 + Used Trumpet, cleaner, and grease: $367 + books & music stand: 38.98) OUCH!!! But if you look at the fact we could have ended up paying approximately $1010 total with the contracts then we got a CRAZY good deal! The kids better LOVE band! LOL

Here's the owner, Barb and her staff at Piccolo's that help us. They are way nice!