The instrumental music program allows each and every child at Helen Keller Middle School an opportunity to explore the art of making music using traditional band instruments. As documented in recent studies, learning an instrument provides students with a plethora of advantages. As well as increasing brain function, learning an instrument teaches responsibility and commitment, not only to oneself but to a performing group which is dependent on a "team effort" for success. Learning an instrument, as well as any art form, broadens a person’s perception and appreciation of the world and all it has to offer. Students involved in the instrumental program often experience a deep sense of accomplishment, leading to an increased feeling of self worth as it enriches their life and the lives of others.

Our program curriculum is aligned with the National Standards for Arts Education and the Connecticut Arts Curriculum Framework.  It includes nine content standards that describe student outcome for each grade level. 

Academic teachers understand the structure of the schedule and are more than willing to comply to meet the student’s needs. Middle School learners sometimes feel great pressure to meet the academic demands of school. To sustain growth, the instrumental program remains as flexible as possible to accommodate the needs of the middle school learner. If a student is unable to attend a lesson for a valid reason, they must present substantiation as attendance is required at weekly group lessons and band rehearsals.  Sixth, seventh and eighth grade students receive a quarterly letter grade on their report card for their participation in the instrumental program.

Throughout the year there are various instrumental concert performances that take place at HKMS. Students in each of the musical organizations are required to participate in all scheduled performances, (i.e. spring / winter concerts and parades).  Everyone involved in the performing groups takes great pride and pleasure in their hard work and looks forward to these exciting events. Student and audience attendance is critical to the success of your child and the program.

Instrumental classes for grades 6, 7 and 8 are in two sections per grade.  Each section meets every other day throughout the school year.  Group lessons are primarily for beginning students only.  Beginning lessons are offered to fifth graders on a pull-out basis during a 3-period rotation throughout the school year.  If there is an impending need for a student to remain in a specific academic class, such as a test, review or needed instruction, the student may do so without being penalized.  He or she may attend a different lesson period or miss the lesson for the week.  When a student attends lessons, he/she is responsible to make up the academic class work.