Example of Parent Letter

The following is an example of a parent letter sent home this year. During the holiday season, there are many schools who want their bands to perform. The only drawback to this is that usually the schools fight for the same days. When all is said and done, the presentations are usually met with great enthusiasm. It is my job as the band teacher to try to get the band parents to these presentations. I start sending letters home at the beginning of December to let the parents know so that they can plan accordingly. I also stress to the kids in my band how important it is to have parents and relatives at the concerts. It is my belief that kids, no matter how old, still want their familes to see them perform. At the elementary age, we can instill a sense of pride that will hopefully get the parents there to see their kids. What I don't want parents to do is to come to performances during their kids' elementary years and then fade out once middle school hits. It is extremely important for kids these days to see the adults in their life involved and interested in what they are doing. When I send letters home, I am happy to say that the parents usually do come and watch the performances. There are inevitably the kids who don't make it to the conerts....most of the time the excuse is that they didn't have a ride. I am never sure whether I can believe that or not. The point is though, always let the parents know when you want them there!!!!





December 6, 2009

To: XXXXXX Recorder Parents

From: Mrs. Corso, Band Director

RE: Holiday Performance

Dear Parents,

It is that time of year again and the third grade recorder class has been working hard to prepare music for the holiday program. The music itself has been challenging, but they have made great strides toward being able to perform it successfully.
The holiday program will take place on December 20, 2009 (Wednesday) at 6:30p.m.: it is imperative that all recorder students attend this program!!! The students are welcome to stay with me after school on this Wednesday (12-20-09). We will order pizza for dinner and watch a movie. This also gives the class a chance to set up music stands and run through our music for the upcoming performance. This has proven in years past to be fun for the students and gives the parents the opportunity to not worry about transportation.
It is imperative that all recorder students be present for this performance, whether they stay with me after school or go home and come back. They have been working exceptionally hard to provide the audience with musical entertainment. If your recorder student is also involved with the chorus, they can stay with me after school that day and I will make sure they are where they are supposed to be for the beginning of the performance. If your recorder student is involved with other after school activities, they can always attend those and then join the group for the rest of the time until performance.
Recorder students can wear holiday colors or if they are involved with another performance--what that teacher has told them to wear for the holiday program. I look forward to having everyone hear all of the hard work that has been done by these students. See you there!!


Thanks for your support,


Mrs. Corso, Band Director