Welcome to Band
The mission of the Band Program at Peru Central School is to provide a quality music education through the study and performance of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Students usually enter the program in grades 4-5 and may continue through grade 12. Instruction closely follows the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) sequential guidelines for music education, and incorporates all New York State and National Standards for music/arts education.
Lessons
In-School Instrument Lessons
Each student enrolled in the Band program is required to take in-school lessons on their instrument of choice. Most individual instruction occurs during small group lessons, so it is vital to each student’s success that they attend or makeup lessons regularly.
Private Lessons
In addition to in-school instrument lessons, all students are encouraged to explore private lessons outside of school with a private teacher who specializes in the student’s instrument of choice. Students taking private lessons usually grow faster as musicians and stand out in their ensembles. While long-term private study will yield the best results, any number of private lessons is helpful. We always stress that taking even one private lesson can benefit a student greatly. Starting private lessons over the summer is a great way to test the waters.
Although private lessons may greatly enhance a participant’s level of success in the program, we do not require them for participation or placement in the program.
Elementary Strings | Grades 4-5
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, and String Bass
To sign up for Elementary Strings, please fill out and return a sign up form. These are available from any PCS music teacher.
Grades 6-8 Band
The grades 6-8 Concert Band is the main performing group for experienced band students in grades 6, 7 and 8.
Grades 9-12 Band
The 9-12 Concert Band is made up of experienced band students in grades 9 through 12. The band performs in concerts, and regularly is invited to extra events in the Peru community and Lake Champlain region.
Marching Band
Mission
With a history rich in experiences that last generations, Peru’s Marching Band strives to continue the traditions of musical excellence that have brought pride, honor, and entertainment to Peru and the surrounding communities. No matter the size of the event or its location, they do their best to make each appearance a memorable and meaningful experience for both themselves and their audience.
History of the Band
In 1952, legendary Peru Central School Music Director Lynn Wilke began a marching band at Peru Central School with a crew of hopeful young music students. Before long, Mr. Wilke developed a strong unit that rivaled most bands its size and age group. It wasn’t long before Wilke was taking his bright and talented students to events around Northern NY and occasional visits to much larger events such as the World’s Fair in NYC and the Expo in Montreal for parades and concerts. The group even performed in the Groundbreaking and other ceremonies for the 1980 Winter Olympics. Wilke is often credited with building much of the music program at Peru, and there is no doubt that his 30-plus years as music director at the school left somewhat of a legacy in the community.
After Wilke’s retirement in 1985, Peru Central’s Marching Band underwent several makeovers and changes in organization and leadership. Its scope became smaller and more local, but no less important, performing in events such as the Peru Apple Festival, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, Fireman’s Field Day Parades, and other parades and events around the Champlain Valley.
Benefits of Music Education
Both hemispheres of the brain are active during participation in musical activities.
Learning and playing musical instruments not only improves coordination, self-discipline, and creativity, but it also increases brain function and development while helping us to become highly-functional and well-rounded human beings.
Explore the research for yourself!
Links
Music Organizations
NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) 
NYSSMA Zone 6 (Clinton, Franklin, & Essex Counties)
CCMEA (Clinton County Music Educators’ Association)
AYOA (Adirondack Youth Orchestra Association)
Instruments & Supplies
Woodwind & Brasswind (Indiana)
Sheet Music
Fun and Games
http://www.classicsforkids.com