Hello, I'm Steve Betz the band director here at Grace Christian Academy. I hold both Bachelor and Master Degrees in Music Education from Vandercook College of Music in Chicago and have over 30 years of teaching experience in the public schools. I come to Grace in my retirement to build a first class band program.
If you have any questions about the band here at GCA, please send me an email. |
WHERE CAN I FIND AN INSTRUMENT?
You want to look for a name brand instrument from a quality music store. Avoid buying instruments online as they can be cheaply made and may not be repairable if problems arise. As a standard rule, if the price seems to good to be true, it probably is not a good purchase. Used instruments should be checked by a repairman before purchase. If you want me to evaluate an instrument before you buy, just email me.
DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE INSTRUMENTS?
The school owns a few instrument that are made available for a small rental fee. These instruments are meant for beginners to start on to see if band is for them. After the first year, students are asked to purchase their own instrument. The larger band instruments are available for rental on a yearly basis. This rental fee covers the yearly maintenance cost of keeping the instrument in good playing condition.
IS THERE AN EXTRA COST FOR BAND AT GRACE?
Band is offered free of charge. Students are just required to own or rent an instrument. They may need to purchase a lesson book and needed supplies for their instrument.