Dear Parents/Guardians,

The music program for the students at Havens and Shields Elementary Schools will include rhythmic and melodic reading, instrumental ensemble playing and composing. These topics are included in both the Michigan and National Standards for the music curriculum. In order to meet these standards, I would like to introduce the soprano recorder.

I begin teaching recorder in the Third grade and continue through Fifth grade. Because they learn and play the recorder through Fifth grade, we offer the students an opportunity to purchase their own recorder for home and class enjoyment. That way they can keep their instrument from year to year without having to borrow one.

If you do not wish to buy one, please contact me and I will work with you on an alternative plan. Those that borrow school recorders are not allowed to take them home and practice, so it is strongly advised that they purchase one.

The school can obtain a large quantity of recorders for a reduced price of $5.00. This price includes a recorder, case, and fingering chart. If your child will be purchasing one, please send the exact amount in an envelope with your child's name and classroom teacher on it with your child. Make any checks out to Shields Elementary school. The recorders are already ordered and I have included one recorder per student. You can send the money as soon as you like and when they come in, I will distribute it to your child.

For those that are unsure of what a recorder is, think back to your elementary days. You may have played something similar called the flute-a-phone. The recorder is a very old instrument. It has been around since the 12th century and is still going strong.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at either school.

Musically Yours,

Tezra L. Armstrong

Music Teacher (Havens )921-4268 (Shields) 921-4788