Classroom Agreements
We try our best
We are kind to each other and ourselves
We respect our classroom and belongings
We cooperate
We listen with our whole body
Students are expected to attend all lessons they are scheduled for. If they forget their instrument one will be provided for them. 5th Graders have a lesson block once a week and a band class once a week.
Lesson Schedule
Monday | TUESDAY | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
TBD | |||||
Helpful Tip for success:
Families- add to your calendar:
- lesson day
- Daily time for practice! It helps if it’s the same time each day when possible
Student Resources
These videos will help with assembling your instrument and making first sounds.
This is one helpful app we've used in class.
Meet the Teacher
Jenn Witherell-Stebbins
About me
I am a clarinet player and a teacher at heart. I have been teaching band of various grade levels for over 30 years.
I am from Syracuse originally and now live in Saco. I have a Bachelor's of Music Ed., A Master's in Music Ed., and a Master's in Arts Administration.
I have 4 grown boys, a wonderful husband named Doug, and a mini Golden doodle named Daisy.
Contact Information
jennifer_witherell-stebbins@yarmouthschoolsa.org
Resources for Parents
If you are renting through Music and Arts there is a place to select extras- please select the book for the instrument you child plays. Clarinet and Saxophone should purchase extra reeds. All other items are “nice to have” but not necessary.
Class News:
Welcome Back 5th graders!
Our lessons will begin on September 4, 2024.
Dig out that instrument! Oil those valves, prepare those reeds! I’ll review everything we did from last year so don’t worry about not remembering. Just remember to check the schedule and come to lessons. It’s going to be a great year in band!
4th grade info
Our “demonstration day” is September 11, 2024. Students will hear all of the instruments played that day.
Over the course of the next 6 days, we will have “try it out” during music class. They will be able to try 2-3 instruments. I will recommend one for each interested student.
Band Information night will be September 17th at 6:30 in the cafe. At this time parents will be guided through the rental process and lesson schedule. If renting an instrument is not in your budget- let me know. I have some school instruments to lend.
Practice expectations
A little bit of practice everyday goes a long long way! Start small- try 5 minutes a day. Work your way up by 5's. You will receive a journal each week to keep track of your practice. Throughout the year you can collect flags by accomplishing the "I Can" statements each week.
Your 5 "I Can" statements:
Play all the right notes
Play all the right rhythms
Play with a steady tempo
Play with a good tone
Play with good posture and hand position
Around the Harbor 4th grade!
Around the world 5th grade!