Beginning Band
The beginning band program is for students interested in learning a band instrument. Playing an instrument can be a fun and rewarding experience, and can even help improve skills in other areas (reading, learning a foreign language, teamwork, cooperation and communication, etc.). Learning to play an instrument also opens up opportunities for playing in the middle and high school band at Hazen and participating in various music festivals with other students from around the state.
About Leah Gagnon, Band Director
Leah Gagnon is in her fourth year at Hazen Union School. She teaches middle and high school band, as well as a high school piano class, and this year started teaching beginning band at Hardwick Elementary. A Vermont native, she grew up in the small town of Groton, graduating from Blue Mountain Union and then the University of Vermont. She has two dogs named Spock and Kiwi, a cat named Minerva, and a chinchilla named Poppy. In her spare time, she can be found playing flute or ukulele, listening to music, reading a good book, or spending time with family and friends.
Contact: lgagnon@ossu.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Sounds cool! Who can sign up?
Currently, beginning band is open to 6th grade students.
What instruments are available?
Students may choose from a variety of band instruments, including flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. Click this link to listen to what these instruments sound like.
How can I get involved?
In the spring, current 5th grade students (rising 6th graders) will have the opportunity to hear a demo of the available instruments and fill out a survey about their interest in band. At the beginning of their 6th grade year, they will have the opportunity to decide if they want to participate and, if so, will work with Mrs. Gagnon to get set up with an instrument to take part in lessons and band rehearsals.
When are the concerts?
This year, the band performed in the winter concert and will be performing again this spring.
What about lessons?
Students signed up for band will have a lesson once a week during school with Mrs. Gagnon in a group with others playing the same instrument. If students are interested in private lessons or extra lessons, either with Mrs. Gagnon or with someone who plays their instrument, Mrs. Gagnon would be happy to help get that set up.