MUSIC LESSONS & ORCHESTRA There are many important inner skills to be learned in the study of music. The discipline of practicing with an instrument helps a child find the inner discipline to face other challenges in life. Group music lessons offer a wonderful opportunity for a child to practice the ability to listen to others and to work cooperatively. It is quite a challenge for a group of children to work completely in unison in any realm, be it social, academic or physical. In trying to play their instruments as a group, with the same timing and pitch, the result of a harmonious sound allows them to directly experience the value of working well together. Playing an instrument is a wonderful means of self exploration, self-expression and creativity that allows the student to grow into a more well-rounded human being. Beginning in the first grade, the children at the Westside Waldorf School are taught to play the recorder and singing is a regular part of the school week in many classes. First grade children will be provided a pentatonic flute and third grade children a diatonic flute for which parents will be billed. These instruments typically cost $20 - $60. In the third and fourth grade, beginning level violin and cello lessons are offered to the whole class. The lessons take place twice a week during the school day. The violin and cello rentals are organized by the violin teacher, and it is the responsibility of the parents to obtain their child's instrument. The children are taught the basics of how to hold the instrument properly, how to play by ear and how to read music. Additional lessons are offered by the school on a fee basis, arranged by the violin teacher.