Getting in Tune: Peck Instrumentalists Find Community

Peck’s instrumental program is about a lot more than simply learning to play an instrument. It’s about developing confidence, creative expression, and community.

Students in grades five through eight have the unique opportunity to learn either the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone horn, snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, or glockenspiel. Students participate in small group lessons once a week by instrument and one full band rehearsal on Fridays.

While many schools offer instrumental music programs, Peck’s is unique in its size and configuration. Typically, schools only have grade-level bands, but given the size of Peck’s student body and the number of instruments offered, kids in grades five through eight enjoy playing together in one ensemble. This not only benefits younger students who receive mentorship from older and more experienced players but it also provides another opportunity for eighth graders to demonstrate leadership.

Heidi Lüer ’24, who began playing flute in fourth grade, says she has enjoyed being a part of the instrumental ensemble as a form of creative expression and an opportunity to connect with fellow Upper School students.

While research shows that learning to read and play music has concrete academic benefits, the process also develops intangible skills such as problem-solving, empathy, and communication.