Skill Levels

Look at these skill levels and try to figure out how far YOU have come. If you practice steadily you can reach the NEXT level!

Beginner 1A (one to twelve months)

• Finish first half of Band Method Vol. 1
• Learn one major scale
• Understand counting and rhythm reading for whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes
• Able to sight read tunes from the first few pages of the book accurately
• Able to identify note names and fingerings quickly from printed music
• Play lip slurs 3 notes down with a good sound and smooth note changes

Beginner 1B (6 months)

• Finish method book volume 1
• Take part in at least one performance (group or solo)
• Learn a Beginner 1 level solo
• Able to keep a steady beat by tapping while accurately reading rhythms including eighth and dotted quarter notes
• Play lip slurs 4 notes up and down with good sound and smooth note changes
• Able to sight read music from first two-thirds of book accurately
• Instantly identify note names and fingerings from method book I

Beginner 2 (3-12 months)

• Finish method book volume 2 and/or start intermediate level book
• Learn 6 major scales and two octave chromatic scale
• Perform beginner 2 level solo with piano
• Take part in 2 or more group performances (school band, etc.)
• Play 5 note lip slurs up and down 

Link to Intermediate and Advanced Skill Levels