Lex has decided to join band this year.  Fifth grade is the year they get to pick instrument and play in the band.  Last year, in fourth, they all learned to play the ukulele, which Lex kind of enjoyed, but this year they get to choose.  He chose percussion.  I’d love to say it was because he is a wild drummer with a great rhythm, but in truth it’s because percussion stands at the back of the band.  :-)  He does have great rhythm though and the new music teacher thought percussion would be great for him. I went in and had a nice chat with her last week.  I introduced myself and told her all about Lex.  She had already met him and remembered him because he cried, briefly, during the first music class.  Sigh.  She is super nice though and very willing to work with him and let him be in the band, despite his past history with concerts. 

Tonight was instrument pickup from the rental company.  Fifth graders and their parents from all three elementary schools were there to pick up instruments.  Lex and I had fun!  Just as we were picking up his instrument a girl in his class came over and asked what he was playing and if he was going to play in the concert this year.  He said, “I don’t know, maybe.”  She said, “I think you should. You’d be really good at it.” My momma heart swelled!  Unfortunately the instrument rental guy started talking to Lex at the same time so he only partially heard her.  I love how sweet his classmates are to him.  My favorite little girl who tackled him in first grade was there too and she was more than happy to chat with him and tell me all about the band setup. 

Lex finally got his percussion set and immediately asked me to carry it because it was too heavy.  No way, José!

He is sooooo excited to get started with lessons.  His set has a snare drum practice pad (not a full drum) drum sticks, bells (which are kind of like a xylophone), and mallets.  Despite instructions from the music teacher to not touch anything until his first lesson (the instruction went to all kids, not just Lex), he had that case open in the car, gently fingering the bells.  He is so excited!   I can’t wait to hear him practicing.  I hope he loves it!!