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Band classes begin in 4 th Grade at Grace. We have a 5 th -6 th grade band, a 7 th -8 th grade band, and a High School Band. Beginning band students can start at any level. The Band performs 3-4 times per year and participates in State Contests as a full band and also in small ensembles and solos. An instrument rental program for beginners is coordinated with King Music and the school owns some larger instruments for student use. Band class meets Monday through Thursday at the designated time in the school day
The band director at Grace Christian Academy is Mr. Kevin McNulty. Mr. McNulty has taught at Bishop McNamara, Bradley Bourbonnais Community High School, Marian Catholic High School, and Hall Township in Spring Valley, Illinois. Since retirement, he has taught at Homewood Flossmoor High School and Prairie State College. He is a well-known clinician, judge, and guest conductor throughout the country. He has judged bands, orchestras, and drum & bugle corps for over 40 years. His music degrees are from Illinois State University and the University of Illinois.
Mr. McNulty also has a business career and has many interests. In his business career, he traveled to China many times. He also owns a book publishing company and has authored ten books since 2006. Mr. McNulty lives in Matteson, Illinois with his wife. The McNultys have three adult children. Two are in education (one is a band director) and the third is in business. Mr. McNulty is originally from Momence.
In his retirement, he has chosen to come to Grace to enjoy what he loves most, which is engaging with young people in their pursuit of music. For more information about the Band at Grace Christian Academy, email Mr. McNulty at [email protected].
The band director at Grace Christian Academy is Mr. Kevin McNulty. Mr. McNulty has taught at Bishop McNamara, Bradley Bourbonnais Community High School, Marian Catholic High School, and Hall Township in Spring Valley, Illinois. Since retirement, he has taught at Homewood Flossmoor High School and Prairie State College. He is a well-known clinician, judge, and guest conductor throughout the country. He has judged bands, orchestras, and drum & bugle corps for over 40 years. His music degrees are from Illinois State University and the University of Illinois.
Mr. McNulty also has a business career and has many interests. In his business career, he traveled to China many times. He also owns a book publishing company and has authored ten books since 2006. Mr. McNulty lives in Matteson, Illinois with his wife. The McNultys have three adult children. Two are in education (one is a band director) and the third is in business. Mr. McNulty is originally from Momence.
In his retirement, he has chosen to come to Grace to enjoy what he loves most, which is engaging with young people in their pursuit of music. For more information about the Band at Grace Christian Academy, email Mr. McNulty at [email protected].
WHERE CAN I FIND AN INSTRUMENT?
Families should purchase name-brand instruments from a quality music store. Avoid buying instruments online as they can be cheaply made and may not be repairable if problems arise. Also, older used instruments can cost more to repair than the cost of a student-level band instrument. Check with the band director for advice on used instruments. Each beginning student must also purchase the required instrument kit for their specific instrument which includes such things as reeds, oils, and cork grease, and purchase or own a wire music stand for home practice.
Percussion students do not purchase drums or bell kits. They must purchase the assigned percussion kit which includes sticks (size 2B), a practice pad with a stand. a wire music stand, and the assigned book (King Music has the list of required accessories for each instrument) We have a relationship with King Music, who has already created a dedicated page for Grace. You can access instruments by clicking this link to King Music.
Percussion students do not purchase drums or bell kits. They must purchase the assigned percussion kit which includes sticks (size 2B), a practice pad with a stand. a wire music stand, and the assigned book (King Music has the list of required accessories for each instrument) We have a relationship with King Music, who has already created a dedicated page for Grace. You can access instruments by clicking this link to King Music.
DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE INSTRUMENTS?
A small number of school-owned instruments are available each year for a rental fee of $100. In addition to this fee, students will need to purchase an instrument kit (see above) to properly care for their instrument. Family-owned instruments are permitted if in full playing condition – sometimes requiring repair. Some instruments cost more to fix than to rent or buy. Students should present these instruments to the director for approval or recommended repair. Some large band instruments are available for rental every year. This rental fee covers the yearly maintenance cost of keeping the instrument in good playing condition.
IS THERE AN EXTRA COST FOR BAND AT GRACE?
Band is offered free of charge. Students are required to own or rent an instrument. Students must also maintain their accessory kit for their instrument (whether owned or rented) which includes such things as reeds and oils.
