Skip to main content

Schools

Popular Links

5th & 6th Grade Blanchard Orchestra Registration

Posted Date: 9/04/25 (8:25 AM)
View Original Post

Ensemble Block
The Acton-Boxborough School District offers a weekly Ensemble Block for all 5th and 6th graders during the regular school day. This is a chance for students to explore their musical interests and grow as individuals. If you've ever seen one of our award-winning high school programs and wondered how our AB students perform at such a high level, it starts here!

Your child participated in the Blanchard Orchestra program last year in 4th or 5th grade.

Students can choose from four options:
  • Band with Mr. Baird (requires registration in the Blanchard Band program)
  • Orchestra (register using this form)
  • Chorus (no registration necessary)
  • Stay in their  classroom (no registration necessary)
Ensemble Block does not replace or interfere with regular class instruction. While participating in a music ensemble is not mandatory, we highly encourage all students to join one.

If your child chooses Chorus or Stay in their classroom, you do not need to fill out any forms or read any further.

My child sings with Mrs. Callaghan in the Blanchard Chorus. Can they still participate in the orchestra?
Yes! The Blanchard Chorus meets before school on different days from the orchestra. Students can sing before school with Mrs. Callaghan, and play in the Orchestra in school with Mrs. Rodriguez. 


How To Register Your Child?
  1. Complete the Registration Form
    • Find the attached form and click "Complete and Sign Form." Depending on your device, the form will be located at the top or bottom of this message in the "Forms" tab.
    • Having trouble? If you see a "Select Child" message, you may be logged in with an email not linked to your child's AB account. Try using the ParentSquare app, as this automatically links to your profile.
  2. Pay for the Program
    • After you register, you'll receive an invoice via ParentSquare.
    • You can pay online or mail a check to the address on the invoice.
    • Important: Your child will be unenrolled if payment is not completed within 7 days.
    • If you are applying for financial aid, please complete the district's financial aid application as soon as possible. Your invoice will be adjusted after your application is processed.
  3. Acquire an Instrument
    • Renting is often the best choice for young musicians.
    • The school has arranged for David French Music to deliver instruments directly to your child's school on September 17.
    • To ensure delivery on that date, you must rent your instrument by September 15.
    • Other local vendors, such as Spencer Brook Strings and Leonard's Music, also serve our schools.
Caution!
We strongly advise against buying an instrument from a generic online vendor. While they may seem cheaper, these instruments are often a poor investment because they are low-quality, have no support or warranty, and can cause frustration for beginners.

When Are Lessons?
Orchestra Lessons at Blanchard are on Wednesday mornings from 9:00-10:00am. Students can take the bus (as long as there is room for their instrument). 



Important Upcoming Dates
  • There is no instrumental pick up this year. All instruments will be delivered to the school. 
  • 9/12/2025: Regular Registration Ends
  • 9/15/2025: Late Registration Begins (limited availability)
  • 9/15/2025: Deadline to reserve an instrument for 9/17 dropoff
  • 9/17/25: Instruments rented from David French Music delivered to schools
  • Week of 9/22/25: Lessons begin at all elementary schools
  • Week of 9/29/25: Ensemble Block begins at all elementary schools

Still have questions?