1420 East 68th Street Brooklyn, NY 11234 Phone: (718) 763-4701 Fax: (718) 251-3439
Roy H. Mann
The School of Architectural Design & Innovative Technology
Together We Make A Difference
Meet the Director
Hello, my name is Ms. Elgass and I have been the band director at Roy H Mann since 2021! I received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Education from Vanderbilt University, and prior to my time at Roy H Mann, taught middle school and collegiate band in Nashville, Tennessee.
I am so excited to return to Roy H Mann for another year of music-making and hope tha, if you haven’t already, you’ll consider joining the Roy Mann band family!
I live with my partner and our cat, Oliver in Brooklyn. Outside of work, I enjoy playing saxophone in the Brooklyn Wind Symphony, reading, tending to my indoor plant collection, traveling, and indoor rock climbing!
Be Part of the Music:
The Roy H Mann Band Program
Roy Mann offers an extensive instrumental music program that includes a band at every grade level (6-8) as well as weekly exploratory music classes as part of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM).
The Sixth Grade Beginning Band is a course with an emphasis on teaching students proper playing technique and music reading. No prior experience is necessary for participation in Beginning Band.
The Seventh Grade Band is the intermediate level band at Roy Mann. The class continues to emphasize proper playing technique and music reading while performing more challenging literature and focusing on ensemble musicianship.
The Eighth Grade Band is the advanced level band at Roy H Mann. Students continue to develop their playing and ensemble musicianship skills. Technique, music reading, and musicianship are developed while exploring higher level music.
Common Questions from Beginners
What if I’m not sure if I want to do music?
We encourage any student considering music to give it a try, even if they are unsure. It is much easier to drop something after trying it than to join late when everyone else has already started.
What if I don’t know anything about music?
That’s ok! We will teach you everything you need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide you through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and willingness to practice.
How much outside of school time does this require?
Music is no different from any other curricular area. We ask that you spend some time with your instrument each and every week (about 15 minutes a day). Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun! Additionally, we perform about three evening concerts per school year.
You absolutely CAN do band and other activities! Many of our students are HIGHLY involved in sports, afterschool, advanced academics, etc. It takes some planning and communication, but IS possible!
What instruments can I learn? How do I choose one?
Our school teaches students to play common band instruments: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion (drums and bells). What instrument you choose depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that you play something you enjoy. We will help guide you in making a decision based on your musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability.
What are the costs?
All students will need to pay a yearly band fee of $20 to cover their music/band book costs, and students will need to obtain dressy black clothing to wear for concerts.
The school has instruments available to rent for student use, and we ask families using these instruments to pay a $50 instrument use fee to help us ensure that we have the funding to regularly maintain this fleet of instruments.
If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do the above, please contact us and allow us to help. We firmly believe that finances should never prevent a student from participating in band.
What if I have additional questions?
Please know that I am here to answer any and all questions that you may have. The best way for you to reach me is electronically at eelgass@schools.nyc.gov. This will allow me to respond to your query, either in writing or with a phone call.