Got questions?  You're not alone, most people do! The transition from fifth grade to sixth grade is often confusing to both parents and students alike. We've got answers that will hopefully help to make that transition a little bit easier. 

Q: What are the benefits of joining band? 

A: There are numerous benefits to joining band.  They can be divided into four categories:

• Fun
  Each spring, individual members of the SFMMS Band compete in a solo & ensemble contest. The SFMMS Band plays concerts for parents, PTO Meetings, and the other students. There will also be chances to meet lots of new friends, participate in fun events, and have parties throughout the year. This spring, the SFMMS Band will compete in a band competition at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio.
  
• Scholarships
  Colleges and Universities offer scholarship money to students who play in band. Whether you major in music or not, band scholarships are available from most universities. Some instruments such as bassoon, oboe, French horn, and tuba are often in high demand at universities.
   
• Leadership Opportunities
  Leadership opportunities in middle school and high school include being band officers, marching officers, section leaders, and drum majors.
   
• Academics
  Research has proven that students who continue and excel in band frequently get much higher SAT scores than students who are not involved in music. Effective practice habits developed in music can easily be applied in most any other problem-solving situation. 

Q: Doesn't band cost a lot of money?

A: Not necessarily! If you want to be in band, we will find a way for you to participate and play an instrument. The school supplies all of the oboes, French horns, euphoniums, and tubas.  Many students rent or purchase instruments from music stores. Rental rates range from about $25/month to around $60/month. Some students buy their instruments new and some play on used instruments. Please wait until your first meeting with a band director before purchasing an instrument.

Q: What instrument will I play? 

A: This year's SFMMS Band is made up of woodwind and brass instruments. These include flutes, clarinets, oboes, saxophones, trumpets, French horns, trombones, euphoniums, and tubas.  In addition, we have percussionists, who learn to play both bells and drums. The band directors will let you try out some instruments and help you to decide what you will play.

Q: How much experience do I need? 

A: No prior musical experience is necessary to be a member of the SFMMS Band! We teach you how to read music as well as play your instrument.

Q: Do I have enough time for band? 

A: Yes!  The time outside of school required of members of the SFMMS Band is minimal.  There will be two or three evening concerts and a few after school rehearsals each year. There may also be some optional after school sectionals. Numerous band students in Del Rio successfully participate in Academic UIL, student council, extracurricular sports, and scout troops every year.

Q: What about practicing? 

A: Just like with other classes, band has homework. Each student is expected to practice his or her instrument for an average of thirty minutes a day. We understand that circumstances sometimes will not allow this every day, but the students who make practicing a priority end up having a lot more fun in band.

Q: What else should I know? 

A: Just remember that we will find a way for absolutely anyone who wants to be in band to join us. We hope that you will seriously consider signing up for next year's band! We sincerely believe that it will be one of the best decisions you could make!

Q: But I have another question!

A: Great!  Email us and let us know.  Somebody else has that same questions and would love for us to put the answer on this website!