Prospective Students

Welcome to the information page for prospective band students. You can click on the following to find out more information about the band program at McDougle Middle School and what your child will need for this class.

Information Video for Parents

Information on Instrument Choices for Beginners

Band FAQs

What is band?

Band is a year-long music elective class offered at McDougle. Our focus is learning and playing wind/percussion instruments and reading/playing/performing wind band literature.

What will my child learn in band?

Your child will learn how to read musical notation, how to play a band instrument, and how to perform on that instrument

Is there a cap for students interested in band?

No. There are no caps in the number of students who can sign up for band and no caps for any specific instrument. Any student who lists band as their preferred elective will be able to join unless there is a problem with scheduling due to a remediation class that needs to be taken. Contact the 6^th grade school counselor for more information if your child falls in that category.

Does my child need previous experience reading musical notation?

No. While it is helpful that a child has background knowledge in music, it is not a requirement to join band.

Does my child need an instrument to join band?

Yes. All students in band class need to have an instrument.

How do I get an instrument for my child?

You can purchase a new/used instrument from any reputable retailer (no Amazon or Walmart please) that sells musical instruments. You can borrow an instrument from a family member or friend that owns one (make sure it is in working condition). You can do the rent-to-own program from Music and Arts or any musical retailer who has a similar program. You can borrow an instrument from Mcdougle Middle School if you need financial assistance or we can reach out to the SKAJAJA organization. SKAJAJA provides donated instruments that have been brought back to proper playing condition for students to use while in the CHCCS instrumental programs for no fee. Students must demonstrate a financial need in order to receive an instrument from McDougle Middle or the SKAJAJA organization.

What instruments are offered in band class?

Students start on one of the four beginning instruments: flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone. I will guide each student through the selection process once school starts and will make sure they end up on an instrument they like AND can be successful at learning/playing. ***Students who wish to start on an instrument not listed above must meet the following criteria – 1. Must take private lessons on that instrument. 2. Must audition for Mr. Rodriguez.

Is there piano or guitar in band?

No. Most of the available middle school music repertoire does not have piano or guitar parts written. Composers of wind band literature rarely include piano or guitar parts so there is no need to have either of those instruments in band. The only ensemble that uses nontraditional instruments is jazz band.

What is Jazz Band?

Jazz band is an all-volunteer ensemble that meets before school. It is not a class and students do not receive credit for attending. Jazz band is typically made up of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section made up of piano, guitar, bass guitar, and drum set. We play the standard Big Band repertoire of the 30s through the 50s, jazz classics of the 60s and beyond, as well as popular music of today.

How does my child join Jazz Band?

Jazz band is open to any student who can commit themselves to attending the weekly rehearsals. While there is no audition requirement to join, Mr. Rodriguez will want to meet with rising 6^th graders who are interested to see if they are at a level where they are ready to take the often-challenging music.

Instrument Rental Information

Please feel free to reach out with any questions you might have

Luis Rodriguez

Director of Bands

McDougle Middle School

900 Old Fayetteville Rd.

Chapel Hill, NC 27615

919 933-1556 ext 74070

lrodriguez@chccs.k12.nc.us