Band Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are taught?

Students in fifth grade may learn to play the flute, oboe, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, or percussion.

When are lessons taught?

Students are excused from class once a week to have a group music lesson (approximately 40 minutes). Lesson times rotate so students do not miss the same class each week.

When does band rehearse?

Beginning Band rehearses every other day during 9th period. This is a regularly scheduled class in the Middle School day. Students do not miss other classes for band rehearsals.

What instrument is best for my child?

Some physical characteristics (underbites, overbites, tear-drop lips, finger size, etc.) can effect the potential for success of many instruments. As part of the recruiting process we will meet with each student individually to help determine what instruments they could be the most successful on.

What are the benefits of playing an instrument?

The study of instrumental music is an investment in your child's future. Music is one of the only subjects that has been proven to improve a student's academic achievement regardless of their socioeconomic background. It improves a pupil's ability to comprehend math, understand and utilize the English Language, and to think creatively. Active participation in school music programs continues to rank highly on college admissions officers' criteria for acceptance. For more specific research based benefits, please read "Music Education Statistics and Facts".

What if my child already plays an instrument?

Orchestra students should talk with their orchestra teacher if interested in a band instrument. Students who already play a band instrument may continue on that instrument. This would also be an appropriate time to switch to another instrument if desired. Students who take piano lessons are encouraged to also play a band instrument. The study of piano and another instrument usually complement each other very well.

How do I get an instrument?

The school owns a limited number of oboes, baritones, french horns, and tubas that are rented annually ($20) for student use. For families qualifying for free or reduced lunch we also have a limited supply of all band instruments that can be rented on a first come basis ($20 annually). Most instruments, however, need to be rented from a local music store. Rental fees range from $120 to $170 for the school year, with trombone and trumpet being the least expensive and saxophone being the most expensive. More specific rental information can be provided by the local music stores. Please do not make rental arrangements until we have decided what instrument your child will be playing! In September, the music store will deliver your rental instrument directly to school. Students will receive the instrument at their first lesson. We do this to avoid accidental damage caused by curious students who have not yet learned how to handle and assemble an instrument properly. If you already own your instrument we recommend you have it cleaned and checked for proper playing condition before the school year starts. Our local music stores are:

Crino Music, 811 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, 366-4800

Chautauqua Audio Works, 3335 S. Roberts Road, Fredonia, 716-679-4333

Germaine & Pappalardo Music, 52 Charles Street, Jamestown, 716-483-0671

What other items will my child need?

Each student will need a lesson book which costs about $8. A folding music stand is a very useful item and strongly recommended. Students may also need instrument specific accessories such as reeds, valve oil, cork grease, mouthpieces, etc. You will receive more specific supply information after instrument decisions have been made.

What kind of effort is expected from my child?

Playing a musical instrument can be a very fun and gratifying activity. However, to be successful, each student must be willing to devote the necessary time and effort. Daily practice at home, a properly adjusted instrument, and regular attendance at lessons, rehearsals, and concerts is crucial. Strong parental support and encouragement is also an important factor in achieving success on a musical instrument.

Can my student play an instrument and sing in chorus?

Yes! We strongly encourage all students to sing in chorus and play an instrument. Participating in both musical activities is not only good for a student's music education, research has proven positive effects on performance in other academic courses as well. Also, music students will still have a daily study hall to work on homework and can work with their teachers afterschool during period 10 if they need extra help.

How do we sign up for band?

All students are given an interest form to fill out during their General Music Classes. Parents of these students are then contacted, and they have to sign-up using this online form.

When are students notified of their assigned instrument?

After receiving sign-up forms with each students' top three choices, we will meet with each student individually to help determine what instruments he or she could be the most successful on. It's like a wand fitting from Harry Potter! We must also try to achieve a reasonable balance among the various instruments. For this reason it is not always possible to give each student their first choice, especially if it is saxophone or percussion. Everyone will find out what their instrument will be before summer vacation begins. Instrument rental arrangements, if necessary, should be made during the summer while instruments are still in plentiful supply.