FAQs

I am an incoming Freshman. What classes can I register for?

• If you are currently in band, you should register for Symphonic Band. If you are currently in orchestra, you should register for String Orchestra. No audition is required. 

• If you play a jazz band instrument (saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drumset, piano, guitar, bass), you can also register for Jazz Ensemble. Keep in mind that you also have to be concurrently enrolled in band, orchestra, or choir if you are in Jazz Ensemble.

What instruments are played in band? Orchestra?

• Symphonic Band Instruments: Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon, Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion 

• Orchestra: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass 

• Jazz Band: Saxophone (alto, tenor, bari), Trumpet, Trombone, Drumset, Piano, Bass, Guitar 

  • Several students have taken the initiative to learn other instruments in order to participate in jazz band. We have had cello players in orchestra who play piano in jazz band, flute players who play trumpet, and bassoon players who learned the tenor saxophone so they could participate in jazz. 

I do not own the instrument I currently play in band or orchestra. Are there instruments available for me to use at the school?

• Yes, North Creek has instruments available that you can check out for the year and use at school. 

  • Tuba, Euphonium, Bassoon, Oboe, Piccolo, Bari Saxophone, Bass Clarinet

  • Marching Instruments: Marching Percussion (Drumline), Sousaphone, marching baritone, mellophone, piccolo

  • Viola, Cello, Double Bass 

I am a current North Creek student who was in band or orchestra in middle school, but I am not currently in band or orchestra at the high school. Can I be in band or orchestra next year?

• Yes! It is still possible to be in band or orchestra even if you haven't played your instrument in a couple of years. You will have a lot more fun if you spend some extra time practicing to be at a level that most other students are at, but it is possible! 

Am I required to take private lessons on my instrument?

• No, many students do not take private lessons. The students who do take private lessons often compete in the solo and ensemble competition and in the All-State band and orchestra. 

Is marching band required? 

• If you are enrolled in Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble, marching band is a requirement of the class. If you are currently in 8th grade, you will learn how to march during band camp in August. The marching band plays at all of the home football games. Band camp and marching band are a lot of fun, and is a highlight of the year for many band members. 

I participate in sports and/or have a heavy class load (APs, etc.), can I still participate in band or orchestra? 

• Yes! In fact, many band and orchestra members are athletes, high achieving students, and some even have jobs. While there are required evening commitments (concerts, marching rehearsals, etc.), students are still able to find and make the time to participate.