Embedded Files
WELCOME, FUTURE O.HENRY BAND MEMBERS!!!
WELCOME, FUTURE O.HENRY BAND MEMBERS!!!
musicstudentsdontjust_learnnotes.pdfMusic is academic. Studies consistently show that students involved in music achieve higher test scores than students who are not receiving music education. The skills needed to read music are similar to those used in math and science.
Music is physical. All band instruments require physical coordination and control. Fine and gross motor skills are needed throughout a student's experience in band. In fact, students in high school band receive their PE credit for participating in band.
Music is emotional. Band provides a creative outlet that allows students to express their emotions through music. Band also provides a social experience with like-minded students who value both individual creativity and group cohesion.
Music is for life. Learning to play a musical instrument can provide a lifetime of adventure and enjoyment. Music, like any art is something that can be continuously refined. Musicians learn to strive for constant improvement over a long period of time. Many employers enjoy hiring musicians because they will be gaining someone who understands how to achieve long term goals.
The Instruments
The Instruments
The short informational videos below were created by members of the US Navy Band to introduce each band instrument
FAQ's About Band
Q: Do I have to know anything about music to join Band?
A: No previous music training is needed; only the desire to learn to play an instrument. In fact, most students who start band have no prior musical training at all. We start from “scratch” and focus on the fundamental skills needed to be successful in band.
Q: Who will be in Band?
A: Your friends and fellow classmates will join you in what will be one of the most exciting experiences of middle school. We are currently one of the largest spirit organizations at O.Henry with more than 110 band members. Many of our band students are among the leaders in academic achievement, athletics, school spirit, and club activities. Band is open to all O.Henry students.
Q: What are the advantages of being in Band?
A: The most obvious is learning to play an instrument for your own pleasure. Other advantages include: Concerts, Field Trips, Pizza Parties, Socials, Six Flags and the opportunity to perform fun music as a member of one of our Award Winning Bands!
Q: What instrument do I have to choose from and how do I choose?
A: If you have chosen Band as your elective, you will be invited to attend one of our Instrument Discovery Sessions in late March or early April. Your child will have the opportunity to try out many different instruments and we will help them select the one best suited for them.
Beginning Band Students are divided into classes, which include:
Woodwinds: Flute, Oboe & Bassoon, Clarinet, and Saxophone.
Brass: Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, and Tuba
Percussion: Mallet Keyboard, Timpani, Bass Drum ,Cymbals, Snare Drum, and auxiliary percussion.
Q: What does the band director look for in helping me select an instrument?
A: We look for a positive attitude, a desire to be in the band, and willingness to WORK HARD and have fun! We also look at teeth (braces are ok) and mouth formation, finger coordination and the band’s instrumentation needs.
Q: How do I get an instrument?
A: You may rent/purchase an instrument from a music company or rent an instrument from the school. In most cases, we can provide instruments for students who are in need. It is the policy of the O. Henry Middle School Band that no students should be denied the opportunity to participate in any activity due to financial hardship.
Q: Can my child participate in sports, dance, and cheerleading while taking Band?
A: Absolutely! We encourage our band members to participate in athletics and other activities. Many of our band members are the star athletes, cheerleaders, choir members, and dance team members as well as leaders in academics!
Page updated
Report abuse