Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: I do not know how to read music. Can I join band?

   • A: YES! When you sign up for band for the first time, you will be placed into a beginning band class based on which instrument you want to play. ALL beginning band classes start with the basics of reading and playing music.

2. Q: I do not know how to play an instrument. Can I join band?

   • A: YES! When you sign up for band, you will select which instrument you would like to play. We teach everyone how to put together their instrument, how to hold and place our hands/fingers, how to make a sound, and from there we learn how to play music with the instrument. NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED!

3. Q: Can I play sports and be in band?

   • A: YES! Band is an elective class, meaning that you will have band during the normal school day. ALL sports are held after school, and many students in band also play at least one sport for the school.

4. Q: Do I have to pay to be in band?

   • A: NO! There are no required fees to take band classes at Cedar Grove MS. We do go on field trips and order T-shirts each year, but any purchase is optional and we also complete fundraising to cover these extra costs.

5. Q: Do I need an instrument for band?

   • A: Yes, but...  All students in band need access to an instrument. All are encouraged to acquire their own personal instrument, either through rental or purchase, although this is not required. We have a limited inventory of instruments reserved for students who are unable to rent but want to take band.

6. Q: Am I required to rent an instrument?

   • A: No. You are highly encouraged to rent since we have a limited number of instruments to loan out. If you cannot rent, we will find you an instrument to use, but it may not be your first choice.