Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there an audition process to gain admittance into the BHS Marching and Concert Bands? There is no audition required for entry into the band. While a conversation and playing check-in should first be had with the band director and the student's caregivers if they have had little to no previous experience in instrumental music, all aspiring musicians are welcome in the band at BHS.

2. Is there a cost associated with participation in instrumental music at Beverly High School? There is no user fee associated with the music program at BHS. While there are incidental fees such as instrument maintenance, marching band accessories (students pay for gloves and shoes), and the annual music trip (students are not required to travel), there is no fixed monetary rate attached to enrollment in the band program.

3. Is marching band a requirement for all band members? In short, yes. All students who enroll in course "CP Band" are enrolled for the entire school year. From August until late October, the group focuses on halftime show and parade music. From November through May, the focus shifts to concert band repertoire. In the final month of school, the band is actively preparing for Memorial Day events (marching band), the spring concert, as well as a graduation performance (both concert band).

4. Is attendance at summer band camp (usually held for one week in mid-late August) mandatory? While exceptions are occasionally made on an individual basis, it is expected that every member of the marching band be present for band camp activities. Band camp is where all of the marching band fundamentals of technique are taught and the upcoming season's halftime show begins to take shape.

5. Can a student be enrolled in jazz band without being in marching/concert band? Firstly, no one is admitted into jazz band without an audition. Only students who play piano or guitar in jazz band are excused from also being expected to be a member of the marching/concert band.