FAQ's

2022-2023 Viking Band Handbook

How does band benefit my child?

More information can be found at:  https://www.bepartofthemusic.org/group/index.php?id=4838 

Do I have to buy an instrument for my child?

BTCS has a limited number of rental instruments.  These are assigned to students in need on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Our dealer, Music Doctors Inc., has great deals on industry standard musical instruments.  They also offer rent-to-own programs.

How many extra after-school activities will my child have to attend?

The band will have an average of 4 performances per school year.

In some instances, we hold 2-3 afterschool rehearsals to prepare for each performance.

Are there any required fees?

We request a $25 for renting a school owned instrument.  This helps to pay for maintenance of the instrument.  If families need help with this fee, please contact a band director.

What instrument is best for my child?

The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that the play something that they enjoy. We encourage you to allow your child to attend our Instrument Placement Night at their school, so they may have the opportunity to see and try each instrument option in person. We will be there to help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Together we will find the instrument that your child will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success.


Can my child participate in activities in addition to band?

Yes!  We currently have band students that are also involved in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.  The majority of your student's involvement in band will occur during the normal school day hours.  We will occasionally have after-school practices in preparations for concerts and other performances.  However, we will work with your student and their other coaches/program leaders etc. when any schedule conflicts arise.  

What if my child is on the fence about joining band?

Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.”  Music is the same way. Your child should sign up for band even if you or they are unsure. If at some point your child decides that music is not for them, they may drop at the end of the grading period.  It is better to try something and decide it's not meant to be, than to never try and thus never know what could have been.