Band

Photo:  Culbreth Middle School Band at Adjudication in Atlanta, GA

• You like music!

• You want to play an instrument!

• You want to learn to read music!

• You want to be part of a group!

• You want to make friends!

• You want to be involved in out of school activities!

• You like to work toward goals!

Beginning Band Instruments

Beginning band instruments include the flute, clarinet, trumpet, and trombone.  As students progress through the band programs, they may learn to play percussion and a wider variety of woodwind and brass instruments.

Learn more about the instruments from the videos and websites below.

• Be Part of the Band website 

• U.S. Army Field Band Instrument Demonstration Video

• Kidzu Museum website
  (Chapel Hill HS Tri-Mu Honor Society Students)

Band 6

Grade:  6  
Course length:  Year

No Prior Experience Required

This course is for any student who wants to learn to play a musical instrument.  Beginning Band teaches the student to read notes and rhythms and to understand musical terminology.  Classes are divided into two groups:  brasses such as the trumpet, trombone, tuba, and horn; and woodwinds such as the clarinet and flute.  Students who wish to begin percussion instruments (drums) are mixed into both groups.  There are limited positions available for the more popular instruments.  Because this is a performance class, students are required to play in the scheduled evening concerts.

Note:  Students must enter the name of the instrument (example: flute) or type of instrument (example: woodwind) that they would like to play on the registration form.

Band 7

Grade:  7  
Course length:  Year

Prerequisite: Band 6 or Equivalent Experience

This class is designed for students with previous playing experience (one year of public school band or private lessons).  Students continue ensemble (group) playing and skill development and develop a greater understanding of the theory and history behind music.  Students are required to participate in scheduled performances.  Band 7 students are also eligible to audition for All-District Band.

Note for all band courses:  It is suggested that students purchase instruments.  Assistance is provided when needed.

Band 8

Grade:  8  
Course length:  Year

Prerequisite: Band 7 or Equivalent Experience

Band 8 allows students to apply previously learned skills to a higher level of musical performance and understanding. Students use higher level reasoning skills to determine what makes a song “musical” and to demonstrate their understanding of music through performance. Students are also eligible to audition for All-District Band, and the District Music Festival.  Students are required to participate in scheduled concerts. Band 8 prepares students for high school band.

Note for all band courses:  It is suggested that students purchase instruments.  Assistance is provided when needed.