Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about Band

What is “Band”?

Students in Grades 4 and 5 are eligible for our band program in Danvers. In band, students will learn how to play an instrument, read music, and how to play music as an ensemble. We perform two concerts, winter and spring, each school year.

How do I register for band?

Students will be shown a demonstration about the instruments available to choose from, and then a registration form will be sent to fourth grade families via email.  This came from the building principals on 8/25 - "Instrumental Music Family Letter".  (Fifth grade students will receive hard copies at school with slightly different information.). It is very important for all students that want to participate in band, to fill out the registration form so we can schedule classes appropriately. 

Do I have to fill out the registration form?

Yes.

What if I forget to register for band?

Please register as soon as you can. The band schedule is created based on the students that register.

What instruments are offered in band?

The instruments offered for beginning band are:

Flute - click to hear how it sounds!

Clarinet - click to hear how it sounds!

Alto Saxophone - click to hear how it sounds!

Trumpet - click to hear how it sounds!

Trombone - click to hear how it sounds!

Percussion* - click to hear how a snare drum sounds!

Click to hear how a glockenspiel sounds!

What is percussion*?

Percussion is the name for the family of instruments that you can strike, shake, or scrape. We use percussion kits that come with a snare drum, practice pad, and glockenspiel. Students that sign up for percussion must understand that you are not signing up for “drum class”. We will learn and explore proper technique for all percussion instruments.

Lessons and Rehearsals: What’s the difference?

Lessons are instrument specific and meet once a week for 30 minutes during the school day. For example: all 4th grade students that want to learn flute will be scheduled together. 

Rehearsals are when all instruments meet together to practice as an ensemble. These rehearsals will meet once a week before school requiring students to have transportation, as buses do not arrive in time.

How do we get an instrument and supplies for band?

After you have registered for band:

We have an instrument rental night at Danvers High School in September where instrument rentals, books, and stands will be offered by David French Music, an outside rental company. You may choose to purchase or rent an instrument through another company; however, please consult with the instrumental music teacher at your school prior to making your decision to ensure that you are purchasing or renting a quality instrument and to ensure the instrument of choice is being offered.

Non-instrument companies release counterfeit instruments that are inexpensive but poorly made.

Fee Waivers and Scholarships

We want every student that wants to participate in band to have an opportunity, so we have fee waivers and scholarship instruments available for families experiencing financial hardship. Please reach out to the band director for more information!