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Learn the Facts About Being in the Band
There are a lot of myths about being in band. Some of these come hearsay, conjecture, and assumptions. Take a few minutes and learn about the FACTS about the band right from the source.
Myth: Band cost too much money, so I can’t join.
FACT: There a many school provided instruments available for students to use free of cost. In fact, we issued nearly every beginner band member a school instrument this year (some purchased/rented their own, which is encouraged BUT NOT REQUIRED). Finances should NEVER keep anyone from being in band.
Myth: I can’t read music or play any instruments at all, so this will be too hard for me.
FACT: Almost every student who joins the beginning band has never played an instrument. You learn how to read music starting with basic note reading and rhythms. By December you will be playing full songs and well on your way to being a talented musician. Your prior knowledge is not a factor!
Myth: My parents said I must pick between sports and music, and I want to play my favorite sport!
FACT: Band at LMS is a daily class, which means you will learn during the school day. It does not impact participation in sports in any way. It is a class just like math, reading, science, and history. Even after the 6th-grade year, most of the band students participate in sports. In fact, there are high school band members who are starters on the ECHS varsity football team. YOU CAN DO BOTH!
Myth: None of my friends will be in band, so I won’t know anyone.
FACT: You would be surprised how many other students you will know in band. You will even make more friends by being in band. You might even be in band with old friends you haven’t seen in a while. We also encourage you to invite your friends to learn an instrument with you.
Myth: I don’t think I will enjoy the type of music performed - it’s not my style!
FACT: Students in band learn all sorts of different styles of music. We like to diversify our performances with unique music. Many of the band students will also find their favorite songs on the internet and learn to play them. In fact, you’d be surprised how many of your favorite musicians were in band. Being in band doesn’t limit the music you listen to; it helps you understand it better.
Myth: I’m too busy to be in band.
FACT: Balancing responsibilities and managing your time is an important part of middle school. Learning a new instrument does take practice, but it is FUN, and it can fit into your day-to-day life without issues. In beginner band there are only two after-school concerts the entire year: one in December and one in May. Everything else is done during the school day. Even in the 7th and 8th grade, there are very few after-school requirements. Nearly everything is done during the school day.
Myth: I don’t like band so I’m not going to try it!
FACT: How do you KNOW if you don’t like band UNLESS you TRY it. Middle school all about trying a new experience. You didn’t know you would like your favorite food until you tried it. It’s the same thing with band. Try it; it might end up being your new favorite thing.
Myth: I want to be a _______________ when I grow up, not a musician, so band isn’t going to help me.
FACT: Band teaches more than just music and how to play an instrument. Organizational skills, teamwork, time management, coordination, multi-tasking, and social skills are key components to being successful in band, just as they are in most careers.
Myth: I need to focus on my academics and my grades and band won't help me.
FACT: Studies have shown that those who learn a musical instrument develop higher IQs and are better learning and retaining new information. Band has been shown to increase test scores (like the STAAR test and college entrance exams). In fact, band students have a higher graduation rate and college acceptance rate than those in ANY OTHER ELECTIVE. Band can help you even when you get to college (more instrumental musicians are admitted to medical school than any other category). Band is not just about playing an instrument; it is about college and career readiness. In short, band can make you smarter. Being in band can put you on the right path for success in anything, and it starts at the most critical time: 6th GRADE!
Band is a life changing experience. It is one of those things people regret NOT joining. The Legacy Band is a family that works and plays together. Don’t let the “myths” of band keep you from joining something great!
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