Beginning Band

As an incoming 6th grader, your child finally has the opportunity to do what so many successful students have done before them, Be Part of the Band! Watch this short video to learn more about band:

We know that for many of you, this might be your first exposure to band, so we have made learning about beginning band as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Click the button below to complete the following steps:

  1. Watch short videos that demonstrate each beginning band instrument and interviews with beginning band students and parents.

  2. Complete the Instrument Matching Tool, which will help match you with the right instrument! At the end, you will be asked to list your instrument preferences in priority order. **This step will take approximately 15 minutes.**

  3. Fill out a short interest form to get more information about our band program.

Beginning Band FAQs


What if I am not sure if I want my child to do music?

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 the end of the 6th grade year your child decides that music is not for them, they can choose another class for 7th grade. Students can only join band in 6th grade, so give it a shot!


What if I don’t know anything about music?

That’s okay! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.


How much out of school time is required?

Like any new skill, learning to play an instrument takes patience and consistent practice outside of music class. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every day. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun.


What instrument should my child play?

The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that the play something that they enjoy. When you click on the purple button above, you and your child can complete the Instrument Matching Tool, which will help guide your child based on his/her musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what they want, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success.


I only see flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, and percussion listed as beginning band instruments. Are these the only instruments available for 6th graders?

Yes, these are the primary instruments that 6th graders learn to start a solid foundation. At the end of the 6th grade year, we select a few students from each class to switch to a secondary instrument. Those instruments are:

  • Oboe (selected from the flute or clarinet class)

  • Bassoon (selected from the flute or clarinet class)

  • Saxophone (selected from the clarinet class)

  • Horn (selected from the trumpet class)

  • Baritone/Euphonium (selected from the trumpet or trombone class)

  • Tuba (selected from the trumpet or trombone class)


What are the costs?

The costs associated with music depend on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument. We wish funds were available for us to provide every child with an instrument; however, this is simply not possible. You can rent a quality instrument from a local music store at a very reasonable price. If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do this, please contact us and allow us to help. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating.


How do I obtain an instrument?

First of all, you do not have to obtain an instrument until after school has begun. In the fall, local music stores will hold instrument rental nights to make this process as easy as possible. If you have further questions about obtaining an instrument, or you want advice on a pre-owned instrument, please contact us so that we may help you find a high quality instrument for your child.


What if I have other questions?

Please know that we are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. The best way for you to reach us is by email. This will allow us to respond to your question, whether you are available by phone or not. For questions about Band at Sequoyah, please email ben.conrady@edmondschools.net