Incoming 6th Grade Information

Soon it will be time for you to register for your 6th grade classes. A vital role in your middle school education is your elective class and we would like to present you with exciting opportunities that are waiting for you in the band program!

The Beginner Band is made up of 6th graders just like you! The 6th grade band classes are scheduled so that the same instrument and instrument groups are put together by class period. This allows for individualized instruction on your chosen instrument and an opportunity to develop strong performance skills during your first year in band! You may choose one instrument from the following list: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion.

The enjoyment students experience in this program is due largely to the friends and social activities that band offers. Since the classes meet in small groups initially, the students have the chance to meet new friends as well as have others to share in their personal as well as group successes! Since the band program offers a variety of experiences, students also have the opportunity to travel and experience many aspects of life . In the past the high school bands in Denton have gone to Colorado, South Padre Island, Disney World in Florida, California, Mexico, New York, Nashville, and many other fun places!

It all begins this fall! This first year is the most important because it is during this year that you will begin to develop a strong foundation. We are proud of our middle and high school bands and we hope that you will chose to become a part of this exciting program. 

A well-rounded education is so important in all our lives and what could enhance it more than the most basic of all studies – the study of music. Music teaches discipline, develops self-confidence, provides a feeling of belonging, and gives each student a feeling of pride and accomplishment . Being a part of this organization not only teaches the importance of working well with others, but helps develop social skills necessary to becoming a functioning member of a working team. Not all band students become great musicians, but certainly, and most importantly, all become more mature, cooperative, self-disciplined, hard working members of society with an appreciation of the arts.

We are proud of our band programs throughout Denton I.S.D. and hope that you will consider becoming a member of the best organization. We have included information that we hope will answer most of your questions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call or email us.

Most Frequently Asked Beginning Band Questions

1. How much will it cost? 

NOT MUCH!! We have fundraisers that help defer costs and we work with all financial situations. We want to give every child the best opportunity possible. Students that qualify for the FREE or REDUCED lunch program qualify to use an instrument for a small fee through our district!

Rental Fee of most instruments: $30.00-$60.00 per month depending on the instrument chosen (if you choose to rent your instrument). Purchase prices of instruments vary depending on the instrument chosen.

We have a yearly band fee that all students will pay. The band fee covers their band t-shirt, contest fees, transportation costs, band binder, beginning band book, sheet music and other supplies.

2. Why should my child be involved?

Your child has the opportunity of being a part of an outstanding Band Program at McMath. It has been proven that playing a musical instrument raises I.Q., reading, and math abilities. It is a great “family” to which a student can “belong”. It also builds community pride and personal confidence.

3. How do I sign my child up for band?

You will need to meet with the band staff at McMath during the spring semester on the instrument selection night. We will help pick the instrument that will provide the most success for your child. We will take instrument choices on a first-come, first-serve basis. Percussion fills up fast.*

4. Can my child participate in athletics or cheerleading and still be in the band? 

Yes! The coaches and the directors work closely with one another to make everything possible for the students. We want all our students at McMath to have a well rounded education.

5. What are the time commitments for beginning students?

§  Class time during the regular school day

§  2 to 4 after school rehearsals per year prior to concerts and contests for the purpose of combining classes for a performance

§  At least 20-30 minutes of practice 5 days per week 

6. What are my responsibilities as a parent?

§  To provide an instrument or pay an instrument usage fee for a school owned instrument ($125 per year). School instruments are Oboe, Bassoon, French horn, Euphonium, and Tuba.

§  All instruments are included in our DISD assistance program for any families that qualify for FREE or REDUCED lunch.  These prices vary from $25-$50 per year.

§  To provide maintenance items and supplies such as valve oil, reeds, etc. 

7. What are my child’s responsibilities?

§  To practice at least 20-30 minutes 5 days per week

§  To have his or her instrument, music, pencil, band binder, and related materials in class and work to the best of their ability every day

8. How do I know what instrument my child should play?

The Band Staff will meet individually with your child to determine which instrument your child will be most successful playing. Call 940-369-3333 or 940-36-3336 to talk to a director. 

10. Where and how do we rent or buy an instrument?

Click HERE for a list of our recommended vendors. They can guide you through the rental/purchase process. If you are renting an instrument, your first payment will be due at this time. The Band Staff has a list of recommended brands of each of the beginning instruments if you would like to purchase/rent your child’s instrument from somewhere else. If you are considering a used instrument, please have it checked by the Band Staff before you purchase it to ensure that it is in good working order. 

* If you have not had an opportunity to meet with the band staff, please call 940-369-3333 or 940-369-3336 to speak with a director as soon as possible.