See the following link to get the band supply lists. Please buy them from the music stores listed and email if you have any questions.
We know that, for many of you, this will be your first exposure to instrumental music education and we want to share some important information with you.
Music education is more than just playing an instrument; it is immersing your child in a culture of successful students, and teachers who care about education. It is one of the few things in life that challenges each child to use their entire brain while, at the same time, learning and reading a foreign language – the universal language of music.
All of the current data clearly shows that students involved in music academically out-perform their non-musical counterparts in the classroom and on standardized tests (STARR, ACT, SAT) – being in band makes kids smarter! But, more importantly, studies are showing that music students are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drugs and alcohol – being in band helps keep kids out of trouble!
Every destination starts with a decision to embark on the journey. Now is the time to take that first step towards success by starting your child in band, and Webb Middle School is a great place to do it. We can’t promise that every child will be a musical prodigy, but we can promise they will learn, laugh, and grow along the way.
FINDING YOUR INSTRUMENT
Click on the video to see each instrument in action!
These are professional Army Band musicians. They talk about each instrument and demonstrate some familiar excerpts!
Just in case you need an extra push...watch the video for 10 reasons to join band!
What if my child and I are not sure if we want to join band?
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.” Band is the same way. Your child should sign up for band even if you or they are unsure. If at some point you decide that band is not for you we can assist in finding another, more suitable class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when everyone else has already started.
What if I don’t know anything about music?
That’s ok! 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 them 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 sounds.
How much out-of-school time is required? What about athletics?
We work hard to make sure our students can participate in every activity they wish! Many of our band students are involved in band, athletics, and almost everything else! We want your child to be involved and we do whatever it takes to help them meet their obligations to each group they are a part of.
6th grade students are required to meet after school only a few times per year. 7th and 8th grade students who qualify for Honor Band (varsity band) are expected to attend after school sectionals and rehearsals. Symphonic Band (non-varsity band) students do not have regular obligations outside of the school day.
All students have a place in the Webb Band!
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something on which they will be successful. We encourage you to visit our website, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. We will also 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 band. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success.
What are the costs?
The costs associated with band membership depend on which instrument your child chooses. We wish funds were available to provide every child with an instrument, however this is simply not possible. We can provide tubas, euphoniums, and horns for a fee of $100 per school year. The other instruments can be rented/purchased from one of our preferred music stores.
We will not let financial constraints
prevent your child from participating in band.
What if I have other questions?
Please know that we are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Due to the busy nature of our band program and schools in general, it is sometimes difficult to contact us by phone. The best way for you to reach us is via email at ecgregg@garlandisd.net This will allow us to respond to your query, whether you are available by phone or not.
If financial constraints prevent you from being able to rent/purchase an instrument, please contact us and allow us to help.