FAQs

Do I have to know anything about music to join the band?

No Experience is Needed! Everything you need to know to play an instrument will be taught in your band class. Any previous training in music is a plus but not necessary for success.

What fun things will we do in the band?

The best reward is learning to play an instrument and make music! You will experience many parties, trips, concerts, contests & performances throughout the year!

Asthma? Braces? Is it possible?

ABSOLUTELY! There are good instrument options for every student who wants to be in band. We have many students that have braces and/or asthma. Playing a wind instrument can actually be beneficial for those with asthma as it helps strengthen the lungs.

Who will be in the band?

Your friends and fellow classmates will join you in what will be some of the most exciting and fun times of your school experience. The more friends, the more fun! Many of our students are the school leaders and among the most successful students at Tays Junior High.

Are certain instruments for girls and others for boys?

Definitely NOT! Instrument choices are not based on a student's gender, but rather their desire to play that instrument. Instrument selection is based primarily upon the facial characteristics of the student, and, most importantly, their personal choice.

What about buying used instruments?

Some used instruments are good bargains. However, you could possibly end up spending more money on repairs than the instrument is worth. For this reason, we ask that if you do purchase a used instrument, try to let a band director know prior to purchase. Local music stores and former band students are excellent sources of used instruments. You might see if the music companies have used instruments available. We have found most pawnshop instruments to be of dubious quality. Again, we recommend that you RENT an instrument the first year from a reputable music company.

Are there any school owned instruments availalbe?

Yes. The school provides the more expensive instruments: Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn, Euphonium,and Tuba. These are assigned on the basis of aptitude, suitability, and availability - NOT financial need. Parents whose child is selected to play one of these school-owned instruments are required to pay a $100 Instrument usage fee per year, and will still be required to purchase necessary accessories such as a mouthpiece, books, reeds/valve oil.

Can my child start playing as soon as they get an instrument?

In order to prevent costly repairs and the formation of bad habits, we prefer that the instrument stays in the case during the summer. Instruments will stay in the storage room of the band hall during the first couple of weeks of school. After formal instruction is given on the care and assembly of the instrument during our Instrument Institute event, your child will begin taking the instrument home. This is to protect your investment! If you rent/purchase from a music company, the store will deliver the instrument and materials to our band hall before the first day of school. An additional option for eager students is to start band this SUMMER with a Private Lesson teacher. This is a chance to get one-on-one help and be set up for success with one of the professional musicians who teach on our campus each week. The teachers understand that some lessons might have to be rescheduled due to family vacations.

Are private lessons available? Are they required?

Private lessons are strongly encouraged for all students but are not required. If your child takes private lessons, they will receive one-on-one instruction from a professional musician (many of which have graduate degrees). Lessons are held once a week at TJH at a cost of $20-28 per half hour. Private lessons help challenge students of all skill levels and growth is always achieved.

Will my child be required to practice at home?

Yes. At the start of the school year, students are required as a part of their grade to practice 10-15 minutes every day outside of class. This time increases over time as their facial muscle develop and strengthen and they can practice up to 20-30 minutes, several days per week (not every day). For home practice, students are to purchase a folding music stand, metronome (electronic time-keeper). Parents are encouraged to give positive support to the student as he/she progresses.

Can my child participate in both athletics and band at the same time? What about a combination of other electives?

In 7th and 8th grade YES, but NOT in 6th grade. Athletics is not offered in the 6th grade. There is only ONE elective in 6th grade and students. In 7th & 8th grade, students may take more electives than they can in 6th grade. There are many middle school students who are in band, athletics, and other organizations such as theatre arts, choir, etc. Because of the unique nature of playing a musical instrument, we try to encourage students to begin band in 6th grade and then take other electives along with band in their 7th & 8th grade years. If you want your child to learn a band instrument, you will need to put band as your FIRST CHOICE for an elective.