Joining Band FAQ's

Beginner Band Frequently Asked Questions:

Does my child need to have previous experience on an instrument in order to be in that instrument's beginner class?

No!  However, a piano background has been found to be very beneficial for all beginner classes--especially percussion--but is not required.  In some cases family's that start lessons early find that their child is not ALWAYS prepared for membership in the Doerre Band.  One lesson a week is just no substitute for having band class five days a week.  In some rare cases students will be ahead of the class but we've found this is not always the case.

How much does band cost?

There are no fees for being in band, however band is not free. There are t-shirts and other spirit items for purchase every year. Each instrument has certain costs attached to them. For family's who rent a good guess would be approximately $1 a day. Some instruments (like Saxophone) cost more to rent/purchase because of popularity and supply and demand. There are "school owned" instruments that can not be rented but they have accessories that will need to be purchased outright. If you are worried about the cost of band--please mention this to a director at your child's Interview. We can help.

How long does an Instrument Interview last?  What will happen at the Instrument Interview?

Each time slot is 15 minutes. Some will take 10, others might take more time. It really depends on how open the child is to receiving the expert advice the directors are providing. Our job is to find the best choice for your child. We do take preference into account but if their 1st choice isn't a good fit we will be open and honest in our assessment. With 11 instruments to choose from I'm confident we will find one that is just right for your child. Following the Interview the rental set-up with the music store should take an additional 15 minutes. Plan on 45 minutes to be safe.

We look at many factors when placing your child on a instrument: body height, arm length, hand size, finger length, facial structure, lip size/shape, teeth orientation, lung capacity, listening skills, and your child's disposition. Some instruments just fit better than others for each child. The best Interviews are the ones where you have 3 choices you are interested in trying, but you are really open to see what's out there.  In many cases a band director will see or hear something that will point us towards a particular instrument. In most cases that's the best fit for your child. In short: have an open mind!

I have an old instrument from when I was a band student.  Can my child use this instrument?

It depends. The main factors would be it's condition and it's make and model.  Bring the instrument with you to the interview and we would be happy to check it out and see if it would work for your child.

Do I have to rent/purchase from the music store?

We ask that for the first year you do.  We've worked closely with the music store to insure the highest quality of satisfaction for you and your child.  We want to make sure they have the best chance for success.  If they attempt to learn how to play on an instrument that is of lower quality their experience and long-term enjoyment could be compromised.  After the first year we will be happy to discuss "step-up" or more professional quality instruments for your child to play. 

What is a typical Beginner Band schedule? Are their extra commitments outside of school?

Band is a co-curricular class that meets every day.  They will have one period a day that is their Band class.  It will meet the same period all year long.  There are very few outside of school commitments the first year: 1 rehearsal and concert in December, 1 rehearsal and concert in March, 1 solo festival in March, 1 rehearsals in May, 1-2 contests in May, 1 concert in May.  Students are encouraged to practice 5-6 times per week (think homework).  There are weekly playing exams in class to gauge student achievement and effort.  All students will have the opportunity to attend a weekly Private Lesson.  This is a one-on-one tutoring session that your child will attend with a master teacher.  There is an extra fee for the lessons.

Does the band have any fun/social events?

YES!  This band works hard and plays harder!  We have regular fun events spread out throughout the school year.  Some events include: movie nights, ice cream/pizza parties, GameTime Houston, Main Event and our annual Rockathon.  The off-campus events will require a fee.

My child is involved in many activities. Will they have time to be in band?

YES!  Beginner Band is just the first step.  All Beginners learn the skills needed to be participants in Doerre Advanced Bands (bands after the first year) and Klein Cain, Klein, or any other HS Bands!  Many of our students are involved in on and off campus sports, clubs, religious groups, etc. The key is keeping an accurate family calendar! :)