Beginning Band FAQs

• Does my child need to know how to play an instrument or read music to be in Beginning Band?

No, he or she can arrive without any musical experience. 

• Which instruments do you offer?

Starting woodwind instruments include flute, clarinet, and alto saxophone. Starting brass instruments include trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba. Starting percussion instruments include snare drum AND mallets, which are studied concurrently.

• How do I know which instrument I should play?

Students are encouraged to attend the Instrument Petting Zoo to interact with all of the instruments. Your band director will work closely with you to understand your preferences, as well as consult information gathered at the Instrument Test Drive , to place you on instrument that fits you best. Students: follow this link to learn more about each of the instruments in the band.

• What is the Instrument Test Drive?

It is an evening following pre-registration where your child will be able to try several different wind instruments. They will work one-on-one with a professional instructor on each instrument. All instructors are working to help your child find his or her most natural and comfortable fit. If you are unable to attend the Instrument Test Drive you can set up an appointment with the band director on an individual basis.

• Do I need to rent an instrument?

Yes, either through a local reputable music store, or through LPS, depending on your instrument. Local music stores offer rentals of flute, clarinet, trumpet, alto saxophone, trombone, and percussion (snare and bell kit) for a monthly fee of between $25 and $65, depending on the instrument. Often, music stores also offer a maintenance plan for a small additional monthly fee.

All other instruments, i.e. oboe, bassoon, tenor saxophone, bass clarinet, french horn, euphonium, and tuba, may be rented through LMPS for a one time annual fee of $75.00. This fee covers basic maintenance and cleaning necessitated by normal "wear and tear."

If you are considering the purchase of an instrument versus a rental, please consult this page for more information. If you already own an instrument and would like to have it checked, please bring it to your band director, or a local reputable music store or repair tech.

• Which book is used for instruction?

Time for Band Book 1  Please do not purchase the book or any supplies until prompted to do so.

• My child plays the guitar, piano, violin, and/or drums.  Can he or she be in the band?

Yes, but we do not currently have spots in the Beginning Band for those instruments.  Our Jazz Band, which will meet after school, is an excellent place for your child to play and develop his or her skills on these instruments.  Otherwise, please choose one of the instruments listed above.

• What are the required fees for band?

See above for information regarding instrument rental. The class text, Time for Band Book 1, costs approximately $12.00. All band members are also required to own a 1" black binder, used for band only, with 10 sheet protectors and a pencil. 

The annual band fee is $75.00.  This includes the band polo (required uniform), sheet music, Solo and Ensemble registration,  memberships with required professional music organizations, and classroom supplies. Please see the handbook for more information.

• Which after-school events are Beginning Band members expected to attend? Can my child participate in instrumental music and sports/after school clubs? 

Beginning band performs in three to four concerts a year. Because our band meets in separate classes during the school day (Woodwinds/Percussion in one class, Brass in another), students must attend two after-school rehearsals in preparation for each concert. All dates are available on the Google Calendar here.

After school rehearsal and concert schedules are generated in collaboration with sports coaches and club leaders. Any conflicts must be immediately communicated to your band director so that a solution can be found. 

• Who should I contact if I want to volunteer?  

lpbandboosters@gmail.com

• What if I think my child would benefit from private lessons or extra help?

All students benefit from one-on-one instruction.  Visit the Private Lessons page for more information.

• How can I get in touch with you?

Email or Parentsquare is best, as I am rarely in my office to receive a phone call. My email address is bhopper@lakelandk12.org