Band

Scheduling Information

Students entering the Band program for the first time in middle school will enroll in Beginning Band.
- In March and April, there will be Instrument Testing Nights where you can come try out all the different instruments to see what you want to play. Band instruments include flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion.
After completing the first year of Band, middle school students will continue into concert ensembles in the 7th and 8th grade.
Students entering the band program in high school should enroll in Band I in the 9th grade.
Four consecutive years of Band will count towards the Arts and Humanities Endorsement requirement.
Students may earn both a Fine Arts and Physical Education credit through multiple years of high school band.

FAQ

I didn’t take Beginning Band in 6th grade. Can I take it later?
- Yes! Band can be started at any time in middle school, although you will get the most out of your education by beginning in 6th grade so you can improve throughout the next seven years of your schooling.
- If you are interested in starting Band in high school and have never taken it before, please speak with your campus’ director to see your options for joining Band.
Do I have to try out to be in band?
- Band students will be tested to find out the instrument that they may be the most successful on. After Beginning Band, all students will participate in concert ensembles that are assigned after a placement audition.
What supplies do I need to purchase for band class?
- Band students will need an instrument, basic instrument supplies, and typical school supplies like writing utensils. Each student will also have a t-shirt to be used as one of their uniforms. No student will be turned away from band for an inability to purchase supplies. Please speak with a director if you have a financial concern.
Do I have to buy an instrument?
- Instruments can be purchased or rented from a local music store. A select few instruments can also be borrowed directly from the school. No student will be turned away from band for an inability to purchase an instrument. Please speak with a director if you have a financial concern.
How much time does Band take?
- Students in band will perform in a small number of concerts throughout the year, have occasional rehearsals or sectionals before or after school, and have lots of opportunities for fun social activities. Each student is expected to practice a few minutes each day to develop their skills.
What if I already play an instrument?
- Great! Email the director with that information to determine which class level will suit you the best.
Can I be in athletics and Fine Arts?
- Of course! Let your director or teacher know that you will participate in both activities and they will work with your coach to solve any scheduling conflicts.
Do I have to be in Marching Band in high school?
- All high school students involved in the band program take both fall and spring semesters of band. Each student will participate with the marching band in various ways as determined by the program director. There are a few special cases where students may switch sections for marching band based on interest and need.