FAQs

Q. Does my child have to own their own instrument?

A. NO. WMS Band has some instruments available to be loaned out as required. THIS VARIES BY INSTRUMENT.

Q. What if I cannot afford for my child to be in band?

A. WMS Band is more than willing to provide funding opportunities to any student or parent on a case-by-case basis. While it is highly recommended that your student have their own instrument and their own marching shoes and bibbers, money will NOT be an obstacle for a student who wants to play music!

Q. What if my child cannot read music?

A. Your child will learn to read music as one of MANY skill sets that will adequately prepare them for future music-making.

Q. How long is the Band elective?

A. Students will attend Band for two full semesters. This means that once they have joined Band, they must remain there for at least 1 full school year. They are encouraged to complete all three years in band to allow them the best possible opportunity to play in high school, and potentially earn college scholarship money. Currently, bands at the following major universities offer music scholarships (this list is NOT comprehensive):

Eastern Carolina University, NC State, UNC, Duke, University of Mount Olive, Wake Forest University, Appalachian State, High Point University, Western Carolina University, and others! Many of these scholarships do NOT require the student to major in a music-related field.

Q. Where do I go to purchase Band supplies?

A. There are MANY places you can find Band supplies to include mouthpieces, reeds, neck straps, method books, etc. I recommend using Music and Arts due to their ability to pick up and drop off instruments when they need repairs, and quick turnaround for orders. I have included links in the Upcoming Student Information tab called “Recommended Brands and Instruments” that will provide all the necessary details.

Q. My student is not “musically inclined”. Should they still take Band and Chorus?

A. YES!!! Music is for all to enjoy. Even though you may THINK your child has no “musical talent”, you may be surprised to find how much of that talent is latent until they begin playing and/or singing.