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STEPS TO JOINING BAND!
STEPS TO JOINING BAND!
Here are the steps you'll take to join band.
Submit your elective request on the WSJH WEBSITE and select band OR email Ms. Prettelt to let her know you would like to join.
You will need to pay a $50 band fee when school starts. This will cover 1 band polo for performances and 1 method book. It also helps cover instrument maintenance supplies, repairs and transportation when the band takes field trips.
We will go through the process of testing and selecting instruments at instrument try out night or for the first few weeks of school. I won't force a student to play an instrument they don't want to play, but I will recommend a few that your student is best suited for. Please encourage your student to keep an open mind. Please do not purchase or rent an instrument until you have received a letter from me.
I will send out a letter telling you which instrument your student and I have settled on. The letter will also have details on how to obtain an instrument.
You will need to obtain an instrument for your student by September 2nd.
That's it! From there, we start making music in class and perform our first concert in the Fall semester!
Check out the frequently asked questions below. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. My email is blakelynn.prettelt@lpsb.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I join band?
Band is fun! 90% of students who join band continue the following year. Music will also enrich your life. Studies show that students who study music maintain higher grade point averages, and score higher on standardized tests than students with no musical training. (Google this if you have the time!) Music also teaches self-discipline, social skills, and self-awareness.
What if I don't know how to play an instrument or read music?
Almost all of the beginner band has ZERO previous musical experience. It's my job to teach you everything you need to know. You will learn how to read music and play your instrument every day in class.
What if I don't have a instrument?
No problem! Most people don't own an instrument when they join band because they don't know what instrument they're going to be most successful at yet. Once we complete instrument testing, I will give you all the information you need to find the appropriate instrument and materials.
How much does band cost?
The following information is being shared with you to provide you with as much clarity and transparency as possible. However, I do not want these numbers to discourage you from joining band. Even if you have concerns about the cost of band, I STILL WANT YOUR STUDENT TO JOIN THE BAND! I promise we will make it work.
Yearly Band Fee = $50 This covers the cost of a band polo, sheet music, method books, minor instrument repairs, classroom supplies, transportation and large instruments that benefit the program as a whole.
Monthly cost of renting an instrument
Each instrument costs $37 to rent per month, except the Saxophone which is $51 per month.
One-time purchase of various classroom or instrument maintenance supplies. Different instruments require different supplies. You only need supplies for YOUR instrument. See the supply list for more details.
Binder, sheet protectors, pencil pouch will cost approximately $15.
Instrument supplies range between $14-$36.
What if I can't afford band?
I have never had a student who I didn't let in band because they couldn't afford it. Send me an email, and we can work something out. If you truly want to be in band, I will do whatever I can to make that happen.
What instrument am I going to play?
You will find out after you complete instrument testing! During instrument testing, we test each instrument to see which one you will be most successful at. You will enjoy playing the instrument that you naturally have the most success with. Your learning experience will be much easier if you choose an instrument you're good at, rather than what your friend is doing or what you think is cool. By the way, any gender can play any instrument. There's no such thing as "boy instruments" or "girl instruments."
What is the time commitment like?
For Beginner Band and Concert Band, the time commitment outside of school is minimal. We have about 4 required after-school practices and 2 concerts for the entire school year.
If you are selected and decide to join the Symphonic Band, the time commitment is greater. The Symphonic Band performs at all concerts, plus football games, pep rallies, school assemblies, and competitive music festivals.
I want to do football, basketball, cheer, track, or some other sport/activity. Can I still be in the band?
The short answer is YES! Band has a class during the day so you can still participate in other after-school activities. If we have any time conflicts, you, your parents, the coaches and myself will collaborate to figure out what accommodation will be best for you.
What if I have a question that didn't get answered here?
Email me! My email is blakelynn.prettelt@lpsb.org
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