new students

Lincoln High School

Music Department - Band

Dear 8th Grade Band Students,

Now is the time when many of you are asking yourself if you should continue in band in high school. I believe the answer is a resounding “Yes!” I have answered some typical questions incoming freshmen ask about when joining the Lincoln Band program.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Visit the Lincoln Band Website for more information

https://sites.google.com/lusd.net/lincolnbands

DATES TO KNOW NOW

The band calendar will be published well in advance so families can plan accordingly

Our spring trip will include a performance at the Disneyland Resort (spring break 2025)

What class do I sign up for?

“I am taking 6 classes next year”

“I am taking 7 classes next year”

Sign up for your required classes, Concert Band (#7003), Trojan Marching Band (#7013) and another elective of your choice (some students choose to begin world language)

Marching Band is a required 8th period class that meets on Monday nights during fall semester

Reasons to join band in high school

Be a part of the largest single activity on campus (band is 11% of the school population)

Being a part of the band gives you a place to belong. The band family is a diverse one with a place for everyone

Belong to an award-winning program where the emphasis is on community, excellence and hard work

Typical questions regarding band at Lincoln

“Do I have to be in the marching band to be in the band at Lincoln?”

Yes. It is expected that all students taking a band class also enroll in the 8th period marching band class. This full group ensemble performs at football games and Band Reviews.

“I don’t have room in my schedule.”

This is likely not true. Many students will choose Concert Band (#7003) as their elective that will satisfy one year of a fine arts course for high school graduation. You will have an additional elective if you decide to take a 7-period day your freshman year.

“I heard band takes up all of your time.”

It is a busy schedule, but one that I believe is worth what you get out of it. The biggest myth is that after school practices go all year long. The marching season is finished right before Thanksgiving. December through June there are virtually NO after school obligations outside of 2 concerts, the Delta Band Festival and our spring trip.

“What is the marching band practice schedule?”

Marching Band meets Monday night from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM during the fall semester.

Members of color guard and drumline will meet additionally according to their practice schedule.

“Can I play a sport and be in band?”

Absolutely. Generally, if you are able to handle the time commitment and uphold your academics, then yes. We are very flexible with coaches in working on practice schedules for virtually all sports in the fall. Winter and Spring sports have few to no conflicts with the band.

“Are there auditions to be in the band?”

No. If you want to be in band you have a spot in band.

“What about grades? I’m worried about my grades and getting the right classes.”

We have a diverse student population that takes band, many which have full course loads, including honors and A.P. courses. Many of the top students in the school are in the band. Band students regularly receive academic and community service recognition (Honor Roll, Distinguished Senior Scholar, Pinnacle Award, Commitment to Community, CTE Pathway Completer to name a few). Last year’s senior class includes students accepted at top universities both in and out of state. Band helps you manage your time better, not hinder your academic success.

“I heard you get PE credit for marching band. Is this true?”

There is an option to qualify for the PE waiver your 10th grade year to have one more elective space in your schedule. The requirement is that you are enrolled in marching band all four years.

Thank you! The Lincoln band can be a gateway to an amazing high school experience and we are excited to welcome you to the Lincoln Band Family.

Sincerely,

Ms. Ettle

Mrs. Florek

Ms. Valencia