Beginning Band FAQs

Beginner Band Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all students beginners in 6th grade?

Generally, yes! Some kids who transfer in or who have had private lessons may not be beginners, but our 6th grade program is tailored toward students who are playing for the very first time. If you are not a beginner, please be sure to let us know.

2. When do students need to choose and buy/rent/borrow and instruments? 

Students who choose Band must decide their instrument before Spring Break for scheduling purposes. We will begin with instruments during the first week of school!

3. How do we choose an instrument?

Check some of our instrument videos to see and hear some samples, then come to a “fitting night” at the Middle School in February to try a few instruments! Use this link to sign up for a fitting appointment.

4. Is it true that some students really do not “fit” certain instruments?

Yes. For example, a very small young person with extra skinny fingerprints may not be able to cover clarinet holes. Other examples will be listed on instrument pages of the portal.

5. Are some instruments “capped”? 

Yes, but rarely. When one instrument over populates the band, it can negatively impact the sound of the group as well as scheduling.

6. What about buying / renting / borrowing (and possibly repairing) an instrument?

We let the stores represent their own products and pricing, but Rettig Music and Music and Arts stores have a long history in the business and work closely with us to make sure that they service our band families appropriately. You can buy or rent at the time of your fitting OR shop around. There are other store options, and we recommend that you take the band instrument accessory list with you when you go.  

It is our experience that instruments sold on popular websites or at discount warehouses that also sell food, clothing, tires, and electronics are NOT of the same quality that you will find at a music store. Buyer beware.

7. What about students that have their heart set on one instrument, but it isn’t a good “fit”? Can they still choose it?

Yes. The music teachers will not choose instruments for students. We will give honest opinions based on observations and experience, but it is the student who will ultimately be doing the practicing, so the student must be comfortable in the choice that they make. Sometimes a student with their heart set on doing something AND a strong work ethic can overcome mismatch issues.

8. OK, we picked an instrument and bought it. Now what?

A smart thing to do is store it and don’t play it unless you’re planning to deal with private lessons. 

9. PERCUSSION

Percussion will be offered to students who successfully complete a skills screening with a Band teacher. Percussion may be capped at about 10 due to space and equipment limitations.

To register for a screening appointment, please visit this link.

10. SPORTS?

We have LOTS of band kids in sports and many, many other activities. In fact, the music teachers work closely with the athletic directors to prevent conflicts. The practice requirements for band are not too demanding to be able to balance music and sports.