Q. What instruments are in the Tidwell band?
A. Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion.
**If your child wants to play violin, viola, cello or bass, they need to sign up for Orchestra**
Q. If we want to join band, what do we do?
A. Choose band as your fine art on your schedule. Then you will need to attend our instrument fitting to pick an instrument for your child. Sign up for a time slot from this page. You will also learn about the supplies and instrument rentals.
Q. If we want to join percussion, what do we do?
A. You will need to attend Percussion tryouts at Byron Nelson HS. Sign up for a time slot from this page. If your child does not make it into the percussion class, you will need to attend the instrument selection day at Tidwell.
Q. How much does it cost to get an instrument?
A. Instrument rental prices will vary depending on the instrument and brands and whether it is new or used. The music stores are very “family friendly,” and will do their best to fit a good quality instrument into your budget. If you need help supplying your child an instrument—just ask!
Q. Past 6th grade, will there be many conflicts with athletics or other activities?
A. No. Students are able (and encouraged) to participate in many activities throughout their 7th & 8th grade years at Tidwell Middle School! The band directors and coaches work carefully together to make sure every student can be apart of every activity they would like to try!
Q. Does participation in band detract from academic success?
A. Quite the opposite is true. In fact, the college board (SAT/ACT) recommends participation in instrumental music performance ensembles as a means to increase aptitude scores going into college. Many honor graduates have been members of the Tidwell Band program.