Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am not sure if I want to do band in high school?

Remember as a kid when you wouldn’t eat the food you parents made for you? You parents always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” High School band is the same way. You should sign up for band even if you are unsure. If at some point you decide that music is not for you, drop the class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when you decide you miss it!

Do I need to audition to be in the band?

No. There is no audition to join the band, though previous musical experience is a plus.  There are auditions to join the leadership team , solos, and performance spots in drum line.  Leadership auditions usually take place in the spring of the previous school year. Drum line membership is solidified in late summer.

How is band different in high school?

While the actual act of playing your instrument is similar, the social network and safety net that high school music provides is very different from middle school. From day one, your child will be musically and personally mentored by successful upperclassmen who have a vested interest in their success. They will have dozens of new and like-minded friends before school even begins and have experiences (Friday night football games and trips) that are unlike anything they have experienced in middle school.

Who are the Marching Spartans?

This is a extra-curricular varsity letter activity (like a club or a sport). The Marching Spartans have a 2-week summer band camp and regular after-school practices 2-3 days a week. The band performs at all football games, the All Shore Marching Band Festival, and various parades in the area (Long Branch Columbus Day Parade, Asbury Park St. Patrick's Day Parade, & the Bradley Beach Memorial Day Parade).  They also participate in community service through various performances. Marching band is a lot of hard work, but also incredibly rewarding and incredibly fun!

Can I play a sport and be in the Band?

YES! All students in the band class will learn material during the school day, as well as have weekly after-school rehearsals.  Students who play a sport can be in the band class.  If students are unable to attend rehearsals, prior arrangements must be made with Mr. Titmas. 

What if I don't own an instrument?

The school has an inventory of instruments that students may sign out.  Students should care for these instruments as if they are their own.

Will I be able to keep up with homework and other academic responsibilities if I'm in the band?

ABSOLUTELY! The students in the band program are some of the most academically disciplined at OTHS. In fact, the band has one of the highest aggregate grade point averages of any club, team, or organization in the school. There is a wealth of research documenting the correlation between participation in school music programs - particularly instrumental music - and higher test scores and academic achievement. Band students find that they are learning to manage their time more efficiently and are wasting less time.  Many band students are on the honor roll, high honor roll, in the National Honor Society, and receive academic awards throughout the year. A large percentage of the students in Ocean Township's thriving AP program are made up of band students. The top academic students in school are frequently member of the OTHS Band!

Have more questions? Need more answers?

Email the Director of Bands at Ocean Township High School, Mr. Kyle Titmas at: ktitmas@oceanschools.org

You may also give a call at 732-531-5650 x 1158