MTMB FAQ

Q: Does high school marching band conflict with academics?

A: No - research shows that it ENHANCES academics! Students participating in band score higher on their SATs (Verbal: 20 points. Math: 25 points). The vast majority of MTHS Band Students take Honors and AP Courses. Instrumental music students at MTHS are often ranked near the top of their class, and have a very high rate of admission to very selective colleges/universities.

MUSIC MAKES YOU SMARTER!!!!

Q: Do I have to be in Concert Band to be a member of the Marching Band or vice-versa?

A: Not at all! Concert Band and Marching Band are mutually exclusive - you can be in Concert Band and NOT in Marching Band. You can be in Marching Band and NOT in Concert Band. That being said, the overwhelming majority of students do BOTH in high school.

Q: Do I have to audition to join the Marching Band?

A: The answer depends on what section of the band you are going to be joining! If you play a woodwind or brass instrument, there is no audition to join! Mr. Siegel may want to hear you play a bit so that you can be placed on the correct part (if you section has split parts, like clarinets or trumpets). If you play a percussion instrument, there is a "placement" audition to determine what instrument you will play. Every percussionist will play something - be it in the field or sideline percussion sections - and the percussion staff works very hard to place students on instruments which will give the overall group the best chance at success. Students interested in joining the color guard must successfully complete several spring clinics in order to participate.

Q: I am interested in taking part in other activities where there may be conflicts; can I still be in the band?

A: Concert Band students also play football, softball, basketball, baseball, track, swimming, cross country, soccer, and volleyball! Since concert band is a class that meets during the school day, there is absolutely no conflict! For Marching Band, our new after-school practice schedule makes it possible for students participating in a club or activity to join (fall play, quiz bowl, etc.). It will still be challenging for someone doing a fall sport (cross country, football, etc.) to be a performing member because of the August Band Camp time commitment. All is not lost though, because the Marching Band has need for students to be part of the Equipment Squad - though ES members don't get to perform the competitive show, they do get to play in the stands at football games and help make sure the band gets to our away events with all our gear. If you play a fall sport, or are torn between joining the band or a sport team, please email me and lets talk about it. I can make a great case for joining band...since there are no substitutes in band, everyone gets to play 100% of the time and contribute to the overall success of the group 100% of the time. I can't think of a sports coach who can honestly say the same thing.

Q: Can I be in Marching Band AND orchestra? Choir?

A: ABSOLUTELY! Many of our best performers in Marching Band are string players who march because it is such an awesome experience! It takes hard work to learn a second instrument, but If you are a string player who is interested in joining the marching band, email me!

As for Choir...not an issue at all! A large portion of our Marching Band members also participate in our outstanding Choral program. If you want to perform in the band, we can find a way to make that happen - even if you have no experience on an instrument. Email me and lets brainstorm ways to get you involved!

Q: I feel like I can barely play my instrument while sitting down…how in the world am I supposed to do that marching band stuff?

A: Great question! My response to this is always “you’ve gotta try it.” Our success rate with students who try is holding steady at nearly 100%. By being brave and believing in yourself, you will achieve whatever it is that you set out to do. You’ll be amazed at what kind of person is inside of you!

Q: How will Marching Band work in my regular school schedule?

A: Since the Marching Band practices after school, there really is no conflict with your regular school schedule. Of course, like with being involved in any extra-curricular activity you have to stay on top of your classwork and keep your grades high! This shouldn't be a problem though, because you will be hanging out with over 100 of the smartest kids in the school you have instant access to lots of tutors, help, and motivation!

Q: I was planning on taking honors/AP classes and I’m afraid of the workload along with the Marching Band…what should I do?

A: Many of the students in the band program are enrolled in honors/advanced placement courses and have been since they began their academic careers. While moving on to high school can be a frightening experience due to increased academic pressures, the overwhelming majority of band students develop advanced organizational skills, a strong work ethic, and a drastic increase in academic discipline due to their experiences with our program.

Our band members are high achieving students who form a strong support structure both academically and emotionally. Think about it…what other group can you join where you’ve immediately made 100 other friends who have all “been there before” and are willing to share their experiences and lend a helping hand? There is no place you'd rather be!

If you ask the students who didn't participate in marching band as freshmen, they would tell you how much they regret that decision now that they are older. They would tell you that as a freshman, you absolutely CAN and SHOULD get involved.

Q: I have a REALLY great question but I can’t seem to find it on this page…what should I do?!?!?

A: The best question of all! Mr. Siegel would absolutely love to talk to you and your family about the high school band experience. Call me at 717.560.3097 ext. 7930 OR email at siegelsc@mtwp.net