Steps

Follow these steps to join: 

Step 1

Pick an instrument you love. Visit Shawnee Mission North High School on Thursday, August 20 5:00pm-8:00pm or Saturday, August 22, 9:00am-12:00pm to try every instrument.

Step 2

Learn about your instrument. Watch some videos and ask questions. Pick an instrument that you want to stick with each year and don't plan to switch next year. We want you to keep improving and not start over each year. If you are interested in a larger instrument that is not offered in 5th grade, learn the best path to take to eventually switch, but it's fine to stick with your main instrument too.  

Some possibilities:

Flute —> Oboe or Bassoon

Clarinet —> Saxophone

Trumpet —> French Horn or Euphonium

Trombone —> Euphonium or Tuba

Cello —> Bass

Step 3

Fill out the enrollment form linked online here or on paper and turn it in to the band or strings teacher. We will start having class on Monday, August 24, but you won't need your instrument or supplies until your teacher tells you to bring them.

Step 4

Between August 14 and September 2, visit one of the local music stores linked here. You can ask to try instruments there to help make your final decision. While you are at the store, you can move on to Step 5.  

Step 5

Rent-to-own your new instrument from the music store. Don’t take the instrument out of the case until you are taught how to do it safely by someone at the music store or by your band or strings teacher. Buy the care kit and the book for your instrument. If you chose to buy a used instrument or if you already own one, make sure to take it to the local music store to have it checked and repaired if necessary.  If you find that any of this is not currently in your budget, please email the band or strings teacher to discuss options.  

Step 6

Our goal is for all students to turn in the enrollment form and have all supplies by September 3.  

Step 7

After you have learned to safely take out the instrument, pick a time each day to practice at home. Maybe before or after dinner. Take time to review what you learned in class and look ahead to the next few lines in the book. Spend 10-15 minutes each day with your instrument, to make sure you are understanding everything and improving.  

Step 8

As we learn new things and are able to play recognizable melodies, it is a great idea to perform for someone. Ask a friend, sibling, or parent if you can play “Hot Cross Buns” for them. Mark your calendar for our first concert on December 15 or 16, and invite people to watch you perform. Also, plan to attend the North Area Festivals where we will also perform on March 23 for strings and April 7 for band.     

Step 9

Enjoy learning to make music. Like all new skills, it can be challenging at times. Keep working hard and be proud of the fact that you are brave enough to try something new.