Frequently Asked Questions
I don't know how music works, does that mean I can't be in band?
We will teach you everything you need to know in order to be successful. Anything you already know about music when you come in the door will be very helpful, but it is not required.
What kinds of instruments can I play in band?
We have 11 instruments for you to choose from and the directors will help you find what is the best fit for you. The instruments you can choose from are: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. If you are interested in learning more about each instrument please click here.
I don't know what instrument I should play. Will someone help me?
The directors will meet with you and your parents during an instrument selection night, or will pass by your school in order to talk about which instrument you should learn. This is an opportunity to get to know you a little bit and help you select the instrument that is the best fit for you by having you make sounds on the instruments. Depending on your physical characteristics, some instruments may work better than others and will allow you to learn faster and have a better experience in band.
I want to join band! How do I get an instrument?
Quality new and used instruments are available through music stores such as Music & Arts and H&H. Most students rent an instrument on a monthly basis with a rental/purchase plan. The directors will give you and your parents a list of instrument brands and models we recommend. The list is also available at the music stores for your convenience, just let them know you are with the School for International Studes at Bammel when you arrive. Representatives from the music stores will be at the instrument selection night as well. Spring ISD provides the more expensive instruments to students for a yearly maintenance fee such as: oboe, bassoon, french horn, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. Please wait to meet with a band director before getting an instrument.
How much money will this cost?
Fortunately, not much. The main cost is the offical Band Polo. Please visit our Supplies & Fees page for more information.
Who is in the band at Bammel?
Some of the best and brightest students call the Bammel Band home. Out of our 250 students in the band program, you will find the highest academic achievers in the school. Students that participate in the band are also a part of other organizations throughout the school from athletics to theatre to choir to science olympiad. The most important thing to know is that the Bammel Band has a place for YOU!!!
Can I be in the band at the same time as athletics, theatre, or choir?
Absolutely! We want everybody to participate in the groups that interested them most! We work very closely with the coaches, theatre director, choir directors, and other sponsors to make sure everybody can participate in different organizations with the fewest amount of conflicts. Students in the BMS Band participate in nearly every extracurricular activity offered at Bammel! The important thing is to communicate with the directors WITH TIME that you have a conflict so that they can work with you.
What fun things will I do in band?
The most rewarding thing we do in band is learning how to plan an instrument! We also enjoy rewarding our students for all their hard work and dedication by throwing parties and organizing exclusive trips. Here are some of the fun things we have done in the past: Splashtown Band Festival, Band Lock-In, Spring HS Band Extravaganza, Skating Night, as well as trips to Houston, San Antonio and Dallas.
When will I get to perform?
Beginners, you will perform at the Winter Concert, Spring Concert, and possibly the Wet & Wild Splashtown Music Festival. You will also have the opportunity to earn awards by performing at the Solo and Ensemble Festivals. Our 7th and 8th grade bands will compete at the UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest, Solo and Chamber Music Festival, and All-Region Competitions in addition to the concerts mentioned earlier. The band is a big source of school spirit at all the pep rallies and some of the football games.
Does band take up a lot of time?
During your first year in band, we will only meet as outside of class to practice as a full group before a concert. This usually only happens 3-6 times throughout the whole year. Learning to play an instrument is just like learning any new skill, you must practice it regularly to see yourself getting better at it. Just like in any other class, band has homework. Your assignment is to practice at home for 30 minutes a day. However, remember that practicing 30 minutes a day is better than practicing two hours a day; twice a week.
How can I get more information about the Bammel Band?
If you still have questions, we would love to hear from you! Please contact the band directors by filling in the form located here. You can also directly get in touch with the band staff via email.
Jacquie Vargas- Woodwind: Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone
Genny Effler- Brass: Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba