Band

Beginning Band is a year-long course that will meet every other day. Students will learn to read music and play an instrument in a team environment. No prior experience is necessary - we all start from scratch! Students will take part in several performances throughout the year. Band will not fill up - if you select band as your elective, you are in the class!

Choosing an Instrument

Once a student decides to take band, one of the most important decisions to make is what instrument they will play. The two main considerations for choosing an instrument are student interest and ease of making sound. First, students must consider what sounds they like or dislike, as they will be spending a lot of time with that sound! Second, the student must work with their band teacher to try out several instruments to find which instruments they find easy or hard to make a beginning sound on. This is affected by things out of the student's control, such as facial structure or left-right hand coordination. If the student and teacher find an instrument where 1) the student likes the sound and 2) they are able to make that sound easily, that is likely the best instrument for that student. Once you sign up for band, your teacher will give you more information on how the instrument selection process will work at your school.

Financial Information

Once a student selects their instrument, they must obtain an instrument and supplies. There are several ways to do this, so please ask your band teacher for guidance. The main point to know right now is that every student can participate in band regardless of family financial situation. Your band teacher will work with you on the specifics depending on the instrument you choose. This FAQ document will answer some of the common questions about obtaining an instrument.

Instrument Choices

There are ten different instruments that you can choose from for beginning band. This may vary slightly from school to school, as some teachers may require you to start on another instrument before switching. For example, students interested in tenor or baritone saxophone often start on alto saxophone. Choose one of the three instrument categories below to explore the instruments further!

Brass Woodwind Percussion

Want to learn more? Check out Be Part of the Band