JOIN BAND!

That's ok! We will teach your child everything they need to knkow, step by step. From how to assembly and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiaticn attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound. 

Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week- on average between 15-30 minutes each night. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun.

In 7th and 8th grade, there are also weekly sectionals that happen once a week for 30 minutes. All performances for all grades happen outside the class as well.

The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something that they enjoy. We encourage you to explore our website, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. We will also help guide your child based on their musical insterests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what they want to play, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that your child will not only enjoy, but that will also give them the best chance of musical success.

Absolutely! In fact, many of our students participate in a sport or club outside of band and manage to find time to practice and be successful in both activities. We have students every year who are fantastic musicians while also excelling in sports, robotics, theatre, art, and more!

No! While a background in piano or similar instrument can be helpful to a student's understanding of musical concepts, it is NOT necessary to have prior knowledge or training. Most of the students in the Leonard Longhorn Band had no prior music training outside their regular elementary music class.

Sixth grade is the best time for your child to join band! Our program and school schedule are geared towards students starting band in the 6th grade. Starting in the 6th grade gives your student the most amount of time on their instrument through middle and high school band. Additionally, starting in 6th grdae allows students to progress alongside their friends as they continue band in the future.