Students who choose to be in band in middle school will have an instrument tryout towards the end of the school year. In order to guarantee a tryout time, students must sign up for band as their first choice on their course card. Instrument Tryouts will be held in April of 2025.
We partner with SAIED Music Company to provide supplies and instruments for our students.
Click on this link to be directed to SAIED.
My child has had no instrumental music training. Can they still be in band?
YES! We teach the beginning band students the basic fundamental aspects of playing a musical instrument, and we continue this teaching process throughout their middle school experience.
Can my child participate in athletics while taking band?
YES! The administration, coaches and directors communicate very well with each other so that if there is any game & concert conflicts, we can work together to resolve it!
Can my child participate in another elective while taking band?
Yes, but we suggest they start their middle school experience in band and then branch out into other electives as 7th and 8th graders. Students have the opportunity to take multiple electives as long as they don't need any support classes such as Math or RLA (Reading).
Should I rent or purchase an instrument?
Band is definitely an investment, and we encourage our parents to start an instrument investment for our beginners. For the larger or more expensive instruments such as Tuba, Baritone (Euphonium), French Horn, Bassoon, and Oboe, we have school and district instruments to be rented out to students for a small annual fee.
We never want finances to be a reason a student is not in band. We have a limited amount of school and district instruments that can be rented for a small fee. If renting an instrument through BISD is more financially beneficial for your family, please reach out to the BMS Band Directors.
Does it matter where I purchase an instrument?
We suggest purchasing or renting through our partnership with SAIED. SAIED will be available at our Instrument Drive in May and August where you can chat with our representative. SAIED offers an incredible rent-to-own option where you can rent the instrument and own it at the end of your rental agreement.
There are various brands of instruments available for less money; however, they may be inferior in quality of workmanship and materials. This first year is very critical that the instrument plays and does not hold the student back. The store you deal with should have a repair shop and be able to service the instrument after you purchase it. The recommended mouthpiece should be included. An unsatisfactory mouthpiece can be a detriment to a student’s progress.
May I purchase a used instrument?
Yes, but care must be taken not to purchase an instrument whose condition would be a stumbling block to your child. Please consult with one of the band directors concerning the condition of the instrument before you buy it. We would still strongly urge you to purchase the brand, model, and mouthpiece on our recommended list of instruments.