Join Band!

Every spring, GJHS hosts two instrument try-out nights for incoming 6th grade students. During these try-out nights, students will meet with the band directors & employees of Paige's Music to select an instrument that they will successful on. Once an instrument has been selected, they will be officially signed up for the course. 

While joining band has a financial aspect to it, we do not let financials become a hinderance to joining band. While many families choose to rent an instrument, there are many ways to acquire an instrument for the class:

• Rent through Paige's Music

• Buy used/new through Ebay, Reverb, etc...

• Borrow through the school (limited selection & availability - reserved for families in need)

Families interested in renting through Paige's Music may do so during the try-out nights, or at: https://secure.paigesmusic.com/rentals/

If you are not able to attend one of our try-out nights, please contact Mr. Pederson for sign-up information: dpederson@greensburg.k12.in.us

Q: Do I have to know anything about music to join Band?  

A: Most students who start band have little or no prior musical training.  We start from “scratch” in all phases.  Those students with former training will find it an aid in their advancement.

Q: What are the advantages of being in Band?  

A: The most obvious is learning to play an instrument for your own pleasure.  All of our students make great friends in the class and form life-long bonds with their peers. Other advantages include:  Concerts, Contests, Trips, and Parties!

Q: What instrument do I have to choose from and how do I choose?  

A: If you have chosen Band as your elective, you will attend one of our band try-out nights in the spring. Your child will have the opportunity to try out many different instruments and we will select the one best suited for them. 

In Middle School, Beginning Band Students have the option to choose from:

Woodwinds: Flute, Clarinet, and Alto Saxophone.

Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium

Percussion: Mallet Keyboard, Timpani, Bass Drum & Cymbals, and Snare Drum

Q: What does the band director look for in helping me select an instrument?  

A: We look for a good attitude, a desire to be in the band, and willingness to WORK HARD and have fun!  We also look at teeth (braces are ok) and mouth formation, finger coordination and the band’s instrumentation needs.

Q: How do I get an instrument?  

A: You may rent from a music company (we use Paige's Music), borrow or purchase an instrument. Most parents rent an instrument, but we have options available for families of all budgets and families in need. We DO NOT let financials become a hinderance to joining band - we will ALWAYS find a way to acquire an instrument.

Q: Are used instruments acceptable in the Band? 

A: Some are. If you wish to purchase or otherwise obtain a used instrument for your child, please let us help you evaluate it before you invest.  An inferior quality instrument will only handicap your child and could possibly cost you more in repairs than the instrument is worth.

Q: Are there any school instruments available?  

A: The school has a limited selection of instruments for students to rent. These instruments are primarily reserved for families in need. 

Q: Can my child participate in sports, dance, and cheerleading while taking Band?  

A: Absolutely!  We encourage our band members to participate in athletics and other activities.  Band class does NOT interfere with extracirriculars with the exception of 2-4 concerts throughout the year. Many of our band members are athletes as well as leaders in all academics!