ABOUT Beginning Band - 6th Grade 

Beginning Band is a year-long course for 6th Grade students. There are two sections of Beginning Band offered daily. 

Beginning Band students have the choice of any of the 4 primary instruments: Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet, or Trombone. In January, students will have the ability to audition to switch to color (or secondary) instruments: Oboe, Bassoon, Bass Clarinet, Saxophone, F Horn, Euphonium, Tuba, or Percussion. Not all students will move, many will stay on their primary instruments. While each student is involved in the choice of instrument they play, Mr. Wing helps with this process to ensure students are placed on instruments they will be most successful on. 

All students will participate in band concerts throughout the school year. Beginning Band performs a Winter Concert (end of November/Early December), and a Spring Concert (mid May). Both concerts take place in the LRMS Gymnasium. 

Your student does not need any previous music knowledge to be successful in Band. Band is all about being part of a musical community that is supportive, and works toward a common goal. Much like a sports team, being in Band teaches students to use social skills, how to work with other, and how to have a strong work ethic. Students in Band excel in their academic classes, and find success is all other programs at Lufkin Road. 

Welcome to the Lufkin Road Middle School Band!

We are so excited to have you join us next year!

Frequently Asked Questions:

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: Who will be in Band?

A: Your friends and fellow classmates will join you in what will be some of the most exciting times of your school days. Many of our band students are among the leaders in academic achievement, school spirit, and club activities.

Q: What are the advantages of being in Band?

A: The most obvious is learning to play an instrument for your own pleasure.  Other advantages include:  Concerts, Contests, Trips, Built-In friends, and the opportunity to be part of a team that works together.

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 the LRMS Band Instrument Fitting. Your child will have the opportunity to try out many different instruments and we will help select the one best suited for them.

In Middle School, Beginning Band Students have the following insturment options:

Woodwinds:  Flute and Clarinet

Brass:  Trumpet and Trombone

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, or purchase an instrument. Most parents rent an instrument with an option to buy at a later date. If you are inheriting an instrument from a family member, please talk to Mr. Wing for approval. 

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 Mr. Wing 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 provides some of the larger and more expensive instruments. These include Bassoons, French Horns, Euphoniums and Tubas.  These instruments are not played by beginners until the second half of 6th grade. These instruments are owned by WCPSS and are available for a maintenance fee paid to LRMS.

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

A: Absolutely!  We encourage our band members to participate in athletics and other activities.