Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Why should my child join the band at North Pontotoc?

A:  If you want your child to learn and practice responsibility, time management, self control, teamwork, dedication, perseverance in spite of adversity, goal-setting, and a lot of other important life skills...then sign them up for band!  We teach and practice all of these things every day!

Membership in band gives students an instant sense of belonging with a group of friends who have similar interests.  It's a team with a shared goal.  We are each other's biggest fans through whatever successes and struggles we face.

Every year, NP Band students are recruited by colleges and universities to be a part of band on the next level.  Significant scholarship money is available to all NP seniors who graduate and participate in college/university band.

The NP Viking Band is the largest on-campus organization at North Pontotoc.  Over 200 students will participate in band at NP next year.  We are the center of school spirit and we have represented North Pontotoc all over the map -- from local parades and concerts right here in Ecru to events and performances in New York City, Walt Disney World, Washington DC, and many more exciting places.

Q:  Who can join band at North Pontotoc?

A:  Band membership is open to anyone who has a "C" average or higher in all classes and the ability to rent/purchase an instrument appropriate for use in band.  Membership may be denied to students who have demonstrated a consistent pattern of poor behavior choices. Beginner Band is offered to sixth grade students only -- you cannot join band after sixth grade!

Q:  How much does beginner band cost?

A:  You can expect an activity fee of $25.  Instrument costs vary widely depending on the type/brand/model of instrument.  We work with a local music store to provide a rent-to-own plan where everyone can get an instrument for a low down payment and affordable monthly payments.

Q:  How much time does beginner band take up?  Our schedules are already packed and I'm not sure we can add another activity to our lives!

A:  The beginner band rehearses for 45 minutes a day during school hours.  There are ZERO after-school rehearsals for beginner band.  The beginner band performs two concerts per year -- December and May.  These concerts are typically one hour in length and are held in the evening to allow family and friends to attend.

Q:  My child quit piano lessons after only two months.  How can I be sure they'll stick with band?

A:  Most children thrive in the team-oriented atmosphere of beginner band.  They enjoy being a part of a team along with their friends.  

Q:  What instrument will my child play in band?

A:  Each child will attend our Instrument Selection Showcase (mid-May).  They'll be able to try all of the different band instruments to see what they like.  The band directors will also evaluate the child's physical traits to determine potential for long-term success on each instrument.  Each child will be able to choose their TOP THREE INSTRUMENTS and the directors will assign the child to one of those three choices.  

Q:  I'm unable to attend the Instrument Selection Showcase.  Can I still participate in band?

A:  YES --- but...instrument choices will be limited.  For example, if you want to play trumpet -- all the trumpet spots may have been filled by students who attended the showcase.  You might have to choose another instrument.  We offer the Instrument Selection Showcase on three separate days so that people can choose a day that best fits their schedule.

Q:  Where is the best place to buy an instrument?

A:  We recommend the "lease-purchase" plan from Amro Music.  This plan allows for monthly payments, includes all needed supplies and books, and covers the instrument in case of loss/theft/damage/destruction.  Once you've made all of the payments, the instrument is yours to keep.  A representative from Amro will be at North Pontotoc on May 22nd to enroll you in the "lease-purchase" plan.  

If you decide to get an instrument from somewhere other than Amro Music or The Saxophone Place (a music store in Tupelo), the instrument MUST be approved by one of the North Pontotoc Band Directors before it is allowed to be used in band at NP.  Give us the brand name and model of the instrument and we can let you know if it is approved for use.  If you're buying online (Amazon / eBay / facebook marketplace / etc.), please send us a link and let us check it out for you!