FAQs

Do I have to know how to play an instrument to join band in 6th grade? Do I have to know how to sing to join choir in 6th grade?

Absolutely not! Our 6th grade ensembles are a place to learn and experience performance based music for the first time! All you need is a good attitude, a willingness to learn, and a readiness to succeed!

Am I able to join both band and choir?

YES! Shafer Middle School students are able to register for both band and choir if they have interest!

Where do I get my instrument for band?

All instruments for band will be received through a rent-to-own relationship with The Music Stop. At the beginning of your students 6th grade year, they will decide on their instrument after learning and demoing several different instruments for their instructor. Around Labor Day, we will have an 'instrument rental night' where our representative from The Music Stop will bring the students decided instrument after school and the parent will make their first rental payment and the student will then take their instrument home to begin practicing!

Can I use an instrument for band that my family already owns?

In most cases, this is completely acceptable. However, it is recommended that the instrument is taken in for a 'check-up' at a local music store before you decide against renting an instrument.

How much is it going to cost?

For band, each student will have the responsibility of renting an instrument for practice. This rental will be setup through an instrument rental night around Labor Day each fall. The cost is different for each instrument but range anywhere from $26-65 per month. If a rental fee is going to stop a student from joining band, other options are available at a limited basis. They will also need to purchase a method book which is around $10.

For choir, each student will have the responsibility of purchasing a 1/2" black binder to hold all of their music. They will also need to purchase a method book which is around $10.

All students joining the music department will be required to also purchase a SMS Music Department polo for their respective ensemble when entering 7th grade. This will be worn at all concerts and other performances. The polo will be around $10.

How often is my student required to practice?

Outside of the school day, practice will take place at home. Students are asked to practice 30 minutes - 1 hour per day. Additional ensemble rehearsal may be required around combined concerts and will be scheduled when necessary.

What is my student required to wear?

Both 6th grade choir and band will be asked to wear a white dress top and black dress pants. Black shoes and black dress socks will also be required as well as a black dress belt if applicable.

7th and 8th grade students will wear their SMS band/choir polo as well as black dress pants. Black shoes and black dress socks will also be required as well as a black dress belt if applicable.

Please do not wear extra accessories such as ties, bulky jewelry, hair accessories, or any other distracting article of clothing. Stud earrings are permitted as long as they are not a distracting color. Men should tuck in their shirts and have an appropriate dress belt as well.

How will I know what is happening and when?

The Shafer Middle School Music Department has a google calendar that can be found on the 'Calendar' tab of the website. This calendar can be added to your personal Google Calendar so you can keep up with all scheduled events and performances.

Any additional requirements or events will be sent home in a timely manner or an email will be sent with the information required. Remind will also be utilized for each ensemble to give an additional form of communication.