Q. Does my child need to have an instrument?

A. YES. The River Bend Middle School Band has some instruments available to be loaned out as needed, however, it is highly recommended that you rent an instrument through Music & Arts!

Q. What if I cannot afford an instrument for my child?

A. The River Bend Middle School Band is more than willing to provide funding opportunities to any student or parent on a case-by-case basis. While it is highly recommended that your student have their own instrument money will NOT be an obstacle for a student who wants to play music!

Q. Can my child to band as well as other activities, such as Sports?

A. YES! Many of our students participate in multiple activities at River Bend. Band is a class and usually does not conflict with sports. 

Q. What if my child cannot read music?

A. Your child will learn to read music as one of MANY skill sets that will adequately prepare them for future music-making. Students are not expected to know how to play an instrument before signing up for Beginning Band.

Q. How long is the Band elective?

A. Students will have Band for two full semesters. This means that once they have joined Band, they must remain there for at least 1 full school year. They are encouraged to complete all three years in band to allow them the best possible opportunity to play in high school, and potentially earn college scholarship money.

Q. What future opportunities can Band provide for my child?

If your child decides to continue band through high school, most colleges and universities provide scholarships opportunities, and stipends. 

Q. Where do I go to purchase Band supplies?

A. There are MANY places you can find Band supplies to include mouthpieces, reeds, neck straps, method books, etc. I recommend using Music & Arts due to their ability to pick up and drop off instruments when they need repairs, and quick turnaround for orders.

Q. My child is not “musically inclined” Should they still take Band?

A. YES!!! Music is for all to enjoy. Even though you may THINK your child has no “musical talent”, you may be surprised to find how much of that talent is latent until they begin playing.