Why Join Band?
Band offers the
opportunity for students to learn to play an instrument
and to
be a part of a group who will perform together throughout their
middle school years. Students are still able to participate in any
sport or extracurricular activity. They do not need to have any prior
musical experience to join, only the desire to learn. Students will
need to have their own instrument and information will be provided on
music stores that rent or sell band instruments in the area. The school
provides instruments for a nominal rent on the larger instruments such
as baritones, tubas, and percussion. Students are free to
select any instrument they want to play but are encouraged to have
several in mind in case a section becomes overfilled.
Percussion (drums) is the only section for
which there is an audition. Four students per grade level are selected
for percussion. For the most part, students stay on their chosen
instrument throughout their middle school years. Occasionally a student
will switch to another instrument, but this is the exception rather
than the rule. Instruments played in band include flute, clarinet,
oboe, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, and tuba. A
common question asked is, "What instrument is easiest to play?" The
answer to that is, "It all depends on the person playing." What is easy
for one may be difficult for another. I encourage students to be open
minded when they try each instrument and make their decision based on
what they like and what feels good to them when they play, not just
whatever their best friend is playing!
Band is a commitment for both the student and the
parent, but one that is well worth the time and money. Research has
shown
that playing an instrument improves a student's overall academic
achievement
level. Other benefits include building a child's self confidence, self
esteem, and group social skills. So the question is, "Is band for you?"
The answer is, "Yes, if you have the desire to learn." All students
that
join band in sixth grade do not choose to stay in, but most do. There
are
very few students who regret the time they spent in band when they
become
adults, but there are quite a few adults that regret never having had
the
opportunity to try band. The choice is yours!