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Frequently Asked Question

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?  WE HAVE ANSWERS!!!

Frequently asked questions:

What do I have to know about music to join band?

Nothing at all and no experience is needed! Everything you need to know to play an instrument will be taught in beginner band. Any previous musical knowledge is a bonus, but not necessary for success!

When is the best time to join band?

The best time to join band is in 6th grade!  However, if you are in the 7th grade or 8th grade and missed the opportunity to join band in the 6th grade, it's not too late.  Contact the band directors and we'll work to get you signed up for band!!! 

How do I know what instrument I'll play?

Please do not buy an instrument before we meet with you! We will have an instrument selection night. We meet with every student one-on-one and take some time to get to know them, as well as looking for facial characteristics that will help them be successful on their instrument. We will test out any instruments your student is interested in as well as some we may think are a good fit to find what suits your student best. The hardest thing about a lot of these instruments is producing a beautiful sound, and we are determined to help your student find an instrument they will be successful at and enjoy playing. Oftentimes, a student will be a GREAT fit for an instrument they didn't even think to try!

What instruments can my student learn?

When we do your student's instrument placement, we will look for characteristics that will help them be successful on our various band instruments and we will find the best fit for every student! You may be surprised at what instrument is a good fit for your child!  Your child will be able to select from the the following instruments (Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba and Percussion) 

When do students join band?

The best time for students to start is at the beginning of their sixth grade year. The vast majority of our band members joined band as sixth graders. However, we have students every year who join our band family in either seventh or eighth grade! 

My student is very busy! Can they also be in athletics, UIL academics, and other groups? 

YES. We encourage our band students to participate in athletics, UIL Academics and other school activities. Many of our band students are very successful athletes, as well as ACADEMIC LEADERS of our school! 

There are very few after-school commitments in beginner band (Typically 4-5 per year), and our 7th/8th grade students just have one sectional before or after school per week on a typical week. We will schedule these around your schedules in order to avoid as many conflicts as possible.

Who will be in band? 

Your student’s friends and fellow classmates will join them in what will be some of the most exciting and fun times of their school experience. The more friends, the most fun! With over 200 band students @ Lucyle Collins Middle School, the band is the largest organization in the district. Many of our students are the school leaders and among the most successful students at LCMS! 

What fun things will we do in band? 

The best reward is learning to play an instrument and make music! Your students will experience many parties, trips, concerts, contests & performances throughout the year!

My son or daughter didn't join band in 6th grade. Is it too late?!

No! We have had 7th and 8th grade students join us as beginners and all have been very successful! Please Mr. Guerrero for details!

My student has Asthma / braces / another underlying medical condition. Can they be in band?

Absolutely! There is a great instrument option for every student who wants to be in band. We've had many students with asthma, and many of our students get braces in middle school. Playing a wind instrument can actually be beneficial for students with Asthma as it helps strengthen the lungs! We'll make it work for any student who wants to be a part of our organization!

How much does it cost to be in band?

There are fees that come with being in band.  It is dependent on your instrument and other factors.  Fees usually include band supplies, band binders/books, instrument care supplies and band trip fees.  Do not let fees or financial obligations keep you from being in band.  We will help you figure it out.  If you really want to be in band, we will find a way!