Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of being in band?

You will learn skills such as creativity, artistic expression, discipline, responsibility, and time-management. Students in music often do better in their core classes as we incorporate English, writing, science, math, and history into our studies. You will also be part of an award-winning program at the school and make life-long friends as band is one large family.

What instruments are in band?

Flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion.

Here is a video that briefly describes all the instruments in band:

Band Instrument demonstration video

Hot Tip: If you click on the Show More button below the instrument demonstration video on YouTube you can see the time stamps for all the instruments so you go back and watch a certain instrument easier.

How do I know what instrument I’ll play?

You will come and have an instrument testing with a band director. They are trained professionals who will help you pick which instrument you will most likely be successful on based on set criteria and physical attributes. The date is TBA due to COVID-19.

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What happens if I don’t come to the instrument testing night?

You must have an instrument test with a band director to help place you in the correct class. Certain instruments will fill up fast, so make sure that you come on the date above to secure your spot. If you don’t come on that date, you may not get to play the instrument you wanted or you may not get to join band at all.

How do I get an instrument?

This depends on the instrument you are selected to play. Some instruments are from music companies while others are provided by the school. We will give you all the details once we’ve selected which instrument you will play at the instrument testing night.

Do you recommend certain instrument brands/models?

Yes! We will give you an information sheet of district recommended instruments the night of your interview. We recommend instruments that are made correctly, have been tested by professionals, and ones that will help you be successful. Poorly made instruments may have the appeal of being less expensive and they may even look nice, but they often break easily and due to the inferior materials used to make them they cannot be repaired. This costs more in the long run. In addition, these instruments often hinder your success and progress on the instrument which can affect enjoyment, band grades, and band placement. Often times we cannot allow students to play on an unapproved instrument.

Is there homework in band?

You get the opportunity to learn an instrument in band! If you want to be good at something you must practice, so we expect you to take home your instrument every day. Successful students typically practice about 20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week.

What required activities are there outside of the school day for band?

Part of being in band is performing. Due to this, you will have about five rehearsals after school throughout the year, two concerts, and two contests that they will be required to attend. All of these dates will be given to parents and students at the beginning of the school year. All performances are mandatory.

Are there financial commitments to being in band?

Band does come with some financial commitments. Students are expected to have a working, quality, director-approved instrument with the required supplies. We strongly recommend that instruments are rented rather than purchased (more details will be given when we have selected your instrument).

It is the philosophy of the CMS Band to not turn away any student due to financial difficulty or hardships. We have worked with many families in the past and will gladly work with you if there is an issue. We just ask that you communicate with us.

What if I want to be in sports/cheer/dance/choir/etc.?

You can still do band! Some of our best students do many activities. We work with all of the sponsors to share our students.

What if I’m unsure about being in band?

Please remember that 6th grade is the only year you can sign-up to join band. As mentioned above, if financial struggles are a concern, don’t hesitate to talk to us – we are here to help. Remember, you can also participate in other activities. As long as you’re willing to try your best and learn, we’d love for you to try band!

We hope that you’ll consider giving band a chance – we can’t wait to meet you!