Band FAQs

I want to do band, but don’t think I’d be very good at it…
NONSENSE!!  Everybody is capable of learning how to play an instrument.  I make learning how to read notes and play an instrument easy and fun.

I think band will be too much work; I’ve got a lot going on and want to keep up with my schoolwork.
Band is work, don’t get me wrong.  You do have to put in a certain amount of effort.  However, many students in band are involved with many other activities (dance, sports, boy scouts, girl scouts, etc.) and are excellent students.  In fact, there are many studies showing that students who play an instrument score higher on tests like MCAS and SAT’s.

So how much work is involved?
When your in band, you will start out by having one lesson on your instrument per week that lasts about 45 minutes.  You’ll be in a class with other fifth graders who are just starting out on their instrument like you.  I’ll ask that you play regularly at home (about 4 – 5 times per week for about 15 minutes a day).  If you can keep up with that, you’ll be playing at Symphony Hall in no time!

Do I ever have to stay after school for band?
You never HAVE to, but many students still choose to. All lessons and band will take place during the school day. I am available for after-school help whenever you need it.

Does it cost any money to play in band?
Lessons and band do not cost anything. It does, however, cost money to rent an instrument. I recommend renting from Rick’s Musical Instruments. They provide outstanding customer service, low prices, and do exceptional work. Have someone at home call Rick’s Music at (401) 658-3404 for more detailed information. You may also use your own instrument if someone in the family has one. If it hasn’t been used in a while, you will need to have it cleaned up and fixed a little, and will probably have to buy some accessories that come with rented instruments. In either case, you will need a lesson book that costs about $10.

What instrument do I get to play?
When signing up, you will get to pick your first choice and second choice instruments. This past year, almost every student was able to play their first choice instrument. Sometimes I might ask for you to take your second choice in case there are too many students for one instrument. For instance, the band cannot have thirty drummers and two saxophone players.

I’m not sure if my family can afford to rent an instrument. Can I still play in band?
Absolutely!  I want every student in fifth grade who wants to play in band to be able to.  If you need an instrument, talk to me. The school owns some instruments that can be loaned out at no charge. Preference will be given to students on free or reduced-cost lunch.