Beginning Band FAQ
Why should our family consider
band?
6th Grade may be the only window of time a student can learn to play an instrument in their school career!
It doesn’t get any easier than this! Start an instrument that your student has no experience with and play with a band.
Band gives incoming 6th graders an instant sense of belonging to a group even before they enter LTMS. Students meet the teacher, test their instruments, tour the band hall, and already know students who will be in their class--all before the first day of 6th grade. It’s a great jump-start and advantage when coming to LTMS.
What if I am unsure about band?
Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.”.
Band is the same way! Your child should sign up for band even if you or they are unsure.
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Our program and school schedule are geared towards students starting band in the 6th grade. Starting in 6th grade allows your child to progress with their peer group and is the best time to join!
What if I don't know anything about music!?
That’s okay! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step!
From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home to make their first sounds.
What instruments
are available to
learn?
We offer flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion in our beginning band program.
What instrument should my child
play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that the play something that they enjoy!
Revisit the page, "Meet the Instruments", to watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. We will help guide your child based on their musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability.
Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will also give them the best chance of musical success!
What does the time commitment for
band look like?
Beginning in mid-September, students are expected to practice
20-30 minutes at least five days per week at home.
There are a total of four after school rehearsals for our Winter and Spring Concerts. Beginning Band also participates in a few other concerts throughout the school year.
What if we can’t
afford to rent an instrument?
If your child is interested in band and cost is a concern, we will make it work--don’t worry.
Certain instruments (i.e. bassoon, horn, euphonium, tuba) are provided by the district for a nominal one time fee. LTMS also has a limited supply of other instruments for students needing a scholarship.
We have a variety of tools available to provide for families that need financial assistance!
Can my child participate in
band and athletics?
Absolutely! Athletics/PE do not conflict in 6th grade.
We have many 7th and 8th graders that participate in band and athletics. Our band staff and coaches work hard to resolve any conflicts, so that students may participate in all activities.