Approximately how much does it cost to rent an instrument?

We have instruments for all budgets and have a way to get any student involved in 6th grade Band.  The majority of students will participate in a rent-to-own program through the local music stores.  The initial 4-month introductory prices from the stores range from $50-$95 total for the first 4 months.  After that there is a monthly fee that goes towards rent/ownership.  We also have school-owned instruments that can be rented for an annual fee.  Costs for school instruments can be adjusted based on income qualification.

 

How often does band meet and what class do the students have on the alternate days?

Band meets every-other-day (EOD) during the school day for one period.  It is generally scheduled opposite one of the students other EOD courses.  Some students rotate with P.E., while others rotate with Spanish or another elective.  It will depend on the master schedule created by the office.

 

Do you need 2 years of piano to play percussion?

No, piano experience is not required, but encouraged.  We find that students with a piano background find it easier than those who do not have piano experience, but it is not a requirement for percussion. 

 

What if I already play an instrument?

If your child has already begun taking lessons on an instrument, please e-mail us and let us know how long your child has been playing for and a description of their experience.

 

What if I already own an instrument?

There is a place on the survey to indicate this.  Mr. Andree will take note of this.

 

Do I have to rent/purchase an instrument from a music store?

Students do not have to take advantage of the packages offered by our local music stores, however we do highly recommend it.  The music stores offer great packages for our students (including maintenance plans), and this way you know the instrument is guaranteed to work.  Learning an instrument can be frustrating at times.  Imagine how hard it would be on an instrument that isn’t in good condition! If you do not rent from one of our local vendors, you are still responsible for making sure your student has all the necessary materials that would be provided by the store (this is especially important for percussionists).  If you choose to go another route other than the one we provide for you, please contact us and run your plan by us so we can help you make sure your child is getting a good instrument to use.

 

If I already own an instrument or am going to acquire one some other way other than through the music store vendors you have available, do I still need to come to the instrument registration/acquisition night?

We encourage all students signed up for band to stop in on this night.  This is a good opportunity to check in with us and make sure you have the supplies necessary for the year (music stand, etc.)  Whether or not you will be selecting an instrument from a music store that night, this is also the night we can assist you with signing up for summer band lessons in-person.

 

Can I take private lessons through a music store or other private teacher?

Yes! We always recommend private lessons to our students.  We recommend going through our own summer band lessons to get you started, but private lessons over the summer would work just fine, too.  Students who do not start in the summer are typically behind and have a difficult time catching up during school.