Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of questions that parents and students have frequently asked. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need other questions answered.
What type of background is necessary to be in band?
No background is necessary! We teach beginning band classes that start from the very beginning of how to play an instrument.
Does band conflict with other school activities?
NO! Most of our students are involved in many other activities at our campus, including all different sports, drama, PACE, honors classes, and all sorts of clubs. We encourage our students to have a well-rounded experience in middle school.
What is the time commitment for practice in your program?
We encourage students to practice from 20—30 minutes each day to maintain and develop their skills. Some do more and some do less. Results vary from child to child, but it’s generally true that “you get out of it what you are willing to put in.”
How do I select an instrument?
We have an instrument selection meeting in early April with our incoming class of 5th graders. At this meeting, each child has an opportunity to give several different instruments a try. We find that due to physical attributes and certain natural abilities, children are well-suited for some instruments and not others. We ask our students to come with an open mind, as most are often surprised by what is the best fit!
How often does band meet?
Beginner band classes meet as a regular 45-minute class every day. Most band classes meet in groups of similar instruments – clarinets meet together, flutes meet together, trombones meet together, etc.
How do I get an instrument and necessary supplies?
We have a list of specific instruments and supplies that you will need. We will provide an instrument specific list following the instrument selection meeting.
Does the school provide instruments?
Some instruments are provided by the school. Certain instruments are quite expensive, so local music stores do not rent them to customers. The availability of these instruments is determined by several factors including a child's suitability for the instrument, the size of the class year-to-year, and the number of instruments on inventory.
How do I donate to the band program?
We do accept checks. They should be made payable to Plano ISD. If you are thinking of donating an instrument, you are welcome to bring it in. If we don't have a student who can use it on our campus, we can certainly find a place for it in our district.
What type of background is necessary to be in band?
No background is necessary! We teach beginning band classes that start from the very beginning of how to play an instrument.
Does band conflict with other school activities?
NO! Most of our students are involved in many other activities at our campus, including all different sports, drama, PACE, honors classes, and all sorts of clubs. We encourage our students to have a well-rounded experience in middle school.
What is the time commitment for practice in your program?
We encourage students to practice from 20—30 minutes each day to maintain and develop their skills. Some do more and some do less. Results vary from child to child, but it’s generally true that “you get out of it what you are willing to put in.”
How do I select an instrument?
We have an instrument selection meeting in early April with our incoming class of 5th graders. At this meeting, each child has an opportunity to give several different instruments a try. We find that due to physical attributes and certain natural abilities, children are well-suited for some instruments and not others. We ask our students to come with an open mind, as most are often surprised by what is the best fit!
How often does band meet?
Beginner band classes meet as a regular 45-minute class every day. Most band classes meet in groups of similar instruments – clarinets meet together, flutes meet together, trombones meet together, etc.
How do I get an instrument and necessary supplies?
We have a list of specific instruments and supplies that you will need. We will provide an instrument specific list following the instrument selection meeting.
Does the school provide instruments?
Some instruments are provided by the school. Certain instruments are quite expensive, so local music stores do not rent them to customers. The availability of these instruments is determined by several factors including a child's suitability for the instrument, the size of the class year-to-year, and the number of instruments on inventory.
How do I donate to the band program?
We do accept checks. They should be made payable to Plano ISD. If you are thinking of donating an instrument, you are welcome to bring it in. If we don't have a student who can use it on our campus, we can certainly find a place for it in our district.
