ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q. Does my child need to be able to read music to join the band?
A. No, the band director will teach your child how to read music, how to play the instrument and how to handle and care for the instrument.

Q. My child takes piano lessons, how will this affect learning to play a band instrument?
A. The music reading skills and coordination your child has gained from studying the piano will be very helpful in learning to play a band instrument.  Many students study both piano and a band instrument, with half their practice time allotted to each.

Q. How much time should my child practice at home?
A. Each band director has different expectations as to home practice, so please consult your child's band teacher for specifics..  In general, we suggest scheduling home practice sessions either before or after other homework or as a break in the middle of other homework.  Providing your child with a quiet place and a regular time to practice will ensure success.   Remember that 5 minutes of practicing at home is better than none at all.
 
Q. How did you determine the instrument that was recommended for my child?
A. After an instrument demonstration assembly, students were asked to think about which instruments they preferred.  Later, your child was tested on several instrument mouthpieces (or given a rhythm skills test for drums).  For wind instruments various factors such as the shape of the mouth and teeth, ability to coordinate facial muscles, and hand/arm size are taken into consideration.  For potential drummers, factors such as eye/hand coordination and rhythmic memory are considered.  With these factors and your child's personal preference in mind, a recommendation was made to help you and your child choose an instrument that they will enjoy learning to play.

Q. My child has braces or is going to get braces.  Will this prohibit learning to play a band  instrument?
A. Many orthodontists agree that braces will not severely limit your child's participation in band.  Any instrument can be played with braces.