Band Questions & Answers
Question: How much money will this cost?
Instruments -
We are able to work out arrangements with a local music store and they are able to offer discounts on the purchase of an instrument or can set you up on a monthly payment plan over the course of time. In fact, they even offer an instrument rental program. This program is perfect for beginner students who may be “experimenting” with their commitment to something new. The rental program protects you from investing money in an instrument while not being 100% certain that your child will continue in his or her band instruction. After your child’s first year, it is suggested that you trade in the rental instrument for a higher quality instrument for purchase on a monthly payment plan. Also, a select number of school-owned instruments are available for students with great financial need as well as instruments that are too expensive to rent. There is a $60 annual maintenance fee to use school owned instruments.
Initial Band Fees & Supplies -
Each new student will purchase, through the band, a uniform polo shirt to be worn during performances. Various other fees/supplies will also be purchased through the band. Total cost is approximately $55.
Fundraising -
One major aspect of an effective band program is fundraising. LISD and, especially Mr. Fields, our Principal, provide a generous amount of money to cover the bands basic needs. However, in order to attend many of the extra activities that enhance and benefit our band students, we must raise a considerable amount beyond that. The students participate in one major fundraiser a year and the band boosters (that's you) help out with several smaller moneymakers. Some parents choose to donate money straight to the band rather than let the fundraising company take a large percent of the sales. Some donate and fundraise. The bottom line is: fundraising and donations are an essential factor for both the the quantity of participation events and the overall quality of the band program.
Question: How much time will this take?
As a beginning band student, there are five to seven (required for a grade) rehearsals/concerts outside regular school hours. One concert is in December and the other is in May. Beyond that, students will participate in solo and small group contests as well as private lessons. Students will also be required to engage in regular home practice routines like having homework from a “regular” class; however, our home practice requirements of only 30 minutes per day for 7 days leaves plenty of time for participation in other activities and schoolwork.
Question: Will being in band affect my child's grades?
YES! Research shows that participation in band will affect your child’s grades for the better. On average, students who participate in school music organizations score 89 points higher on standardized tests like the SAT
versus students without musical coursework. Also, 70% of the nation’s major universities report that participation in a musical organization is a higher consideration than standardized test scores for admission decisions.
Interesting Fact: 66% of college music majors who applied for
medical school in 1996 were accepted while only 44% of biochemistry
majors were accepted. Think about that one.
Question: Can my child participate in other activities while in band?
YES! Not only is participation in other Lamar organizations possible — it is highly ENCOURAGED!! However, it is important to remember that commitment to the band program and practice time is necessary. Many of the skills students will learn in band (teamwork, group accountability, etc.) will be GREAT assets toward their participation in athletic programs or any other organization. In fact, many great athletes, actors, professional musicians, and Presidents were active in band. Want to know what instrument Neil Armstrong played? What about Keith Jackson? Jennifer Garner? Paula Zahn? Click here.