Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I choose an instrument? 
  • Instrument selection day on Saturday, March 4th. This is where the incoming band students and parents are able to try out and choose an instrument. Students will have an instrument interview, and a director will guide you through the available instruments and help match the instrument that you can be the most successful playing.
  • You may come in at any time during the instrument drive and try out any instrument you would like. The process should take approximately 20-25 minutes. 
2. How do I get an instrument? 
  • Purchasing an instrument is not required. Most of our students rent their instruments. 
  • Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, and Trombone rent instruments from a local retailer. The rental companies will be at our instrument interviews so that you can visit with them and place an order if you'd like. 
  • ​Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn, Euphonium, and Tuba are rented through the school. School-owned instruments are in limited supply and must be divided among each class for use. These instruments also receive a home instrument for home practice.
  • Percussion has a list of specific equipment they have to purchase.
  • ​If a student and parent are not able to attend the beginner band instrument interview, please e-mail Mr. Parsons (parsonsb@ccisd.net) and we will send an informational e-mail about instrument and rental options. If cost is a concern, please don't let that stop you from choosing to be in band. Contact a director to speak about possible options.

3. How many concerts will I play? 
  • Three! We have our winter concert, spring concert, and Gator Fest contest concert.

4. Are the any after school commitments?
  • We have two after school rehearsals in the beginner band year for our full band concerts. These will be announced ahead of time. 

5. Can I be in band & sports? 
  • Absolutely! In 6th grade, there are no school sponsored sports, so there are no schedule conflicts. In 7th and 8th grade, many students participate in both band and sports. The directors and coaches work closely together to schedule activities so they interfere as little as possible. There are many 7th & 8th grade students who are in band, athletics, and other organizations. Because of the unique nature of playing a musical instrument, we try to encourage students to begin band in 6th grade.
6. Is any musical training needed? 
  • We start all students from the ground up. We'll teach them how to read music, hold their instruments, assemble their instruments, and how to make sounds! 
7. Are there specific instruments for boys or girls? 
  • Definitely NOT! Instrument choices are not on a student's gender, but rather their desire to play that instrument. Instrument selection is based primarily upon the facial characteristics of the student, pitch recognition, and their personal choice.
8. When do students need their instruments? 
  • Instruments & supplies will be needed by the second week of school. Music companies will be at our instrument drive to assist with orders
9. Should I rent or purchase an instrument? 
  • Rent! This will give your student the opportunity to be in band with only a small initial investment. All rental applies towards eventual purchase of the instrument. 
10. What about buying used instruments? 
  • Some used instruments are good bargains. You may end up spending more on repairs than the instrument is worth. If you do have a used instrument you're considering, make sure to reach out to us for additional help before making the purchase. H&H Music & Music & Arts stores offer insurance that makes repairs less costly & even free. This insurance is often times offered as part of the instrument rental. 
11. Are their school-owned instruments available? 
  • Yes, we have limited supply of traditionally rented instruments. Students who play euphonium, oboe, bassoon, French horn, & tuba rent an instruments from the district because of the cost of renting these instruments at the music store. These instruments are assigned based on student aptitude and not financial need. 
12. What about private lessons?
  • We have an incredible private lessons staff & cant wait for your student to meet them. While, lessons are not required, they go a long way in helping students learn how to play their instrument at a high level.​
  • We strongly encourage oboe, bassoon, French horn, euphonium, & tuba students to take private lessons.
  • Lessons are available for every level of student: struggling, middle of the road, & ahead of the pack!