Frequently Asked Questions

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Both band and orchestra are instrumental programs, and begin in the middle school. The biggest, and most easily identifiable, difference between these two ensembles is the type of instrument that plays in them. Band instruments are typically woodwind, brass, and percussion. Orchestra instruments have strings and are played by plucking or using a bow. 

No! There are a number of options when it comes to getting your student and instrument. In some cases, your school program may be able to loan your student an instrument. Depending on the situation, this may be free or at a nominal fee to cover the cost of cleaning and maintenance. There are also a number of stores that rent instruments for far less than the cost of purchasing an instrument. Please reach out to the director at your school for more information on what they can do to help you get an instrument for your student. 

Each instrument has its own unique rewards and challenges. If your student has an interest in a particular instrument, it might be best to start there! Students are more likely to stick with an instrument if it's one they have a personal affinity for. Your school's band or orchestra director can also help guide them in choosing an instrument and making sure that they are set up for success. 

There are a lot of instruments for sale on Amazon for very little money. This can be a particularly tempting option when trying to get an instrument for a beginner. Unfortunately, we have found that the vast majority of these instruments are of poor quality, and can actually make it harder for students to learn to play. Your local band or ochestra director can advise you on the best value when it comes to buying or renting an instrument as well as recommend the companies you should consider working with. This will ensure that your student has a good instrument to start learning on and that their first experiences in music are positive ones. 

No! The band and orchestra programs in our schools are designed to teach students the basics of how to play their instrument during class. If, however, you and your student wish to get additional, individualized instruction outside the school day, your instructor will be able to provide you with recommendations for private lessons. 

Each director has their own expectations for at-home practice. Reach out to your school's director directly for more information. 

Concert schedule varies from school to school, but there are typically 1-2 concerts a semester. Refer to the DISTRICT PERFORMANCE CALENDAR to see how many concerts your school offers, or reach out to the directors directly using THIS LINK