1. Do I need to know how to play an instrument already?

No experience is expected or required! Beginner Band is designed for students starting from scratch. We teach everything step-by-step — how to hold the instrument, how to read music, how to make your first sounds, and how to grow into a confident musician. Everyone starts together, and everyone grows together.

2. How long will the tryout take?

Most students finish in about 20–30 minutes, depending on how many instruments they want to try and how many students are there at the time. You may arrive anytime between 9 AM and 2 PM — it is come-and-go. We’ll help each student try their top three instruments and guide them toward the one that fits them best.

3. Do my parents need to come with me?

Yes. Parents should attend because they’ll receive important information about the band program, instrument options, and costs. They’ll also help finalize your instrument selection. It’s also a great chance for families to meet the directors and ask questions!

4. Can I do band and athletics?

Absolutely! Band students are often some of the most involved students on campus. We work closely with coaches to help students do both band and sports successfully. With good communication and planning, students can enjoy all their interests.

5. How do I choose an instrument?

A band director will work with you one-on-one to help you try different instruments safely and correctly. We look at things like hand size, comfort, breath support, and natural ability — but most importantly, we want you to love the instrument you choose. We’ll help you find the one that best matches your personality and strengths.

6. What instruments can I choose from?

Students may try:
Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, and Percussion.
Each instrument is unique and important — we help students select one that fits them musically and physically so they can enjoy band for years.

7. My child wants to play drums. How does that work?

Percussion is more than just drums — it includes mallet instruments (bells, xylophone, marimba), snare, and rhythm instruments. Because it requires strong coordination and excellent listening skills, percussion has a special audition process. Students will complete a coordination test to see if percussion is a natural fit for them.

To be accepted into percussion, students must earn a minimum qualifying score on this test.
Percussion spots are limited, and once the class fills, we cannot accept any more students — even if they meet the minimum score.
If percussion is not the best fit, we will guide the student to another instrument where they can succeed and stand out!

8. Will there be more times available in the future?

We strongly encourage all students to attend the main Instrument Tryout Day, as this is when we have the full staff, all instruments available, and the most placement options.
Make-up tryouts will be offered later by appointment only, and availability will be very limited.
Because certain instrument sections fill up quickly, attending the main tryout day gives your child the best chance of getting their top choice instrument.

9. When do we get instruments?

After your instrument is selected, you’ll receive instructions on how to rent or check out an instrument. Rental companies work closely with the school to make this easy for families. Some larger instruments (like low brass and low reeds) may be available through the school.

10. How much does it cost to be in band?

Costs depend on the instrument chosen, but we work hard to make band affordable for all families. We partner with music stores that offer payment plans, and the school has limited inventory of larger instruments that students can use. We will explain all options clearly at Tryout Day so families can choose what works best for their budget.

11. What if I’m nervous?

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about trying something new — everyone else feels the same way! Band is a supportive, encouraging environment where mistakes are part of learning. You’ll make new friends, learn at your own pace, and have teachers who help you every step of the way.

Click here for a map of where to park and enter the band hall.