Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be in the band and other activities such as athletics?
Yes. The FHS band staff encourages a well-rounded high school experience. However, attendance at ALL band rehearsals and performances is required to be a band program member. Personal time management and communication are key. Our philosophy in the band program is to provide as many opportunities as possible for students.
How much time does band require?
We know that the summer band and fall schedule can look intimidating. We front-load the curriculum in August so that once school begins, students have time to participate in band and maintain their academic responsibilities. Please recognize that with all of your hard work you receive elective, fine arts, and P.E. credit. In marching band, there will be morning or afternoon rehearsals four days a week once school begins.
Am I good enough to be in the band?
Absolutely! You have participated in a fantastic middle school program that has equipped you with all of the necessary skills to be in the high school band.
Should I be afraid of marching band?
Marching Band is a new and exciting opportunity. You will have plenty of chances to acquire all the skills necessary to thoroughly enjoy your experience in the marching band. Did you ever imagine that you would be this great a musician after your first week in beginning band class?
What if I can't memorize music?
Think through the B♭ concert scale. Do you have that memorized? How did you do that? Exactly, through repetition. You will have more than enough time in concert band and marching band to memorize the music.
Do I have to take PE if I am in Marching Band?
No. Marching Band is a PE credit.
How are students placed in the different bands (i.e. Concert 1 & 2, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble)?
All students have been placed in a band class based on auditions that occur at the end of the school year. The Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band students are required to learn the All-Region music. All students will re-audition during the Fall Semester to determine their band placement for the Spring Semester.
How do I join the Colorguard/Winterguard?
The Colorguard is the auxiliary squad of the marching band and is open to both males and females. This specialized group hosts auditions in the Spring for the following Fall semester. During the Spring, the Colorguard participates as a Winterguard in competitions. If you are interested in being in Colorguard, please contact us.
Can I participate in band for only half of the school year?
No. We require all band students to participate fully in both marching and concert band unless extenuating circumstances arise. Please speak with an FHS band director for more information.
What do double-reed players do during marching season?
Double-reed players typically make a seasonal switch to a new instrument for marching. They will also play their primary instrument regularly during the fall semester.
What should we do if my student has a conflict with a rehearsal, game, or other performance scheduled on the band calendar?
Generally, attendance at all rehearsals, games, and performances is mandatory. It is expected that band will be a priority, so please consult the band calendar before scheduling other appointments. If you do have a conflict with any band events, contact the director immediately. Early communication is key.
When my student participates in a fundraiser, do the profits benefit my student or Band Boosters?
All fundraisers benefit the entire band. No individual accounts are allowed per IRS rules.
I write a variety of checks for band functions; to whom should I write my checks?
All checks should be made payable to the Mustang Band Booster Club (MBBC) except for private lessons. If there are other exceptions, we’ll let you know. Private lesson checks should be made out to the private lesson teacher.
*** We encourage the parents to use the memo section of your check, for the student's name, type of fundraiser, etc. for proper crediting. This is very helpful as some of the students' names are different from the name on the check.