Is it too late for my child to join the Band? 

It’s never too late for a child (or adult for that matter) to begin to study an instrument.  Although once the school year is under way, it may be difficult for a new beginner to jump into a class which is much further advanced. Private instruction outside of the school day is recommended to help your child catch up to the class in progress.  Once they have caught up to a reasonable level, they can attend the band classes with the other students.  It is recommended that you inform the band director of your desire and discuss the instruments needed by the band.  Some of the more highly needed instruments receive more private instruction in school than the most popular instruments, and may lessen the need for outside instruction.

Where can I purchase or rent an instrument for my child? 

Several local music dealers would love to assist you in your choice of a band instrument.  Rental plans are fairly competitive and differences are slight.  When choosing a store, look for a dealer large enough to service your needs.  Several questions to ask:

1.)      Ask to see their repair facility.  It should be on site.  

2.)      Ask about routine maintenance costs, if any. 

3.)      What will they do to ensure your child has an instrument to play on if the rental instrument needs maintenance. 

4.)      Will they provide a loaner or exchange the instrument.

5.)      Do they include accessories (spare reeds, valve oil, cleaning materials).

Answers to these questions will provide a good comparison of the quality of the dealer.

How is Band scheduled?

30 min. group lessons are offered once each week as a pull-out from the regular classroom. Pull-outs do not occur during the Math block, Communication Arts block, or Specials (Art, General Music, Phys Ed or Library.

The entire band meets once each week for ensemble playing and concert preparation. This band meets for 45 min. and is a regular scheduled class at the same time each week.

In some schools, pull-outs scheduled on a rotating basis. Scheduled times change each week so students are not always missing the same class time. In others, the pull-outs are set at the same time each week.  In either case, if an important assignment or test requires the student to remain in their classroom during their lesson, the band teacher can place the student in another class for that week. It helps to notify the band instructor in advance or as soon as possible.

What is a pull-out lesson? 

A pull-out lesson is an instructional time allotted to Band instrument study during the regularly scheduled day.  Students are given a schedule and are expected to leave their classroom at the appropriate time and report to the Band lesson room.  Any work missed is the responsibility of the child to make up with their classroom teacher. 

How much does Band cost? 

Band instruction is offered free to students enrolled in North Allegheny schools.  The only cost to the student is the instrument itself, and the method book (currently $7.95 – 11.95). You may periodically need to replenish instrument supplies such as reeds, valve oil, cork grease, slide grease, etc... at a minimal cost. For your convenience, the band teacher carries most of these supplies for emergency needs which can be purchased at school or you  may obtain them from your nearest Music Store.

Who do I inform if my child wishes to quit the Band? 

Discuss with your child’s Band instructor, the reasons your child wants to quit. Perhaps something can be done to rekindle interest. If all else fails, contact your school secretary and send a signed note to you child’s Band instructor. Also, if you are renting your child’s instrument, contact the providing store to arrange for its return.

How do I return my rental instrument if my child no longer wishes to play in Band? 

Rental returns are handled through the store from which you obtained the instrument.  It is best for you to personally return the instrument directly to the store.  The school district does not accept responsibility for the loss of an instrument left at school.  If it is impossible for you to get to the store, it can be arranged for the store to send it's representative to the school to pick up the instrument.  Call the store for details.