ELEMENTARY BAND TRY-OUTS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What exactly is a Band Try-Out?

Does my child have to already know how to play an instrument?

Do I have to attend the try-out with my child?

If my child played an instrument last year, do they have to try out again?

Can a student do both Band and Orchestra in 4^th or 5^th grade?

What should I look for in choosing an Instrument Dealer?

What is the Parent Orientation/Demonstration?

Maintenance FAQ's

What exactly is a Band Try-Out? 

First of all, a Band Try-Out is not an audition. It is simply an opportunity for your child to personally examine the instrument of choice. They will get to hold and play the instrument to see if it fits and feels right for them. No previous experience is necessary.

Depending on the physical maturity of your child, some instruments may not fit their mouth or hands/arms properly. Our NA music staff will work with your child one-on-one to help determine if the instrument selected is appropriate.

Does my child have to already know how to play an instrument?

Students entering the North Allegheny Band Program for the first time in Elementary School, are not required to have any prerequisite musical skill. Band instrument lessons begin with learning how to open an instrument case, how to properly handle and assemble the instrument, and the steps necessary to begin to play a sound on the instrument. Music reading is taught from scratch, even though students have already received basic instruction in the General Music Class. This assures all students have an equal opportunity to progress to the best of their ability.

If a child has some previous instrumental experience, this will be evaluated at the try-out or over the first few lessons and if qualified, a more advanced placement will be arranged.

Do I have to attend the try-out with my child?

It is not necessary, but preferable for one or both of the parents to attend the try-out with the child, just in case the instrument that your child has his/her heart set on is inappropriate for some reason. This gives us the chance to explain (directly to you) the reason why we have reached that decision. You can then have some influence in the alternate selection. Your attendance will also give you the opportunity to meet the teacher who will be working so closely with your child.

Obviously, some parents simply cannot get away from work during the try-out times at school. If that is the case, we will call your child from their classroom sometime during the try-out day. They will be attended to in the same professional manner as if you were there. They will still get to try-out the instruments and discuss the choice with a Band Teacher one on one. All necessary information about the instrument selection will be sent home with the child.

Some students are actually embarrassed to be with Mom or Dad in situations where they feel clumsy or inexperienced. They may like for you to see them in their best light. If you sense that your young student is of this personality type, then perhaps it is best to let them go on their own.

You, however, know your child's comfort level best.

If my child played an instrument last year, do they have to try out again?

 If they are continuing on the same instrument - NO. They will automatically be enrolled for the following year unless we receive word from you to the contrary.

On the other hand, if they wish to pursue a different instrument, then we recommend a new try-out. It would also be good for you to discuss this choice with the current instructor to see if they would advise this change.

Can a student do both Band and Orchestra in 4^th or 5^th grade?

Though it is not recommended as wise for all students, it is currently possible for students to study in both ensembles. This should be given serious consideration before making a decision by discussing it with your child's Classroom, Band, and Orchestra teachers.

Consider: Can your child handle the extra workload and adequately fulfill the requirements of both programs without diminishing the quality of their everyday schoolwork? You know your child's abilities, maturity and comfort level best.

What should I look for in choosing an instrument dealer?

Price is important when buying/renting an instrument, but don't let that be your only priority. Regular routine maintenance for Band Instruments is important. Ask to see the stores repair facility. If they have none - beware! Also ask if routine maintenance (spring tensioning, pad alignments, and other basic adjustments) is included with the rental fee or during the warranty period on a purchased instrument. An instrument un-maintained will be frustrating at best to play. A simple drop may render an instrument unplayable - but might only require a simple adjustment to return to normal performance. Make sure your dealer is prepared to service your instrument.

Note: We have experienced very poor quality "import" instruments being offered by local membership clubs, department stores and on the internet. These instruments are not considered suitable for serious study. If you see an instrument offered at a significantly lower price than at a professional music store, you might want to ask your band instructor for an evaluation or opinion before making a purchase. In any case, make sure they have an adequate return policy in the event the instrument turns out to be "too good to be true."

What is the Parent Orientation/Demonstration?

The Parent Orientation/Demonstration is an annual meeting, held at the Senior High School, to inform parents about the Instrumental Music Program. Parents, unfamiliar with the various programs offered by the district, are invited to come and hear short sample performances on the various instruments which are available for study. The program of study is outlined and requirements are discussed, along with an introduction to the instrument rental programs available at various local music stores. A chance to talk informally with teachers and vendors follows the meeting. Both, Band and Strings, are represented at this meeting.