So you're in beginning band...now what do you do?
First, let us welcome you to the Strike Band FamiLE! We have a great program full of awesome kids and you/your student is now a member of the BEST group of kids at SMS. The next step for you and your student is to acquire an instrument.
If you DON'T know what instrument your student is supposed to play in band, please contact Mrs. Lawhead at alawhead@leisd.ws. Every student has been tested and placed on the instrument they will be most successful on. While they get some input on that instrument, the band directors have to guide that selection.
Once you know for sure what instrument your student will play, contact one of the following music stores to set up either a rental OR purchase supplies (more info below).
The rental is a rent-to-own contract with the music store. It can be cancelled at any time. You also have the option to buy it outright. All stores listed below have our preferred instrument list (which we selected to get the most bang for your buck!!).
Some instruments are school owned and your student will only need to purchase supplies and pay the school rental fee of $50/semester. Those instruments are Tuba, Baritone/Euphonium, French Horn, Oboe, Bassoon.
3. Students will need their instrument and supplies by September 4. That is our official PLAYING Kick off! It's going to be a great day!
Please know that we do not want anyone's financial situation to be a reason they do not get to participate in band. If you have any issues with getting set up with an instrument and supplies, please contact Mrs. Lawhead and we will find a way to keep your student involved. We have some resources to help your student be successful. :)
The Music Stores
You can rent/purchase through each store's website or in their store.
Brook Mays (preferred vendor)
Tarpley Music
PERCUSSION ONLY:
If you prefer to shop independently, please contact a director for assistance.
Band is FUN!
We go on field trips!
Learn to play an instrument!
With a little bit of work, you can be awesome like the rest of our musicians!
Play concerts!
We play several concerts each year, and our 7th & 8th graders even get to play at football games and Pep Rallies!!
Get smarter!
Playing an instrument changes your brain and makes you SMARTER!!
You can be an athlete AND a band member!!
So many of our students play volleyball, soccer, basketball, football and even club hockey!
We always work with the coaches to make sure you can participate in your activites!
Only 3-4 outside rehearsals per year.
You'll have to practice your instrument regularly, but minutes a day NOT hours!!
Joining is affordable!
Yearly band fee for all students ($50)
Most instruments are available through rent-to-own programs at reasonable rates.