La Grange Beginner Band Q-and-A

Please join us on May 5th in the High School band hall from 5-8 p.m. for 5th graders to try out instruments. If you want to be in band, but cannot make it to the Instrument Testing night, please email me at chris.cooper@lgisd.net to schedule a time.

What if I am not sure if I want my child to do music?

Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Music is the same way. Your child should sign up for Band even if you or they are unsure. If you later decide that music is not for you, drop the class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when everyone else has already started.

My child wants to do Athletics in Middle School and High School. Can they do both? Yes! We have many musician athletes in Middle School and High School, in all sports, and in all other activities on campus. It is a big commitment by students and parents, but we have many students doing both successfully. Directors and Coaches do our best to work together so that students don’t have to give up one to do the other.

What if I don’t know anything about music?

That’s OK! We will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. From how to assemble and care for the instrument to reading notes and rhythms, we will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude and patient ears when your child comes home and makes their first sound.

How much out of school time is required?

Music is no different than any other curricular area. We ask that your child spend some time with their instrument each and every week. Think of it as musical homework, but much more fun.

How does my child get chosen for an instrument?

The instrument we select for your child comes down to a variety of factors. Most importantly, it should be an instrument they are excited about. We demonstrated all the instruments live for your child’s class. Next, we want every student to play on an instrument we feel is best suited for them. Students are more naturally gifted for some instruments than others. Your student will test their top three instrument choices, and we will recommend the one they are the most successful with. Information about our Instrument Testing Night is attached to this letter.

What are the costs?

This varies depending on which instrument your child plays and if you already own an instrument, or if it is one of the larger instruments provided by the school. If not, there are many options to rent or purchase an instrument. If financial constraints prevent you from doing this, please contact me and allow us to help. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating. We require students to purchase the Essential Elements for Band Book 1 for their instrument, a three ring binder, page protectors, and a chromatic tuner with a pick up. Instrument maintenance supplies are also recommended.

How do I procure an instrument?

The school provides some of the larger and more expensive instruments. We encourage students playing smaller, less expensive instruments to either rent or purchase their own instrument, as we have very few of these in our inventory. Collins Music will host an Instrument Drive, which you will learn about on the Registration Form. You are also welcome to find an instrument online, on the used market, or through a family member or friend.

What if I have other questions?

We are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. Due to the busy nature of our program and schools in general, it is sometimes difficult to contact us by phone. The best way for you to reach me is electronically at chris. cooper@lgisd.net.