Band in 7th & 8th Grade

What is the major difference between 6th Grade Band and 7th/8th Grade Band?
In 6th grade you were just learning your instrument.  Now that you have many basic skills mastered, we can play a greater variety of music.  As you get better, you play better music and you play with better musicians!
 
When will the 7th and 8th Grade Band meet?
Band meets during elective block.  Sometimes, if necessary, after school full band rehearsals are required.  These consist of a handful of rehearsals just before a major performance.  We work very closely with the cheer/dance/athletic schedules and coaches to make sure conflicts are worked out.  We also help to make sure all our students can find transportation. 
 
When do the 7th and 8th Grade Bands perform?
Performances include 3-4 home football games, pep rallies, Festival field trips, Pre-Festival, Fall, Winter, Spring Concerts and the Gonzales Christmas Parade.  8th Graders also perform at one EA High School Football Game!
 
Can I do sports, cheer, or dance and still be in Band?
Yes!  There is NO conflict between band and sports at CMS!  These students participate in band activities during class time but after school participate in the sports, cheer, or dance activities.
 
Can I switch instruments?
This depends!  To avoid slowing the progression of the band program, instrument switches are not typical as we rather students master their first instrument.  If a switch is made, it is usually because the student he been unsuccessful or unhappy on their current instrument OR they are fulfilling a new need for the band program.  For example, we will be looking to switch students to bassoon, French horn, and bass clarinet.  We make these decisions on a case-by-case basis through consultation with the band director.  Any switches are contingent upon the student progressing over the summer through private lessons so as not to begin the following school year as a beginner.  Please contact Mrs. Codina to discuss this further.
 
Can I “try another elective” and come back to band later?
This is highly discouraged.  You need to stay the course!  Missing a year and coming back is extremely difficult. 
 
What about High School credit courses?
Band students have the opportunity to take high school credit courses such as Algebra 1 and Health.  In high school, band counts as an art elective (required for graduation and TOPS) and simultaneously fulfills PE requirements.  Many band students graduate EA top of their class with enough college credits to begin college as a sophomore! 
 
What are some other benefits of staying in band for the long term?
#BandKidsBestKids  Band attracts (and develops) students that value hard work and determination as a member of a team.  Studies have shown that students involved in music score higher on standardized tests and stay more engaged in school.  College music scholarships are plentiful, even more so that athletic scholarships.  For example, LSU offers $1-3,000 a year and ULL will pay student’s housing just to play in the band at football games (not even to major in music)! 
 
What is the cost?
There is the annual $35.00 band fee, a $20.00 uniform shirt that is used all three years the student in band, and participation in an annual fundraiser to cover other expenses is required.

 Not sure?
 
For most students that are unsure, it usually comes down to one aspect of band.  Remember that just like any other activity, band has seasons and your interests will naturally ebb and flow.  That is OKAY!  Some students really enjoy the intense preparation of festival music, while others prefer playing at football games and parades.  Some may not enjoy doing solos, while others look forward to learning duets with their friends.  At CMS it is our goal to expose you to many different aspects of playing music so you can find what interests you.  Remember back to the parts you enjoy the most.  More than likely it is worth it to stay in band in order to experience those moments again! 
 
Most importantly, the more you improve your skills, the better music you can play… the better music you can play means the better musicians you can play with…  the better musicians you play with the better you become…  then the better music you can play…  It’s an ever-improving cycle!!!
 
Lastly, the older you get the opportunities to study and perform music decrease.  Take advantage of this time while you have it!  When in doubt, talk it out with Mrs. Codina and we’ll make sure you make a decision that is best for you!  

BAND SCHEDULE INTENTIONS for 2019-2020
Please return ASAP but no later than May 21

band_elective_faqs_for_7th_8th_graders_2019-2020_with_intentions.pdf
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