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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I be in band and other activities such as athletics?

Yes. The positive relationship between the fine arts programs and the athletic department ​is something that we value greatly. There has almost never been a situation that we have ​not been able to work out between programs. With an accelerated block schedule we ​recognize that it can be difficult to participate in as many events as students would like. ​Our philosophy in the band program is to provide as many opportunities as possible for ​students.

How much time does band require?

We know that the summer band and fall schedule can look intimidating. We front load the ​curriculum in August so that once school begins, students have time to participate in band ​and maintain their academic responsibilities. Please recognize that with all of your hard ​work you receive elective, fine arts, and P.E. credit. In marching band, there will be morning ​or afternoon rehearsals four days a week once school begins.

Am I good enough to be in the band?

Absolutely! You have participated in a fantastic middle school program that has equipped ​you with all of the necessary skills to be in the high school band.

Should I be afraid of marching band?

Marching Band is a new and exciting opportunity. You will have plenty of chances to ​acquire all the skills necessary to thoroughly enjoy your experience in marching band. Did ​you ever imagine that you would be this great a musician after your first week in beginning ​band class?

What if I can't memorize music?

Think through the B♭ concert scale. Do you have that memorized? How did you do that? ​Exactly, through repetition. You will have more than enough time in concert band and ​marching band to memorize the music.

Do I have to take PE if I am in Marching Band?

No. Marching Band is a PE credit.

How are students placed in the different bands (i.e. Concert 1 & 2, Symphonic Band and ​Wind Symphony)?

All students have been placed in a band class based on auditions that occur at the end of ​the school year. If a student demonstrates that they are playing at a level of a different ​band class, we will make adjustments at the semester break. The directors encourage all ​students interested in moving up a level to practice the All-Region music. The Wind ​Symphony and Symphonic Band students are required to learn the All-Region music. When ​comparing students on the same music, it is easy to see if band adjustments are necessary. ​Percussion students will audition during the Fall Semester to determine their band ​placement for the Spring Semester.

How do I join the Colorguard/Winterguard?

The Colorguard is the auxiliary squad of the marching band and is open to both males and ​females. This specialized group hosts auditions in the Spring for the following Fall ​semester. During the Spring, the Colorguard participates as a Winterguard in competitions. ​If you are interested in being in Colorguard, please contact us.

Can I participate in band for only half of the school year?

No. We require all band students to participate fully in both marching and concert band ​unless extenuating circumstances arise. Please speak with a band director for more ​information.

What do double-reed players do during marching season?

Double-reed players typically make a seasonal switch to a new instrument for marching. ​They will also play their primary instrument regularly during the fall semester.

What should we do if my student has a conflict with a rehearsal, game or other ​performance scheduled on the band calendar?

Generally, attendance at all rehearsals, games and performances is mandatory. It is ​expected that band will be a priority, so please consult the band calendar before ​scheduling other appointments. If you do have a conflict with any band events, contact the ​director immediately. Early communication is key.

When my student participates in a fundraiser, do the profits benefit my student or Band ​Boosters?

All fundraisers benefit the entire band. No individual accounts are allowed per IRS rules.

I write a variety of checks for band functions; to whom should I write my checks?

All checks should be made payable to the south hills high school Band Booster Club except ​for private lessons. If there are other exceptions, we’ll let you know.

*** We encourage the parents to use the memo section of your check, for student's name, type ​of fundraiser, etc. for proper crediting. This is very helpful as some of the students' names ​are different from the name on the check.