WHS Band - Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am not sure if I want to do band in high school?

Try it! You will like it! You should sign up even if you are unsure. It is much harder to add later when you decide you miss it!

How is band different in high school?

From day one, your child will be musically and personally mentored by successful upperclassmen who have a vested interest in their success. They will have dozens of new and like-minded friends before school even begins and have experiences (Competitions, football games, and trips) that are unlike anything they have experienced.

Can I do band and sports?

YES. Our faculty works hard to resolve as many conflicts as possible before they occur. One of our juniors this year, Noah, is in Symphonic Band, Football, Wrestling, and Track! Alanna, a freshman, is in Symphonic Band, Cheer, and Wrestling.

Can I do band and another music class?

YES. We work with other teachers in the music department and counselors to make sure you can be in multiple music classes. Ethan (tuba) does Symphonic Band, Chamber Strings, and Classic Chorale!

Can I do band and honor/AP classes?

YES. Most of our band students are enrolled in several advanced classes and are successful doing both band and having a rigorous academic schedule. Keaton, one of our seniors, is in AP American Gov, AP Calc II, AP Environmental Science, and Wind Symphony!

Can I do it all?

YES! IT IS POSSIBLE! Becca is a Senior in Wind Symphony, Marching Band Section Leader, Winter Percussion, Choir, Upscale, NHS, FCA, Choir Council and made All-State and was first chair in All-City! Wow! We have many Varsity athletes in our bands across all 3 seasons of sports, and many of our band students also participate in Choir, Orchestra, or the CTE Music Production track. This requires personal organization, which is one of the life skills that the music program teaches.

What band classes are offered?

We offer 3 Concert Bands, 2 Jazz Bands, and Marching Band. Marching Band students DO receive credit and a grade for the class. Marching Band DOES NOT take up one of your elective choices because it meets outside of the school day. You must be in a Concert Band to join the Marching Band (unless you are a Colorguard member) If you are interested in Jazz Band in addition to a concert group, speak with Mr. Loafman.

What class should I register for?

When registering, students should select “Concert Band”. We will come to the junior highs to hear each student play and place them in the class they will be most successful in! Anyone can join band! Have a friend that’s always wanted to be in band?? Encourage them to join!

To add Jazz Band, select “Jazz Band 2”

Do I have to take a foreign language?

Although it is encouraged for students to take a foreign language for college, it is not required and in fact, most colleges look for a music class over a foreign language class because it is also considered a language and provides a different skill set.

Do I have to take PE my freshman year?

NO. Marching Band students can receive PE credit for participating for 2 seasons, so they only need to take one PE class later in high school when they have more elective options. It is easier to fit in your schedule later. Let the counseling center know this is the option you want.

What are the costs?

Minimal!  We keep costs as low as possible for every child and ensure that no one is excluded due to financial hardships.

How do I get an instrument?

The school can provide many of the larger and more expensive instruments for rental. We encourage students to rent or purchase their own if possible. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating.

What if I have other questions?

You can reach us by e-mail: Mr. Loafman: loafmannicholas@wsd3.org or Ms. Henning: henningrose@wsd3.org

Find us online at www.widefieldband.com