WAYNE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
YELLOW JACKET BAND
FAQs
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 for them? 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 at some point you 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 and has learned so much.
What if I don’t know anything about music?
That’s ok! I will teach your child everything they need to know, step by step. We will start with how to assemble and care for the instrument and move on to reading notes and rhythms, I will guide your child through the process. All that is needed from you is an enthusiastic attitude, encouragement 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. Your child's level of success is dependent on their amount of focused practice at home as well as in class. There is no set time, just weekly goals they will perform in class for a grade called pass offs. Each child is different and the amount of at home practice time will be different for each to be successful and prepared for pass off days in class.
Can my child participate in sports/clubs and be in band?
Absolutely! Band is a class during the regular school day during their connection periods. It will not hinder their involvement with sports or after school clubs and organizations. There are typically two concerts that 6th grade band performs. These schedules and dates are sent out at the beginning of the school year giving plenty of time to plan ahead!
What instrument should my child play?
The answer depends on a variety of things, but in the end, it is most important that they play something that they enjoy. We encourage you to visit the website www.bepartofthemusic.org, watch the different instrument videos with your child, and discuss the different options. Typically we have a instrument fitting day after school has started to help guide your child to the right instrument. More information will be given out once the registration form is submitted. We help guide your child based on their musical interests, physical make-up, and instrument availability. Your child knows what they wants, you know your child, and we know music. Together we will find the instrument that they will not only enjoy but will give them the best chance of musical success!
What are the costs?
The costs associated with band depends on which instrument your child chooses and if you already own an instrument or will be using a school owned instrument. I recommend that you rent an instrument from one of our schools preferred music stores:
The school may have certain instruments available for at school use. If financial constraints prevent you from being able to do this, please contact us and allow us to help. We will not let instrument availability or financial constraints keep your child from participating!
What if I have other questions?
Please know that we are here to answer any and all questions that you may have. The best way for you to reach us is via email!
jonathan.henderson@wayne.k12.ga.us
Band Director, MPMS
Band Director, AWMS
WHY JOIN BAND?
Entering middle school is a giant step in every student’s educational journey. Your child is facing some important decisions that will have a long term impact of their life. Often, young people fear the added work load of the middle school curriculum and assume that they will not have the time to participate in the band program. This is simply not true!
Music Education is more than just playing an instrument; it is immersing your child in a culture of successful students and teachers who care about education. It challenges each child to use the creative side of their brain while, at the same time learning a foreign language: MUSIC.
Being a member of the band ensures instant acceptance in one of the most respected organizations at the onset of the 6th Grade year. The benefits of studying music in the band are numerous:
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With long term study of music, statistics show that reading, writing, and math scores improve.
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College admission officers give stronger consideration to students who are a part of the school music programs.
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Students start studying music at a young age tend to have higher SAT and ACT test scores.
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Music students are great problem solvers, creative thinkers, work well in team situations, stay more engaged in the school community, and SO MUCH MORE