Play for Pay

On the more practical side, it is not uncommon for students with good grades that have been in the band program for most of their middle and high school careers to be offered band college scholarships. These scholarships can total in the tens of thousand of dollars per student. A local high school band recently graduated 42 seniors out of its program. Collectively they were offered over $750,000.00 in scholarships at various universities. While some of these students received more and others less. The average was almost $20,000.00 per student.

The band fees paid over the years and other expenses in time and money incurred by having a student in a band program now are no longer just expenses but actual investments in the students’ future. Some of the 42 seniors mentioned above saw a 10 to 1 return on their investment.

Also, money that has been saved to pay for college expenses now can be used for other pressing needs or just become discretionary. This money may also be used to pay for computer upgrades, buy a car, or new wardrobe for the new college student. The previous three considerations are often of great interest to the student and can provide significant incentive to keep up grades and stay in band.

There can be a real sense of pride for the student in knowing that they have paid, at least in part, for their college education.