Parents’ FAQs

How can we encourage our child in his/her music?

Your respect for his/her efforts is certain to have tremendous impact on what he/she deems worthwhile. Take time to listen to practice sessions, attend all concerts and performances, and give compliments as often as possible. Never joke or kid them about their efforts, as their confidence during the beginning phase is especially fragile. For most children, a parent’s interest and approval are their primary motivation.

My child is involved in so many activities. Won’t those activities affect his/her performance in band and vice versa?

Band students often have many varied interests that make them among the busiest students in the school. There is usually plenty of time in the day if the time is well spent. The experience that they gain in balancing these interests and activities often proves to be one of life’s most valuable lessons.

Will band affect my child’s grades in other subjects?

Research has established that band has a positive influence on other studies. Band teaches self-discipline, careful preparation, and the pride of accomplishment—all useful when applied to other academic areas. Consequently, band students consistently achieve higher grades than non-band students.

How can we be sure that he/she won’t decide to drop out of band?

We can never be sure of a child’s future. By providing your child with the opportunity to participate in the band, and offering them your support and encouragement, you have given them the opportunity for success. While some students do drop out of band, your efforts, combined with the efforts of the band directors, promise your child a positive experience regardless of the length of their band participation.

My child is interested in playing sports or participating in other school activities. Will he/she have to drop band?

There is much more to band than playing at athletic events. Concerts, festivals, parades, and numerous other performances comprise a well-rounded band experience. Most of all, band is music education. No student should have to give up one part of his education to participate in another. Provisions can almost always be made for students with multiple interests.

My child’s interest in music occasionally wavers. Should I try to influence him/her to continue music if he/she doesn’t seem to want to?

“I wish that my parents had encouraged me to play a musical instrument” must be one of the most common statements that adults make. Your child cannot know what current experiences will be meaningful for them later in life. Your support and encouragement is what guides them through those experiences that have life-long meaning.