FAQ

I do not have any experience on a band instrument. Can I still be in band?

• Absolutely! 99% of the students who join band at Duluth Middle School do not have any experience on a band instrument. Ms. Jimenez will teach you everything you need to know, from how to open the case and how to put the instrument together to how to make a great sound!

How will I know what instrument to play?

• In the first few days of school, you will learn all about the different instruments offered in band. On Thursday, August 11th, you will get a chance to try out any of the following instruments: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. It is highly encouraged that you try out at least 3 instruments (1 woodwind, 1 brass, 1 of your choice), but you can try as many as you want! Please note: Percussion will not be available until auditions are held in December. 6th grade percussionists will formally begin in January.

How do I rent an instrument?

• Starter instruments can be rented from any of the multiple music stores in the area. Ms. Jimenez will provide each student with brochures for the stores available. The school does own an extremely limited amount of starter instruments, which are reserved for families in extreme financial need.

Why should I rent an instrument instead of purchasing one?

• Students are all starting off as beginners on their instrument. As the year progresses, Ms. Jimenez may recommend that the student switches. For examples, sometimes a student will naturally have an embouchure (the way a student's face is formed to play an instrument) that would suggest they would be very successful at a different instrument. In that case, the student would have the opportunity to try the instrument and make a decision on whether they would like to switch. If an instrument is rented, this is a very simple transition!