What’s so great about high school band?

High school band is where all the hard work in middle school band learning to play an instrument pays off! Students get to play more exciting music and perform for many more people! In addition, high school band gives students opportunities to learn important life skills, such as leadership, collaboration, goal setting, and time management. Furthermore, high school band is really a family that gives students a built-in group of friends and a place to belong. We do many social events and trips to places like the beach and Disney World!

Is an audition required to be in the Emerson Band?

No. If students have participated in a band program in the previous year, they do not need to audition to be in band at Emerson. However, we do an audition for band placement. We will have two ability-based bands that meet in different class periods. The placement audition will determine which class period the student is in.

Do all band students participate in marching band?

Yes! Marching band is part of the Frisco ISD high school band curriculum. There are different roles in the marching band, including color guard, percussion, marchers with instruments, and prop crew. All students will be assigned to a role based on their attendance, attitude, and skill level.

How long does marching season last?

We start preparing for marching season in the summer. Marching season goes through the first nine weeks of the school year.

Why do you practice in the summer?

All high school fall activities, such as football, volleyball, cheer, and dance team practice in the summer because our season starts as soon as school starts. We have to be ready for performances at pep rallies and football games from the very beginning of the semester.

Are the summer events required?

Yes, they are. We will learn so much during this time that it is very hard to catch up if you miss rehearsals. We are giving you these dates early so that you can plan your family events, travel, and doctor’s appointments around the summer rehearsals. If you have an unavoidable conflict, please communicate with the band directors now.

What does the marching band schedule look like once school starts?

We practice three or four mornings a week before school and one or two afternoons a week. We will perform at all varsity football games, which are on Thursday or Friday nights. In late-September through mid-October, we will compete at marching contests on Saturdays.

Marching season seems busy. Do students get burned out?

For many of our students, marching season ends up being their favorite part of the year. It is certainly the most exciting part of our year! We go on bus trips, perform at football games, have many social events, and compete at contests. This is when students truly bond and make friendships that will last a lifetime.

How do students balance their schoolwork with band practice and events?

Many of our band students are in Advanced or AP level courses. We actually find that our students have higher grades during our busier times of year! Participating in an extra-curricular activity helps students learn to manage a calendar, balance multiple responsibilities, and be efficient with their time.

How do students balance band and other extra-curricular activities?

Communication is key! We highly encourage our students to participate in other extra-curricular activities but keeping in constant communication with us, and their other sponsors, is necessary for avoiding conflicts.