Q: Do I have to know anything about music to join Band?  

A: Most students who start band have little or no prior musical training.  We start from “scratch” in all phases.  Those students with former training will find it an aid in their advancement.

Q: Who will be in Band?  

A: Your friends and fellow classmates will join you in what will be some of the most exciting times of your school days.  We are currently one of the largest spirit organizations with more than 150 band members at Corsicana Middle School and more than 300 when adding the band students at Collins Intermediate School.  Many of our band students are among the leaders in academic achievement, school spirit, and club activities.

Q: What are the advantages of being in Band?  

A: The most obvious is learning to play an instrument for your own pleasure.  Other advantages include:  Concerts, Contests, Trips, Parties, Epic Waters and the opportunity to play in one of the most up and coming Middle School and High School Bands in the region!

Q: What instrument do I have to choose from and how do I choose?  

A: If you have chosen Band as your elective, you will attend the CMS-Collins Band Instrument Drive. Your child will have the opportunity to try out many different instruments and we will select the one best suited for them.

In Intermediate School, Beginning Band Students are divided into classes, which include:

Woodwinds:  Flute, Oboe & Bassoon, Clarinet, and Saxophone.

Brass:  Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, and Euphonium & Tuba

Percussion:  Mallet Keyboard, Timpani, Bass Drum & Cymbals, and Snare Drum

Q: What does the band director look for in helping me select an instrument?  

A: We look for a good attitude, a desire to be in the band, and willingness to WORK HARD and have fun!  We also look at teeth (braces are ok) and mouth formation, finger coordination and the band’s instrumentation needs.

Q: How do I get an instrument?  

A: You may rent from a music company, borrow or purchase an instrument. Most parents rent an instrument with an option to buy at a later date.

Q: Are used instruments acceptable in the Band? 

A: Some are. If you wish to purchase or otherwise obtain a used instrument for your child, please let us help you evaluate it before you invest.  An inferior quality instrument will only handicap your child and could possibly cost you more in repairs than the instrument is worth.

Q: Are there any school instruments available?  

A: The school provides some of the larger and more expensive instruments. These include Oboes, Bassoons, French Horns, Euphoniums and Tubas.  These instruments are owned by CISD and are available for a maintenance fee paid to CMS.

Q: Can my child participate in sports, dance, and cheerleading while taking Band?  

A: Absolutely!  We encourage our band members to participate in athletics and other activities.  Many of our band members are the star athletes, cheerleaders and key actors for the theater program at CMS and CHS as well as leaders in all academics!