FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions concerning
the West Band program.
Who can be in band at West Junior High?
Any entering 7th grader wishing to learn a musical instrument is
welcome to join the beginning band program at West Junior High. No
prior musical experience is necessary. In the Spring, the band director
will visit the elementary schools that feed into West and explain the
band program to all 6th graders. Those interested will be given an
opportunity to test out the different instruments and talk with the
teachers about the instrument best suited for them. Band is a regular
class that meets daily and joining band is as simple as indicating your
preference on the enrollment form for West.
How do I aquire an instrument for band?
The following instruments must be acquired by the student for band:
Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Trumpet or Cornet, Trombone, and
Percussion Kit.
These local music stores offer a rental-purchase plan and a selection of
quality new and used instruments. They are full-service stores which
also provide music books, accessories, and quality instrument repair.
 Gilliam Music Company, 2280 W. Main St., Norman 321-0080
 Larsen Music Company, 4001 NW 63rd St, OKC 843-1573
 Norman Music Center, 317 W. Gray, Norman 321-8300
If you get an older instrument from a friend, family member, newspaper
ad, or pawn shop, be sure to have the instrument checked at a music
store and have them make any needed repairs.
The following instruments are school-owned and can be used by the
student with permission from the director: Bassoon, French Horn,
Baritone, and Tuba.
Is percussion more than just drums?
To be a percussionist at West means that you are capable of playing a
wide range of instruments. They include drums(snare, bass, timpani,
etc.), mallets(xylophone, marimba, bells, etc.), cymbals, triangle, and a
host of other instruments. As a beginner, you are required to learn both
the drum pad and the bells. To continue in the program, you must
achieve a level of mastery on both instruments. Contrary to popular
belief, we do not teach drum set, although some older students have the
opportunity to perform on the instrument. Percussionists at West are
well-rounded musicians who can handle any percussion part handed to
them whether it be a snare drum, chimes, or castanet.
See Mr. Smith's website for more information.
Is it OK to buy instruments from Ebay?
One quick bit of advice. Let the buyer beware. While there are
safeguards on Ebay to protect the consumer, the selection of musical
instruments is so large and varied it's often difficult to know your best
choice. If you have done your homework and know exactly what you are
looking for you may be able to purchase a high-quality instrument at a
good price. Keep in mind that the condition of the instrument is very
important and you might have to get repair work done before it plays
properly. All that said, if you know what your looking for and are
comfortable with the internet auction process, Ebay and other similar
web sites provide another option for parents.
Which days do the music stores visit West?
A representative from Gilliam Music will come by the school to deliver
reeds, music books, valve oil, etc. Call the store at 321-0080 to place
an order.
How often should band students practice their instruments?
The average beginning band student should practice between 20 and
30 minutes a day 4 to 5 days a week. The student who desires to excel
will, of course, practice longer. Towards the end of their first year, the
average beginner should increase each practice session to 45 minutes.
8th graders who are working towards mastering their instruments should
practice an hour each day. It is not necessary to practice in one long
session. It is often easier and sometimes more beneficial to split your
daily practice into 2 or 3 shorter sessions.
Beginners are required to turn in practice reports. See the band
handbook for the grade policy. Blank reports can be downloaded from
the website.
Are private lessons required in the West Band?
No. However, private lessons with a quality instructor is the best way to
achieve a high level of mastery on your instrument. Most of the toprated bands throughout the country utilize private teachers in their
programs. This allows the bands to perform more advanced music. It
also enhances personal satisfaction and diminishes frustration in the
student-performer. While private lessons are encouraged for enhanced
musical growth, they do not guarantee higher placement in bands.
Ask Mrs. Taylor for contacts of private instructors on your instrument.
Can you be in both band and athletics?
Yes. Many of our band members are active in a variety of sports at
West. We also have students who are involved with journalism, drama,
choir, cheerleading, science club, academic club, spirit club, and other
school activities.
Is it OK to start in band as an 8th grader?
Yes. Remember, however, you will be in a class that is almost entirely
7th graders. Also, you will have to be prepared by the end of only one
year to become part of a competitve high school band.
Will braces affect playing an instrument?
Braces affect two instruments more than any other: flute and trumpet.
For flute players, it's a matter of repositioning the headjoint to the lips so
the airstream strikes the embouchure hole at the correct point. For
trumpet players, the problem is mostly discomfort. It will also adversely
affect the tone for a while. However, most children today will wear
braces at one point, so it's really a matter of getting used to them.
Is it OK to buy the cheapest instrument I can find?
See the following page for a guide on buying quality band
instruments: Instrument Buying Guide