JOIN THE BAND!

How do I join the Watauga Band?

Most band students join band in 6th grade, though it is possible to join in 7th grade.

If you're in 5th grade, make sure to put band as your #1 elective when you sign up for classes! 

Learn about the instruments!

Watch these videos to learn more about each instrument!

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Q: Who will be in Band?  

A: Band starts out as just beginners in each class period all on the same instrument.  Then, all the instruments combine into full "concert bands" when you're in 7th and 8th grade. We are currently one of the largest spirit organizations with more than 200 band members at Watauga Middle 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, NRH20 and the opportunity to play in one of our competitive concert bands!

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 WMS Band Instrument Drive or a band director will visit you at your elementary school. Your child will have the opportunity to get tested for multiple instruments and we will find the one best suited for them.

In Middle 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:  You'll learn every percussion instrument including 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 okay) 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 as a rent-to-own.

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 Bassoons, French Horns, Euphoniums and Tubas.  These instruments are owned by BISD and are available for a rental fee paid to WMS Band.

Q: Can my child participate in sports, choir, and clubs while getting good grades in Band?  

A: Absolutely!  We encourage our band members to participate in athletics and other activities.  Many of our band members are star athletes at Watauga as well as leaders in academics! The 2025 Valedictorian at Haltom HS was a WMS bassoon player and is going to Harvard on a full ride!