How do I keep up with the Band to know what is happening?
The #1 source for band information is our website: www.grangerband.org. We also maintain a group page on Facebook & Instagram where updates are regularly posted.
Can just anyone be in the band?
Yes and No. L.H.S. offers band classes for every level, from basic beginner to advanced. All students enrolled in band must play an approved instrument. A student interested in playing in marching band will need previous experience, such as middle school band or a strong private musical background, to perform with that group.
Do students have to try out for band?
We do not audition for Band Membership, but we do audition for chair placement. An audition is a great way to evaluate a student’s ability level. During concert band, if there are multiple ensembles, students may be selected by audition.
Can a student be in band if they are not in a band class?
No. Students must be in a band class that covers the state-mandated Standards of Learning for Instrumental Music. Further, all of the concepts introduced and taught during the regularly scheduled band class are prerequisites for the performance level necessary for a high-quality band. Exceptions are made, but only for students with an irresolvable course conflict.
Do I have to be in Marching Band, or can I do Symphonic or Concert Band?
The LaGrange High School Band has a comprehensive band program, and yes, everyone in the program participates in marching band unless an extraordinary circumstance prevents them from doing so.
Marching band is a lot of fun. It is where you meet everyone and make a lot of new friends. It's a great way to make the transition to high school. While all your non-band friends are scared on the first day of school, you will have already made close to 100 new friends you met at band camp. It's also where everyone gets a feel for how the band runs, and learns all the little things that transfer to symphonic and concert band, making everyone a better musician.
Do I have to go to Band Camp?
Yes, why would you want to miss it? Band camp is the only chance we get all of this accomplished:
- We get to know each other and become a "family" of friends working together to make an exciting musical and visual show.
- We make new friends and get used to the school
- We learn the marching portion of the show, and combine it with the music that we learned over the summer.
- We learn basic concepts of good marching techniques, and apply it to the show.
- We learn basic concepts of good playing techniques, and how to play and march at the same time.
If you miss it, it will be impossible for you to catch up. Please contact Dr. Farrell if you foresee an issue! Band camp is two to three weeks before school starts. Please schedule your vacation time around it.
What is Fitting Day?
On the first Saturday of June we measure students for Marching Shoes and Practice Uniforms. Parents must be present to sign the health permission form for travel and to pay for items.
What expenses can a marching band student expect?
Band membership requires certain expenses for each student. All students pay a general band fee to cover these expenses and insurance. New members must also purchase shoes.
Can I pay for items?
We have a Venmo Account and we can take checks, cash, or money orders.
What is the insurance and do I have to buy it?
All students participating in Athletics or Band at LHS must purchase secondary insurance through the school. This is the policy of Troup County Schools, and it is mandatory. More details will be passed out on sizing day.
Do band students do a lot of “fundraising” during the school year?
We attempt to keep projects to a minimum, but we want to provide students with a chance to raise funds for their items and some for the band program. Before we have measuring day, we start our "Calendar Fundraiser." The band receives no budget from Troup County Schools and must raise funds to cover all expenses.
Everyone is required to participate in two fundraisers: Cow Ticket Sales and manning Basketball Concessions for at least one game. The band makes 1/3 of its annual budget from concessions.
What kind of credit does a student receive for Band?
A student receives one full credit for each band class. For Freshmen entering in 2024 band classes do count fully for Honor Points.
How much outside-of-school rehearsal time is expected of a band student?
The L.H.S. band strives to get more done in less time than anyone else! Outside-school commitments are minimal compared to most programs in the region. We practice before school from 3:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday & Thursday. There will be some Zero Period rehearsals for students in IB or who want extra work.
Can a student participate in athletics and band?
Yes. The Band and Athletic departments work closely to arrange practice time and rehearsal schedules to accommodate students participating in both activities. It is not always easy and requires some advanced planning, but most conflicts are resolved with good communication between students, parents, coaches, and the band director. The student must take initial responsibility for resolving conflicts by communicating with the coaches and band staff. The Director of Bands reserves the right to dismiss any student who cannot demonstrate a personal commitment and effort to the marching band.
How often does the band perform and what types of performances does the band do?
The Band performs anywhere a crowd gathers! We perform at all football games, marching competitions, Parades, Pep Rallies, and Concerts, as well as being called on for community events. The band averages 25 performances a year.
What types of individual competitions are available for Band students?
Individual competitions available to students include the All-District and All-State Band, the Solo and Ensemble Festival, and other events sponsored by GMEA and various area colleges.
Who provides the Band uniforms?
The L.H.S. Band Boosters, with community support, purchased our current uniforms. Part of student fees covers cleaning and care of uniforms.
Concert Attire (Tuxedoes for Boys and Dresses for Girls) are purchased by students during the fall.
Can a student rent an instrument from the school?
The Band Program owns a certain number of instruments for student use, primarily large instruments such as tubas, Bass Clarinets, F Horns, Baritones, mellophones, and percussion.
Is there an Auxiliary program?
Yes. We have a Colorguard and Majorette line. Colorguad and Majorettes are part of the Marching Band. Colorguard and Majorette Auditions are held in the spring.
Is there a Band Booster organization?
Yes. The LaGrange Band Boosters will become a very active part of our band program. They are a very active group of volunteers who are vital to its success.
Does Band involve students to the exclusion of other school activities?
No. We have students that are involved in all aspects of student organizations, clubs, and sports. Students will have to learn to manage their time wisely to be involved in several school activities, but it can be done and has been done successfully for many years throughout Arlington.
What if I need to know more?
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