Are you trying to decide whether to learn to play in instrument or join a band class? Here are some good reasons to do so!

• Band provides a positive type of competition with groups of students working together in teams to produce something beautiful.
• North’s band program is known throughout the state as a fantastic music program. Individual North students, as well as bands, win many awards every year and have fun doing it.
• The band teachers are extremely dedicated and supportive.
• For some kids, band is one of the few programs at school that keeps them engaged, interested, and attending classes, and it provides a positive group to belong to.
• Marching Band, especially, requires hard work, commitment, and teamwork, things that many kids would not experience otherwise! And they also get to experience the joy of seeing that hard work pay off.
• Marching Band is good exercise and gets everyone out in the fresh air!
• Playing for audiences, particularly solos, gives students confidence and recognition.
• Band is part of a well-rounded and complete education and helps students excel in other areas of education. Music students do better than average in math and science as well, and reading music can help with reading text.
• In Marching Band, kids can practice leadership skills by being a drum major, section leader, or simply an enthusiastic and helpful band member.
• Being in a band, especially a time-intensive one like Marching Band, builds strong friendships.
• Playing an instrument in high school may lead to a career in music. Many former band students have become music majors at top music schools and/or established successful careers in the music industry, including playing in bands and orchestras, recording music for Hollywood films, and playing with famous artists.
• Music provides a unique way for people to express themselves and develop their artistic sides. Many will continue to play instruments for enjoyment, in church groups, etc. Even those that do not will keep the love and knowledge of music they acquire through participating in band.
• The bands need musicians! They cannot succeed without students. Too few band members and the whole program suffers.
• It’s fun!