•     WMS Band/Strings/Chorus

        Frequently asked questions

    Q. How much does it cost to be in the band or strings?

    • It does not cost anything to take lessons.  One will need to have or rent an instrument. Dr. DiSalvio can help you find a reputable store where instruments may be rented, serviced and even purchased.

    Q.    Can I take lessons and not participate in the band or strings?

    • No.  All students who are on the lesson schedule are considered a part of the band and strings program.  The Middle school band and strings performs concerts in the Winter as well as the Spring.

    Q.  Are there after school rehearsals?

    • Yes, for all ensembles.  Please check the lesson schedules page for information. AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSALS ARE MANDATORY.

    Q.  Can I play a school sport and still be in band/strings/chorus?

    • Yes. Dr. DiSalvio will work with your coaches to work out a schedule that allows you to share the after school time.  This will involve missing some sport practices for band rehearsal and missing some band rehearsals for sport games.

    Q.  Will I miss class time for lessons?

    • Yes, but not the same class every week.  The lesson schedule rotates so that you will miss different classes so as not to over tax a particular class slot for band. You will only ever miss 30 minutes of any class every other week!

    Q.  What different ensemble options does the band/chorus/strings program offer?    

    • Symphonic Band:     When you enter the Middle school in 5th grade, you play in the Symphonic band.  This band performs twice a year in the Winter and the Spring.  
    • Wind Ensemble:   The WMS Wind Ensemble is the top instrumental ensemble in the district.  An audition or teacher recommendation is required in order to participate.
    • 5th grade chorus: Any student in 5th may participate in the 5th  grade chorus. 
    • Mixed Chorus :Any student in 6th, 7th or 8th grade may participate in mixed chorus.  The enrollment in this group is on a first come first serve basis so get your paper work in ASAP!
    • Select Chorus: The Select chorus is the top choral ensemble in the district.  An audition is required in order to participate.
    • Strings: Any 5th or 6th grader may begin a string instrument in September.  The advanced string ensemble will perform in the Winter concert and the beginning strings will join us in the spring concert.
    • Jazz Band: The jazz band is comrpised of students in grades 6-8 who show an interest in jazz music.  Most students are in wind ensemble, but some students with teacher recommendation may participate!  This is in ADDITION to symphonic band and Wind Ensemble!