Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can my freshman take a music class and a foreign language?
Yes, freshman students can take music along with a foreign language by taking 7 classes.
This means that they will have a class during the 7th period block T-F 2:10pm to 3:15pm.

My sophomore student wants to take band but it conflicts with core classes, is there a solution?
Yes, now sophomore students can take their mandatory PE during summer school or their Junior year in order to fit music into their schedule during their sophomore year.

May my student take band if they did not participate in middle school?
Normally, students are expected to have previous music experience.  Exceptions must be brought to the band director.

My student is interested in choir, but I don’t know which one they should sign up for?
Concert Choir is open to all students, male and female, without an audition, however previous experience is preferred.  Treble Clef choir is a woman’s choir available thru audition only with the choir director.  Men’s ensemble is a new choir open with previous experience preferred.

Are there instruments for my student to borrow?
In some cases we have a supply of instruments depending on the type your student plays.  Students are expected to rent an instrument if they don’t own one.  Percussion instruments are supplied for those ensembles at school however students are expected to own the appropriate drumsticks and mallets required.  Percussion Ensemble is also expected to own their own practice pad.

What are the fees I will be expected to pay?
Unfortunately, the district does not provide materials or supply funds to the music department. Each year the ASB (Associated Student Body) supplies a small fund to assist in covering sheet music, instruments and repairs.  In order to offset these costs, fees are applied to each ensemble.  Basic fees that may be consistent with every class cover music binders, sheet music, performance attire, and music tours.  Pep band also has a $20 fee for the Band polo shirt. A marching uniform is provided and a $6 dry cleaning fee expected. Fees are based on the activities scheduled for that school year for each ensemble and as such, will vary by ensemble.  Music Boosters provides ample fundraising opportunities for students and their families to cover the various costs of music ensembles.  Students in multiple ensembles may have some overlapping fees but most are associated with each ensemble.

What are the extracurricular events music students participate in?
All music students perform in at least two concerts per year.  Most ensembles participate in a music tour or workshop at least once a year. Jazz may also perform in one or more festivals and exhibitions.  The Symphonic band performs at graduation ceremonies in June. The Pep Band consists of symphonic band and percussion ensemble. They perform at home football games, parades, and some booster events.  Choirs usually participate in a joint concert with another high school.  Most ensembles, except Jazz, perform in the District Music Festival in spring.  Most music ensembles perform at the Branham Music Festival with incoming middle schools early spring.

How can I get involved with Music Boosters?
There are many ways to get involved with your time or money.  Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year with events and fundraising activities.  Contact the president listed under “Boosters” on this site for more information.

When are Music Booster meetings?
Music Boosters meetings are held the first Thursday of each month in the choir room at 7pm, unless otherwise stated.  All families with a music student enrolled are automatic members.

What kind of fundraising is available to Music Families?
Music Boosters provides many fundraising opportunities to music families.  Fundraisers are chosen for quality and marketability of merchandise and financial return.  All fundraising is optional. Some products may include:  magazine drive, Gift Check Coupon Books, Dutch Mill Bulbs, Touch of Nature Bulbs, We Care Coffee products, See’s Holiday Candy, and Preferred Cards.

Can my student fundraise if they are not currently enrolled in music?
Yes, incoming freshman, students taking a year off for whatever reason, can still earn funds for their future music needs.  Their name would be added or maintained in the student accounts, which are maintained by the Boosters treasurer.  Any student leaving Branham or dropping music for good would have their funds absorbed into a trip discretionary fund.  Funds raised benefit each student but if the student no longer participates in music at Branham then the funds belong to the BHS music department.

What other types of fundraising does Music Boosters do for the department?
Music Boosters coordinates many events and activities, which benefits music students in either providing financial support to the department or fostering school spirit within the music or Branham community.  Some events include dining out, on-site portrait studio, Battle of the Bands rock concert, bowling, water sales at school dances, Dinner Social and Silent Auction co-partnered with sports, spirit item sales at Homecoming and other various activities.

Are there other ways to be involved without fundraising?
Music Boosters chaperones after school events (such as football games) and music tours.  Additionally, boosters provides support to the music directors as various projects come up, such as transporting percussion equipment, branding music property, and coordinating marching uniforms.   Providing baked goods for concerts and other events is another way to be involved.

What is the best way to communicate to the music directors?
A note from home to give a call or a message via voice mail works best for the band director, Diane Wyant.  For our choral director, Barbara West, E-mail is preferred but the other methods work as well.  You can E-mail Mrs. West thru school loop or the campus e-mail at bwest@cuhsd.org.