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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]DC is in the process of selecting courses for 9th grade for the fall. We're debating whether he should continue with band in HS. He's planning on taking on a fairly rigorous course load and also plans to play sports. Would it be too much to also do marching band? How did your DC manage it?[/quote]

Marching band does require a lot of time; but it is very rewarding and only lasts for the first quarter.  Some advantages include getting to know peers from all grade levels before even starting high school via band camp, and learning time management and task prioritization early on which will benefit them throughout high school.  It does take up most of August; but for our 9th grader who is too young for a summer job, too old for "camps," and not a big travel family, it was great to fill up a lot of summer "down" time -- and at the same time, start getting to know other classmates as well as the school facilities.

I would not recommend playing a fall sport that conflicts with band, primarily because it takes away from his bandmates and the band when members miss practice for another obligation. That's not fair to the group. Sometimes you have to make tough choices.

But it's just his first year - give it a try and if he doesn't like it, he's done by the 2nd quarter and never has to do it again.  He will not have missed out on his winter and spring sports.  Doesn't sound like he's passionate about a fall sport, since you indicate elsewhere "possibly" but that he plays primarily winter and spring sports. [b] So, what does HE want to do?  Does he WANT to do band or at least give it a try for his first year?[/b]  You never really know until you actually try it; can't go back if you regret it; and -- I cannot emphasize this enough -- it is only ONE QUARTER....and the FIRST quarter of his entire high school career.  It will not forever doom him academically.  It's great socially and physically, and music enhances a person's development and education.

My current freshman did marching band, intensified English, intensified Biology, AP World History, and Algebra 1. They were hesitant to do marching band; but it was totally worth it and definitely put them on a great start to high school, even if they decide not to do marching band again next year (but I think they will).[/quote]

He's not sure what he wants to do, that's why I'm trying to help him decide. He's not sure if he'll be able to handle everything that will be required of him and, to your point, he doesn't want to sign up to do something he can't fully commit to. It is reassuring to know that most of the commitment  happens in the fall. I think that will be doable. I agree that it would be a great experience but it is ultimately up to him. I told him to talk to his MS band director and also reach out to the HS band director and hear what they have to say.[/quote]

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