Student Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tell me about the band classes at NCHS?
The band class at NCHS is a CONCERT BAND, which means you play your instrument in a concert type setting. The band includes all woodwind, brass and percussion instrumentalists. The concert band performs at various school events as well as the district concert band festival. The typical concert schedule includes Pops Concerts, Veterans Day Concert, Holiday Concert, Children’s Concert, Spring Concert and of the Concert Band Festival.
Can I get all the classes I need and still be in band?
Contrary to popular belief you can be in band and get all of the other classes you need. I strongly recommend for incoming freshmen band students to take the band class as their elective their freshman year. You gain electives each year and can take other classes as your high school career progresses. It is very hard to skip out of band your freshman year and then try to join the next year.
How much time does band take?
Band can take as much time as you prefer. Your involvement can be limited to or as involved as you decide. The least involved ensemble is the concert band class, outside of class time is very limited to performances and very few after school rehearsals. Other optional ensembles include Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble, Winter Guard and Pit Orchestra, all of which are completely extra-curricular and rehearse outside of regular school hours.
Won't band hurt my grades?
Statistics show that students who are involved in musical ensembles actually raise their test scores and academic grades. Of course most of this lies on the student’s ability to maintain a good list of priorities and keep their own grades “in check”. The band does follow the school’s sports eligibility program in which the student must be passing all their classes in order to participate.
How much does the band perform?
The performance schedule varies for each ensemble but the main performances are:
Concert Band – Pops Concert, Veteran’s Day Concert, Holiday Concert, Children’s Concert, Spring Concert and Concert Band Festival
Marching Band – All home football games, local parades, regional competitions. Playoff football games, local festivals
Pep Band – All home basketball games, playoff games
Jazz Band – Various concerts, local events
Does the band travel a lot?
The Marching Band is the main traveling ensemble, traveling to competitions all around the state as well as the football playoff games, the pep band also travels with the basketball team to playoff games. Depending on the year the concert band might travel out of the state to perform at the Dixie Classic Festival with possible destinations like
What can you tell me about the band competitions?
Marching band competitions tend to be the favorite and most memorable performances of every high school band member’s career. Most are held within 100 miles of Bardstown at area high schools on Saturdays throughout the fall. If the band receives a distinguished rating at least once, they will qualify for the Regional Quarter Finals, if the ranks within the top 16 bands in their class then they will qualify for the State Semi-Finals and finally if they rank in the top 4 bands they will qualify for the State Finals, which is the top 16 bands in the entire state of Kentucky.
What do I need to be successful in band?
A willing attitude with a great work ethic!
If I'm in band, does that mean I can't be in anything else in high school?
We have numerous other organizations represented in our band including drama, FFA, Pep Club (Caution Crew), National Honor Society, Key Club, HOSA, CASA, FBLA, CAD, AFJROTC and Academic Team just to name a few. As well as lots of athletic teams represented including Swim Team, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Cross Country, Swim Team, Wrestling, Softball, Volleyball, Cheerleading, Dance Team and Pom Squad.
What's in it for me?
Band has proven to be a great organization to meet new, loving, caring friends who can help you transition into your high school years in a safe way. Your involvement can be as much or as little as you like all the while enjoying making music with friends!
Do I have to own my own instrument?
You do not have to own your own instrument, the school provides almost every large instrument and percussion equipment, and others can be arranged with the band director.
