The member section is for students, parents, boosters and alumni of Northwest Cabarrus High School and Middle School Band Programs. If you do not have a user name and password, please contact the High School or Middle School Band Director to obtain an ID and Password.
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Questions students often have about their decision to join the band.
Imagine going to a new school and not knowing anything about where to go or who to talk to. The transition from middle school to high school is easier for band students because you will already have friends to help you through this process. Incoming band freshmen have immediate contact with upperclassmen; in a Big Brother/Big Sister kind of way. High school band is very healthy for students in a multitude of ways!
Because the band is unlike anything you have done before, it can greatly enhance your high school career, and it is, very simply, a great experience… The High School Band is being recognized not only for creating its high standards, but also for the quality of experience given to its members. As you participate in the program and continue to grow, this will become more and clearer to you, as it has to students before you. The pride and sense of camaraderie that are the cornerstones of our band will figure profoundly in your future. It is true that our performance standards are very high. Incoming freshmen often assume that the only way to get good is to do nothing else. THIS COULD NOT BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH. In fact, one facet of the band of which we are most proud is that we accomplish these very high goals while maintaining a balance with the total school experience. We have top scholars, athletes, honor society members, student government leaders, etc. among our ranks. We believe that students should experience many diverse activities and encourage them to do so. All of our outside of school rehearsals are built and timed to coexist with academics and other school activities. We are unlike many other band programs in this respect.
YES! We have students who are planning to enter all fields in college. The class schedule at Northwest is made to allow these students to take a full schedule of classes and play in band during all their years at Northwest. Northwest works to insure that a student can take band for four years, and we are grateful to the County for this credit consideration.
YES! YES! YES! Contrary to popular assumption, members of the band are actively involved in many levels of sports at Northwest. The athletic staff and band directors work closely together to make this possible. We firmly believe in allowing our students a wide range of experiences while at Northwest. We will endeavor to work with you, the counselors, and coaches to take band and other classes of your choice. If you wish to play sports as well, we encourage you to sign up for band and the sport of your choice. This way you can experience both activities. Freshman year allows you to perform in more than one elective course. Take advantage of it!
All bands meet during the regular school day for one class period. In addition to this, it is recommended that each student practice at least 30 minutes daily. Beyond this minimum, the time involved is related to your level of involvement. During marching band, the fall season will be the busiest time. From August to November you will be involved in rehearsals on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday after school, some Friday evening games, and some Saturday competitions. Beginning in November and continuing through the end of the year, rehearsals are required for Concert Band. There are a small amount of other required rehearsals and performances throughout
You are already a great fit for the band if you value learning, love music, enjoy friendships and look for personal challenges. You are not a good fit for the band if you are sloppy with your work, cannot set goals for yourself, and are unwilling to change! |