FAQs

Does my child need lessons before signing up for the Twin Cities Homeschool Band?

No! In this program, you child is taught the basics of an instrument and placed in the Beginning Band.  They may progress through an incremental learning program at their own pace to the most advanced levels.

Are there opportunities for advanced students if they have taken lessons elsewhere?

Yes! A student may enter the program at any musical level and will be placed according to their ability as determined by the band director.

Do you provide instruments?

Families are responsible for purchasing, renting, or borrowing their instruments. Schmitt, Eckroth, Groth, and other music stores offer instrument rental or purchase.

What if my child does not know what instrument he/she wants to learn?

Our band director can help. You can email twincitieshomeschoolband@gmail.com and we will be happy to get you in contact with the band director.

Do you teach violin as well?

Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to provide orchestral string opportunities at this time.

When do band practice and lessons take place?

All band practices and lessons take place every Thursday, from September through May. The daily schedule is outlined in detail here.  The final daily schedule is available in the weeks before band, as registrations are finalized.

Where do band and lessons take place?

Grace Church - Fridley - 755 73rd Avenue North, Fridley, MN 55432

What books will my child need? 

Required lesson books are listed in the Family Resources section of the website. If you are unsure what level your child is at, please contact us and we'll help you.

Can my student play multiple instruments? 

Yes! Many of our students play several instruments. However, if your child wants a group lesson for multiple instruments, he/she must pay the monthly tuition for each instrument associated with a group lesson. You must also register your child for the second instrument.

(Example #1: A student plays percussion in Concert Band and the trumpet in the Symphonic band and has a group lesson for both instruments = that student pays tuition for two instruments each month)

(Example #2: A student plays the flute in the beginning band and the alto saxophone in the concert band, but only has a group lesson with the flute = that student pays tuition for one instrument)

Can my child be in more than one band?

Yes! They can be in as many bands/ensembles as they would like – as long as they meet the requirements to participate in each band and has the approval of the band director.

Does it cost more to be in more than one band? 

No! The number of bands/ensembles a student participates in does not affect the tuition amount, provided the student is only participating in lessons for one instrument.

What are the family service requirements?

Our organization depends on families to help with the running of our organization.  Families are required to volunteer a yearly service role. Examples of service roles are: serving as a band monitor (supervising students not in rehearsal, helping with set-up or tear-down, etc.), directing a small ensemble, organizing a fundraising project, or helping with concert reception. Families that are unable to fulfill their service role can buy out for a pre-determined fee.