New Member Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Why Take Band?

Welcome to the Leon High School Band! We are very excited that your family will become part of our family. Below is some important information to keep you informed and make sure that you will have all the information you need to become a member of the Leon Band Family.

There are 4 things that we you to do to be a member of the Leon Band:

1. Click here and fill out the form.  This is so we know what instrument you play, and how to get in touch with you to send you important information about summer rehearsals and Band Camp. 
2. Come to summer rehearsals.  A schedule is posted on the Calendar page.    
3. Make sure you are registered for "Concert Band."  If you have played your audition for Mr. Thornton, he will put you in symphonic band, but in the meantime, you need to have filled our your class registration form by checking "Concert Band." 
   The guidance department phone number is 488-1975. 
4. Attend "Band Camp" two weeks before school starts.   This is where we learn how to march and put the music with the marching for our half-time show.  It is absolutely mandatory--it is not possible for you to be able to catch up if you miss this, therefore you will either end up being an alternate, or asked not to be in band. 

Please take a moment to read through the Frequently Asked Questions, and feel free to e-mail me if you have any other questions. 

New Member Orientation:

Usually in late May - Times will be announced.

Why Take Band?

Congratulations! Entering high school is a giant step forward in every child's educational journey. You are facing some important decisions that will have a long-term impact on your life.

Often young people fear the added workload of the high school curriculum and assume they will not have time to participate in the music program. That is simply not true. Ironically, it is often the continuation of musical studies that serves as the transitional key to success. Being a member of a music ensemble ensures instant acceptance in a respected organization at the onset of freshman year. A group of supporting friends is already established with a firm sense of "belonging."

There is more to it. As a parent, you need to know that:

• Research shows that when music is included in a student's daily learning, reading, writing and math scores improve.
• There is a high correlation between positive self-perception, high cognitive competence scores, healthy self-esteem, total interest in school activities and the study of music.
• College admissions officers give special consideration to students who are part of their high school music programs.
• The longer an individual studies music, the higher his/her scores tend to be on both the verbal and math portions of the SAT exam.
• Employers often seek out students who are part of their high school music program because of the student's ability to solve problems and work well with all kinds of people.
• Your child deserves the best as he/she enters the high school culture. Please contact our office if you have any questions concerning this vitally important decision. We join you in your commitment to the best education possible for your son or daughter.