Who can join an ensemble?
Instrumental ensembles are open to any student who has at least 1 year playing experience on their instrument. Choir is open to any interested students.

Is there a uniform?
Yes. Band students wear black bottoms and a white shirt.

What music ensembles are there?
There are currently 3 instrumental ensembles:
Concert Band (1 after school rehearsal a week, and at least 1 during school rehearsal, in a 7 day cycle)
Jazz Band (1 after school rehearsal a week, and at least 1 during school rehearsal, in a 7 day cycle)
Choir  (1 after school rehearsal a week, and at least 1 during school rehearsal, in a 7 day cycle)

If there is enough interest, Concert band will be divided into 2 groups, a Junior Band (grade 7’s and those with less than a years’ experience) and senior band (grade 8’s and grade 9’s

I’m really interested in Jazz Band. How do I get involved?
The Jazz Band is an auditioned ensemble. Auditions take place during the third week of school. Sign-up sheets and audition materials will be posted outside the band room.

If I join the Jazz Band do I still have to play in concert Band?
This is not mandatory at this time, however, it is very much preferred that students participate in the concert band as well.

Is there a mark for performing in an ensemble?
A mark will be assigned for members of the Concert Band. The mark will be based on playing tests throughout the term

When exactly are ensemble rehearsals during the school day?
The music ensemble program at Frank Roberts Junior High operates on a 'pull-out' basis.  This means that students miss regularly scheduled classes in order to attend practices. Practices occur on a rotating schedule in order to minimize missing the same class every 7 day cycle. For example, if a student misses math class for rehearsal one cycle, they won’t miss that class again the following cycle.  A great deal of time is invested in designing a schedule that avoids repeated conflicts with classes and after school groups. However, sometimes such conflicts are unavoidable.

Is the schedule set for the entire year?
No, the sectional schedule during school hours changes monthly, after school rehearsals are set for the year

What happens if I have a test during rehearsal?
If a student is unable to attend band due to tests,  quizzes or labs they are asked to let Mr. Harnett know ahead of time and should attend another instrumental section scheduled that day so they do not fall behind.

What about the work I miss?
Students are responsible for obtaining notes missed in class, and completing assigned work. We recommend that students have a “band buddy” who will offer them notes and inform them of missed work/homework. Band cannot be used as an excuse for missed work or not knowing about assignments/evaluation.

Where can I find more information about the ensembles and the program?
You can contact Mr.. Harnett at chrisharnett@nlesd.ca.

Are rehearsals for an entire period/class during the school day?
Yes, rehearsals are for an entire period.

What are some of the expectations that are required to participate in band or choir?
When students leave their scheduled class to attend a rehearsal they need to go directly to the band room to sign in for attendance prior to going anywhere else in the building, for any reason. Students are expected to follow our FRJH behaviour matrix to the best of their ability, have excellent attendance at school and band rehearsals, and act respectfully when representing FRJH as a Raven both during school and at school sponsored events.

Can I rent an instrument from the school?
Possibly. Frank Roberts has a limited number of instruments available for rent. Rental fees are $60/year.  Please note that rental instruments will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.