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Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by River BD on 7/22/2026, 2:29 pm

Just got hired a few days ago to take over a middle school and it’s my first head job. Previous director had a beginner parent meeting scheduled for next week. I really don’t have much info to give them other than rental fees and some calendar items, required materials.
I didn’t want to cancel it because I know it’s best to give them a chance to meet me. What other information would you have prepared for them?

Re: Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by Me on 7/26/2026, 10:36 am, in reply to "Beginner Band Parent Meeting"

I would not squander this great opportunity for you to get to know some of your families and vice versa.

Topics:
Instrument Acquisition
Required supplies
Calendar and commitments
What to expect in the first few weeks
What to expect in the 1st semester
Establishing an appropriate practice environment
Quality over quantity home practice
Importance of positive reinforcement
Clearly define the best ways to reach you

Maybe make it an icecream social? Someone brings tubs of icecream and everyone else brings toppings to share?

So many ways to make this a positive first impression for you!

Re: Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by HapRet on 7/25/2026, 2:29 pm, in reply to "Beginner Band Parent Meeting"

Percussion and saxophone are full

Re: Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by Questioner on 7/25/2026, 11:45 am, in reply to "Beginner Band Parent Meeting"

Remind the parents that the first sounds they'll hear from their kids may be horrible. Ask them not to comment negatively or make fun of those first sounds and to not banish them to the garage to practice. Be positive. By the Christmas concert, it'll sound like music.

Re: Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by Listener on 7/24/2026, 6:06 pm, in reply to "Beginner Band Parent Meeting"

Check out the After Sectionals podcast. They had an episode last year about their "family meeting" that you may find informative.

As you're coming in new, I suggest you include a brief bio of your experience and qualifications, and some information about your goals and vision for the band program, what brings you to the new position, and what you're excited about this year. 6th grade parents won't know the difference but returning students will want to know.

Do your best to keep the meeting positive and upbeat, but do establish expectations. Have a handbook. Mention attendance expectations for any after-school events. Touch on how you will deal with schedule conflicts, especially with sports.

Some parents and students will be undecided about staying in band, especially if the outgoing band director was well liked and successful. This is your chance to keep them (or not).

Re: Beginner Band Parent Meeting

Posted by BDSO on 7/24/2026, 5:32 pm, in reply to "Beginner Band Parent Meeting"

You give them exactly what you stated. All of the information you have and maybe a calendar of events and deadlines you already know. This gives the parents and students (assuming they show up as well) a chance to get to know you. The last thing you want to do is cancel a meeting that was already planned. I think it sends the wrong message. I would be prepared for an answer to the following questions:

- Can my child change instruments? (assuming they were already placed)
- Can my child play _______? (assuming they have not been placed yet)
- Can my child quit band?

Some parents my try and take advantage of the new director to get their way, assuming you don't know anything. Be prepared to address these.

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