Band is available for QM students in 5th-8th grade, and it is the start of an incredible journey that leads to music in high school, college, and beyond. In band, students will all play musical instruments which will contribute to the development of fine motor skills, cognitive thinking, and self-sufficiency. Learning music in band also contributes to a well-rounded education. It provides opportunities for reading (notes and rhythms), foreign language (different terms and symbols in music), math (how to count and divide), physical education (instrument techniques), and art (expression through music). Plus, band just happens to be fun with a variety of different songs to play!

Instrument Selection

The most important factor in assigning students instruments to play is interest. Attached to this letter is a form where you and your child can decide which three instruments he or she is most interested in learning. After students have tried out instruments and I have gotten back the attached forms, I will start assigning instruments. Different instruments require different strengths. For instance, the flute requires patience as the embouchure develops. The clarinet requires finger dexterity. The trombone requires a very good ear. The final instrument selection will be made on the criteria of student interest and which instruments fit the student the best.

FAQs

Who can join band?

Anyone in 5th-8th grade! Beginning Band is primarily made up of 5th graders, but any student in 5th-8th grade can join band at any time!

What instrument can I play?

Beginning Band members can choose from the following instruments: flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or percussion (bell kit)

When will I have band?

Beginning Band will have one 30- minute lesson IN SCHOOL per week. Additionally, there are after school sectionals every week (beginning band only) and Wednesday rehearsals every other week from 6-6:45pm at Brother Rice High School. If there are any conflicts, we can seek alternative plans to make sure students are caught up with the rest.

Why should I join band?

Music training not only helps children develop fine motor skills and coordination but aids emotional and behavioral maturation as well; we teach life lessons. Through band, students develop a sense of teamwork, improve their self-confidence and motivation, gain a feeling of success, improve their discipline, develop leadership skills, learn that hard work and practice pay off AND it just so happens to be fun!!

Fall 2024 Schedule (subject to change)

Week of September 16-20th: Instrument Demonstration Day @ Grade Schools

September 25th: Band Registration Night (6-7pm) @ Brother Rice HS

October 2nd: First Wednesday Rehearsal (6-6:45pm, continues every other week)

November 25-29: NO Lessons/Rehearsals (Thanksgiving Week)

Dec 15th : Christmas Concert (5-7pm; 4:00 CALL time) @ Mother McAuley HS

Hello! My name is Mr. Bueche. I teach band at multiple Catholic grammar and middle schools on the south side. I am also the Assistant Band Director at Brother Rice and Mother McAuley High School. I grew up in Orland Park, where I graduated from Carl Sandburg High School. I attended college at the University of Iowa, where I majored in Music Education and Percussion Performance. I also was a member of the University of Iowa Hawkeye Marching Band Drumline. Performing musical instruments has been my passion for most of my life, and I am blessed to be able to share that passion with students!

Email Mr. Bueche: pbueche@brrice.org

Instrument Rental

Instruments can be rented through Quinlan and Fabish. A Quinlan and Fabish representative will be present at Registration Night to further explain the rental program. For more information you can visit: qandf.com

Already have an instrument at home?

Fantastic! Please bring the instrument in to Mr. Bueche to make sure it is suitable to last the entire year!

Band Tuition
Band tuition is separate from your school's tuition payment and can be made via cash, check, or Zelle. More info about this will be given during Registration Night. 

There are 3 different payment plans: 

• Monthly Plan:

  • $50/month 

• Semester Plan:

  • 1st semester - $185

  • 2nd semester - $215  ($25 savings) 

• Full Year Payment:

  • $375  ($50 savings)