What kind of commitment does being in concert band require in college?
I’m eager to keep playing my clarinet, but I’m concerned about overcommitting myself with my other responsibilities. I’ll be majoring in nursing, participating in Air Force ROTC, and likely searching for a part-time job as well.
Is it feasible to join concert band alongside those commitments? How many hours a week does concert band typically involve in college?
It’s great to hear that you want to continue playing the clarinet in college! The level of commitment for concert band can vary depending on the school and the specific ensemble, but generally, you can expect a few key things.
Most college concert bands meet for rehearsals 2-3 times a week, typically lasting around 1-2 hours each session. Additionally, there may be performances at the end of the semester, which could require some extra rehearsal time. In total, you might be looking at around 5-10 hours a week dedicated to concert band, including rehearsals and practice outside of scheduled times.
Balancing concert band with a nursing major, Air Force ROTC, and a part-time job will definitely be a challenge, but it’s not impossible! Many students successfully juggle multiple commitments by staying organized and managing their time effectively.
Consider your course load and other responsibilities, and see if you can fit concert band into your schedule without overwhelming yourself. It might also help to talk to someone in the band or your academic advisor for additional insights on workload and time management. Ultimately, if playing in the band is something you’re passionate about, it could be a rewarding addition to your college experience!