What’s the time commitment for concert band in college?
I’m eager to keep playing my clarinet during college, but I’m concerned about overextending myself with my other commitments. I’ll be a nursing major, participating in Air Force ROTC, and likely taking on a part-time job as well.
Is it feasible to fit concert band into my schedule? How many hours per week does concert band typically involve?
Am I taking on too much as a freshman? I’ve come to realize that I’m hardly carving out any time for myself, but I can’t help being a workaholic. I feel a lot of guilt when I’m not busy, but this behavior is really affecting my mental health, and I’m starting to feel quite depressed. […]
The Mystery of Missing Extra Credit: Where Have All the Enthusiastic Students Gone? As an educator, I often find myself asking: Why are so few students seizing the opportunity for extra credit? Recently, I introduced two straightforward extra credit assignments that would take less than half an hour to complete, yet these tasks were met […]
Why am I feeling so homesick as a high school senior? Honestly, I’ve been crying for nearly an hour over it. I’m possibly moving to Miami, which is quite a distance from where I currently live—definitely more than an hour away. Even though I don’t have the best relationship with my mom, the kid inside […]
The commitment level for concert band in college can vary depending on the specific program and the ensemble. Generally, you can expect to have rehearsals around 2-3 times per week, typically lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours each session. Additionally, you might have some extra rehearsals leading up to concerts or performances, as well as potential requirements for practicing outside of scheduled rehearsals.
Considering your other commitments—nursing major, Air Force ROTC, and a part-time job—it is important to assess how you manage your time. Many students successfully balance music with a demanding schedule, but it will require good time management and prioritization. You might consider starting with a less intensive role, such as a small ensemble or participating in band for a semester to see how you can juggle everything.
Reaching out to the band director or current members could provide more insight into the specific expectations and time commitments at your college. It’s definitely possible to include concert band in your college experience; just be sure to weigh your priorities and see what feels right for you!