A young child says to his mother, “Mom, when I grow up I’d like to be a musician.” She replies, “Well, honey, you know you can’t do both.”

A ton of jokes are out there poking good-natured fun at musicians, but in all seriousness music is one of those areas that provides a lot of benefits. It can make you smarter, build confidence, teaches patience and discipline, enhances creativity, and boosts a person’s health. All of that aside it’s just plain fun.

Your child can be a part of the award-winning musical program in DeKalb County. Band Director Don Whitt says he’s looking for students in 6th-8th grades at DeKalb West School, DeKalb Middle School, as well as high school students to be educated in music with a practical hands-on approach with the instruments.

“If your child is interested there are many exciting things to choose from,” Director Don Whitt said. “Bass, Guitar, Percussion such as Drum Set, Xylophone, Marimba, Vibraphone, Keyboard, Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, French horn, Trumpet,  Baritone, Trombone, and Tuba.”

During marching season, the band entertains the crowds at football games, the Homecoming parade, school pep rallies, and in competitive band events outside the county. Last school year the band made it all the way to the state competition for the first time in 8 years, placing 13 out of 30 bands. During the concert season the band learns music in classical, jazz, and other music genres and performs in the winter and spring months for the community's enjoyment. In the past the band has been invited to participate in the Tennessee Tech Homecoming parade, the Chamber of Commerce prayer breakfast and the state contest for the Taekwondo Association.

To find out more about joining the band program, contact Director Don Whitt ASAP at elmerwhitt@dekalbschools.net and leave your name, grade, contact information, and what instrument your child might like to play.