Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am not sure if I want to do music in high school?

Remember when your children wouldn’t eat the food you made for them? You always said, “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Music is the same way. You should sign up for music even if you are unsure. If at some point you decide that music is not for you, drop the class. It is much easier to drop something after trying it, than to join late when you decide you miss it.

How is music different in high school?

While the actual act of playing your instrument is similar, the social network and safety net that high school music provides is very different from junior high. From day one, your child will be musically and personally mentored by successful upperclassmen who have a vested interest in their success. They will have dozens of new and like-minded friends before school even begins and have experiences (Friday night football games and trips) that are unlike anything they have experienced in junior high.

Can I do music and sports?

YES. There might be occasional conflicts, but know that our faculty works hard to resolve as many conflicts as possible before they occur and to work collaboratively to solve them when they arise.

How much out of school time is required?

The many ensembles have different requirements for participation. Some ensembles require very little (less than standard homework) while other ensembles require more substantial commitment. Generally, the greater the level of commitment, the greater the reward and memories. Regardless of the ensemble, a calendar will be provided well in advance to help you plan for these events.

Do I have to be a great player to join?

As long as you have a good attitude, we can teach you a new instrument. In most cases, we can even supply you with a school instrument or equipment to borrow if you do not have your own. There are also a number of beginning players that do marching band.

What if I do not own my own instrument?

Students may check out a school or district-owned instrument, depending on availability. Instrument loan agreements can be picked up from Mr. Phung in person. If a school instrument is already available, there is a copy of the school loan agreement on this website available here. Students are financially responsible for any repairs, maintenance, or damages made to school instruments.

Is band expensive?

There is no mandatory fees required for participation many ensembles in the program- however, we would like to communicate that there are thousands of dollars worth of expenses that go into making our program run smoothly and helping our students perform at their best. There are fundraising requirements required for participation in Winterguard and Indoor Winds, and for any tours or travel trips that the program attends.

We encourage students and parents to get involved in fundraising. Parents can get involved by participating in the CHS Gold Star Boosters, our 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and students can get involved by participating in the Instrumental Music Club, our ASB organization. Donations are gladly accepted to the CHS Gold Star Boosters, and donations are tax-deductible!

How do parents get involved?

The best way to find out what we need help with is to show up to a Booster Meeting. Meetings are once a month, typically on the second Tuesday at 7pm in the band room. The CHS Gold Star Boosters are open any parent with a child in our program or any adult interested in advancing the cause of the Cajon High School Instrumental Music Department. It is expected that freshmen parents come to these meetings to know what happens behind the scenes with their student’s music program. We encourage families to volunteer for at least four events (football games, competitions, etc.). There is never any pressure – it’s just a lot of fun and a great feeling to work with the students! We need as much help as possible, extending to every part of the program.

What about conflicts with SATs or testing?

We are supportive of college testing, and many of the test dates can be found directly on the calendar. Usually testing is on a Saturday morning and field tournaments do not begin until later in the afternoon. Students are able to come directly from testing to the rehearsal or field show site. Let Mr. Phung know as soon as you spot the conflict and we can work it out.