Frequently asked questions

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
What is the Homeschool Music Association?

The Homeschool Music Association is a non-profit organization providing homeschool students with the opportunity to participate in band programs, receive quality music education, and experience the joy of playing in an ensemble.
Who can join?

We currently welcome all homeschool students ages 7+.

Little Notes is for students age 7-8 and focuses on the recorder and other handheld instruments. Families just need to provide their student with a Soprano Recorder with Baroque fingering. All other materials will be provided by HMA.

Beginner Band 1 is for students age 9+ and focuses on traditional band instruments. Families will need to provide their student's instrument and method book. We are using Sound Innovations Method Book, and they are available on Amazon.
Do students need prior music experience?

Students can begin with zero experience. We will teach them everything they need to know.
How often does the band meet?

Beginner Band 1 meets once per week for 90 minutes.

Little Notes meets once per week for 45 minutes.

Additional sectionals, performances, and/or events may be scheduled throughout the year. All additional activities are optional. The entire Fall Semester schedule is on the Home Page for specific dates and times.
What does a typical rehearsal look like?

Rehearsals include warm-ups, breathing techniques, rhythm exercises, sectional practice, and full band playing.

Students will also learn music theory, sight reading, and ensemble skills.

INSTRUMENTS
Do families need to provide their own instrument?

Yes.

For Little Notes, families will need to order a Soprano Recorder with baroque fingering. All other materials will be provided by the HMA.

For Beginner Band 1, families will need to provide their student's instrument and method book. We are using Sound Innovations Method Book, and they are available on Amazon. Please be sure you search for "Sound Innovations Flute" or "Sound Innovations Clarinet", for example.
Are any instruments provided?

Percussion Instruments that will be provided are:

1 Snare Drum, 1 Practice Pad, 1 Glockenspiel Xylophone, 1 Triangle, wooden blocks, shakers, and other miscellaneous handheld instruments.
Can my child try different instruments before committing?

Yes! We have mouthpieces for flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and baritone (euphonium). Each mouthpiece is sterilized before students play them.

We recommend trying each mouthpiece to make sure you can produce a quality sound on an instrument before committing to one.
What if my child changes their mind about which instrument they want to play?

Switches are possible within the first few weeks of the semester. If they choose to switch after that, they may become frustrated with being behind the rest of the band.

FEES & COSTS
What is included in the band fee?

Thankfully, we have amazing donors who have shown up and shown out for our homeschool community! All operating expenses have been covered so we can make our services completed FREE OF CHARGE for our families!
Are there any additional costs?

Families are responsible for their child's instrument, accessories (reeds, sticks, valve oil, etc), method book, and concert attire (simple black/white).


All optional events outside of rehearsals will be covered by the Homeschool Music Association.

REGISTRATION & COMMITMENT
When does registration open and close?

Registration for Fall 2025 opened on Friday, August 15th, and will close on Tuesday, September 9th (or when bands are full).
Can students join mid-semester?

Possibly. Late enrollments are handled on a case-by-case basis depending on the student's experience level and available spots.
What is the commitment level?

Students are expected to attend rehearsals as scheduled, practice at home, and participate in the concert on December 13th. Consistency is really important for the group's success.

PARENTS & VOLUNTEERS
Can parents stay during rehearsal?

Yes, parents are welcome to stay and observe rehearsals. When we are in the rehearsal room(s), we ask that you remain silent. If you need to have a conversation, there is a break room available with tables and chairs, or you may step outside.
How can parents help?

We have a variety of ways that parents can become involved.

  • Section Leader - If you have a musical background on a specific instrument, we would love for you to volunteer to help with our students.
  • Performance and Event Committee - If you love to plan events, this would be a great area for you to volunteer. We would love to participate in performances in our community and bring joy to those around us. And our goal is to have one social event once per month to help develop a bond amongst our HMA family.
  • Set-Up/Break Down/ Clean up - This group is happy to help, but doesn't want to do any planning or teaching. They will help prepare for performances and put everything back in its place afterwards.

EMAIL INFO@HMAMUSIC.ORG to let us know how you'd like to help!