Frequently Asked Questions

This page offers short answers to common questions about membership, concerts, sponsorship, and other areas of interest.

About the band

Q: Do I need to live in Arlington Heights to play in the band?
A: No.  Many of our members live in Arlington, but some come from as far away as Cary, Elgin, and Skokie.

Q: Are there age limitations?
A: You must be at least 14 years old to join the band.  After that, you can play for life.  We have members ranging from 14 up to, and into, their 80's (see the band concert photo on the "Home" tab).

Q: How often do you rehearse?
A: We rehearse once a week, on Wednesday night, from 8:00 to 10:00 with a short break around 9:00.

Q: Where do you rehearse?
A: Normally, we rehearse where we play our concerts, at the Forrest View Educational Center (click here for a MapQuest map).  If that's unavailable, we rehearse at another hall in Arlington Heights.

Q: Occasionally, I travel for work.  Is that a problem?
A: Most of our members have "day" jobs, and we understand that occasional travel is often necessary.  If you'd like to discuss whether your travel schedule will be a problem, please contact our recruitment chairperson Joan Rogers (see "joining" link at top of page) to discuss.

Q: How many musicians are in the band?
A: As with any volunteer organization, members come and go, but we typically have about 60 percussion, woodwind, and brass wind players.

Q: Do I need my own instrument?
A: Most players use their own instruments, but the band does have some "loaners."  Contact our recruitment chairperson Joan Rogers (see "joining" link at top of page) for more information.

Q: How much does it cost to play in the band?
A: We attempt to recoup most of our expenses through various sponsorships, but recommended dues for members are $15.00 per year.

Q: Am I good enough for the band, and is the band good enough for me?
A: Chances are that there are players in the band who are better than you, and there are players not as good as you.  The best way to find out if you'll be happy in our band is to sit in on a rehearsal or two and judge for yourself.

Q: How do I decide whether your band or some other band is best for me?
A: We're glad you're considering joining any band.  We think our band has a unique blend of light-hearted fun and somewhat serious musicianship; and some of our members who play in other bands would tell you the same thing.  In the end, we'd love to have you join us, but we'll be happy if you join any band.  If you'd like to discuss this, feel free to contact our recruitment chairperson Joan Rogers (see "joining" link at top of page).

Q: How and when can I join?
A: You join by coming to our rehearsals.  We accept new players throughout the year.  Talk to our recruitment chairperson Joan Rogers (see "joining" link at top of page) to find out where we are playing this week.

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About our concerts

Q: What kind of music do you play?
A: We play music ranging from marches to show tunes, light classical, and contemporary pieces.  Please see the Calendar tab for more information.

Q: How many concerts do you play a year?
A: During the fall, winter, and spring, we play three indoor concerts.  In the summer, we play a few outdoor concerts and play on a float in a couple of parades.  Occasionally, we, or subgroups of musicians play additional events.

Q: How can I find out where you're playing next?
A: You can find out where we're playing by visiting our website, or getting on our email mailing list by clicking here.

Q: Can I hire the band to play at my corporate, religious, or social event?
A: From time to time, the band or subgroups of it have played at events such as high school reunions and holiday concerts at retirement centers.  Please contact our president, Dave Rabuck, at drabuck3@aol.com to discuss.

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About sponsoring the band

Q: What is sponsorship money used for?
A: We use money to defray the cost of putting on concerts, to purchase instruments and equipment for the band, and to pay our conductor a small salary.

Q: Who sponsors the band?
A: We are sponsored by the Village of Arlington Heights, the Arlington Heights Park District, District 214 Community Education, Harris Bank, local businesses, and donations from individuals.

Q: How do I sponsor the band?
A: If you'd like to run an advertisement in a concert program or make a donation, please contact Michelle La Spata at madpsych78@aol.com.

Q: Are my donations tax deductible?
A: Probably.  You should consult with you tax advisor, but the band is registered as a 501(c)(3), not for profit organization, in the state of Illinois.

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Other

Q: Are you interested in my impression or your website and/or suggestions for improvement?
A: Absolutely!  Please email your thoughts to our webmaster, Tom Repede, at trepede@comcast.net.

 

Don't see what you're looking for?

If you have a question(s) that are not answered here, please email our webmaster Tom Repede at trepede@comcast.net