Short answer - maybe.

Long answer

Beginnng Band students

Many new band students will get discourage on the instrument they start with. That doesn't mean it's time to switch instruments. It usually means that it's time to ask for help to see what the problem is and see if we can resolve it. Sometimes there are physical issues with playing the instrument and a switch does make sense. However, usually we like to wait at least until the end of the semester. In every case we deal with these on an indivudal bases. If you got your instrument through one of our preferred local instrument stores they will usually switch you to the new instrument very easily with possibly only a slight change fee. If you didn't get the instrument through one of them, then you will have to navigate how to find a new instrument yourself.

Other band students

Just like with Beginning Band students, we may recomend an instrument switch if it will be a better fit for the student.

We also encourage all Symphonic band members to consider learning a 2nd instrument. Usually this will not replace the original instrument but add to the students abilities by adding a second learning path. There is no additional registration/fee for playing two instruments in the same group; however, if a students in Concert or Symphonic band wants to begin a second instrument through the Beginning Band program they would have to pay the related registration/fee to participate in that band as well as Concert or Symphonic. [From time to time we might offer 'scholarships' to cover the registration/fee cost to learn another instrument when the band program needs it.]

Choir students

Generally, any switching between groups can happen within the first 2 weeks or between semesters, with director approval.