FAQs

Do I have to audition to join Band?

Nope! Students who join Concert Band do not have to complete an audition. There is an interview process for those interested in Marching Band. Please check refer to the "Marching Band Enrollment" drop-down under "Join the OW Band" for more information!

What is Band Camp?

Marching Band Camp (aka: Band Camp) is AWESOME and a lot of FUN! It happens a couple of weeks before school starts and is when OW Marching Band students begin preparing our competition marching show for the fall semester.  It's also when OW Band students come together for the first time each school year to make new friends, build upon established relationships, get acclimated to the building, and kick off a great school year!

Is there a fee to join Band?

Yes, there is a small fee for band. The fee pays for uniform parts, food at festivals, guest clinicians and staff, marching show music and design, and much more!

Can I be in Band AND play a sport?

YES! No problem at all! We have Band students in every extra-currcular offered at Olathe West and even club sports outside of school. Isn't it cool to be so multi-talented?

Can I be in Band AND take 21st Century Academy and AP classes?

YES! We have LOTS of students in Public Safety and Green Tech. As well, we had over 75% of the OW Band enrolled in at least one AP and/or Honor class this year — the OW Band is academically strong — WOW!

Consider this!

We are confident that you are going to LOVE the OW Band! We build upon your experience from middle school while providing additional opportunities for students to rehearse and perform. Whether you enroll in Marching Band or Concert Band, you will find many other band students who are passionate about music, are motivated, and like to have fun. Consider this too — all high school students need a fine arts credit. Give Band a shot as a freshman, and then reevaluate at the end of the year. We know you’ll LOVE the OW Band and will continue to make music a meaningful part of your school day!

HOW DO I JOIN THE OLATHE WEST BAND?

You can join the OW Concert Band!

Concert Band is a GREAT option for students looking for a primarily school-day band setting. Concert Band learns fun music, performs in several concerts throughout the year, and performs in one Concert Band Festival!

You can join the OW Marching Band!

Think of Marching Band as the “varsity” band at Olathe West. Marching Band offers a variety of exciting, competitive, and fun performance opportunities. From marching festivals to community events, the OW Marching Band is an exciting group to be a part of!

Students interested in joining the OW Marching Band will complete a Marching Band Interview for the purpose of part placement.  Wind players and percussionists have slightly different placement procedures - please find this information under "Marching Band Enrollment" in the "Join the OW Band" tab!

Either way, please enroll initially in Concert Band PA500A/B and we’ll take it from there!