Wanna Join a Band?
Find your place in one of our student bands
Student Band Program
Our Student Band Program gives musicians the chance to play with others, build confidence, and perform as a group. Bands are divided by experience level to make sure students are placed where they can succeed and grow. We offer two types of bands: Junior Varsity Bands and Varsity Bands.
Junior Varsity Bands
Junior Varsity Bands are designed for newer band students who are ready to start playing with others.
- No audition required
- Open to students who meet the basic skill requirements for the instrument
- Focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and learning how to rehearse as a band
Varsity Bands
Varsity Bands are for more experienced students who are ready for a higher level of commitment and challenge.
- Audition required
- Faster-paced rehearsals and more advanced material
- Emphasis on performance readiness and musical independence
Interested in joining a SAMA band?
Let us match you with a band that fits your instrument and experience in 3 easy steps
1. Express your interest by filling out the form
After you fill out the form, we match you with a band that fits your age, instrument, and experience.
2. Receive class details
Before your try out rehearsal, we send you the list of songs that band is currently working on so you can prepare and play along.
3. Try out a band class for free
For Varsity Bands, this rehearsal counts as your audition.
For Junior Varsity Bands, it is simply an opportunity for you to get a feel for the group.
Ready to get started?
Commitment Policy
Band Expectations
1. Practice: It’s important that you practice your individual parts outside of class during the week. When all members have their parts learned, the entire band can progress and learn new songs.
2. Class Attendance: Please attend class each and every week. Your consistent attendance is crucial as your fellow bandmates are depending on you. When everyone is able to work together, the entire band is able to progress.
3. Performances: Once your band has a minimum 20-minute setlist ready to perform, we will schedule gigs for you. There are no additional fees to perform in band gigs. We just ask that if you have a scheduling conflict, please give priority to the gig when possible. When one member is unable to attend, typically the gig must be canceled for the entire band.
4. Song Selection: All band members are encouraged to make song suggestions. Please understand that since you are just one member of an entire group, there will be songs that you like more than others. Likewise, some songs may feel really easy for you, while others you’ll find more engaging. It’s all part of the process of being in a band and learning to collaborate with others. Please trust your instructor’s musical expertise as they make the final song selections. They sometimes choose more challenging songs or maybe a different genre to help the band members expand their musical experience. Or in some cases, they will decide against a song because it’s not suitable for all members of the group. Your instructor’s goal is to help the band grow together and to prepare you for positive performance experiences.
Band Class Details
- Tuition: $150/month
- Eligible Instruments: Guitar, Bass, Voice, Drums, Piano, Violin
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Eligible Ages: 10+
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Requirements
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Must be enrolled in private lessons at San Antonio Music Academy
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Guitarists and Bassists must have their own electric guitar or bass. Violinists must have their own violin. Drums and Keyboard are provided in the band room.
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Develop Your Skills in a Band Setting
Playing in a band adds a new dimension to what students learn in their individual lessons. When you rehearse with a group, you learn how to listen, communicate, and play with intention. You become more confident, more consistent, and more motivated because your part matters and others rely on you.
Real Performance Opportunities
Bands create meaningful performance opportunities. Whether you’re in a Varsity Band or an open level band class, you prepare songs together, build a set, and take the stage at SAMA events and community performances. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing your work come together in front of a live audience.
Community, Commitment, and Connection
Bands build teamwork, responsibility, and strong musical relationships. With small groups of five to seven students, everyone has a role and everyone contributes. Students support each other, grow together, and form friendships through shared goals and shared music. If you’re looking to stay inspired, grow faster, perform more, and experience what it feels like to make music as part of a group, joining a band is one of the best things you can do.
Questions? Contact us here!