FAQ

For concerts, the band routinely performs Grade 4+ level literature with easier pieces interspersed.

For permanent membership, we invite musically experienced adults with fairly extensive instrumental experience to join us. 

• We understand time may have elapsed since actively playing an instrument – owing to “life events” (i.e.; educational pursuits, career professions, family, etc.).
• Most of our members played in both high school and college bands, and many received individual instruction. 
• Generally, if you played in a good high school or college band for two to three years, you should have no challenges playing with us. 

 A majority of our members considered a career in music – either in performance or education – but pursued other careers and now consider music as a serious hobby.

• Band members agree, ‘one of the hardest things about being away from music is missing the company of fellow musicians.’
• Accordingly, we continue musical performance opportunities at a high level for our community, while enjoying the fun and camaraderie with fellow musicians.

If you are interested in joining us, submit a “Join the Band” inquiry to contact the band.

• Click on the “Contact Us” menu item to access this form.
• Please provide as much information about your music experience as possible so the section leader can learn about your abilities and contact you.

For the music level we routinely perform, our musicians should exhibit advanced musical skills.  Accordingly, at the discretion of the Conductor/Music Director, there may be an audition requirement.

Should I consider your band if I haven’t played in a while?

• We understand time spent away from music can dull the edge and might require some time to restore previously acquired skills.
• We first permit musicians to rehearse with us for a time before an audition may be considered and administered.
• When administered, during an audition we screen for an ability to play in various time and key signatures, with reasonable intonation and reading ability at the level of music the band usually performs.

Submit a “Join the Band” inquiry to contact the band.

• Click on the “Contact Us” menu item to access this form.
• Please provide as much information about your music experience as possible so the section leader can learn about your abilities and contact you.

Yes, with the exception of a short break after our last Holiday concert in December.  We typically resume rehearsals during the first or second week in January.

Formal concerts – Concert Black attire 

• Men – Black tuxedo jacket, black tuxedo trousers, white shirt, black bow tie, black socks and black dress shoes
• Women – Black dress; or black skirt or pants, black shirt, black stockings or socks, and black shoes

Informal concerts

• Callanwolde Concert Band polo shirt (shown below) (available for purchase) 
• Khaki trousers/pants
  • Other color may be designated as performance dictates
  • Shorts may be prescribed or recommended during a summer concert

Special concerts 

• Halloween
  • Musicians encouraged to dress in costume.
  • Most musical sections are quite creative, with many creating a “theme”
• Holiday (“Music of the Season”)
  • Typically Black Dress with festive adornments such as a Santa hat or reindeer antlers.
  • Check with Section Leader for guidance

Rehearsal Information:

Day:  Thursday
Time:   7:15 p.m. until 9:15 p.m.
Location:  3260 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 30032 (as of February 23, 2023)

• This location is the former Avondale Pattillo United Methodist Church
• Band rehearses in the former Sanctuary.  Enter through the front or side doors.

Parking:  Available on the side of the building.   

If you are a college musician, or a recently graduated or rising senior high school musician, you should have the needed musical skill and experience to perform during our summer concert program.

• Currently, we present an outdoor “Pops” concert (July 4th) with an audience of about 5,000.
• You should plan to participate in all band rehearsals during the month of June so we ensure a successful concert presentation.

Since many of our regular musicians also play this concert, we do limit numbers in several sections. 

If you are interested in performing with us:

• Use the “Contact Us” form to contact the band.
  • Click on the “Contact Us” menu item to access this form (located on the page).
• Please provide as much information about your music experience as possible (including instrument name, current performing ensemble, years of experience/grade level, etc.) so the section leader can learn about your abilities and contact you.
• Please contact us early so we begin a conversation and plan.