Frequently-Asked Questions

Here are some frequently-asked questions for your perusal. Please see our contact page if you cannot find what you are looking for here.

Membership

Do I have to be a member of the band to play with the band?
You may sit-in with the band for a few rehearsals to check us out, and if you are interested in continuing with us you should consider becoming a member of the band. Click here for more details.

What is the minimum age for membership?
The band is composed of adults of all ages. Teenage students may sit-in with the band, pending director approval.

Is there a need for my specific instrument?
The San Jose Metropolitan Band is always looking for qualified concert band musicians. Typical concert band instruments include, but are not necessarily limited to: piccolo, flute, oboe, english horn, bassoon, clarinet (including alto, bass, and other varieties), saxophone (including alto, tenor, bari, and other varieties), french horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, euphonium, tuba, and various percussion/rhythm instruments.

How good do I have to be to play in the band?
We encourage newcomers to sit-in with the band for a few rehearsals. This provides them with an opportunity to get a feel for the degree of difficulty, and overall band culture, before comitting to the band.

Where and when does the band rehearse?
The band rehearses Monday nights at 320 Piercy Road, San Jose, CA. More information can be found here.

What is the cost of membership?
The suggested annual donation is $40 per year.  Checks are payable to "San Jose Metropolitan Band" and may be presented to the Band Treasurer at any scheduled rehearsal. Donations and other contributions are tax-deductable. Copies of SJMB exemption letters are available upon request. Please see the next section for additional costs.

How are individuals placed within their sections?
Seating within each section is typically finalized by the section leader. Some sections rotate parts, some do not.

Performances

Who is the musical director?
Gregory Bergantz. More information can be found here.

Where is the band going to be performing in the near future?
Our performance schedule is found on our website's main page.

What is the cost to attend a performance?
Most performances are free and open to the public, but there may be some that involve admission and/or are not open to the public. Each performance listing should list any/all attendance pricing (if any) and/or restrictions (if any).

What type of music does the band play?
The Band performs music scored for a wind concert band that includes brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Genres include Big Band, Disney, Broadway, Hollywood, marches, seasonal music, and classics.  For specifics, see our repertoire.

Booking

Is the band available for hiring/booking?
Yes. Please see this page for all booking information.

What types of events is the band available for, and what are the costs?
The band is available for many types of events/venues. Please see this page for all booking information.

Support

I don't play an instrument. Are there any volunteer opportunities with the band?
Yes. We always welcome enthusiastic people who would like to contribute their talents to our organization. Some of the areas where you might want to help out include: grant writing, promotions, graphic arts, media relations, instrument storage, transportation, setup/takedown, and audio/video. There may also be another area where you think your talents may be put to good use.

Are contributions tax-deductible?
Yes. Click here for more information.

Does the band accept corporate sponsorships?
Yes. The band welcoms opportunities to be partnered with industry in promoting the arts. Click here for more information.