Frequently Asked Questions

Are classes combined or would it be separate?
In the 2023-2024 school year, DHS and EHS will have separate classes. However, during performances, relative ensembles may combine for concerts. For the 2024-2025 school year and beyond, Mr. Tran and EHS has a full slate of music classes at the EHS physical campus.

Does EHS follow DHS's music calendar?
For the 2023-2024 school year, EHS music will be aligned with DHS's calendar for specific performances but not all. Please visit the calendar tab for the most up to date calendar. August 2024 forward, EHS will have their own separate calendar. 

Is EHS open?
Yes, the 2024-2025 will begin on the Emerald HS campus!

Mr. Tran talks about having a Marching Band for EHS. Would the rehearsals be after school or during the band class?
There are two conversations here:
1. Field Show: This is the group that performs on the football field. For the foreseeable future, EHS will combine with DHS to be one Dublin Irish Guard. Participation in the Irish Guard is OPTIONAL.
2. Parade Band: This is the group that performs on the street. EHS will have their own parade band. Rehearsals for this is during class with minimal outside of class time.

Are there leadership opportunities for music students?
Yes, for band and orchestra there will be in-class section leader and executive leadership positions. Outside of class, there will be club officer positions.

Are there any trips planned for the school year?
Yes, we will ask students for what they're interested in and Mr. Tran will plan band/orchestra/club trips as needed. In the Spring of 2024, the band/orchestra will have the chance to travel to Chicago with DHS. EHS will travel to Southern California in April 2024 and more trips are announced as we move forward.

I play piano. Is there a specific class I should join?
Yes, the jazz ensemble is the only class that has a dedicated piano spot. A piano player could essentially join any band or orchestra class but the need would vary from piece to class. Mr. Tran highly encourages piano players to double on another instrument. The most common would be percussion, but any instrument works. Please refer to the audition document for the piano audition. 

In 2024-2025 and beyond, will Cottonwood Creek School and Fallon Middle School 8th grade students get the option to choose between Dublin High and Emerald High? Will Wells students get to choose?
DUSD has a boundary that projects that CCS and FMS 8th grade students are geared to go to EHS and Wells students go to DHS. Families may choose to submit an intra-district transfer form if they wish to have their student moved between EHS to DHS.
Please note that approval depends on available space. Please visit this site for more details.

What elective courses will be offered at EHS in the 2024-2025?
EHS will offer a number of courses during elective sign ups. If a class has enough students then the class will go forward. If it does not have enough students, then other options may be available depending on the type of class.  

Will band and orchestra have after school practices?
The  short answer is no. There are no required after school practices. Although there might be some after school sectionals or extracurricular meetings, after school activities are considered optional. The only after school practices are Irish Guard and this program is NOT a requirement for students. We will, however, have evening concerts.

Can I still do sports, clubs, activities, and music?
YES! We highly encourage you to take part of everything students are passionate about. If there are conflicts, then we will be flexible so you can continue to do the activities you're passionate about AND music. For information regarding sports, please visit the EHS Athletics website (click here)!

Why should I do music in high school?
It's fun and you have opportunities you may not get in your other classes. Click here to see what college admissions offices have to say about music in high school!

How can I do music in high school if I want to take a language or another elective?
There is always ways to fit music into your schedule. If you are an incoming 9th grader, you can click here to see sample schedules.

Do I have to take zero period?
NO! But it is a great way to add another class to your schedule and you get to avoid traffic!

What if I 'm in 7th period band but I only wanted 6 periods?
You should contact Mr. Tran immediately and a schedule can be worked out. 

What if there are conflicts?
Band/orchestra would be a class, so there should not be any conflicts with your classes. If you think there are conflicts with after school events, then that will depend on the activity. We generally will not require after school events. If we do have out of class events, there will be a sign up sheet and it will be optional unless it is a performance. All performances are mandatory.

If I am a parent/guardian, what can I do to support the music department?
There are many ways to get involved! Please email  Mr. Tran so he can contact you! If you play on being an in person volunteer, please visit this site.

Still have a question? Email Mr. Tran!

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