Frequently Asked Questions

Q1　

Do we practice as a cheering band rather than a standard band?

 

A.　

In general, we have more opportunities to practice for band competitions or concerts. But we also practice for cheering and marching band music as members of ōendan. 　

 

 

Q2　

I am worried if I can get along with people in ōendan.

 

A.　

We think many people belonged to ōendan are very polite with each other and they have good manners especially toward senior students and older people.

Besides, they are friendly people too! You don't have to be worried so much about manners because we learned manners in ōendan. There should be many chances to learn good manners in ōendan!

 

 

Q3　

In what kind of situations do we perform with the cheering squad and the cheerleaders?

 

A.　

When we perform or practice for basic band activities, we do not get together with them. However, there are many occasions that we practice and perform with them, for example, welcoming new students in April, Four Universities Sports Days, University Festivals, Ōendan Camps, cheering sports clubs' athletes in games, and charities. Seniors and junior students get more chances to collaborate with each other to manage ōendan's events. 

 

 

Q4　

There are many band clubs in this university, so I cannot decide which one I should join... 

 

A.    

One of the good things in our club is that this is the only place "you can express music and fulfill brilliant future" as a member of ōendan.

Among Gakushuin's band clubs, our club should be the only place you can play any genres of music; classics, jazz, pops, and marching band music, etc. Moreover, we perform in competitions while other band clubs probably do not. 

As a cheering band, we can make people happy by showing our passionate music in many situations like sports games or stage performances.

Even if you have never played instruments, you can have a good time as a member of us.

We can also contribute to society by cleaning our campus or volunteering for charities such as blood donation.  

You probably won't be able to experience this much events other than in our club! We can promise that your campus life will be proactive till you graduate.  

 

 

Q5　

I haven't played instruments before so I don't really know about music...!

 

A.　

We welcome you even though you are a band beginner.

There are many people who had no experience of instruments in our club today. 
It is said that the more you practice the instrument, the better you can play. Besides, being a university student means you have good  chances to start something new. 

Anyone who is interested in music and wants to play the instruments, please come to our club!

 

 

Q6　

I want to play a certain instrument. Is it possible that I can choose any kinds of instruments to play?

I don't have my own instrument. Do I have to buy an instrument?

 

A.　

Most of us are playing the instruments we chose. 

However, you may need to discuss with our coaches or seniors for your aptitude especially when you want to play in some popular instrument parts. In some cases, you may have to choose another instrument.     
We won't give any auditions when you become our member.
Additionally, you do not have to have your own instrument nor buy it. 

 

 

Q7　

How much money do I have to pay for the club fee? 

 

A.　

Basically, you have to pay once a month. You also need to pay for both ōendan and band camps taking place twice in a year, therefore, you need to pay four times for camps. 

The amount of money is about 160,000 to 200,000 yen (first year will cost 250,000 yen.) 
The total amount of money you have to pay in a year will not be much different from other clubs and circles. 　　

 

 

Q8

I have a part-time job. Can I manage both my part-time job and the club activities? 　

 

A.　

Most of us are actually doing part-time job.

Certainly, we have many events especially during fall and winter for cheering and annual concert. 
If you are a fixed shift part-timer, managing your schedule may be difficult.
We will listen to you if you have some problems for your scheduling.

 

 

Q9　

I don't know if I can join in any clubs because I have many assignments in my science faculty...

 

A.

Our top priority is studying as university students, and that means you do not need to prioritize the club activity.

 

 

Q10　

I am planning to study abroad or take civil servant exams. I am not sure if I can keep in a club until I graduate. 

 

A.　

Our club allows you to take a long break for civil servant exams or studying abroad. 

Some of our members took a break for long to study abroad, and they came back to the club.

However, when you want a break, you need to ask our club president. 

 

 

Q11　

Are there any professional instructors?

 

A.　

In our club, there are coaches teaching each sections; woodwind, brass, and percussion.

Furthermore, we have instructors for each instrument parts. You can get lessens by them.    

 

 

Q12　

I am a sophomore. Can I still join?

 

A.

You are very welcomed! Whether you have ever played instruments or not, you can join us anytime you want!

Some of our members joined our club when they were sophomores.

Please feel free to visit our club!