Bandgeeks = A group of nerdy people playing music.

The title fortunately is not applicable in Malaysia. Joining band here, could either lift your status quo, the first step towards social outcast, or you could be one of the non-affected. I'm probably in the latter group.

Marching band/Orchestra = versatility.

 Free Of Charge Music Lessons.
Considering the fact that I had musical background before, it's certainly a plus point, though it doesn't mean you'll strive in band just because you know what are arpeggios, and sight reading or how a minor note sounds like. To let you know, I studied music only until Grade 3 - could've gone further but my teacher decided to move back to Singapore, and I dont like any other teachers there - and may I tell you, it ain't easy to memorize those Italian terms and their meanings. The tuition fees are expensive, and buying the actual instrument is much more a burden. Each book costed around rm 30 - rm 50 range each, the 3cm thick past exam papers are even ridiculously priced! You're just going to do it once. They cost about rm 11 each.  Hence, I'd say learning music is very costly.

Dedication is vital factor.

Commitment.
There's one way you could learn how to play music, get a proper posture, and learn how to work with 50 other people. That is, by joining your school band! Experience, experience, experience! You'll be in shape because all those twice a week practices (and everyday if there is an event) could really shape you up. Of course, commitment is the utmost important aspect. The seniors of my school band had repeatedly remind us about how band is all about teamwork, patience and commitment. I knew so many of my band-colleagues who irresponsibly (for those without a proper reason) quit and gave up. There is nothing more to say about quitters. If you intend to join band in the future, I beg and I plead all my heart out, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU'RE FULLY COMMITTED TO ATTEND PRACTICES! Imagine all those sweat and energy spent on teaching you the techniques. More importantly, the memories you had with fellow band members. Those memories are not store-bought. They came from sincerity.

Mass Band 2010 at Merdeka Stadium.

Events.
My favorite part of band is the events that we were able to participate. Let me know, where else could you join a Mass Band that consisted of schools from all over Malaysia, paraded all the way to Merdeka Square and get your photos taken by various photographers at an International Flora Fest? You'll get a 'ahhhh', gasp, and compliments from strangers. It is very glamorous being in band. Besides, you'll get paid, usually for these kind of events, so, that's an extra!

Fun times!

Missing class/Academics aspects.
However, to every thing, there is a downside. You'll miss class - that's for sure - and get tanned every year. Missing class is inevitable for band members. And staying back for practices. Also, attending weekend practices. That's a drag, totally. But isn't like all about challenging yourself? If you missed a class, go for tuition or extra classes or study groups. Ask your friends on homework and due dates. Don't make band practice as an excuse unless your assigned band teachers gave permission to do so. If you love music/band, you'll do anything for it. Even jump a building. Okay maybe not that.

We're so energetic, we love jumping photos!

Social life in band.
Believe it or not, we have gossips, bitching, politics in band. There might be cliques, or certain groups that would just stick to themselves. That is normal. We are only humans after all. We bitch, moan, gossip. Those are bad habits, but we do it anyway. In every family, there will be fights and arguments. I would advise you to channel all those energy into practicing your music sheets. Come to think of it, you'll be friends with the people you never would've talk to if you hadn't join band. So, get out of your 'posse' and be friends with other musicians. They are the ones who 'll be with you most of your time. And respect your seniors and band master (coach). They are, after all, more experienced than us. They're more knowledgeable. So give them a break if they yelled at you. Your coach is getting paid less than what he/she really deserves! So, show him/her that you appreciate their time.

Beloved band coach who was always so patient with us, Mr Koh

People who made it all happened.

In an eggshell (nutshell's too cliche'), I, Eera Razak, made a wise decision in joining band, though honestly, band wasn't really my first choice then. But I am glad, I did signed up for it. I am glad I was a band geek.

I'm glad I found my second home : band room. CBNBIUTC!