In concert band contests, each band normally plays three to five prepared pieces. Unfortunately, this type of contest only measures the students abilities as performers, playing music that they usually learn by rote. Some music educators believe that sight reading should be a part of these contests. Some believe that the contests should include tests on musicianship, and be administered to all students in the band. In an attempt to do well in competition, many marching bands practice and perform only three to five pieces of music, and perform the same marching show throughout the season.
Most directors agree that far too much time is spent on playing and replaying the same set of music.
Bob believes that it is important to expose students to a wide variety of music, different musical styles, and music with various difficulty levels. Students in high school bands earn grades and credits, and meet during the school day, because bands are considered educational. Playing on an athletic team is usually not part of the school curriculum, and athletes usually do not receive credits for playing on a team. Therefore, athletic teams can focus on winning rather than learning. Few high school band students pursue a career in music, and few of them should.