As Bud gets to know the band members, they begin to bond as a family and invite him to join the band. Bud starts playing the recorder with the understanding that he will later learn to play other instruments. For these reasons, the band members decide that Bud, like the rest of the band members, needs a band nickname.

Several names are discussed based on Bud's behaviors and appearance—names such as Waterworks, because Bud cried so much at dinner; Bone, because he is so slim; and Sleepy, because Bud slept in so late, are discussed. The nicknaming decision and process are carried out with some ceremony. The band members finally vote to nickname Bud "Sleepy LaBone." This name, it is decided, sounds more sophisticated since "LaBone" is the way the French pronounce "bone." Bud thinks this is the best name he has ever heard.