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What exactly is
band camp?
Just like athletics
and cheerleading, high school band starts before the start of
school. Rehearsals are designed to acclimate new students to
the program, and to train the entire ensemble in the basic
fundamentals of music and marching prior to the start of the new
school year. Marching band drill is a high-tech computer
generated work of art that requires diligent practice to learn and
perfect. Band camp also provides the opportunity for students
to work with some outstanding specialists on every instrument.
The hours may seem long for the uninitiated, but the result will be
fantastic!! Just remember that literally thousands of other high
school musicians across the country are doing the same thing at
virtually the same time.
Drum Line and Color
Guard rehearsals may vary from the full band schedule as needed.
It is in each student's best interest to attend rehearsals if they intend to participate in the marching
band. Competition for placement in the field show will be
determined throughout these summer rehearsals. Students will
be required to demonstrate both marching and playing skills as part
of the placement process.
All required paperwork
and fees are due at this time.
Is it important that I attend?
Absolutely!
So much information gets out to the students that anyone who misses
camp will be behind.
Is marching band hard?
If you ask a
senior, they would say no. As with all things new, you might
find the speed of rehearsal and the demand of moving and playing
challenging at first, but, by the time you get to the end of your
first season, you will be experts at it. Just like anything
else worth doing, it requires effort. Remember that you are
sharing the effort with over 100 other smart and dedicated students.
Why do we have to pay Band
Fees?
As you might guess,
producing a high quality music ensemble is very expensive. We
ask that all participants contribute toward the total operating
budget of the program. Funds generated from band fees cover
much of the entire expense of the program including transportation,
uniforms, equipment, music, and additional teaching
staff. Band fees for subsequent years can be reduced by
volunteering regularly throughout the year.
Preparing for Band Camp
Students are responsible for
supplying reeds, sticks, mouthpieces, etc. You will also need your
own instrument unless you play one of the larger instruments, such
as drums, tuba or baritone. Contact a Band Director if you are
unsure. Students must wear athletic shoes to all marching rehearsals.
It is highly suggested that you wear a
hat and bring insect repellent, sunscreen and water.
Don't forget your music
each day!
Avoid wearing jeans, pants, or dark colored
shirts. Light colored t-shirts and athletic shorts are the way
to go here. They are comfortable and will help keep you cool.
Brass: Bring all you need to keep your
horns working properly.
Woodwinds: Bring all you need to keep your
instruments working properly and have a plastic bag ready to protect
it from rain and water.
Students are required to purchase a flip folder with the plastic sheets for stands
music. These can be obtained at your local music store.
Above all, stay hydrated! Water
will be provided throughout the day. |
