As with each Band Program, there is a fee assessed to each student to cover our basic operating costs (assessments fees, uniforms, travel, etc). But don’t let that frighten you off, Our Band Booster Organization works very hard to ensure that there is ample opportunity to fundraise throughout the year. Some students have their entire fee paid through fundraising opportunities. More information regarding fees and payment options are discussed at the New Student Orientation meeting. If you have questions regarding this, please feel free to contact the Band Director for further information.

Often times this can be done. Talk to the coach and the Band Director to see what can be worked out.

ABSOLUTELY! BAND STUDENTS CLEARLY STAND OUT! In fact, most college admissions departments seek out music students, as they recognize all that is involved in our academic discipline.

In short, it is both. Practice, especially the early days, can seem a lot like a sports practice. Modern Marching band requires quite a bit of athletic and musical training. Endurance training like running and push­ups help the kids get physically ready for some very long days ahead. The modern marching band member must be flexible, powerful, conditioned, and expressive. For some children it is a very intense experience that can leave them feeling sore, frustrated, and off balance. How you handle this is likely based on your parenting style and your child’s

They are all-day events that serve as fundraisers for the hosting bands. Bands from many surrounding schools compete for various awards, such as Music, Overall Performance, Color Guard and Best in Show, to name a few. A competition day lasts about 12-14 hours, depending on the location of the competition. Students spend the morning at South Hills High School campus practicing their show, then eat lunch, pack up the buses, and head out to the competition. All families are encouraged to attend competitions to support our SHHS Band & Color Guard.

You will need to pay for a ticket into most competitions ($10 to $15 per person). Bring cash. Tickets and concessions are usually cash only, as are some souvenir vendors.

Many times you will be sitting on concrete bleachers ­ stadium seats that you can carry in are great investments for competitions and football games!

Call time is the time that the students must be ready (dressed in uniform, full water bottle, instrument, sitting in cafeteria) to meet prior to loading the buses.

Typically, a marching band will have one show that is used for halftime performances and competitions. This involves complex music, intricate drill maneuvers, and colorful flag choreography. This show will have a theme that runs throughout the music, the colors of the flags, the shape of the formations, etc. It is a lot of hard work, but it is also a great deal of fun ! By using the “total show concept,” marching band then has a greater challenge, more visual appeal, and a greater performer and audience interest level. This year’s show is in the planning stages. We should have the theme picked, as well as having the music available, by Band Camp. There will be many visual effects, poses, lunges, dance, props, and many more fun and creative effects to enhance this great musical program. The staff is very excited about the show ! We are sure that the students will enjoy it as well !

SCSBOA is the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association. They provide opportunities in music, raising performance and adjudication standards, and improving teaching techniques. Meaning they are the association that creates competitions for the bands in Southern California.

Absolutely ! Color Guard is the visual ensemble that complements the marching band

Absolutely ! Not only are parents/families allowed, they are encouraged to come and cheer for the band. The students love to hear cheers and applause from SHHS Band & Color Guard supporters. Don’t forget your camera !What if my child can’t attend a practice or performance ?

The success of our program depends on each student being prepared and fulfilling their commitment to the band by being present at every scheduled practice and performance. Unless there is a serious reason, students are expected to attend every scheduled practices and performance. We understand that illness, unforeseen events and emergencies will occur but we request that doctor’s appointments or other activities not be scheduled during practice or performances.

Again, no child should be denied a chance to participate in band because of money. Some level of expenses can be offset by participation in fundraising events. If there is real financial hardship, parents should speak to the band director privately to see what arrangements can be made.

Studies have shown that a marching band student’s grades are actually higher on average during the marching band season. Students learn to manage their time between rehearsals and schoolwork. Students will have plenty of time, even on rehearsal days, to go home and complete homework adequately.