Are all the events required?
All rehearsals and competitions are required. Unlike sports, everyone is a first-string player and has an important role. The success of our team depends on everyone being present.
Is participation in marching band required to participate in concert band?
Yes! While marching band requires lots of time and effort, it is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.
What if my student participates in a fall sport that conflicts with marching band?
CHS has a fall sport exemption list. If a student plays for a CHS team from this list they can still join the band and play their fall sport. This does not apply to rec or club sports.
How much does band cost?
$1,200 total - $100 class fee and $1,100 band fee. A full explanation of fees, and what they are paying for, will take place at the mandatory parent meeting in May.
Do I need a new instrument?
A new instrument is not required but is highly recommended. Please talk to your band director about the best options for your student before buying a new instrument.
How do I find out about band events and schedules?
Our website calendar has all events and times. Weekly emails are sent with updates and schedules to aid in planning.
How long is the marching band season?
We start training during the summer with training sessions in June before band camp in July. Once school begins in August, the band meets three days a week for after-school rehearsals and attends home football games on Friday nights from August through October. We also attend competitions on Saturdays from mid-September through October.
How do I join the booster club?
If your student is a member of the band program, CONGRATULATIONS you as parents are part of the booster club. Come volunteer, laugh, cheer, cry and support the amazing things are band does.
How can I volunteer to help?
We can not succeed without volunteers. Our parents are a family and enjoy the time they spend together. Weekly emails are sent out with volunteering opportunities.
What if I can’t pay my fees on time?
We have several options, including fundraising and payment plans, to help families who may have a financial hardship. Please talk to a band director for more information.
What supplies does my student need?
A band camp survival guide with all your student's needs will be available during the mandatory parent meeting in May. They also need a smile and a good attitude to learn and have fun!
Does my child need to bring lunch or snacks?
Snacks are always a good thing to have before rehearsal. During camp and competitions, most meals will be provided.
What if my child has allergies?
All students are required to complete a physical by a physician. We will also request allergy and medication information so that we can help students stay proactive with their health needs.
What happens if we can’t attend part or all of band camp?
Please schedule carefully so that this does not happen. Dates & times are posted now so that you can plan accordingly. We cannot promise a competitive marching spot if students are missing. Please contact a director to discuss your specific situation.
How can students physically prepare for band camp?
Marching Band is a rigorous activity. Good physical health and conditioning are vital to coping with the rigors and heat during band camp. Your student can prepare by getting outside and doing 30 minutes of walking or physical activity each day. It is also critical for students to stay hydrated to protect themselves from heat-related illness.
- Keep a bottle of water with you during the day while not at rehearsal and sip regularly
- If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding a slice of lemon or lime, or a non-caloric flavoring
- Drink water before, during, and after rehearsals
- When you’re feeling hungry, drink water. Thirst is often confused with hunger
- If you have trouble remembering to drink water, drink on a schedule. For example, drink water when you wake up, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and when you go to bed. Or, drink a small glass of water at the beginning of each hour.
- Drink water when you go to a restaurant
- Avoid energy drinks
What if my student does not play a "marching" instrument?
Some concert instruments are not used in marching band, such as french horn, oboe, and bassoon. French horn players will typically switch to mellophone for marching season. Like the french horn, the mellophone is in the key of F and has the same note fingerings. All of our bassoon and oboe students have found a second passion for another instrument during the marching season. We are happy to provide them with help to play another wind, percussion instrument or join Cologuard.