What is competitive marching band?

Marching band has evolved into a very serious sport and art form. It makes use of musicians and dancers, where the final product is a combination of music, athletics and choreography in a competitive arena.

Who can join Marching Band?

Anyone who has a desire to excel and improve can be in the band. Students who participate in marching band tend to develop better musicianship skills, hand-eye coordination, and not to mention get a great workout every day. Keep in mind that marching band is NOT just musicians. We have a Colorguard made up of BOTH instrumentalists and non-instrumentalists who would rather dance, spin, and toss flags, rifles, sabers, etc. Many students have backgrounds in dance, ballet, and jazz. Marching is always more fun with friends, so feel free to bring as many along as possible.

What is the time commitment for marching band?

Many people think the marching band practices 5 days a week for many hours a day. This is not true! The band rehearses one night a week during the summer months from 6-9pm. Students are allowed to miss rehearsals for vacation. There is a mini band camp at the end of July and a 2 week band camp in August prior to school. During the season/school year, we will rehearse on Thursday nights for 3 hours. Each section of the marching band (Colorguard, Winds & Percussion) will have a sectional day during the week where they will rehearse for 3 hours. The most fun will be on Saturdays when the band rehearses prior to the "Big Show" (Competition) that night. The main thing to remember is that Marching Band will try you physically and musically, but you will be a better musician and person after you have finished the season. Marching band teaches organization, team work, time management, and discipline.

How much money will this cost?

There are many expenses associated with making a marching band function. There are instructor fees, arranging fees, uniform care, marching shoes, specialized equipment for Colorguard and percussion, and many other necessary expenses. Therefore, we have a student fee that will help the boosters offset some of these costs. A detailed lists of expenses will be distributed at the Rookie Marching Band Night in May. Please note--if these costs are in any way a financial hardship, or would tip the scales toward non-participation, please contact Mr. Lortz or Mr. Drake.

What sort of involvement is expected of the parents when a student joins the marching band?

Parents are encouraged to help support in any way they are available. Parents can lend a hand in many ways by chaperoning, helping with the pit, sewing flags and colorguard uniforms, building equipment, participating in booster meetings, chairing committees, fundraising, helping out at the concession stand during home marching band competitions, coordinating different committees, etc. The list is endless. Any parents interested in assisting the marching band or the Instrumental Music program should call Mr. Lortz or Mr. Drake at 410-751-3630 ext. 262

When can we start?

The first night for all new marching band members is traditionally the 3rd Wednesday night in May, which is the Rookie Marching Band Night. This is a mandatory meeting for all new students and parents where there will be a brief multi-media presentation and question and answer section. The students will begin rehearsing and the parents, staff and directors will have a "get to know each other session" where questions can be asked. There will be light refreshments provided and an opportunity to sign up to help with the band.