Marching Band

The split day helps us avoid the sun.  We generally practice on the football field in the morning when it's coolest, and music/choreography in the evening as it cools off.  

Band Camp only happens once a year.  This intensive learning time is our best chance to prepare for the year's upcoming competitions and performances.

There is a lot to learn during Band Camp!  Make sure you are mentally and physically prepared for new skills and repertoire.

Your director, staff, drum majors, captains, student leaders and sections are all here to help.  We look forward to spending time with you and learning with you!

You are going to be outside for large amounts of time. The higher the SPF the better.  You will want someone to help you get your back area too.  Bring your sunscreen with you and plan to reapply.

This all-important document will keep you heading the right direction at the right time.

You will want a water jug, not just a standard water bottle. Your best bet is an insulated, one gallon (or larger) water jug.  This will allow you to drink one quart per hour.  The insulation helps to keep the water cool, which you will want on a hot July day.  

You can't wear anything other than athletic shoes during rehearsals (with socks).  Your feet will swell after a rehearsal block. To give them relief, wear sandals during meals and free time.  Bring them in your field bag.  Prepare to show off your awesome sock tan.

We wear hats at band camp to keep the top of our heads cool and protected from the sun. 

Clothing needs to be cool and appropriate for outdoor athletic exercise. We ask that band shirts (green for musicians and orange for color guard) be worn during rehearsals.  Shorts or pants should be black or dark.  Please be aware that it might be colder when we start and then heat up throughout the day, or be hot when we start and chilly when we finish.  Band hoodies are available but additional warm layers may be needed in the later months of band rehearsals.  

• You must have a black 3ring binder with enough sheet protectors in it for ALL of your music.  
• You must have a pencil.
• Make yourself a "field bag" that contains everything you need for a successful rehearsal.  That may include:
  
• Your binder
• Your hat
• Instrument supplies
• A tuner and/or metronome
• A snack
• Chapstick

• SLEEP.  You will be better for yourself and your team if you are rested.
• EAT.  Your body needs fuel to do what we will ask of you.  Eat nutritious meals. Bring a snack.
• HYDRATE.  Drink water the night and morning before we see you. 
• Please label anything you bring to rehearsal. 

PRO TIPS:  Dr. Elliot Cleveland says:

• Stand and play outside for half an hour a day the week before band camp.  
• Superhumans, mountain climbers & planks will prepare your shoulders, core and back to hold your instrument and move your equipment.
• If you can bend your shoes in half, or if the tread is worn off the bottom, get new shoes before band camp.  You don't want tendonitis of the feet or ankles!  Vans and Converse do not have the support you need to keep you strong.