What Marching Band Actually Is

New parents may often think it’s just football games, but it’s so much more. Marching band is both a sport and an art form.

 

Students:

• Play music while marching complex drill formations

• Practice choreography and movement

• Compete in judged competitions

• Perform a themed field show

 

Rehearsals involve:

• Music rehearsal

• Drill rehearsal

• Physical endurance

• Team coordination

 

It’s challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

 

The Time Commitment

This is one of the most important sections.

 

Summer Band Camp: This is mandatory training before the season begins. Students learn the music and marching show in just 3 weeks, with all day practices from 8:00am – 4:00pm.

 

Weekly Rehearsals: During the season, there are also mandatory weekly rehearsals 3 days a week.

Monday: 4:45 – 6:45

Tuesday: 4:45 – 7:45

Thursday: 4:45 – 7:45

 

Football Games: Friday evenings at home games. Students typically stay after school, are offered the option of purchasing dinner (~$10) or can bring their own, and will stay until after the game.  4:45pm - 10:00pm

 

Competitions: Typically all-day Saturdays. Families should plan for the entire day.

 

 

Attendance Expectations

Band is a team activity, so attendance matters.

 

Key expectations:

• Attendance is mandatory for rehearsals and performances.

• Students must plan work schedules around band.

• Missing rehearsal can affect whether a student performs.

 

Parents help by:

• Scheduling appointments outside of band times

• Communicating early if conflicts arise

 

 

Parent Involvement (This Is Huge)

This is one of the most important parts.

 

Band does not run without parents.

 

Parent volunteers help with:

• Equipment loading

• Uniform management

• Props and field setup

• Concessions

• Competitions

• Fundraising events

• And more!

 

There are jobs for every skill level.

 

Examples:

• Sewing

• Driving equipment trucks

• Selling concessions

• Organizing events

• Helping with uniforms

 

Even a few hours makes a huge difference. Check out the Volunteer section for more information!

 

 

Communication

The number one rule: stay informed!

 

Parents should regularly check:

• BAND App

• Weekly newsletter

• Band website

 

These resources provide important information like schedule updates, travel itineraries, arrival times, and weather plans. It’s important to note that things often changes quickly, so stay connected!

 

 

Financial Commitment

The Annual Dues are listed in your Membership Contract.

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Dues help cover:

• Music and show design

• Transportation

• Uniforms

• Instruction staff

• Equipment

 

 

Fundraising

Fundraising helps offset costs and supports the program. Students can earn Viking Credits through fundraising to reduce expenses. 

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Fall Festival (Our Biggest Event)

Fall Festival is our band’s largest fundraiser.

 

It includes:

• Hosting multiple marching bands

• Full-day of competition

• Concessions and vendors

 

This event requires many volunteers and helps fund the entire program. Every family is encouraged to help. You can find out more about this as the date approaches!

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What Competitions Are Like

Typical competition day:

• Students rehearse in the morning

• Load buses and equipment

• Travel to host school

• Warm-up rehearsals

• Perform show

• Watch other bands

• Awards ceremony

• Return to school and unload

 

Students often return late at night, but these days become some of their favorite memories. Refer to the Competition Day FAQ’s on the website for more information.

 

 

Tips from Veteran Band Parents

Label everything

Pack snacks and water

Bring blankets and stadium seats to competitions

Expect long days

Trust the process

And the biggest one: Yes, it’s worth it!

 

 

Why Families Love Marching Band

Marching band becomes:

• A second family

• A place where students grow

• A community for parents

• One of the most memorable parts of high school

 

Many students say band becomes their favorite high school experience.

 

 

Quick Parent Checklist

New band parents should:

✔ Join the BAND App

✔ Read the weekly newsletter

✔ Add all band dates to your calendar

✔ Sign up to volunteer

✔ Attend booster meetings