6/6/23 - Marching Band Updates & Info

Hello everyone,

A huge thanks to everyone that was able to show up to the welcome event last week! We are excited after hearing everyone sightread some of the show to see what this group is capable of in the fall! We have a couple of small updates for everyone below.

sightread

Instrument/Music Pick Up

If you were unable to attend the welcome event and still need an instrument or music, please feel free to swing by the music office June 12-16th 10 am-3 pm and we'll be happy to provide anything needed.

Music Preparation

We know many people received a lot of music last week and you might be wondering where to start or how to begin. Generally speaking, the show music is the place to start. Many pep band songs have been played in middle school or will be taught in the fall. It can be easy to return to something you know, but we encourage you to lean into the new show music. If there are notes/ techniques you haven't seen or learned before, section leaders are happy to help! Our goal is to have all new members playing through their music by day one of camp. If you need additional copies or a reference recording, they have all been uploaded to the band app for your convenience.

Summer Sectionals

Section leaders will be reaching out soon if not already about summer sectionals. These are instrument-specific meetings that are designed to get help on any and all music as well as additional instrumental technique. We're all coming from different levels and might need different things. Incoming freshmen through seniors are strongly encouraged to attend so we can hit the ground running in the fall and accomplish our goals.

Shoes, Flip Folders, and Lyres

Please remember to check the website HERE to make sure you have everything for the fall and/or purchase as needed.

Need Help? Have Questions?

Start with a section leader or returning member! They are often the best and fastest source for questions. If they don't know, they can ask additional leadership or drum majors.

Keep an eye out soon for additional information on local DCI events! -- Eric RothackerMusic Teacher & Band Director

5/24/23 - Memorial Day Celebration

Dear Band Families, We are excited for our yearly Memorial Day event coming this Monday. This is an important opportunity for us to give back to our community while honoring members of the armed services who have passed. We will perform two memorial ceremonies and march a parade in Cross Plains. This event is required for all band students and any band students who are unable to attend can complete the alternate assignment in google classroom. The schedule for the day is below. All students will be provided a band polo for the day, please wear something light to wear under the polo, khaki shorts, and athletic (closed toe) shoes. Lunch will be provided at Legion Hall in CP. Schedule for the day: 8:00 Report to MHS for warm up and rehearsal 9:00 Buses depart for Community of Ashton 9:30 Ceremony at St. Peter's cemetery 10:00 Snacks and depart for Park Elementary in Cross Plains 11:00 Parade begins 12:00 Ceremony at American Legion Hall in Cross Plains 12:30 Ceremony ends, lunch provided ~1:00 Buses depart back to MHS

Marching Band Welcome Event Reminder and Physicals

Hello everyone,

Just a reminder that we are holding a welcome event 5/31 from 4-5:30pm. We'll be handing out music/instruments for the fall, playing through some music, and meeting members of the band. We will meet in the band room on the north side of the building.

If we do not have the instrument you need back from the shop (or you cannot attend on the 31st), you are welcome to swing back anytime June 12-16th 9am-3pm.

Things to bring:

Your instrument (unless you're renting from us and we'll rent it to you on the day)

A place to hold your new music

Water bottle

Sunscreen if needed (we'll likely be in the shady part of Fireman's Park after the band room)

Physicals for the School

Please see attached for the high school's physical's policy for marching and other activities/sports. This would apply to all sports and activities. We and the school want to ensure all of our students are safe and ready for the fall. More information will come with how to submit these forms to the activities and athletic departments once completed.

-- Eric Rothacker