WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THE STUDENTS IN MARCHING BAND?
Students are expected to attend band camp at Clio High School. Students are also expected to attend rehearsals though occasional excused absences may be made for rehearsals. Memorization of music prior to band camp is highly encouraged and is expected as the season progresses and the music is modified to fit the program. Students are also expected to want to be at practices and strive to do their best at each practice and competition.
HOW MUCH TIME IS SPENT PRACTICING?
Pre-camps – All Pre-Camp Events can be found on our CALENDAR
Camps – Band camp is held at Clio High School. Students rehearse at the school from approximately 8AM - 9PM each day. Along with rehearsals, there are also intense team building and leadership skills that are learned at band camp.
After school practices - During August-Oct, while school is in session, practices will be held after school on various days. Exact dates and times will be announced, generally, these are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5-8pm (some exceptions)
Saturdays during school – During September and October there are some Saturdays that are used for additional practices in preparation for competitions. Exact dates and times will be announced.
Performances - Students perform at 4 MCBA competitions in late September and October. The MMB also performs at MCBA State Championships. All home football games are also attended, and the homecoming parade.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MARCHING BAND PRACTICE?
*Your instrument! This would include your musical instrument, your flag(s), drumsticks, mallets, etc. In other words, whatever will you be using on the marching field as part of the Band needs to come to each practice, beginning with the first practice.
*Water--- Water--- Water--- Staying hydrated during practices is important.
*A small ring notebook (called your Dot Book) and pencil to use for writing notes. Many band members put a shoestring through the rings of a notebook and hang it from their waist to write notes quickly and easily.
*YOUR POSITIVE, HARD WORKING ENERGY!!! A positive spirit is needed by all members of the band. Please come prepared to work, have fun, and be proud of your efforts.
WILL I BE EXPECTED TO KNOW THE MUSIC BY HEART? WHEN?
Indeed, you will need to be able to play and memorize the music performed by the band. There will be a schedule kept to check off skills in music. When you are expected to have the music memorized varies depending on the number of years you’ve been a part of the band. But, the bottom line, rookie or veteran, everyone needs to learn the music, play the music and have it memorized!
WILL I HAVE TO MARCH AND PLAY THE MUSIC AT THE SAME TIME?
Simply put, YES!! That is what “it’s” all about. Again, consideration is given to the skill levels of the rookies or the veterans. But, yes, please join the band knowing you will eventually be marching and playing at the same time.
WHO IS A ROOKIE?
Anyone performing with the Band for their first season is a ROOKIE! Even the parents of the Band Boosters with children in their first season are called Rookies!! Many times “rookies” are incoming freshmen, but not always. There are upperclassmen who join the band, then they are rookies too.
WHO IS A VETERAN?
Anyone who has completed at least one season of performing with the Band.
HOW WILL I LEARN TO MARCH OR PLAY OR TWIRL A FLAG?
The marching band staff, under the leadership of Director William Mufarreh, will teach you as well as the veteran student members. The large group will spend a lot of time in smaller groups learning the steps, the music etc. Slowly, you will gain skill and be "checked off" when you can demonstrate your expertise.
THERE ARE PRACTICE TIMES, BUT WILL I NEED TO PRACTICE AT HOME ALSO?
YES! The old words of "practice makes perfect" is indeed true. You will need (and will be expected to) practice on your own to learn the music and other skills.
DO I HAVE TO ATTEND EVERY PRACTICE?
Yes. For additional details on this question, please refer directly to the Band Handbook, Clio Bands Attendance Policy. Bottom Line: ANY excuse must be approved by one of the Band directors prior to an absence.
The golden rule : COMMUNICATION.
DO I HAVE TO HAVE A DOCTOR’S PHYSICAL?
No, however, the MMB has a medical history form that MUST be completed by the indicated deadline. Without this, students will not be allowed to perform until this is completed.
HOW EASY WILL IT BE TO GET TO KNOW OTHER BAND MEMBERS?
The Mustang Marching Band has a history of being a second family to their members. Many of the students who have experienced marching band have developed friendships with students of different grade levels. New this year, each rookie marcher is given a big brother/big sister to help them through their first year of marching band. The students (and parents) try to be friendly and are willing to help each other out with transportation etc. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions! It is a lot to learn.
WHAT KIND OF PHYSICAL CONDITIONING DO I NEED TO MARCH IN BAND?
Marching is a difficult and physically strenuous activity, BUT it is possible for ALL students who are willing to make the effort to be a part of marching band. It is recommended that the student begin to do some exercise prior to band camp. At camp and during practices students learn to do stretches and at times run or jog to increase their physical endurance in preparation for the requirements of the show.
WHAT CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT UNIFORMS?
Marching Band:
Fittings – Uniforms are fitted to the students each year. Uniform fittings begin with the seniors and continue through the freshmen. It is important that each student gets fitted each year for a uniform (sizes change for many kids). Fitting schedules and times will be announced.
Uniform Parts – The marching uniform consists of a jacket, a pair of bib pants, a bucket (helmet), a plume, a pair of gloves, and a pair of black drill master shoes. Shoes and gloves are a separate cost as these items are personal items used by the members.
In addition, students will be supplied a show shirt to wear underneath their uniform. Students should also plan on wearing a pair of dark/black athletic shorts underneath their uniforms. Students often have to change in public areas and should plan undergarments accordingly! All uniform parts (except for personal items and gloves) are to be stored/hung properly in A2.
How to wear uniforms – Students are taught proper care and respect of uniforms when they are fitted for a uniform. Students MUST be responsible for returning ALL pieces of uniforms to the proper location between and after competitions and events.
Cleaning – The Clio Area Band & Music Boosters clean the uniform on behalf of the students. Any additional cleaning is the responsivity of the parents/students.
Color Guard:
Fittings – Uniform fittings are done each year.
Uniform Parts – body suit, outer body suit/uniform, gloves, guard shoes, make-up, other personal items.
How to wear uniforms – Students are taught proper care and respect of uniforms when they are given a uniform. Students MUST be responsible for returning ALL pieces of uniforms to the proper location between and after competitions and events.
Cleaning - Parents/students are responsible for laundering gloves, socks, and items worn under the uniform.