FRESHMAN INFORMATION
We know entering high school is scary enough without counting Marching Band. But relax! Caledonia Bands successfully acclimates freshman every year. The handbook is a good starting place to learn what to expect from us and what we expect from you. Also refer to each ensemble link or band camp under Basic Information at the top for more information. Have questions? Just ask. Your section leader and Mr. Wellfare are happy to help and want you to succeed. WELCOME!
MARCHING BANDIncoming freshmen will receive a packet of information via e-mail. In the packet is tons of useful information and a calendar to use throughout the entire year.
It is very important for incoming freshmen to know that Marching Band Season starts in July and wraps up in late Fall. We do our best to work out conflicts with sporting and other events. More information can be found on the Marching Band page. PREBAND CAMPThe season begins with a week of Pre-Band Camp the middle to end of July. Pre-Band Camp runs Monday-Thursday at Caledonia High School. The band students get acquainted with their peers and the director and begin to learn the marching program. Pre-Band Camp information is announced in spring via e-mail. See the calendar for specific practice dates & times.
UNIFORM FITTINGSStudents will be fitted for a uniform during Pre-Band Camp or after. CHS supplies the coat, sash, bibbers, shako and plume. You must purchase marching shoes, black gloves and black socks using the order form in your packet of information. There is a limited supply of used marching shoes available at half price. We are always in need of parents willing to alter uniforms!
See the Marching Band page for specific information about uniform pieces and requirements. |
BAND CAMPBand Camp is mandatory for all marching band students and is scheduled the week after Pre-Band Camp (last week of July to early August), located at Lincoln Lake Baptist Camp in Gowen, MI. Your kids will spend many hours learning their marching program and music but have plenty of time for fun. The camp has a great swimming beach, a pontoon, two tubing/water skiing boats, rock climbing walls, black light dodge ball, great food and much more! On the Sunday they leave for Band Camp, the students meet at the school, hand in all necessary travel/medical forms, have their bags inspected and board the busses. Parent's Night at camp is on Thursday evening. You can tour the camp, watch the band perform their show and afterwards gather for an ice cream social. The students return by bus on Friday afternoon and can be picked up at Caledonia High School. Specific travel times will be given during Pre-Band Camp.
See Band Camp for more information. PRACTICESBeginning the week after Band Camp, practices are held 1-2 times a week, 2-4 hours per session. Usually by mid-September, practices are down to just one night a week. Sections may call additional practices as needed.
It is important that students & parents work hard to commit to these practices even after Band Camp. When students miss practices, they have to catch up to keep up which is tough for everyone. Always let Mr. Wellfare know if your student will be missing practice. See the calendar for specific practice dates & times. |