Broomfield High School Eagle Bands & Special Ensembles Handbook

Broomfield High School Eagle Bands & Special Ensembles Handbook 2014-15 BBPA PO Box 951 Broomfield CO 80038 Broomfield High School 1 Eagle Way Broomfield CO 80020 Marching Band/Color Guard Concert Band Jazz Band Pep Band Percussion Ensemble Winter Guard Respect, Honor, Community, Dedication www.broomfieldbands.org

Table of Contents Welcome from Ryan... 3 Welcome from BBPA... 4 Program Descriptions... 5 Marching Band/Color Guard... 5 Concert Band... 5 Jazz Band... 5 Pep Band... 6 Winter Percussion... 6 Winter Guard... 6 Participation Costs and Administrative Policies... 7 Participation Costs... 7 Volunteers... 7 Lockers... 7 Marching Band Attire and Gear... 7 Attendance... 8 Grading... 8 Lettering/Awards... 8 Student Leadership... 9 Communications... 9 Program Commitment... 9 Uniform Policies and Care... 9 Marching Band Requirements... 10 Concert Band Requirements... 11 Guidelines for BHS Band Students... 12 The Broomfield Band Member s Creed... 12 Rehearsal Guidelines... 12 Performance Guidelines... 13 Travel... 13 Parent Releases... 13 Health Form... 13 Student Drop-Off/Pick Up... 14 Bus Rules... 14 Food and Water... 14 BHS Band Parents Association (BBPA)... 15 Gift Card Program... 15 Concession Stand... 15 Special Fundraisers... 16 Ideas Welcome!... 16 Your Band Donation is Tax Deductible!... 16 The Band Qualifies for Matching Funds!... 16 What I Wish I Knew As a New Band Parent!... 17 2014-15 Band Calendar... 19 2

Welcome from Ryan Hello to all students and family members of the Broomfield High School Eagle Band! Whether this is your first year in the program or you are a 4th-year veteran, you certainly have an amazing experience and opportunity in front of you. Speaking personally, band can be one of the best, most enjoyable and most memorable things you'll ever be a part of in your life. Don't be mistaken though, as it is certainly not one of the easiest things you'll do in high school. Through band, you'll learn more about your abilities, your limits, your personality, and your musicianship than many people learn in decades. It will be a sure test of your tenacity and determination at times, but you will also see what an incredible group this band can be, building friendships and growing together. Your director and your instructors have high expectations for you, and we are always supportive of you. Take care of business, do your part, and you will see just what an amazing experience you can have being a part of the Broomfield Bands. It's a great day to be an Eagle! -Ryan Laney Ryan.Laney@bvsd.org 720-561-8224 3

Welcome from BBPA Welcome to Broomfield High School Eagle Band! We are the Broomfield Band Parent Association. We re excited that your student has decided to participate in the Broomfield Bands program. There are many opportunities for your student to grow and learn in this program, as well as have fun and create lifelong friendships. The Broomfield Band program is unique in that it offers new students a welcoming environment where they can make new friends and bond with other students. Participating in summer band camps and activities will help your student build a solid foundation at BHS before coming to school in the fall. As your students get to know their fellow bandmates, they ll find that their dedication to and participation in the band program runs deep. Whether it s their love of music, performing, teamwork, leadership, sense of accomplishment or contributing to something greater than themselves students have found something in this program that doesn t exist elsewhere. It s a unique program. BBPA s purpose is to support the band programs. BBPA contributes 40% of funding for this program through fundraising events. In order to accomplish all of the activities we have planned in any given year and effectively raise enough money to continue this band program, we need your help on an ongoing basis. We realize that everyone is very busy with family and job obligations, but in order to continue the program, we need you. We and Mr. Laney would like to keep costs low for students but at the same time, this program is like most extra-curricular activities which require some financial contribution from families in order to exist. Parents and students are expected to participate in events to make them fun, successful, and manageable for everyone. We welcome your ideas and assistance in achieving our goals. We are not able to function without continued support and volunteers. YOU and YOUR contributions make this program what it is. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at ContactBBPA@comcast.net. Thank you! Broomfield Band Parent Association 4

Marching Band/Color Guard Program Descriptions The Eagle Marching Band is the focus of the first quarter credited BAND 1 course. Practices are held during class each day from August through October. Extra rehearsals are held throughout the summer as listed on the Bands Calendar at www.broomfieldbands.org. Practices continue two evenings a week during the marching season with several additional rehearsals/performances on weekends and during some teacher in-service days. Students perform at football games, Broomfield Days 1, and various marching festivals from September through October. Complete Marching Band uniforms are provided. (See Uniform Policies and Care, page 10.) Their show T-shirt and lightweight band jacket (see purchase or rental form in the Band Forms Packet) are used as a travel uniform for all band activities. Parent/student information meetings are held in May and September. Participation costs are determined each season. The Color Guard is a section of the Marching Band that is also part of the normal BAND 1 class time and after-school rehearsals. Members of the Color Guard do not play an instrument during the season, and instead will learn how to utilize flags, sabers, rifles, and other implements to add to the visual appeal of marching shows. The Color Guard is open to both male and female students, and does not require any prior experience to join. Concert Band The Eagle Concert Band is the focus of the last half of the first semester and the full second semester credited Band class. Practices are held during class from late October through May graduation. Concerts are presented in December, February, March and May, along with opportunities for small ensemble performances. Black concert dress (dress or tux ensemble) is required for performances and is provided. (See Uniform Policies and Care, page 10.) Chair positions are assigned based on auditions. Participation costs are determined each season. Jazz Band The Jazz Band is a credited first and second semester class. It is open to any student on any band instrument with no audition required. The class focuses on improvisation, composition, arranging, and playing in the Jazz Band setting. Performances are scheduled throughout the year with approximately 2-3 concerts per semester, along with any fundraising or community outreach opportunities. Concert attire and participation costs are determined each season. 1 Broomfield Days is Broomfield s annual community festival celebrating Broomfield. There is a parade & 5K in the morning, fun activities and food all day. Marching Band and Color Guard march in the parade in the morning. The BBPA has a booth at Broomfield Days where band members sell raffle tickets and Tshirts. 5

Pep Band An extra-curricular group that's not part of the daily band class, the Pep Band performs at most home basketball games and the occasional pep rally event throughout the first half of the spring semester. Pep Band T-shirts are provided for each student. Students with strong attendance throughout the regular season will have the opportunity to join the band on any trips to playoff games. There is no cost required to be a member of the Eagle Pep Band. Winter Percussion Winter Percussion is a percussion-based ensemble that is open to ALL students at BHS, regardless of what instrument they play or any prior involvement with the BHS Bands Program. Percussion Ensemble is a purely extra-curricular group and not part of the daily band class. Practices begin in November with multiple rehearsals every week through spring. The group has a demanding competition schedule from February through April that includes every Saturday, most involving travel with a full day of rehearsals and performances. Auditions are held in November and students do not need to be a percussionist to participate. Performance uniforms, T-shirts and participation cost are determined each season. A required parent/student meeting is held in November. Important Note: Mandatory daily Winter Percussion rehearsals are held during Spring Break. Students who cannot commit to this required schedule are advised to consider joining the following year when they can make the full commitment. Winter Guard The Winter Guard is an indoor performance activity very similar to the Marching Band color guard with shows choreographed to pre-recorded music in a competition schedule separate from Winter Percussion. The team rehearses from November to April in the evenings and most Saturdays. Competitions are held nearly every Saturday from the end of January through state competition in April. Winter Guard is an extra-curricular activity. Uniforms and participation cost are determined each season. Each student is responsible for purchasing gloves and shoes appropriate to the season and a fleshcolored body stocking to wear under uniforms. Participation costs are determined each season. A required parent/student meeting is held in November. Important Note: Mandatory daily Winter Guard rehearsals are held during Spring Break. Students who cannot commit to this required schedule are advised to consider joining the following year when they can make the full commitment. Fun Fact: Secondary students who participated in band and orchestra reported the lowest lifetime and current use of all substances (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs). Did you know? The College Board identifies the arts as one of the six basic academic subject areas students should study in order to succeed in college. 6

Participation Costs and Administrative Policies Participation Costs The per-student cost to participate in marching band/color guard for the fall 2014 season is $300. This cost is partially offset by fundraising in which case, a student s individual fair share is reduced to $175 (see below). Budgets are determined prior to each season. For detailed information about costs and fundraisers, please contact a member of the BBPA board. All fees, costs, and expenditures are organized and handled by the BBPA. Note: Students will incur personal expenses when traveling with these band/guard groups for competitions. This may range from buying snacks/lunch to major travel/lodging expenses if an individual group elects to compete in national competition. Volunteers Parent volunteers are essential to the success of the entire season. There are so many ways to help. Volunteering is a great opportunity for parents to get involved, join the fun and see what their student is accomplishing. Fair Share requirements are reduced when families participate in the band s fundraising activities. Participation in working the concession stand, TAG Day 2, and raffle ticket sales, as well as purchasing grocery, restaurant, and/or retail store gift cards through the Gift Card fund-raiser, reduces a student s cash obligation to $175, instead of $300. Lockers Each student may select a locker and combination lock to store/protect their instrument in the band room. Students may share lockers with a friend if requested. If a lock is lost, it is the responsibility of the student to provide the replacement cost. Locks are available to check out from Mr. Laney at no cost. Do not bring locks from home, to insure that we have lock combinations in case of forgotten combos. Marching Band Attire and Gear Closed-toe athletic shoes, no sandals or flip-flops! Light, breathable shirt Athletic shorts that would be comfortable to run in Labeled water bottle that can be refilled regularly Sunglasses and hat Sunscreen to be applied twice a day Sack lunch 2 TAG Day is our annual fundraiser (one full Saturday-date TBD) where band students walk through the neighborhoods of Broomfield requesting donations door-to-door. It s called TAG Day because we leave a flyer or tag with Broomfield residents. 7

While not part of your attire, also be sure to bring a pencil, a 3.5" dotbook for drill, your instrument, and all music Attendance Attendance to all rehearsals and performances is mandatory. Be sure to plan various other commitments (jobs, classwork, travel, doctor's appointments, etc.) around these events, as they will not constitute an excused absence. Please contact Mr. Laney as soon as a possible conflict arises along with a written note from a Parent/Guardian to discuss its merit as an excusable absence. Students should communicate any potential absences with Mr. Laney as soon as they are apparent at least 1 week in advance. Notifications the same week of the potential absence will not be tolerated. Family and medical emergencies will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Realize that even one person's absence can effect over 50 other people! There are no bench- warmers in band, and we need every person doing their part in order to make the most of our rehearsals and performances. For students involved in Winter Percussion or Guard, realize that you will be expected to rehearse each day throughout Spring Break. Grading Consult individual class syllabi for grading information. Lettering/Awards All letters in the Broomfield High School Bands Program are condensed into a single Band Letter, accompanied by bars. At least 15 points must be earned for a letter. Bars are given for every additional 10 points. Lettering is an honor, and should be treated as such. Students must be in good disciplinary and academic standing to be eligible for letters. Other points may be added at the discretion of Mr. Laney. It is up to students to keep track of their lettering point totals, and submit them at the appropriate times in order to receive letters and bars. All performance-based points must be overseen by Mr. Laney to ensure quality and appropriateness of music, composition, and/or choreography. Activity Points 1 Semester in Fall Marching/Concert Band - - - - 2 1 Semester in Spring Concert Band - - - - - 2 1 Semester in Jazz Band - - - - - - 2 1 Season in Winter Guard/Percussion - - - - 2 1 Season in Pep Band ( 70% of games) - - - - 2 Audition for regional or state honor band* - - - - 1 Participation in non-state honor band - - - - 2 Participation in Colorado All-State Band or Jazz Band - - Automatic Letter Alternate for All-State Band or Jazz Band - - - - 3 Perform at a Solo & Ensemble Festival* - - - - 2 Perform a solo or ensemble piece at a BHS bands concert* - - 1 Program and perform a public recital* - - - - 3 8

Compose and perform an original work* - - - - 2 Choreograph and perform an original flag/dance routine* - - 2 Visit and assist a feeder school's music program* - - - 1 (up to 4 per year) Attend a feeder school's concert * - - - - - 1 (up to 2 per year) Attend a professional music or dance program* - - - 1 (up to 2 per year) Form and maintain an extra-curricular chamber ensemble* - - 3 *Activities with an asterisk next to it require assistance/approval from Mr. Laney to ensure quality and appropriateness of the student's work and musicality, or to approve any activities which take place outside of the school setting (attending a concert, auditioning for an honor band, etc.). Student Leadership There are many opportunities to step up and take on extra responsibilities in the band/guard programs. These include drum majors, band section leaders, guard captains and Student Band Board (SBB) representatives. When considering these positions, keep in mind they take EXTRA TIME outside regular classroom and practice times. Section leaders are requested to help organize the spring band middle school clinics and pep band games during the winter. SBB members organize monthly social activities for band/guard students. Students interested in these leadership positions are interviewed in the spring and serve for the following fall/winter seasons. Communications All performances, rehearsals, fundraising activities, etc. are scheduled and communicated to families as soon as they are set. Be sure to have the bands website www.broomfieldbands.org bookmarked, and take advantage of the band program's Google Calendar, also located on the bands website. Most of the parent communication takes place via email, so be sure we have an up-to-date, valid email for you! It is ultimately the student's and parent's responsibility to keep track of your personal schedule and how it relates to your band expectations. Program Commitment There is a commitment of time and expense required to meet the objectives and expectations of band, guard, and special ensemble programs as outlined in each program description. It is again highly recommended that family vacations be planned before summer band camp. Mandatory Percussion Ensemble and Winter Guard rehearsals are held daily during Spring Break and students must commit to the full competition schedule. All rehearsals, competition schedules and attendance policies are subject to the individual program instructors under the supervision of Mr. Laney. Uniform Policies and Care Your cooperation is greatly appreciated in following these requirements for uniform care. Uniforms are expensive and good care is essential to preserving their long life for future Eagle band members! Any loss, theft or damage of any part of a Marching Band, Concert Band or DrumLine/Guard uniform is the responsibility of the student (unless the 9

uniform is purchased as determined per season). An appropriate charge to repair/replace will be assessed. Remember: While in uniform you represent Eagle Bands/Guard, BHS and our community! Marching Band Requirements 1. All uniforms are to be kept in the band uniform room at school and only used for performances. 2. All pieces of each uniform are numbered and assigned to each student. It is the student s responsibility to keep track of and care for all pieces of their uniform. 3. Along with the issued uniform (which includes black shoes) each student is to provide, wear and be responsible for: Black socks (at least crew length) Lightweight blue band jacket, purchased separately or rented (see form in the Band Forms Packet) Dark colored shorts (spandex or non-baggy gym shorts--no boxer shorts!) That year s show shirt The last two items are required as under garments for changing. 4. Students may wear any type of dark T-shirt and shorts (as above) under their uniform at football games but NO jeans! 5. When traveling (and changing into uniforms at a later time) students should wear their show T-shirt as a travel uniform. 6. T-shirts and socks are to be taken home and laundered after each use. DO NOT leave sweaty T-shirts or socks in your uniform cubby, stuffed in your band shoes or in your hat (shako) box. (Guaranteed for unpleasant odors in the band room!!) 7. Each student is responsible for hanging his/her own uniform back on the hanger properly and presenting it to the band uniform parent responsible. Each garment will be checked for proper hanging and that all parts are returned. The student is then responsible to place his/her uniform in its proper place (cabinet, cubby, etc.) 8. Long hair must be tucked under the marching hat (shako) using pins, rubber bands or whatever it takes. Please DO NOT USE HAIRSPRAY as it makes the hats/uniforms sticky and difficult to clean. 9. Students are not permitted to eat while in uniform or drink anything but water. 10

10. Normal wear is to be expected, but if there is any problem with a uniform that needs attention, please notify a band uniform parent immediately. 11. Students are fitted for uniforms during band camp and fall rehearsals. IMPORTANT POLICY: Students often change into their marching uniforms in very tight conditions (both time and space) in the band uniform room or on a school bus. It is imperative each student wear the required undergarment shorts and T-shirt to marching events where they will be changing into uniform. There is seldom time or the availability of a restroom for private changing particularly during off-campus performances. Male and female students are often changing at the same time/place. Students, who are not properly dressed wearing the required under garments will be excused until they have the proper attire or asked to wait outside the changing area until all other students are dressed. If, after several reminders, a student does not honor this clothing requirement and the privacy of fellow band members, they will be directed to see Mr. Laney. This violation may be cause for dismissal from the program. Concert Band Requirements 1. Female students are assigned long black performance dresses. Students provide black hose or socks and black dress shoes. 2. Male students are provided a tux ensemble including jacket, pants, shirt, cummerbund and tie. Students provide black socks and black shoes. (NOT athletic shoes!) 3. Performance attire (dress, tux ensemble plus a protective garment bag) is checked out to each student who must sign a clothing agreement. Please take good care of these garments while at home! All attire is to be returned at the end of the season. 4. Concert dresses and tux shirts are to be laundered after each use. Please wash dresses in cold water so they do not shrink or fade. Wash tux shirts in warm water and only with other white items. Please DO NOT launder any other parts of the tux ensemble. Please air-out the jacket/pants by taking them out of the plastic garment bag while stored at home. The tux jacket/pants will be dry-cleaned by the BBPA at the end of the concert season. For all purely extra-curricular activities such as Winter Percussion, Winter Guard, and Pep Band, uniform policies are dependent on the season. POLICY NOTE: All BHS band/ensemble/guard uniforms are the property of the BBPA unless purchased individually as determined per season. Uniforms are not the property of students. All pieces of every uniform will be inventoried at the end of each season. Students will be assessed appropriately for any loss, theft or damage to any part of the uniform. Schedules are published as soon as possible but are always subject to change! Students and families are encouraged to check their email regularly and the band s website: www.broomfieldbands.org. Please make sure the BBPA has your current contact information. 11

Guidelines for BHS Band Students BHS school rules apply during all band activities on and off-campus. The Broomfield Band Member s Creed 1. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will consistently exhibit remarkable self-discipline, not only in band functions, but in all areas of life. 2. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will show the greatest respect to all those around me, regardless of age, title, or relation to myself, and will proactively help others as needed regardless of personal recognition or compensation. 3. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will be prepared for all rehearsals, performances, and general functions with all necessary equipment, music, clothing, and other needs as is relevant. 4. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will treat all equipment, facilities, and other materials with the greatest care, regardless of location, ownership, and current condition. 5. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will use my talents and abilities to contribute to my community in a positive way, holding to a strong moral conduct for the betterment of myself and others. 6. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will adhere to the functions of an internal democracy, lead by example, and consistently follow directions from my own leaders. 7. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will respect my director, my instructors, the student leadership, the volunteers, and my peers, and will proactively show my appreciation for them. 8. As a member of the Broomfield Band Program, I will ALWAYS perform at the highest level, and will expect myself to be a better person tomorrow than I am today. Rehearsal Guidelines 1. Be early to all rehearsals. If you re on time, you re late. 2. Be prepared with your instrument and have your music ready. 3. Pencils only (NO pens!) for musical notations. 4. Behave considerately to whomever is on the podium, whether it is the director or a guest. 12

5. Treat school-owned instruments/equipment better than your own. Any loss, theft or damage of an instrument will be the student s responsibility and they will be assessed accordingly. 6. Cell phones off during rehearsals. 7. Rehearsal set up and tear down is a required group activity. Performance Guidelines 1. Be early, be prepared. 2. Check all uniform parts for cleanliness and proper fit. 3. Make sure your instrument is in good repair so you can perform to the best of your ability. 4. When in uniform: No PDA, no eating, and no foul language. 5. Everyone should be professional while in a performance setting. 6. Unprofessional behavior will be cause for further disciplinary action 7. Cell phones are not allowed in or near performance areas. 8. Performance set up and tear down is a fun and necessary group activity! 9. Properly hang and store your uniform. Travel Parent Releases All students must have a signed parental release turned in to the band office prior to any travel associated with band/guard activities. This form is provided to you in the Band Forms Packet and can be found online at www.broomfieldbands.org. All trips are preauthorized by the BHS Athletic & Activities Director. If a release is not turned in, the student will not be allowed on the trip. All trips are required to have additional adult chaperones. Health Form Each student must have a current health/emergency contact form on file with the band director. Files remain in the band room and are always taken along on any off-campus trip. Please inform Mr. Laney immediately should you have any changes to your student s health information during the year. 13

Student Drop-Off/Pick Up Occasionally parents may need to take their child directly to an off-campus activity or pick them up early. Written notification to the band director prior to the trip is required and the student must check in with the director upon arrival or departure. No student will be allowed to leave a site with anyone other than the official group/chaperone or a parent/guardian without written permission. The student is responsible to pre-arrange with someone else to unload their instrument/equipment and anything else they are responsible for when returning to school. Bus Rules 1. No glass containers 2. Good conduct and respect expected. No loud, boisterous behavior. 3. Snacks, fruit, canned beverages and water allowed. 4. Only necessary band and personal items, please. 5. Warm clothing for cool, late nights. 6. Packed lunch, when necessary. 7. Stay seated at all times. 8. Clean up your own mess. Food and Water Often during competitions the band/guard may perform two times or there might be a block of time between performances. In these cases, students should bring food for more than one meal and extra snacks. Sometimes there is time for students to purchase meals on-site and sometimes they do not have the time or services are not provided. Be sure your student is prepared to have the energy necessary to make their day a success with a good breakfast, LOTS of water, lunch and energy snacks! It s true! Researchers found that students who report consistent high levels of involvement in music over the middle and high school years show significantly higher levels of mathematics proficiency by grade 12. 14

BHS Band Parents Association (BBPA) The BHS Band Parents Association is one of the most important aspects of the BHS Eagle Bands/Special Ensembles program. Without the BBPA the band would not be able to afford ANY of the necessary amenities the band/guard needs to function properly. The main objective of the BBPA, a volunteer non-profit entity, is to provide financial and volunteer support and to promote the growth of the BHS Band/Guard program. BBPA is a cooperative effort between the Band Director, BHS, and band/guard students and their parents. Your involvement with the BBPA will not only benefit your child, but will dually benefit the entire program. There are so many ways to help but the best way is to volunteer! BBPA business meetings and/or Parent Information meetings are held in the band room on a regular basis during the school year. Meetings are noted on the band calendar and email reminders sent to band families. Officers are elected in the spring and serve for the following year. All parents are invited and encouraged to attend! It s a great way to stay up to date on the many activities that are going on every month and immediate volunteer needs. There is no financial obligation to attend meetings or participate in BBPA activities. Fundraising is the foundation for generating necessary funds for the BBPA budget, which supports band and guard programs. The combined budget for all the 2014-15 programs is expected to be around $16,000. This budget will be presented to the BBPA general membership for final approval in the fall quarterly BBPA business meeting. There are several established activities you can support or help coordinate. New ideas are always welcome! Check out the activities below for more information on ways to support our band/guard programs. Gift Card Program Buying gift cards is an easy, painless and lucrative way to raise significant funds for the band program. Plus it s a convenience for you (and friends and neighbors!) to purchase a wide range of items from your favorite retail businesses. You buy at face value and use like cash. The band receives a percentage of sales (no extra fees here!) depending on the retailer. See a BBPA board member for more information, how to order and a list of band family coordinators in your neighborhood who will take your order! This is an important year-round fundraiser. Concession Stand The south end concession stand is managed by the BBPA during home football and soccer game and all playoff games (as needed). Volunteers are needed to assist with set-up, food preparation and manning the booth during these activities. It s good visibility for the band and a great way to raise funds. The game entrance fee is waived for Concession Stand volunteers. 15

Special Fundraisers There are a variety of other fundraising activities throughout the year including: Restaurant Nights - hosted periodically at area restaurants, the band receives a percentage of dinner sales (sometimes lunch is included, too). Look for band flyers, email updates and Broomfield Enterprise listings for the location each month. It s easy to Dine (or take out) for Dollars for the band! Friends and neighbors always welcome! Tag Day is our annual fundraiser (one full Saturday-date TBD) where band students walk through the neighborhoods of Broomfield requesting donations door-to-door. It s called Tag Day because we leave a flyer or tag with Broomfield residents. Raffle Tickets the band sells raffle tickets for $10 each and each band member is expected to sell 10 tickets. Ideas Welcome! We are continually looking for new ways to support the band/guard programs. Please let a BBPA officer know if you have ideas. Volunteers to help manage these types of activities are encouraged to step up and take charge! Your Band Donation is Tax Deductible! Should you choose to make a financial gift or donation of goods to the band program, it is tax deductible. Financial donations can be directed to the general fund or a specific line item such as new music, instrument repair/purchase or transportation costs. See Mr. Laney or the BBPA Treasurer for a donation form or acknowledgement letter. The Band Qualifies for Matching Funds! Many employers will honor matching funds for contributions to non-profit organizations. Check it out with your employer and have those checks benefit the BHS Band/Guard programs! You will need the following information for your employer: EIN#: 23-7348117 BBPA P. O. Box 951 Broomfield, CO 80020 16

What I Wish I Knew As a New Band Parent! There are so many programs/activities going on, it can be overwhelming! Here are some of the most important tips. 1. Marching season starts in May with band camp on May 31, June 17, July 15, and July 31-August 8. See the calendar at www.broomfieldbands.org for details. 2. Practice makes for success. Students need to be at all practices! 3. No matter the reason, when a student misses a rehearsal, it makes other students have to work harder. 4. The marching band/guard plays for all home football games and if the team goes to the playoffs, the band will be there to provide pep music. 5. Directors/Instructors are happy campers if everyone is ready to start on time. Students should be in the band room or on the practice field a minimum of ten minutes before scheduled start time. 6. Necessities for marching band/guard rehearsals: water bottle, sun block, hats and athletic shoes (no long pants, sandals or flip-flops!) 7. Parent volunteers are essential to the success of the entire season. There are so many ways to help. Volunteering is a great opportunity for parents to get involved, join the fun and see what their student is accomplishing. 8. SUMMER BAND CAMP IS VERY IMPORTANT! Major work is accomplished for the fall marching program. Please do not schedule your family vacation during this August week. 9. The BHS Band Parent s Association (BBPA) generally meets monthly throughout the school year. Meetings will be posted on the Band Calendar at www.broomfieldbands.org. 10. Pep Band starts in the spring semester and performs for home basketball games. The band usually performs one or two evenings a week (depending on schedules and student availability) and some playoff games throughout the season. There are usually fun travel opportunities involved with being a member of the Pep Band. There is no cost to join Pep Band, all band students are welcome to join. 11. Percussion Ensemble and Winter Guard begin in November, rehearsing two to three nights a week, plus some Saturdays and lasts until April. These programs are a serious commitment for students/families with a demanding competition schedule. There are mandatory daily rehearsals during spring break. If your student can t commit to the full schedule it is advised they choose another year to participate. 17

12. Students are responsible for the care of any band/guard or special ensemble uniform. All uniforms are the property of the BBPA (unless purchased on a per season basis) and any loss, theft or damage to any part of a uniform will be appropriately assessed. 13. Students are required to wear the appropriate under garment changing clothes (dark shorts/t-shirt) when changing into uniforms. 14. If you have ANY questions, please check with Mr. Laney, specialty instructors or any BBPA band parent. Everyone is always willing to help! Band is good for you! Students with coursework/experience in music performances and music appreciation scored higher on the SAT than students with no arts participation 18

2014-15 Band Calendar (Dates may be subject to change. For current info, see the calendar at www.broomfieldbands.org.) May, June, July Band camp 5/31, 6/17, 7/15 August 7/31-8/8 Band camp 8/8 Band Showcase (Save the date! This is a fun family event!) 8/29 Football game vs. Legacy (BHS rival game wear your BHS blue!) September 9/19 Football game vs. Loveland 9/20 Broomfield Days 1 Parade and Festival 9/27 Marching Band Friendship Cup at Elizabeth High School October 10/2 Football game vs. Skyline 10/4 or 10/18 Tag Day 2 10/11 CU Band Day, University of Colorado Boulder campus 10/13 Marching Regional Competition at Centaurus High School, Lafayette 10/24 Marching State Finals, United State Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs (tentative) 10/24 Football game vs. Fort Collins 10/31 Football game vs. Silver Creek (Raffle drawing at half-time) November - TBD Marching Band Awards Banquet December - TBD BHS Band Concert January 2015 Pep Band Friday nights Winter Guard Percussion February Pep Band Friday nights Winter Guard Percussion Chamber Ensemble Rehearsal Begin orchestra rehearsals for theatre March Chamber Ensemble Rehearsal Field Trip May BHS Graduation (the band performs at graduation every year) Spring Band Concert 19