mbguardparents

Building a flag collection is the most important task at hand. If we add one or two flag patterns a year it will help the students apply "color" to the show. By sewing flags we will save literally hundreds of dollars. We can then apply this savings to other areas of need. These flags are for performance only. The guard will practice with a simple, inexpensive practice flag. This will insure that the performance flags last a long time. At a previous school this is what we did and we had flags last over 12 years!

Of course, the foundation of all this activity in our Unity Music Boosters and active participation in this group is a great place to begin.

	I want to invite all parents to become involved in our marching music program. A marching band must be a cooperative effort of student, director and parent. All of my rehearsals are open. We have no closed meetings or rehearsals. You may come observe any rehearsal at any time. I want the program to accessible and comfortable to all. This, however, does not diminish the intensity of the activity itself. Our rehearsals will be intense and controlled. Marching Band, by it's very nature, is a demonstration of creativity, discipline, expression, intensity and control. If we are to be successful we must learn and manage all of these aspects of our performance.
To get started: For the color guard the music boosters will supply the uniform and gloves. Due to the personal nature of the item each student will have to purchase their own shoes. The approximate cost of the shoes are $19. This is necessary due to the style of marching we will teach. The shoe has a beveled heel and a flexible sole that allows the student to move in a smooth even manner. It also allows the group to look uniform. We will use the same style of shoe each year so this is a one time cost. These shoes will be kept at school with the uniform so it is available for each performance. I do recommend that each student get a set of thermal under garments (under armor for those who wish to go the expensive route) due to the possibility of cold weather.
	Now more than ever all students need to be present at all performances. A gap in the drill (marching formations) makes it very difficult on others in the band. Each student will also need to attend the Band Week session (check our the Band Week link). At Band Week we will learn the music, memorize the music and learn the drill. A student who misses this session will fall dreadfully behind and will have a very difficult job catching up with his/her fellow band members. The activity makes the band a team. This interdependence is the most important aspect of this activity.
Parents there are many things you can do to assist our marching musicians: Snacks during band week. Equipment move on and off the field. (there is a link to this area) Uniform check-out & check-in. (there is a link to this area) Flag sewing: Building a flag collection is the most important task at hand. If we add one or two flag patterns a year it will help the students apply "color" to the show. By sewing flags we will save literally hundreds of dollars. We can then apply this savings to other areas of need. These flags are for performance only. The guard will practice with a simple, inexpensive practice flag. This will insure that the performance flags last a long time. At a previous school this is what we did and we had flags last over 12 years! Of course, the foundation of all this activity in our Unity Music Boosters and active participation in this group is a great place to begin.
Parents make a tremendous difference in program attitude. Parental support allows a higher level of instruction from the director and instructors. Parent attendance, encouragement and vocal support are crucial to our success. Parents can choose the level or area of involvement that best suits them. Come join us!