Marching Band Essentials
Workshops, Band Camp, & Rehearsals
These guidelines are designed to promote student health and safety during rehearsals. Marching band season often brings some of the hottest weather in the country, so it is important that we follow these practices to ensure students can rehearse safely and continue performing at their best.
Attendance
Attendance is critical. Even a single absence can drastically impact the productivity of the rehearsal. Please familiarise yourself with our attendance policies for rehesrsals that take place outside the school.
Other notes:
Rehearsal times shown are the start and end times for the rehearsal.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled rehearsal time so you have enough time to get your instrument/equipment and get to the assigned rehearsal time.
For rehearsals in the Alta Sierra Stadium or Veterans Memorial Stadium (VMS), plan to arrive even earlier.
Pick up time is typivally 15 minutes after the end of the scheduled rehearsal. Longer if we are rehearsing in the stadium.
Rehearsal Attire
Appropriate marching band rehearsal attire should prioritize safety, comfort, mobility, and sun protection, since rehearsals are typically long and outdoors.
Clothing
Recommended:
Athletic T-shirt or moisture-wicking shirt
Athletic shorts or lightweight athletic pants
Clothing that allows full movement
Avoid:
Jeans/Denim, Heavy hoodies (in heat), Restrictive clothing, Clothing with inappropriate or distracting graphics, dark/black t-shirts (in heat).
You should be able to march, lunge, mark time, and move freely.
Footwear
Wear: Athletic running or training shoes with good arch support. They should be laced and secured.
Avoid: Flip flops, Sandals, Crocs, Barefoot, Slides, Skateboard shoes, shoes without an arch.
Generally, shoes designed for running (with laces) work. Other shoes don’t.
Marching involves constant direction changes and fast movement, so proper shoes help prevent ankle and knee injuries.
Sun & Weather Protection
These items are required:
Hat/Visor or Sunglasses or BOTH
Sunblock! (30+ SPF). Even if you think you are invincible against the sun!
Hydration & Water Jugs
Every student must bring their own water to rehearsal.
Red Water Jug. Approved jugs:
Buchanan Band 1/2 Gallon Jug (purchased from the program)
Igloo 1/2 Gallon Plastic Sports Beverage Jug with Hooks, Red
Igloo 1 Gallon Plastic Sports Beverage Jug with Hooks, Red
Marching rehearsals often involve hours in direct sun, so hydration and sun protection are essential.
Dress Code Reminders
You are to be in CUSD dress code at all times including:
Natural hair colors only
No bare midriffs
Appropriate length shoulder straps
Clothing that is in good condition
Hair secured away from the face
Simple rule of thumb: “Dress like you’re going to athletic practice outside for several hours.”
What to bring to rehearsal
An instrument in working order
Your music binder (white or black, 1”)
Lanyard, dotcards, and a pencil! (this will be explained)
Water Jug
Rehearsal Etiquette
Be ON TIME! Be in the Bandroom no later than 15 minutes before the scheduled rehearsal time
Be attentive and silent on the field! Do not excessively talk to those around you…every minute we can get during rehearsal will help us succeed in Utah and SoCal!
No phones on the field! The only exception to this rule is using your phone for the UDB App.
Have a fun time on the field! Having the right mindset is everything…it is boring if you make it boring, and it is fun if you make it fun!
