Bellevue High Band

Frequently Asked Questions

1.)     Do I have to perform with the band at home football games? Yes. The band’s performances at football games are required. Marching/Pep band is about school pride, teamwork, service to the community, tradition, and entertainment. It is expected that all concert band and wind ensemble members be present and in uniform for the duration of each game. We will also perform at playoff games should they be scheduled. See the Performance Calendar for all required dates/times.

2.)     Do I have to attend the summer band rehearsals? Yes. We have music and marching fundamentals to learn/review. Missing these rehearsals can put you behind before we ever start school, especially if you are new to the program. Our first game this year is on Friday, September 12^th.

3.)     I need to use a school-owned instrument. What do I do? Call or email me ASAP to tell me what you need! I will be in my office periodically throughout the summer and I check my email almost daily. I will do my best to accommodate your needs. See the Fees/Expenses list for maintenance fees.

4.)     How do I get into a jazz band? Step #1: Practice. Step #2: come to the auditions! Placement auditions begin at 6:30 am on Monday, September 10^th. Audition music will be available at the first day of auditions, but I highly recommend these two books: Easy Jazz Conception and Intermediate Jazz Conception, both by Jim Snidero and are available at Mills Music and Kennelly Keys Music. Jazz band will meet at 6:30 am, 5 days per week. It is a credited class and grades are earned.

5.)     Do I need to bring my instrument and supplies on the first day of school? YES! We will be rehearsing immediately.

6.)     I’m interested in switching instruments. What should I do? Please consult me before you do any switching! We don’t need more saxophones! We are always in need of musicians that want to play oboe, bassoon, french horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba. We simply must create a balanced instrumentation if we are going to be successful.

7.)   I heard that the band is planning a trip to California over Spring Break. Is that true? Yes, we are planning a trip to California during Spring Break to perform at Disneyland . We also did this trip in ’03, ’05, & ‘07 and it is loads of fun! We do have to submit an audition recording, but I am confident we will be accepted. All band students are encouraged to partici pat e, but it is not required. It is important to know a couple of things up front: 1.) Most of the rehearsals for the performance take place on weekends and evenings in March and April. 2.) We must have balanced instrumentation. 3.) The Band Boosters will sponsor a fundraiser in the fall so that students can raise money for the trip. For the sake of reference, the cost of our last trip in ’05 was $735 per student and unfortunately things have not gotten cheaper. Obviously, there will be more details available in September.