Frequently asked questions

Can I be in band and other activities (athletics, FAA, TSA, dance, choir, theatre, etc.)?

Yes. The positive relationship between the fine arts programs and the athletic department is something that we value greatly. The same goes for other organizations like FAA and TSA. There is ALWAYS a solution to work out schedules and other conflicts with band events. We do not limit any students from participating in as many activities as they are able, and encourage them to explore all opportunities! 

How much time does band require?

We understand that the summer band and fall schedule can look intimidating at first. During summer band, we front load our our curriculum so that students can have the opportunity to balance their academics once school starts. The bulk of our marching curriculum happens in the first 9 weeks, and after that, rehearsals drastically scale back to 1 rehearsal a week or none. Please recognize that we value the students' time and effort on top of grades. Ironically, students typically have better grades during marching season due to our heavy emphasis on pushing kids to attend tutorials and turn in work. Students will always have opportunities to attend tutorials after school. 

Am I good enough to be in the band?

Yes! You have a one-way ticket membership into the Mighty Maverick Band as soon as you pick your instrument in 6th/7th grade, and you've been equipped with all the knowledge you need in 6th-8th grade to particiapte!

Should I be afraid of marching band?

Anything new and unfamiliar can be intimidating, but marching band is the most rewarding and excited experince in band! Along with all the other incoming freshmen, you will have all the opportunities to gain the skills needed to succeed. 

What if I can't memorize music?

Repetition is your friend! If you can memorize how to play the notes on your instrument, you can memorize the marching show music!

Do I have to take PE if I am in Marching Band?

Nope! Marching Band is a P.E. AND a Fine Arts credit.

How do band placements work (1st band, 2nd band, 3rd band, 4th band)?

All students have been placed in a band class based on auditions that occur at the end of the school year. The directors encourage all students interested in moving up a level to practice the All-Region music. The Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Wind students are required to learn the All-Region music. When comparing students on the same music, it is easy to see if band adjustments are necessary. Percussion students will audition during the Fall Semester to determine their band placement for the Spring Semester.

How do I join the Colorguard/Winterguard?

The Colorguard is a performance based group that is part of the marching band, and is open to both males and females. This specialized group hosts auditions in the Spring for the following Fall semester. During the Spring, the Colorguard participates as a Winterguard in competitions. If you are interested in being in Colorguard, please visit the 'Mavguard' tab.

Can I participate in band for only half of the school year?

No. We require all band students to participate fully in both marching and concert band. 

What do double-reed players do during marching season?

Double-reed players typically play saxophone or for bassoons, a low brass instrument. We understand that learning a new instrument on top of learning how to march can be a lot to handle, so their playing ability on the new instrument will not go into consideration with a varsity marching spot. Double-reeds will focus primarily on the marching skills over the playing. They will also play their primary instrument regularly during the fall semester. 

What should we do if my student has a conflict with a rehearsal, game or other performance scheduled on the band calendar?

We require attendance at all rehearsals, games and performances to be mandatory. We have added all the mandatory rehearsals, games, and other performances to the calendar as year in advance to accomodate future scheduling. It is expected that band will be a priority, so please consult the band calendar before scheduling other appointments. If you do have a conflict with any band events, contact the director immediately. Early communication is key.

When my student participates in a fundraiser, do the profits benefit my student or Band Boosters?

All fundraisers benefit the entire band! Every single penny that students raise will go directly back to them via snack bags on long contest days, event meals, supplies for marching season (seat cushions, extra ponchos, etc.), band banquet, and senior scholarships.

I write a variety of checks for band functions; to whom should I write my checks?

All checks should be made payable to the Manvel High School Band.