FAQ

Can I join a sport and Marching Band?

A: Depending on your sport's season and practices, you may be able to join a sport and do Marching Band. Band season begins in July and ends in late November (if there is a special event or trip that year, band season will end in December). As long as you are able to attend band rehearsals and competitions and can manage your time well, you can do both! A good number of students in the Marching Band are also involved in the swim, soccer, baseball, basketball, and track! If you are unsure about whether or not this is good option for you, we encourage you to talk to Mr. Plunkett and Mr. Sherrill and your counselor!

Does Band fit into my academic schedule throughout high school?

A: Yes! Click HERE for a sample 4-year Academic Schedule.

How often are the rehearsals?

A: During summer, freshmen will attend a week long orientation called New Marchers Camp (6 PM to 9 PM). Starting in June to the last week of our season in November, members will attend a 2-hour sectional once a week. When the school year starts, Wednesday Night Rehearsals will take place every Wednesday until the last week of our season. Check out "Behind the Scenes" for more details on rehearsals throughout the year!

Why is Music Camp/Drill Week important?

A: During Music Camp and Drill Week, the band learns the fundamentals of marching band for marching and music from professional instructors. These two weeks are a good "intro" to what the entire season will be like. In recent years, we have also began learning the show during Drill Week, making it extremely important not to skip. During these last two weeks of summer, band members will also have a chance to truly bond anyone in the program regardless of whether they play the tuba or snare drum, or toss a rifle!

How do I sign up for Band classes?

A: If you are joining the Marching Band, Concert Band/Percussion is mandatory for freshmen and sophomores, and strongly recommended for juniors and seniors. Marching Band is a PE class meets during first period and is a one semester class only while Concert Band/Percussion is a Fine Arts class and is a year-long commitment. During the first semester, Concert Band/Percussion class period will be used to practice and clean field show and parade music. Additionally, having time to play music in smaller groups during class time allows the directors and other professional instructors to help students improve on the musicality aspect of the performances. Students will also have a chance to review videos of their performances filmed during rehearsal or competitions. If there is a class conflict, please reach out to Mr. Sherrill and Mr. Plunkett.

Which Concert Band will I be in?

A: All freshmen will be enrolled in Concert Band. Every year, Wind Ensesmble auditions are held around April. Those who make the audition will be placed in Wind Ensemble the following year and those who do not will be placed in Symphonic Band. All concert band groups perform at concerts and play at a high level.

What is Pep Band?

A: Pep Band is a group of Wind Ensemble members and section leaders who play at various events including school assemblies, high school reunions, community events, and many more.

How do I become a section leader?

A: Near the end of each year students may turn in a letter to the directors, showing an interest in becoming a section leader. The current section leaders will also talk to the directors about what they have observed in candidates throughout the year regarding behavior, skill, and leadership qualities. To be a section leader, however, students must be in Wind Ensemble. Wind Ensemble auditions are open to all students and take place around the same time section leader letters are due. Even if you are unsure if you will make Wind Ensemble, turn in a letter anyway!

Have MORE questions?

A: No Problem! Contact our directors: Mr. Sherrill ksherrill@ausd.net or Mr. Plunkett tplunkett@ausd.net