Marching FAQ’s

How does Marching Band enhance my high school experience?

• Marching band members quickly experience a family atmosphere with their section

• You get to develop a great, long-term relationship with the marching band staff. It’s not often that you get to have that kind of a relationship with a teacher.

• You get a chance to exercise! Marching Band is just as much a sport as it is an art.

• You get to improve your musical skills, you will play your instrument more in August than you have in one year of band class.

• You get to be a contributing part of a team. There is no “bench” in Marching Band!

• Many colleges offer preferred admission, scholarships, or in-state tuition for marching band members

• We have done clinics with many college marching bands and band directors!

• Students who successfully complete marching band and concert band requirements will earn a .5 bump on their GPA for Honors Band Class. It counts as a 4.8 if you get an A+

Who can be in the Marching Band?

9th – 12th grade band students at Lightridge High School.

Color guard members do not need to be in a music class.

My friend is in orchestra or choir can they join Marching Band?

They can be a member of our color guard, in our front ensemble (instruments like piano), drumline, or other secondary instrument. They must remain in good standing in their music class. 

I’m nervous about Marching Band.

That’s ok! We can teach you everything you need to know.

How much time does Marching Band take up?

We learn most of our show in August.  Once school starts, we rehearse 2-3 days per week.  The Marching Band performs at all home football games and at least one away game each year. Football games are usually on Friday nights. We also perform in parades, at college football games, and at marching band competitions, which are on Saturdays. – All of these are scheduled and available on the calendar.

Will I be able to manage my time?

Yes! Most of our students are in advanced classes, many are at the Academies of Loudoun, and they all learn to manage their time.  Once you join the Marching Band you immediately have a network of close to 250 friends who can help you manage your time, find rides, and figure out that geometry problem that you just can’t get! Students who join the Marching Band end up benefiting from the lessons they learn in time management.   We will also have you in band class so we can use that time if you need extra help.

What is the Front Ensemble?

Members of the front ensemble play along the front sideline and play the larger percussion instruments and electronic instruments that can’t be moved around the field.

How much does it cost to be in the Marching Band?

$600 Marching Band Fee (All members)

$85  Windbreaker Fee (New members or returning members who have lost their windbreaker)

$50  Marching Shoe Fee (New members or returning members who need to replace shoes)

We understand that money may be an obstacle that keeps you from joining the Marching Band. However, the staff works hard to ensure that everyone can participate in the band, regardless of their financial situation! Please reach out if you need assistance.