Smith School Bands - Band @ RHS

Band @ RHS

RHS Band Program Overview

The Ramsey High School band program consists of two different phases. From August to the end of October, students participate in marching band, traveling to compete against other high school programs and performing at home football games. From November through the end of the year, the students will perform with either the Wind Ensemble (by audition) or the Concert Band. Additionally, there are extra-curricular performance opportunities with several auditioned groups: Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Pit Orchestra for the musical, as well as Bergen County, Region, and All-State Bands.

Is Marching Band required?

Yes. Since the band practices during the school day, students who wish to perform in a concert band will also perform in the marching band. Marching band involves a 5 day band camp in August and lasts through the end of October…although most students wish it would last longer! The band also performs in a few parades throughout the year.

Is band camp required?

Yes. Band camp is an important week where students learn the fundamentals of marching and a majority of the competitive program. In addition to the scheduled practice time, there are social events planned throughout the week that foster camaraderie between all band members. Band camp will be held August 12-16, 2024 and a pre-camp rehearsal will be held August 5. Contact Mr. Jenkins (jjenkins@ramsey.k12.nj.us) ASAP if you anticipate any conflicts.

What is a typical weekly marching band schedule (September – October)?

Marching band rehearsals are held as part of the school day and on Thursday nights from 6:00-9:00pm. The band is also together on most Saturdays throughout the competitive season. A typical Saturday will include an early afternoon rehearsal and a competition in the evening. Additionally, the band performs at Friday night home football games in the fall.

Is an audition required?

There is no audition required to participate in Marching Band (September-October) or Concert Band (November-June). Auditions are required to participate in the top band (Wind Ensemble) and extra-curricular groups.

Do I have to switch instruments for Marching Band?

Oboes and Bassoons are not used in marching bands because the reeds and instruments are too delicate for the outdoors. In marching band, oboe and bassoon players generally play clarinet or saxophone, or perform in the pit (stationary percussion on the sideline). The rest of the year they play oboe or bassoon in Concert Band or Wind Ensemble. Trombone slides get in the way during marching band, so trombone players play a marching baritone during marching band season (a very easy switch). French horn players play mellophone during marching band season (also a very easy switch).

Can you play a sport and also participate in band?

Yes. Many band students also play a sport. Mr. Jenkins and the coaches are flexible and make it work for their students. Contact Mr. Jenkins with specific questions.

Does it cost much to participate in band?

There are only a few expenses involved with HS band. These include shoes, a small fee for band camp, and uniform cleaning. Financial issues should NEVER be a reason to not participate in the program. There are numerous fundraising opportunities for the students to defray the cost of these expenses. Financial assistance is also available - contact Mr. Jenkins with specific questions.

Will the time commitments involved with band adversely affect my grades?

Nope! Good grades are dependent on effective time management skills and good personal discipline – two skills at which band students excel. Interestingly enough, most students find that their highest grades for the entire year occur during the fall semester, at the height of Marching Band season. If you are conscientious and stay organized, grades should not be a problem. It is no coincidence that the top students at Ramsey High School are usually members of the band.