The Monta Vista–Lynbrook Marching Band brings together two exceptional programs, united by a shared commitment to excellence, artistry, and performance.
With so many opportunities available, students are constantly balancing rigorous academics, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. Choosing how to spend your time matters.
The Monta Vista-Lynbrook Marching Band is designed to be a high-impact, high-reward experience—one that builds skills, community, and lasting memories without requiring year-round commitment. In a single season, students gain access to an experience that is both meaningful and efficient in the value it provides.
Why join marching band?
A built-in community:
Be part of one of the largest and most supportive student organizations on campus. Students quickly form strong friendships across grades, schools, and backgrounds.
A complete skill set:
Develop musicianship, coordination, and performance skills while also strengthening time management, focus, and resilience—skills that directly translate to academic success.
Structured and efficient:
The season is clearly defined, allowing students to fully engage while still balancing academics and other activities. Many students successfully participate alongside AP courses, athletics, and other commitments.
PE credit:
Earn PE credit through marching band, freeing up space in your schedule for additional academic courses or electives.
Meaningful experiences:
Perform at competitions, travel, and work toward a shared goal as part of a large ensemble—experiences that stand out in both personal growth and college applications.
A lasting impact:
Even students who participate for just one season consistently describe marching band as one of the most memorable and rewarding parts of their high school experience.
Dates for summer camps, competitions, and football games can be found on our Marching Band Calendar.
Our season runs from band camp August 3 until November 14
Weekly rehearsal schedule:
Monday/Wednesday: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
This year, all rehearsals will be held at MONTA VISTA HS.
To register for marching band, you will need to complete the following items:
This will be needed to complete your Athletic Clearance (due August 1). It is recommended you schedule your physical as soon as possible. If your primary care doctor is not available, you may also schedule a "sports physical" at an urgent care facility.
Your Doctor will need to complete THIS FORM
This form serves as your registration for the Marching Band Program and must be completed every year.
The Family Agreement is a commitment on behalf of the member and their family to uphold the expectations of the Monta Vista Marching Band.
Marching Band is recognized as an athletic activity by the Fremont Union High School District. As such, students are able to receive PE Credit (10-12) and Elective Credit (9) for their participation.
Dtudents are required to complete several items before they can participate. Please complete steps 1-3 outlined HERE. Your athletic clearance is complete when your status reads "pending."
This process must be renewed EVERY SEASON.
If you are registering as a Marching Band student enrolled at Lynbrook High School, please contact your school's athletic director, or our logistics manager team for more information about completing your athletic clearance.
This process must be renewed EVERY SEASON.
Am I required to join Marching Band?
No! Marching Band is completely voluntary. It functions similarly to a fall sport.
9th graders can earn additional elective credit.
10th–12th graders can earn a semester of PE athletic credit.
Many students love Marching Band and return each year. It’s an incredible opportunity to form friendships, build leadership skills, and be part of something special!
Who can participate in Marching Band?
Any student enrolled in an instrumental music class (Band or Orchestra) is eligible to join Marching Band. The only exception is Color Guard, which is open to students regardless of their enrollment in a music class.
What if I don’t play a marching instrument?
Students who play non-marching instruments can transition to an alternative role for the season:
Oboe & Bassoon players often switch to saxophone, front ensemble (pit), or Color Guard.
Piano players typically join the front ensemble/pit percussion.
Adventurous students may switch to a brass instrument!
Do Marching Band students get PE credit?
Yes, but only starting in 10th grade. This is a district/state policy. 9th graders do not receive PE credit for Marching Band.
Can I apply for a leadership position?
Yes! Students from both schools are eligible to audition for Drum Major or interview for leadership positions after completing one full season of Marching Band. More details will be provided in the spring.
Can I rent an instrument?
Yes! Marching band instruments—especially marching brass—will be provided. Each school will issue instruments to its respective students.
What uniform will we wear?
Students will wear a performance top and black bottom that matches the field show theme. Traditional MVHS and LHS uniforms will not be used.
Does the Marching Band travel?
Yes! The band competes in about five competitions throughout the Bay Area. Transportation is provided for most events, except those within our school district.
What is the cost?
Marching Band is primarily funded through parent contributions and fundraising. The estimated contribution for the season is around $1,000 per marcher. MVHS Boosters handle finances.
Does Marching Band look good on college applications?
Absolutely! College admissions officers value music students for their discipline, creativity, teamwork, and commitment. Many music students go on to attend top universities and colleges across the country.
Does Marching Band take up all my time?
No! While Marching Band requires a time commitment in the fall, it is structured like a team sport. Students learn valuable time-management skills and receive support from upperclassmen to balance music, academics, and life.
What are the band’s achievements?
Both the MVHS and LHS Marching Bands are competitive units in the WBA circuit. By combining our resources, we aim to continue our tradition of excellence.
When is Band Camp? Is it mandatory?
Band Camp dates can be found in the Marching Band Calendar.
Band Camp is crucial—this is when we learn the basics of marching and the opening moments of our show. All students are expected to attend. More details will be sent after registration.
Can I do sports and Marching Band?
Yes! Since Marching Band is a fall sport, you can still participate in spring and most winter sports. However, fall sports that conflict with Marching Band include:
Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Girls’ Golf, Girls’ Tennis, Girls’ Volleyball, Water Polo
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!
Director
Music Caption Head
Woodwind Instructor
Guard Caption Head
Asst. Guard Caption Head
Guard Instructor
Guard Instructor
Visual Caption Head
Asst. Visual Caption Head
Visual Instructor
Percussion Caption Head
Front Ensemble Instructor
Battery Instructor
Battery Instructor
Electronics Technician