Rising Freshman Information Nights

May 17 & 19, 2005

The kickoff to the new band year is when the rising freshmen attend the information night. First, everyone gathers in the bandroom, and then Dr. Markoch addresses the audience of prospective band member and their parents, along with lots of current band members.

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Quite quickly, Dr. Markoch dismisses the rising freshmen into the capable hands of the newly minted band leadership. The prospective band members take their instruments, divide into their respective sections, and go outside to learn what it takes to be in the band.

The parents remain in the band room, and learn all about the commitment required for marching band. It's a substantial commitment, but the students gain so much from the marching band experience. It's not just playing music while marching around a field; it's leadership, commitment, teamwork, fun, friendship, and so much more.

Meanwhile, outside (well, inside on Thursday, thanks to the weather!), the kids are learning all kinds of new things. David and Rachel assume their first duties as Drum Majors. First, they lead everyone in the warm-up circle, with various stretches to prepare for the rigors of marching.  Then it's quickly on to the most important of the basics: calling the band to attention. The various section leaders and upperclassmen help teach the prospective students how to stand at attention, helping them with every detail -- getting their arms and feet positioned properly, and imparting the importance of silence and attentiveness when called to attention.

After the rising freshmen understand attention, then they work on marking time (a kind of marching in place). The band leadership ensures the prospective members understand that one heel lifts as the other strikes the ground on each beat. You do not raise the whole foot, just your heel; your upper body is held at attention. Once marking time is understood, then you learn to march. One doesn't march like a tin-soldier! Rather you roll your feet, taking even, measured strides on the beat. Learning to march starts without one's instrument.

Time for the instruments! The veterans help the prospective rookies learn how to hold the instrument both at rest and during play.

The percussionists spend a lot of time rehearsing separately. As the heartbeat of the band, the focus was not on marching, but on trying the different types of drums and percussion instruments. Unlike the wind instruments, the drumline and front ensemble rehearse throughout the summer, so there will be plenty of time to learn to march!

The color guard is the visual element. Rather than marching and playing an instrument, they work on movement and spinning flags, rifles and swords for incredible visual effects.

We're looking forward to seeing all these rising freshmen at the signing party on June 3, and in band camp this fall!

These pictures were taken at the Tuesday, May 17th and Thursday, May 19 information meetings. Pictures shown outdoors are from Tuesday, while weather forced everyone indoors on Thursday.