Freq. Asked Questions
Q: Who
can be in marching band?
A: Anyone!!! Unlike sports, there is no cut –
if you are interested and are willing to commit to our schedule -
then we have a spot for you! Anyone that plays a band instrument
proficiently can join the Marching band. Double reed players may
have the opportunity to join the pit (percussion front group that
plays xylophone, marimba, and accessory percussion) or the color
guard. The color guard is a group that performs dance and
choreography along with the band. (Colorguard students do not have
to be enrolled in a band class).
Q: Do
I have to audition?
A: Yes & No. No formal auditions are held for
woodwind, brass and percussion students. If you are interested, we
can find a spot for you! Yes there is an audition process for color
guard. Auditions are usually held in the late spring. Percussion
players will participate in a placement auditions to determine which
instrument they will play.
Q:
How do I join the marching band?
A: Woodwind, brass and percussion players will
receive information on how to join from Mr. Mortensen or their
middle school band director. Information is through the middle
school directors as well. If you want to join the marching band, we
will find a spot for you!!! All you have to do is complete the forms
and turn in your band fee. Color guard auditions are held in the
spring.
Q: Can I play a fall sport and participate in marching band? A:Unfortunately - No. Fall sports (football, cross country, soccer, girls’ tennis, girls’ volleyball, cheerleading and danceline) all have schedules that conflict with marching band. Many of our marching band students participate in winter and spring sports such as hockey, basketball, wrestling, swimming, baseball, softball, boys’ tennis, track, and lacrosse.
Q: What are the benefits of being in marching band? A: Marching band provides lots of benefits including physical, mental and social. Marching band is a physical activity; the ability to play an instrument or perform guard work and march at the same time has great health benefits to the Marching band takes discipline. Students learn responsibility, commitment and teamwork throughout the marching band season. With the marching band, you will also have the opportunity for travel. Our last trip was to Disney World in 2007. We look forward to another trip in the coming year! All students can expect to create and maintain life long relationships with other band members. Marching band is a great way to start your high school life; before the first day of school students will know the school grounds, staff and students; over 70 people before the first day of school!
Q: What is the after-school practice/rehearsal schedule? A: Marching band rehearses two/three days a week once the school year begins. A full detailed Marching Band Calendar can be found on our web site.
Q:
What is band camp all about?
A: Band camp is extremely important
component of a successful marching band season. We take this time to
teach the fundamentals of marching, playing as a group and getting
to know one another. We also learn the drill for our field show that
is performed at half-time home football games and competitions. Our
first performance of the season/school year is before school begins
and band camp is crucial for us to be ready for this performance and
solidify all the fundamentals we need to know.
Q:
What’s so unique about the MHS marching band?
A: Our marching band has been successfully
competing for 5 years. The program has been growing and improving
with each season – Last year was our best season yet- Check out the
trophies in the band room!!! Our marching band has also been
spotlighted in area newspapers and television features
Q: When
and where does the marching band perform?
A: Marching band performs at
all home varsity football games and State Championship games if
Minnetonka should happen to go. Marching band also performs in the
Homecoming parade and several competitions throughout Minnesota. We
culminate the season with the Youth in Music Marching Band
Championship, competing with bands throughout the country at the HHH
Metrodome. Q: What are the
fees and registration dates for Marching Band?
A: Registration forms for Marching Band and
Band Camp are due by June 5. A $100.00 deposit is due at that time
to reserve your spot for band camp. with additional payments of $100
due on 7/1 and 8/1.
The total cost for camp is $300 There are
accessory fees for shoes and gloves. (See registration form) As with
all activities at the High School, there is an Activity fee and
participation fee. These fees will be paid online through the MHS
activity office starting on August 3rd.
As the fee structure is currently being revised the actual fees
maybe be different that those listed on our registration form. ***Money should NEVER be a reason to not
join marching band. – Please contact Mr. Mortensen for more
information/assistance if finances are an issue.