*Life skills!  Students are taught not only music, but vital skills that will help them later in life. They are taught leadership, the value of hard-work through goal-setting, how to accomplish these goals, responsibility, discipline, excellence, compassion, socialization, respect, etc. There is really not much that band does not cover. In addition, students are given the skills to become successful in college and possibly earn a scholarship by playing their instrument.  

*Intelligence!  Music, especially marching band, is one of the few activities where students are forced to use both sides of the brain at the same time.  Research suggests that students involved in music on average have higher GPAs and score significantly higher on standardized tests, such as the ACT, then those not involved in music.

*Trips!  We take all kinds of trips, i.e. football games, All-East (Gatlinburg), big trips (like Florida, Williamsburg, etc.). This year, the band will be traveling again, so get in on the fun!

*Most importantly, the student is given a gift!  They are given the gift of music. We teach the students and all we really ask is that they are passionate, enthusiastic, and that they share that gift with others through performance. Rehearsals are sometimes tough, but every performance should be fun!

This ”fair share” serves as the student's amount to help offset expenses, i.e. transportation, summer uniform/shoes, equipment, travel expenses, meals for students, music, drill design, or anything not provided by the county. The fair share is HIGHLY encouraged. Without this contribution from our students’ families, we would not be able to operate such a successful program.

To make it easier on families, we have set up a payment schedule. We will give more information on this at the May 6th meeting.

Should you need a modified payment schedule, we can accommodate you. Band also requires certain purchases (i.e. black marching shoes, gloves, etc.); however, most of these purchases need only be made the student’s first year of marching band.  

  
The West Ridge High School Handbook and Band Boosters By-laws have additional information concerning all matters of the band. These documents can be found on the website.  

Please be aware that if you and your child fill out this contract, you and your child are COMMITTED! Please do not break this commitment - it affects everyone when someone drops out of their marching band spot.  Marching band is a huge responsibility and requires a lot of effort and time, but the rewards are outstanding!  If you fill out a commitment form, consider yourself a member!  MEMBERS MUST ATTEND ALL MARCHING BAND-RELATED ACTIVITIES. ***For a student to keep their spot in the marching show, they must be diligent with attending summer practices and attending mandatory band camp.***

**PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR A DETAILED SCHEDULE**

Please mark down all the summer dates on your personal calendar and make sure the student is in attendance. It is of the utmost importance that they attend every day (especially band camp)! If there should be a conflict, speak with a band director ASAP, so they can make arrangements for your family. The full fall calendar is on the band website. We have most dates filled in through December. Please check the calendar to make sure you avoid conflicts.      

Look for e-mails and letters to update you about upcoming events and changes to the band calendar. We look forward to serving as your band directors. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at the numbers/e-mails listed below.  Thank you!

Musically yours,

Nick Routh
Chris Smithson

Medical Forms will also be available at the May 6 meeting for parents to fill out and turn in.