Frequently Asked Questions About Andover Marching Band

Q. What is the Marching Schedule? How will it impact my family’s summer?
A. The schedule is available as handouts throughout the marching season. A constantly updated version is always on our website.

Q. Can you be in sports and marching band at the same time?
A. YES! Many marching band and color guard members are also athletes. Scheduling can be arranged if you talk with your captain and director. Students who need extra study time may have to prioritize which activities they want to join.

Q. Can we take a family vacation in the summer if our teen is in Marching Band?
A. YES! Every band member needs to submit the dates they will miss marching band activities. Band members MUST attend "Heat Week" which will be held mid-August. First year band students should attend as many rehearsals as possible because there is SO MUCH to learn.

Q. What does Marching Band Cost?
A. Annual fees for marching band are approximately $350 per year depending on the section of the band in which you belong. Our membership costs are a fraction of many other competitive marching bands in our area. This is due greatly to the Andover Band Booster Organization and their contributions to our band program. Remember, your investment in your child will teach them discipline, teamwork, coordination, manners, dedication, and they will get in great shape (not to mention, they will experience GREAT music). There is scholarship assistance for families in need.
Most years, the AMH will travel to a Regional or National competition. For this trip, members are asked to participate in fundraising activities to make it possible. Some members may opt out for a set fee.

Q. As a parent am I required to be involved in Marching Band Boosters?
A. We love to involve new parents in our activities. The benefit to you is that you get to hear news about your child, even if they never tell you what happens at marching band! We have a lot of fun working on fund raising, making flags, hemming uniforms, building props and chaperoning great teenagers. When your teen registers for marching band, you can indicate the activities that interest you.

Q. How will my child get to and from practice all summer?
A. Many of the older marching band kids drive to practice. Parents are usually eager to carpool, also.

Q. My teen is not a great student and good organizer of time. How will they balance homework & marching band in the fall?
A. Many students become more disciplined after joining marching band. Also, your teen will have great role models in marching band. Older students really work hard to help rookies (incoming freshmen) to understand how to stay on track with school and band. If your student is interested in help, there are many possibilities within the school to meet his/her needs. As a parent, you may need to help your teen prioritize homework ahead of the weekends that will be spent away at band shows. Many students bring their study materials along on field show weekends.

Q. My teen is SHY & doesn’t know anyone who’s joining the band. Will he/she fit in with the group?
A. YES! Each instrument section has team captains who work hard to integrate all students in section activities. Many students develop lasting relationships, weird wardrobes, strange nicknames, and really take pride in their section T-shirts.

Q. My teen doesn’t really play his instrument all that well. Are there auditions for marching band?
A. NO! Everyone is welcome in marching band. All of this extra practice will really improve your student’s playing ability. There are so many other dimensions to marching band that playing skill is really only one small part of the whole experience.

Q. My teen is not very coordinated. How will he/she be able to march and play at the same time?
A. It’s a miracle! You won’t believe this is the same teen you sent to the first practice when you see them in their final show. An amazing transformation occurs. It’s from hard work and a lot of encouragement (and fun!).

Q. Can my teen have a job and be in marching band?
A. Many students choose to juggle jobs and band. Most employers (that you would want your student working for) are familiar with the demands of high-schooler's courseloads and activity schedules. Students, of course, need to inform employers, with plenty of time in advance, of potential conflicts as to avoid missing rehearsals and shows.

Q. Can my teen be in orchestra or choir and marching band?
A. Absolutely! Orchestra students can be part of the "front ensemble" percussion section. Both orchstra and choir students can be part of colorguard as well!

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