And so begins...

another chapter in the fantastic novel known as, "The Sylvan Hills High School Band".

I don't know about you guys but I'm excited.
Any upperclassmen reading this, you've been warned. You have some stiff competition.
I'm serious.
These freshmen are fierce.
They've really picked up on the basic concepts and are bound to give even the most seasoned marchers a run for their money.

In just two days they've picked up on things that it has taken some people 2 or 3 years to figure out. No offense to anyone that has been in band 2 or 3 years, but honestly it just takes a little motivation and we'll excel at competition.

I'd like to make this post a reference point for newer marchers.

Starting off with your Drill Captains;

Flutes - Natalie Kerr and Ashley Evans
Clarinets - Katherine Thompson and Cassie Travaille
Saxophones - Renata Shirlee
Trumpets (and Horn) - Sean Rast
Low Brass - Randraen Mobley
Percussion - Nick Dunn and Brandon Orender

These people are here to help you. Any questions you have, should be at directed at a Drill Captain or Officer. If they are unable to answer your question, ask at least 3 other band members . If they are unable to answer you question, and you've exhausted all other resources, ask Mr. Bailey.

Now, I've managed to scrounge up some guidelines that will hopefully simplify you're pre-marching band experience;

1. Most likely the most important thing, anything that the Drum Major/Officer/Mr. Bailey says goes. The downfall of many great bands is total, and utter disrespect for someone of a higher authority. Honestly, you think they'd be given such power if they didn't know what they were doing? If you really have a problem with what someone is asking you to do, discuss it with another Officer.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Go drink some water, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Practice, Read a book (knowing is half the battle), and then Practice some more.
That means;
- Practice your music (and at some point memorize it.)
- Practice your marching skills
- Practice having a good attitude. We don't want to deal with your teen angst.

3. Probably one of the most important guidelines, seriously. It may sound cheesy, but have a good attitude and outlook. The hard hitting truth is that, if you don't think you're going to do better you won't. You have to keep a smile at all times, unless your instruments embouchure dictates otherwise.
And you know who's awesome?
Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Keep the "I'm awesome" attitude and you'll be just fine.


And I'd like to finish with a freshman checklist for every practice;

1. GOOD ATTITUDE. Told you, it's important.

2. Your instrument. It will be really hard to play your instrument, without your instrument.

3. Bring your music. It will be really hard to play your music, without your music. (Unless you've memorized your marching music, but even then bring it, we might change something.

4. Bring anything that you might need to properly play your instrument. This includes;

- Reeds, mouthpiece, etc.
- Valve oil, slide grease, etc.
- Anything else you can bring that might help!


That concludes my post for today.