FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) for Marching Band Parents:
Should you have additional questions, please ask the band director or the drum major(s).
Edison Marching Eagles Hand Book 2021-2022
When is band camp? Band camp is held at Edison in the weeks before school begins. Band camp is typically the first three weeks of August. The first two weeks are all day (9 am-5 pm) and the third week is afternoon and/or evenings. The schedule for camp is sent via email.
Is there a fee for Band? Yes -there is a fee for Marching Band. An email about fees will be received from the band director in the summer. The fee covers the Marching Band uniform and 1 show shirt.
Is band camp mandatory? Yes. Any conflicts need to be discussed with the band director.
What do I need for band camp? Instrument, hat, closed-toed shoes, shorts (not denim), sunscreen, lunch, snacks, water, water, and more water. Students will be outside a large portion of that day and it’s hot! Students will have a lunch break and need to bring their own.
When are games and competitions? The band only plays for home football games on Friday nights. There are typically 5 home games. Competitions are on Saturdays and are all-day events (7am-10 pm). There are typically 4 competitions. Many games and competitions are back to back (Friday game and Saturday competition). The season schedule is given out during band camp.
When are practices/rehearsals? Once school starts, practices are typically 2 times a week. One practice is directly after school. One is an evening practice. More practices may be added as needed. The season schedule is given out during band camp.
What’s the schedule for a Friday Night game? When school ends, students stay at school. Students should bring all the needed items (uniform items and money for concessions) with them to school. After school students will have a rehearsal, be fed by the Hospitality Committee, and attend the game.
What happens during a Home Game? The Band fills up the stands and provides music as motivation for the football team and fans. Students play in the first quarter and a portion of the second quarter. At halftime, the Band performs their show. The students get a break in the third quarter (during dinner- there is an opportunity to pre-order and pay for concessions). Students are allowed to snack provided they take off their uniform jackets. The band stays for the entire game. After the game, the band is responsible for returning all instruments, putting away uniforms, and leaving the band room in an orderly manner. Once this is accomplished, they are dismissed by the band director.
Is there a Marching Band uniform? Yes, there is a uniform for everyone (Marching Band and Color Guard). The marching band fee covers uniforms and 1 show shirt.
* Uniforms are stored at Edison.
*Each band member wears marching shoes called Drillmasters. Returning members should find and try on their shoes. The band fee includes shoes.
*Students wear matching show shirts under their uniforms for every performance and competition. There are times when games and competitions are back to back so consider purchasing a second show shirt for your band student so they have a clean shirt for Saturday, though it is not required. The order form will be passed out during band camp. (The first show shirt is provided by the Edison Band Parent Organization. A second shirt is usually $15)
*Students wear dark athletic shorts or dark leggings under their marching uniform. Please ensure your student doesn’t wear cargo shorts, denim, or sweatpants. Adjustments to the policy will be made if the temperature warrants.
* Students should wear ALL black crew or mid-calf socks for performances. Please, no swooshes, lettering, brand names, ankle socks, etc.- just plain, cheap, black crew socks. Students are expected to have their own socks.
*Students are not allowed to wear any jewelry when in full uniform. If there are piercings that cannot be removed, they are required to cover them.
*Students will not be allowed to have their cell phones with them when in uniform.
* Color Guard members have slightly different uniform requirements. Definite needs are black socks and seamless undergarments. Hair and makeup needs will be determined by the director, supplies will be provided
How long is Marching Season? Marching season begins with band camp (the first week of August) and runs until mid-November. You should plan to be busy nearly every weekend.
Is there band spirit wear? Yes! There is a variety of spirit wear. These are not included in the uniform fee. A Popular item is the coveted band jacket embroidered with the Band logo and name. An order form will be handed out at band camp.
How can parents/guardians help? The marching band needs your help! Your students love having support from their families at band events. Consider donating your time to an event this year; be it a football game or competition. Even if you only have an hour or two, there are multiple ways to help out. And, we have a lot of fun! Stay connected by signing up for communication about band schedules, competitions, fundraisers, assessments, trips, parties, and volunteer opportunities from the band. To sign up for email communication: http://eepurl.com/hB8yjT Click here to fill out our volunteer form!
How else can parents/guardians help?
- Please consider joining the EBPO– EDISON BAND PARENT ORGANIZATION at no cost and joining us for meetings on the first Tuesday of every month in the band room. During meetings, we discuss how to meet the needs of the band.
- Chaperone responsibilities include setting up the stands, taking/picking up concession orders, sitting with the band, serving water, cleaning the stands after the game, and assisting where needed. Chaperones please arrive between 5:00-5:15pm.
- The Pit Crew is responsible for assisting the pit musicians in transferring the pit percussion instruments and the drum major platforms on and off the field before and after the halftime performances. Pit Crew please arrive between 5:15-5:30pm.