Apex Band Boosters

Parent Handbook

www.ApexHighBand.org

ContentsWelcome....................................................................................................1

Welcome to the Apex Band Boosters!........................................................1

Apex Band Boosters Organization....................................................2

Band Boosters Board of Directors...............................................................2

Overview of Band Boosters Committees...................................................2

Band Boosters Communications..................................................................3

Email:..............................................................................................................3

Website:.........................................................................................................4

Facebook & Twitter:.................................................................................4

YouTube Channel:.....................................................................................4

Academic Bands......................................................................................5

Fees........................................................................................................................... 5

Wind Ensemble....................................................................................................5

Concert Band II.................................................................................................... 5

Concert Band I..................................................................................................... 6

Jazz Band............................................................................................................... 6

Other Academic Band Information.............................................................6

All-District & All-State Honors Bands...............................................6

State Festival................................................................................................6

Pops Concert................................................................................................7

Band Calendar.............................................................................................7

Marching Band........................................................................................8

Band Terminology.............................................................................................8

Section............................................................................................................8

Instrument Polishing...............................................................................8

Student Leaders..................................................................................................9

Drum Major..................................................................................................9

Band President...........................................................................................9

Section Leaders...........................................................................................9

Marching Band Fees..........................................................................................9

What they are used for............................................................................9

Payments....................................................................................................10

Student Accounts....................................................................................10

Uniforms.............................................................................................................. 11

Gloves/Socks.............................................................................................12

Show Shirts and under-uniform attire..........................................12

Label your student’s belongings.......................................................12

Uniform Cleaning....................................................................................12

Marching Band Calendar.............................................................................13

Visual Ensemble...............................................................................................13

Auditions.....................................................................................................13

Visual Ensemble Fees............................................................................14

Additional VE expenses include (approximately):...................14

Summer Practice Schedule.................................................................14

School Practice Schedule.....................................................................14

Visual Ensemble Commitment..........................................................14

Percussion........................................................................................................... 15

Drumline.....................................................................................................15

Front Ensemble........................................................................................15

Band Camp.............................................................................................16

New Marcher Mini-Camp.............................................................................16

Band Camp Picnic............................................................................................16

Full Band Camp................................................................................................16

What to Wear/Bring to Band Camp........................................................17

Band Camp Commitment.............................................................................17

After School Practices....................................................................................18

Home Football Games....................................................................................18

Competitions......................................................................................................19

Volunteer Opportunities...................................................................21

Chaperones.........................................................................................................21

Front Ensemble “Pit Crew”..........................................................................21

Props Crew..........................................................................................................22

Social Committee & Events..........................................................................22

Senior Night...............................................................................................22

Annual Band Banquet...........................................................................22

Fundraising Committee & Activities........................................................23

Annual Fundraisers:..............................................................................23

Ongoing Fundraisers.............................................................................24

Does your employer have a matching funds program?.........25

Donations Are Always Welcome......................................................26

WelcomeWelcome to the Apex Band Boosters!Composed entirely of volunteer parents of students in the bands at Apex High School, the Boosters support all of the activities of the Apex High School Band Program. While much of our effort is focused on the Marching Band and Visual Ensemble, we also play a critical role in the success of the Academic Bands, including the Wind Ensemble, Concert Bands and Jazz Band.

If your student is a member of ANY of the bands at Apex High School, you are automatically a member of the Apex Band Boosters.

1. Make sure you are receiving and reading our emails. It is a primary source of communication. Contact our Communications Officer (bb_communications@apexhighband.org) to get added to our mailing list.

2. Bookmark the band website and synch to the band’s Google calendar – events and timing change and you’ll want to keep up with the latest information.

3. General Booster meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of every month – if that changes on any given month, an email will be sent to the mailing list (see bullet 1 above). Booster meetings are usually held in the band room – all boosters are encouraged to attend.

4. Boosters mailing address:Apex Band BoostersPO Box 618Apex, NC 27502

It takes the active involvement of many parents to keep our band programs alive and thriving — involvement that is both rewarding and a lot of fun. There are many volunteer opportunities where you can plug in. Please look through this handbook and find the ways that interest you the most and dive right in!

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Apex Band Boosters OrganizationBand Boosters Board of DirectorsThe Board of Directors is comprised of seven elected officers — President, First and Second Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, Sergeant-at-Arms, and Communications Officer. The Band Director serves as a permanent, non-voting member of the board.

Board officers are elected by the general membership of the Band Boosters on an annual basis and may serve a maximum of two consecutive one-year terms. Elections are held each spring prior to the Marching Band Kickoff Meeting in May. A nominating committee is appointed by the Board to accept nominations and organize the election.

The duties and responsibilities of the officers, who play a tremendous role in the success of the band program at Apex High School, are defined in detail in the Bylaws of the organization. The Bylaws and other important documents can be found on the band’s website at http://www.apexhighband.org.

The general Band Booster meetings are normally held on the second Tuesday of each month and begin at 7:00PM. All Band Booster members are also welcome to attend the Board meetings, which are held in the band room at 7:00PM on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

These meetings are a great way to meet other parents with a passion for the Band and to stay up-to-date on upcoming band activities and fundraising opportunities.

Overview of Band Boosters CommitteesIn addition to the Board of Directors, there are several committees who help the band program run smoothly. Here are brief descriptions of each committee — more details can be found later in this handbook.

Band Camp: Responsible for activities associated with scheduling and running the annual Band Camp.

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Chaperone: Responsible for ensuring that adult chaperones are available at each band event.

Communications: Responsible for establishing and maintaining all communications for the Band Boosters. This includes communication with the AHS PTSA, the feeder middle schools, and the public.

Historian: Responsible for photographing and video recording of the bands’ activities throughout the year, and for producing the annual Band Calendar & Senior Slideshow.

Front Ensemble Crew (Pit Crew): Responsible for activities associated with the sideline percussion, including maintenance, transportation, and getting them on and off the field.

Props Crew: Responsible for coordinating activities associated with designing and constructing props for the marching band show, and for the storage, and transportation of the props.

Sewing: Responsible for making and adjusting marching band uniform components and visual ensemble uniforms and flags.

Social: Responsible for organizing social activities for the band, including Senior Night and the Band Banquet.

Transportation: Responsible for arranging transportation of the band and equipment to all band activities.

Uniform: Responsible for coordinating and managing all aspects of the band’s uniforms.

Visual Ensemble: Responsible for coordinating the activities of the Visual Ensemble, including the Color Guard and Dance Teams.

Ways & Means: Responsible for coordinating all fundraising activities.

Band Boosters CommunicationsEmail:

The primary avenue for communications within the Band Boosters is via email. Parents and students are notified of schedules and schedule changes, volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, and social events through our email mailing list. Please be sure to include your email address along with your contact information when you register your student for band. The

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Communications Committee is responsible for establishing and maintaining communications within the Band Boosters organization. Each year, the committee creates and makes available a band member directory with names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and instrument/section.

Website:

The Apex High Bands website is the most complete source for information about upcoming events, schedules, fundraising activities, the Band Boosters organization, and more.

Facebook & Twitter:

Facebook and Twitter are also used regularly for up to the minute updates. The Facebook page is located at www.facebook.com/apexhsmarchingband and the Twitter account is located at twitter.com/apexhighband. News and updates are frequently posted at both sites, in addition to the information sent out via email.

One-way Texts:

Mr. Rowe uses Remind101, a one-way texting communication service, to send out news and updates to any students and parents who have signed up for it. To find out how to sign up for this service, please contact the Communications Officer.

YouTube Channel:

We frequently post videos on the Band’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/apexhighband. You can subscribe to the channel to see videos of performances as they are posted.

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Academic BandsFeesStudents who sign up for an academic band class pay an annual participation fee. This fee covers the cost of entrance fees for district and state band auditions, as well as the cost of transportation to these events. The fee is determined on an annual basis by the Board of Directors based on anticipated expenses, and is included in the fees paid by Marching Band students. Notices will be sent home with your student when these fees are due.

Specific concert attire is required for all academic bands. It is usually purchased once and reused throughout the student’s high school band experience. The approximate cost in 2013 is $80 for a black gown for girls and $130 for a black tuxedo and white tuxedo shirt for the boys. Fittings are scheduled during band classes.

If your student uses a band-owned instrument, you are also subject to a $100 instrument fee for each instrument used during the school year.

Wind EnsembleThis is the premier band at Apex High School and is comprised mostly of upper classmen, but freshmen are always encouraged to audition. This is an auditioned, Honors level class. The band director gives out audition music to both Apex High and “feeder” middle school students in the spring. Students will perform grade 5-6 music from the North Carolina Band Association music list. Students will also learn basic/advanced music theory.

Concert Band IIEntry in this class is also by audition or by recommendation of a middle school director. Students will perform grade 4-5-6 music from the North Carolina Band Association music list. Students will also learn basic/intermediate music theory.

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Concert Band INo audition is required for this class. It is mostly comprised of freshmen and will perform grade 4-5 music from the North Carolina Band Association music list. Students will learn basic music theory.

Jazz BandThe Jazz Band meets after school one to two days a week beginning in December. There is no audition required to participate in the Jazz Band program. In order to keep your membership in this ensemble, you will need to attend rehearsals regularly and practice on your own. The State Jazz Band Festival usually takes place around the 1st week of May.

Other Academic Band InformationAll academic bands perform at least a winter concert and a spring concert.

All-District & All-State Honors Bands

Academic band students may choose to audition for the All-District Honors Band. Auditions are usually held on a Saturday in early January with a 2-day clinic scheduled for the end of that month. The All-District fees are paid by the band program, but parents are responsible for providing transportation to the audition, clinic, and performance. Students who perform extremely well during their All-District auditions receive invitations to audition for the All-State Honors Band. In 2013, 7 Apex High School Band students were named to the All-State Honors Band. In recognition of this achievement, the costs for attending the All-State Honors Band clinic are covered by the Band Boosters.

State Festival

The academic bands also participate in the state Festival of Bands competition. The fees for this are also covered by the Band Boosters. Transportation costs are shared between the Band Boosters and the parents for this event.

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Pops Concert

The Apex High School Chorus organizes this event featuring the entire Apex HS Music Department: Concert Bands, Wind Ensemble, Orchestra and Chorus. The concert performance was held in 2013 at the Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary in front of an audience of approximately 2,000 people.

Band Calendar

Dates, times, and locations for these concerts and events will be posted on the band’s calendar, on the website and via social media as soon as they are known.

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Marching BandMarching Band isn’t just an after school activity, it’s a complete social group for both students and parents. Because of marching band, your student will have a core group of friends and will know upper-classmen before school starts in the fall. By already being familiar with the campus, they will be less nervous on that first day of high school. Studies have shown that band students typically get higher grades and better learn to manage their time than non-band students.

Marching Band is also a big commitment. Choosing to participate as a member of the Marching Band and Visual Ensemble means that the marching band program needs to take priority over church trips, club activities, family vacations, etc. The Band Director must be consulted well in advance in the event that a conflict arises.

Band TerminologySection

A section is a group of students who perform using the same or similar instruments. Sections will engage in many social activities throughout the year. Section Leaders and other upper-classmen in your student’s section will be their best source of information regarding everything to do with Marching Band.

Instrument Polishing

The sections who have polished instruments usually meet after school from time to time or prior to a performance to polish. You will want to check with your child regarding polishing as the section leader will determine if and when polishing takes place. You will most likely need to purchase polish for your child and an offer to wash and dry the polishing towels is always appreciated.

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Student LeadersDrum Major

Each spring, a Drum Major is selected by audition. Prospective drum majors must have at least one year of marching band experience and be enrolled in an academic band class for the coming year. The Drum Major leads the band during parades and on the field during halftime shows and marching band competitions. The Drum Major also plays a key role in Band Camp by assisting the band director and camp staff.

Band President

The Band President is selected by the Band Director in the spring. This student works closely with the Drum Major and the Band Director in carrying out the various functions of the band.

Section Leaders

Section Leaders are selected by the Band Director in the spring based on a combination of musical and marching ability, communication skills, and leadership potential. They play a leadership role for their instrumental section. They are alert to any problems that their section may be experiencing with music or marching routines, and work to ensure that their section is functioning properly. Section Leaders are the go-to contacts for everyone in their section and are responsible for ensuring that their section is prepared for each event with proper attire, music, and knowledge of drill and marching technique, and that they keep their instruments in proper working order.

Marching Band FeesWhat they are used for

Because the marching band at Apex High School is a voluntary extracurricular activity, it is almost entirely funded by student fees. These funds are used to pay for staff, music, drill (the detailed plans of who goes where during the show), competition entrance fees, transportation, equipment, props, uniform maintenance, and many other expenses incurred throughout the preparation and instruction of the marching band program.

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The fee is determined on an annual basis by the Band Boosters Board of Directors and includes a non-refundable deposit.

Incidental expenses include “Dinkles” (shiny black shoes for marching), replacement gloves, and meals during trips, etc.

Payments

The band fee payment schedule and payment coupons are distributed as part of the Registration Packet at the spring Kickoff Meeting. Payments are scheduled at intervals throughout the summer with the final payment due the week before school starts in the fall.

Non-refundable after July 1

While a payment plan is offered, after July1 the full band fee becomes due and is non-refundable. The music and drill are written specifically for the members registered for the band as of July 1. It will need to be rewritten if even a single student leaves the band program to account for the hole that will be created. This creates significant additional, unbudgeted expenses to the Band.

Fee-Waiver Program and Payment Deferrals

In order to allow interested students to participate in the marching band, there is a fee waiver program designed to assist families with a financial need. An application for assistance is available and should be submitted to the band director as soon as possible during the summer. All or part of the fees can be waived depending on the financial need. We are also happy to work out extended payment schedules for families where a full or partial waiver is not needed. The names of students who receive fee waivers are kept confidential and restricted to selected members of the Board who have a need to know.

Student Accounts

A student account is established for each member of the marching band. Students can earn money for these accounts through a variety of fundraising activities throughout the year. Most fees and expenses directly related to the student’s participation in the band program can be paid from the student accounts (assuming sufficient funds are available in the account). Requests to apply

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moneys from the student accounts must be made in writing or via email to the Band Booster Treasurer.

Funds in a student's account can only be used for band expenses or band sponsored activities for the student.

Funds remaining in a student’s account at the end of that student’s graduating year, or funds remaining when a band student leaves the band program, will be processed as follows:

1. First, any delinquent fees or other monies due to the band program will be deducted from the account balance effective on the student’s graduation date.

2. Second, remaining funds may be transferred to the student account of another band student who is currently enrolled in the Apex High band program. This action must be requested in writing to the Treasurer by the student’s parent within three (3) months of the student’s graduation date.

3. If no request is received in writing by the Treasurer within three (3) months of the student’s graduation date, all remaining funds shall be placed in the Booster’s general fund.

UniformsThe marching band uniform consists of “bibs” (overalls), a jacket, a hat, feather plume, gloves, gauntlets (large wristband/cuffs attached to the sleeves), black socks, and Dinkles (shiny black shoes). Dinkles are ordered by the band but must be paid for by the parents (approximately $30, which can come from student accounts). Orders for Dinkles are taken during band camp.

Band uniforms are assigned to band members at the beginning of the season. Some uniforms may require alteration such as adjusting the length of the jacket sleeves or pants legs.

Note: These uniforms are very expensive and must be used for many students over many years. No permanent alterations should ever be made to the uniforms. Do not use scissors to cut the sleeves or pants legs.

Band uniforms must be returned to the band room after each event. Your student’s Dinkles should go home after every event for cleaning. Dinkles should not be left in the band room — they

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will wander off and never find their way home. It’s always a good idea to write your student’s name inside the Dinkles with permanent marker.

Gloves/Socks

Gloves are provided to the students, but it is the student’s responsibility to keep them clean. Replacement gloves can be purchased throughout the marching band season for $5 per pair. You will want to purchase several pairs of black socks and make sure your child shows up with at least one pair for a game or competition performance.

Show Shirts and under-uniform attire

The Show Shirt is a T-shirt provided by the band to all band students with the image of the show’s theme. Extra show shirts are always a good idea for those back to back events. We typically have 2 or 3 Friday night games followed by a morning report time for a competition the next day.

Under uniform clothing is typically show shirt and shorts or boxers. The students change in group settings at times and under uniform clothing needs to be appropriate. Thermal underalls such as UnderArmor should be purchased and worn during winter months.

Label your student’s belongings

The band room is a black hole. Things go in and are never seen again. Please label your student’s belongings so they will be easier to locate. There is a lost and found pile that seems to develop behind the door in the locker room across from Mr. Rowe’s office. You and/or your child should check the pile from time to time to retrieve lost items.

Uniform Cleaning

Jackets

Uniform jackets may be spot cleaned using a mild laundry detergent and warm water, and then sprayed lightly with a fabric freshener such as Febreeze. Once dried, and after the insert is removed, the jacket can be pressed with a warm iron. The white collar liner may be removed, washed, and air-dried as needed.

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Bibs (Pants)

The bibs may be spot cleaned or machine laundered in cold water on the gentle cycle using mild laundry detergent. Hang the pants to dry. Once dry, the bibs may be pressed with a warm iron.

Dinkles (Shoes)

Dinkles clean up well with Windex and paper towels. A little dab of Vaseline or baby oil will maintain the shine and protect your Dinkles from water damage.

Marching Band CalendarThe marching band participates in five or six different competitions each year. The competition season begins in late September and wraps up in early to mid-November. Traditionally, the marching band participates in three holiday parades: Friendship, Apex, and Cary.

The marching band also takes part in all of the Apex Cougars home football games, which offer an excellent opportunity for students to perform their show for fellow students, faculty, and family.

The complete calendar for the marching band is available on the band’s website.

Visual EnsembleThe Visual Ensemble is made up of 2 groups (Color Guard/Flags and Dancers) and performs a drill/dance routine which is specifically choreographed for each season’s show. Flags, rifles, sabers, and other props are used to enhance the program's visual effect.

Auditions

Auditions for Visual Ensemble are held in early to mid-April. The audition process lasts for 2 weeks of after-school sessions to assist students in learning the basic flag and marching techniques. Members are selected by the Band Director and the Visual Ensemble Instructor. The number of members selected each year varies at the discretion of the Band Director.

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Visual Ensemble Fees

The base fee for participating in the Visual Ensemble is the same as the rest of the marching band and follows the same payment schedule. An additional, non-refundable deposit of $100 is required at registration (once the selection process is complete) because it is necessary to custom order uniforms, accessories, and practice equipment very early in the season.

Additional VE expenses include (approximately):

Shoes ($20) Socks/Tights ($5-$15) Jackets/Warm-up Suits ($100-$150) Santa hats for the Holiday parades ($5)

Summer Practice Schedule

Typically, the Visual Ensemble practice begins after the school year ends, around the second week of June. The weekly practice is held form 6:00PM to 9:00PM on Mondays. Visual Ensemble members will learn the choreography (flag, dance, and prop work) for the show.

During Band Camp, the actual drill will be taught by the Band Director and camp staff, and the choreography is then incorporated into the marching drill.

School Practice Schedule

Once the school year begins, the Visual Ensemble is required to practice with the band from 3:00PM to 5:00PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and with the Visual Ensemble Instructor from 6:00Pm to 9:00 PM on Mondays.

Visual Ensemble Commitment

The Visual Ensemble is an integral part of the band’s performance and requires a commitment to participate in all practices, football halftime shows, competitions, and parades. The choreography and marching band drill are based on a specific number of Visual Ensemble members. Having a student miss a performance will necessarily adversely affect the band’s performance and scores.

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PercussionDrumline

The Drumline consists of the percussion equipment that can be carried on the field, including snares, toms, and bass drums. They are a crucial part of the Marching Band as they set and maintain the tempo followed by everyone else. Auditions are held in the spring. The Drumline follows the same rehearsal schedule as the rest of the marching band, with additional practices scheduled as needed.

Front Ensemble

The Front Ensemble (or “pit”) consists of the percussion instruments that are set up on the sideline area, just off the field. They include xylophones, marimbas, timpani, bells, chimes, and whatever other percussion may be associated with the show. The adult “Pit Crew” volunteers assist the percussionists with setting up and breaking down the sideline percussion area for performances.

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Band CampNew Marcher Mini-CampThe Marching Band season officially begins with band camp. Freshman Mini-Camp, which is scheduled in mid- to late-July, focuses on bringing rising freshmen and other students new to Apex High School up to speed on marching techniques and skills. These students meet their section leaders and start developing relationships with other new marchers. The remaining members of the marching band join the new marchers later in the week for a few days of music camp before the full marching band camp begins the following week.

Band Camp PicnicParents and band students are invited to attend the band camp picnic, which is held on the Friday evening before Full Band Camp. This is a catered event hosted by the Band Boosters Board that is free to all band students. The cost for other family members will vary from year to year. Parents are notified by email and social media with the date, time, location, and cost for the picnic.

Full Band CampBand Camp begins at 7:00AM and runs until 9:00PM with a 90 minute lunch break (on-campus) and a 2 hour break for dinner (off-campus). Students should pack their own lunch and remember to bring lots of water (gallon jugs are preferred). Please remember to label everything with your student’s name. The dinner break is longer to give students a chance to go home and cool down. Section members' families often volunteer to host section dinners for students. This is typically communicated to and through the section leader. It’s also students' and parents' opportunity to assist the Band Camp Committee by inviting the Band Director and Band Camp Staff into your home for dinner before practice resumes at 6:00PM.

On the last day of Band Camp, the Band Camp Committee provides a pizza dinner for students. Be sure to join your students

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after they eat for Family Night — a demonstration of what the students have learned that week and a preview of this year’s show.

What to Wear/Bring to Band CampStudents should remember to bring the following to Band Camp:

Athletic shoes — Closed-toed sneakers are preferred; students cannot march in flip-flops or sandals.

Light-colored and light-weight T-shirts and shorts (to help stay cool during the very hot temperatures).

Large personal water jug (preferably 1 gallon) with your student’s name on it (with a permanent marker) — filled with ice and/or water before you leave home.

Hat and sunscreen. (Did we mention it’s hot?)

In case of rain, students will practice in the auditorium and band room.

Band Camp CommitmentIt is during Band Camp that the Marching Band commitment really begins. Emphasize to your child the importance of being on time because marching band is a team and everyone needs to be there doing their part for optimum performance. Whole sections will be penalized for one person’s lateness and will mostly likely be required to do push-ups or run laps. End times are not always exact. If practice ends at 5:30PM, that means they stop around 5:30PM and then head back to the band room, where they must put all equipment and instruments away and gather their belongings and visit.

It is imperative that all band students attend camp and practices as this is the time when drill (marching formation) is perfected. When someone is missing from the drill line, everyone in the band is subject to being thrown off their mark (think of falling dominos). Mr. Rowe will change the drill from time to time so attendance is mandatory to keep up with any changes.

These next couple of weeks will bring requests for rides with section leaders or older marchers to additional sectional practices, sectional dinners, get-togethers, etc., as the sections bond. In general band students are a great group. You will need to

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decide how to handle these requests and have conversations with your child about your rules.

Sectionals (extra practice sessions for the section) can be called at any time, especially if new drill or changes in music take place. Section leaders will test marchers on their music for memorization. At some point during the two weeks, the sections will get together to create T-shirts for their section. The cost should range between $5-$10.

After School PracticesWhen school is in session, regular band practices are held from 3:00PM to 5:30PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week through the end of November. Additional practices may be scheduled at the Band Director's discretion.

Note that the 5:30PM end time is when the students are released from the practice field. All students are expected to help return equipment to the band room, so the actual pickup time will usually be approximately 15-30 minutes later than the practice end times listed.

Home Football GamesOn home football game days, the band performs at the pep rally before school the morning of the game. Band members must be at the school before 7:00AM, usually in their band show shirt and khaki shorts or jeans. This might require a ride to school with another band student family if arrangements cannot be made for you to drive your child.

Your child might need to stay after school on a game day to practice or polish his or her instrument. Typically students are required to report to the band room for the game between 5:30PM and 6:00PM. The students wear their show shirts and shorts/boxers under their uniforms unless it is cold enough for thermals. Once everyone is in uniform with hair secured off of their neck, section leaders inspect the uniforms and instruments.

The band members march to the football stadium together and perform the Star Spangled Banner and the Apex Fight Song, then takes their place in the stands at the far end of the stadium. Band parents sit in the section just to the left of the band. If the Band is

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performing during halftime, students will make their way to the field with a few minutes left in the 2nd Quarter. If the Band is not performing during halftime, students sit in the stands during halftime. In any event, they take a break during the 3rd Quarter and go to the concession stand. Make sure they have money to buy a drink and/or snack. Students are required to stay in the stands until the end of the game when they march back to the band room and put away all of their equipment, props and uniforms, and section leaders conduct inspections before anyone is able to leave. It is usually 10:30PM or 10:45PM before departure.

If the band is not performing at half-time, Mr. Rowe tries to have hold parent performance prior to the game, usually at 6:00PM on the soccer or baseball field.

CompetitionsCompetitions begin the last week in September or the first week in October and continue through the first or second week of November. They are always on Saturday and the only local one our band typically performs in is Cary Band Day. Typical travel time is 1 to 2 hours. Sometimes we have a double-header, which is when two competitions take place in one day, maybe one in the afternoon and one in the evening. The band travels on charter buses for competitions more than one hour away from the school.

Your child may carry a pillow, blanket, snacks, games, books, phone, etc., on the bus. You will also want to make sure they have money for the concession stands at the competitions. Energy drinks of any kind are not allowed at any marching band function. The students will usually wear khaki shorts or jeans and show shirt before and after performing. The buses can be cold at night so extra clothing might be appreciated for the ride back to the school. Make sure your child remembers to gather all of his or her belongings and deposit any trash before getting off of the bus.

An extra after school practice is normal during the week when a competition is on Saturday. Mr. Rowe always has the students arrive on Saturday morning early enough for a run through of the show before departing for competition. Some competitions, especially double headers, are early morning to late night, but not all are like that.

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All students must ride the buses to competitions, but can make arrangements to ride home with parents. You will probably want to go to at least a couple of competitions. Most of our band parents sit together and cheer on our marchers. Competitions are fundraisers for the host band so there are entry fees for the parents (usually about $5-$10), and program books and concessions are usually sold as well. Sometimes hosting bands presell DVDs of the competition.

Awards take a long time and we are usually in the final class of the competition due to our band's large size. Buses may arrive very late back at school (1:00-2:00 AM) and students are expected to help unload buses and put everything away before they are dismissed to go home. Once back at school, parents can certainly help to expedite this process. We try to notify parents at home of our estimated arrival times via Facebook, Twitter, one-way text or email.

Be flexible: schedules are subject to change at any time — and they will.

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Volunteer OpportunitiesYour help is needed with almost every aspect of the band program. Volunteers are needed to assist with building and transporting props, uniform alterations and sewing, fundraising activities, making sure students are where they are supposed to be, and a host of other activities.

ChaperonesA number of adults are needed to chaperone each event that the bands participate in. Chaperones get free seats on the buses and free entrance to the competitions, and are responsible for monitoring the students, distributing snacks, helping with uniforms, and other duties as needed. Requests for chaperones for each event are typically done via Signup Genius on a first-come, first-served basis. All chaperones must be registered each year with the Wake County Public School System and a background check will be performed before they can travel with the band.

Front Ensemble “Pit Crew”Adult volunteers are also needed for the Front Ensemble Pit Crew, which is responsible for making sure that the sideline percussion instruments are in the right place at the right time. This includes loading and unloading the instruments on trucks and trailers, positioning the instruments on the field, and occasionally keeping the instruments in good functioning order. Pit Crews are an important part of the competitions and are often judged on their efficiency and enthusiasm. They get front row seats for every performance and competition, and have received awards at a number of competitions.

The Pit Crew also often transports instruments that are too big to load onto the buses when the band travels. Extra volunteers are always appreciated as there are usually many pieces of equipment that must be loaded onto and unloaded from the trucks and/or trailers.

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Props CrewAdult volunteers are always welcome for the Props Crew as well, which is responsible for designing, constructing, disassembling and loading onto trucks, unloading from trucks and reassembling, transport to/from the field, and placement on the field. Props are large, moveable structures that are placed onto and often moved around the field during the show to enhance the show's visual impact. Volunteers are needed for every phase of the props lifecycle — the more people get involved, the greater the success of the show.

Social Committee & EventsThe Social Committee organizes a variety of social events throughout the year. The major social events typically include Senior Night and the annual Band Banquet.

Senior Night

Senior band students and their parents are officially recognized for their contributions to the band program during halftime at a home football game in the fall. Prior to the game, seniors are treated to dinner at a local restaurant — including transportation via limo — and get portraits made with their families, and enjoy refreshments which are served following the game.

Annual Band Banquet

The band banquet is held in late winter/early spring to celebrate the season. The banquet includes videos and slideshows highlighting the marching band season, a slideshow honoring the seniors, and a catered dinner. After dinner is a fun opportunity for the students to “honor” the seniors by section. Lastly, the Band Director unveils the theme and some of the music for the next year’s show.

The Band Banquet is free to band students. Family members and other guests are welcome to attend for a cost-sharing fee that varies from year to year. Information and invitations are distributed by email.

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Fundraising Committee & ActivitiesKeeping a band program going is an expensive task:

The academic band program receives limited to zero funding from the school system each year.

The marching band gets no funding at all from the school system.

In order to keep the band programs alive and thriving, the Band Boosters must fund all expenses that are incurred. This includes (but is not limited to):

Music (scores, parts, legal copies for each student, etc.) Purchase of Band Instruments (percussion, larger brass

instruments including tubas, Sousaphones, baritones, mellophones, french horns, etc., and larger woodwind instruments including tenor- and baritone saxophones, bass clarinets, etc.)

Regular Maintenance of Band Instruments Equipment (chairs, stands, etc.) Office Supplies (copier, toner, paper, etc.) Transportation (buses, bus drivers, trucks, trailers, etc.)

To fund all of this, the Band Boosters organize several specific fundraising events every year. Most activities split funds between the Band Boosters general fund and individual student accounts. Special fundraisers may be held for specific needs such as new uniforms or instruments.

Annual Fundraisers:

Carnival: The annual Marching Band Carnival and Silent Auction takes place at the end of competition season in November and is a general band fundraiser, so any funds raised by it support specific needs the band may have from year to year.

Coupon Books: Coupon books are sold at the beginning of the season (usually August — September). Both the student and the general fund receive a portion of each book sold and prizes are awarded for the top sellers!

Fruit Sale: This fundraiser is a band tradition! Orders are placed during October with delivery in early December! Box sizes include 1/5, 2/5, and 4/5 bushels featuring the largest

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variety of mouth-watering citrus fruit including navels, tangelos, juice oranges and ruby red grapefruit trucked straight from the groves to the front doors of the high school! Both the student and

the general fund receive a portion of each box sold.

Car Wash(es): 1 or 2 may be scheduled throughout the year. These serve as a “spirit-building” tool for the band members through lots of water and suds, and a little bit of work. Net proceeds go to the band general fund.

Ongoing Fundraisers

Concession Stands: Volunteer to work at concession stands for events at area venues (e.g., Walnut Creek, PNC Arena) throughout the year. Money earned is a portion of the sales generated at the stand. Each venue has specific alcohol-selling training requirements that must be met to work these events. There are usually minimum age requirements due to alcohol sales.

Usher College Football Games: ARE YOU A WOLFPACK FAN? Volunteer as a ticket taker or usher at NC State

University football games. Students 17 and older and parents can volunteer! (Signup information is available in late summer.)

Car Magnets: Show your band spirit with a band logo for your car! $6 each or 2/$10; available at Band Booster meetings.

Cougar Sunglasses: Approved for parades! Two styles are available — silver or gold temples — for $10 each; available at Band Booster meetings and home football games.

Spirit wear: Orders are taken at the beginning of the season and occasionally during the fall. Show your support of the Band at all events!

Calendars: Calendars featuring various seasonal pictures are available at the end of each marching season — just in time for the New Year!

Photo & Video DVDs: DVDs with thousands of photos and videos from the current marching season can be ordered at the end of the season and are available for pick-up at the Band Banquet in May.

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Grocery Store Gift Cards: Do you grocery shop at Kroger, Food Lion, or Lowes Food? Earn a percentage of your purchases for your student’s band account by purchasing the grocery store gift card through the Band Boosters, and you receive a gift card for that exact amount. The grocery store sends us a check. The Kroger card is the most popular because it is reloadable so you can add money to it at the store over and over again. Orders are taken once a month at the Booster Meetings. Kroger and Lowes sell gas too!

Scrip: Purchase prepaid gift cards via Great Lakes Scrip Center where hundreds of stores participate — everything from office supplies and clothing, to restaurants, movies and more! A percentage of your purchase (some as high as 18%) goes to your student’s band account. Orders are taken once a month at the Booster Meetings. Note: Orders are combined to save on shipping (shipping cost is deducted from the net proceeds).

Does your employer have a matching funds program?

Do you know whether your company offers a matching donation program that includes tax exempt 501(c) (3) organizations? Some companies will “match” your donated time with dollars! In other words, if you volunteer with Apex Band Boosters, your employer will convert those hours to dollars and provide a check to Apex Band Boosters to match your efforts. For many who work at larger companies, Matching Fund Programs are one of your employee benefits. Each company has different guidelines and procedures for matching monetary contributions. Check with your company (i.e. Human Resources Dept.) to find out if you are eligible and how to obtain matching funds for your volunteer hours!

Donations Are Always Welcome

Do you want to help directly fund the band programs? Does your company want to be an official sponsor of the band program in return for recognition? Anonymous donors are welcome, too! The Apex Band Boosters is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and all non-designated donations are fully tax deductible. Make your checks payable to Apex Band Boosters, and mail them to: Apex Band Boosters, PO BOX 618, Apex, NC 27502-0618 or bring them to a monthly booster meeting.

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“Rome wasn’t built in a day…

…because they didn’t have Band Parents!”

Apex Band BoostersP.O. Box 618

Apex, NC 27502

http://www.apexhighband.org

Revised: June 2013