Preparing for Band Camp (students)

Preparing for Band Camp

Welcome! Show Band is more than music—it's a place to build friendships, develop leadership skills, learn discipline, and create unforgettable memories. Every member plays an important role in our success, and we are excited to have you with us.

Looking for the Parents' Guide? Click HERE.

What to Expect

Show Band is a team activity that combines:

- Music performance

- Marching fundamentals

- Physical activity

- Teamwork

- Responsibility

- School spirit

Success depends on everyone working together and being prepared.

Attendance matters

Attendance is one of the biggest factors in a successful season.

Members are expected to attend:

- Band Camp

- All rehearsals

- Football games

- Competitions

- Sectionals (when scheduled)

If you must miss an event:

- Notify Mr. Petty/Ms. Giugliano as early as possible.

- Follow attendance policies.

- Be responsible for making up missed material.

Rehearsal Expectations

Come prepared to:

- Listen and follow instructions.

- Stay focused.

- Give your best effort.

- Support your teammates.

- Keep talking to a minimum.

- Practice a positive attitude.

Remember: If you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late.

What students need for camp

We've experienced a variety of weather types in the last few years. It's always best to be over-prepared. The mornings could start off cold and then warm up by the afternoon. Light layers may be best.

Here's what students will need for camp:
- Work out wear: stretchy, moisture-wicking, lightweight (includes supportive/sport undergarments)
- Gym shoes with comfy socks (no crocs, flip-flops, etc)
- Sunglasses
- Hat/visor
- Opaque, refillable water bottle
- Sunscreen/lip balm
- Hair ties (if you have long hair, to keep it out of your face)
- Blanket/towel/mat for floor exercises (done outside)
- DEODORANT

Color Guard Additions
- Knee pads
- Guard gloves
- Additional water bottle (for show drill)

Students will need a FULL lunch and snacks every day. You may want to get an insulated lunch box to keep it all cool and fresh. Food is fuel, consider healthier options rather than over-processed and/or sugary foods.

Prepare now!

If you don't exercise regularly, don't wait until you show up on the first day of Band Camp and expect to be 100% ready.

You'll want to start stretching, exercising and practicing with your instrument/equipment to get your body ready for the daily work you'll be doing during camp.

Here's what you need to do to get acclimated BEFORE you get to camp. Get outside. Whether the sun is hidden behind clouds or direct, go outside during and after heat peak time, stay there for about 15-30 minutes and...

- Stretch: Do some across the floor exercises, jumping jacks or core-strengthening exercises.
- Take a walk/jog: Start with a regular-paced walk and increase to speed walk, then a jog.

Increase the amount of time you are outside until you are there for about 2 hours minimum. Average time spent out side at camp is 4 hours straight.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PREPPING
- Wear light clothing: NO jeans, wear stretchable, moisture clothing. This is what you need for band camp!
- Wear sunscreen, hat and/or sunglasses: Not only for protection, but to get use to how it feels while working with your instrument/equipment.
- Drink Water: Even if you don't feel thirsty. Increase water intake about a week before camp and maintain it throughout.
- Eat Healthy Food: Protein-rich foods are needed for maintaining energy and strength while cooling foods like fruits/veggies are needed for when your body is hot.
- Get good sleep : Proper rest and sleep is vital to make it through long days. Start changing your schedule late July so you are used to getting up early and going to bed earlier.
- Get into camp routine. Beginning at least a week before camp, set the alarm and allow a leisurely pace for waking, eating, and other preparations. Remember, you have to be early to be on-time!