THE BULLDOG MARCHING BAND The Bulldog marching Band is a precision marching and musical unit that consists of students representing grade 7-12, winds, percussion and 9-12 baton and flags. The group presents pre-game and half-time entertainment at all home and away football games. It will also play at selected community events and high marching festivals as the schedule allows. Because of its wide visibility, this band works hard to put on several shows that exhibit all the attributes of a refined and disciplined performing organization. This group is extracurricular and members should be enrolled in band class.

THE SILK and MAJORETTE CORPS

This group is an auxiliary unit that performs with and is part of the Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band at all games, parades, and marching contests. Members are selected by audition in the spring of each year and they are an extracurricular activity, which rehearses from 2:45 to 5:00 p.m. during the marching season. The group has built a great reputation because of their high performance level and as a result they have received many awards over the past few years.

 CONCERT BAND

Concert Band concentrates it efforts on a progressive musical education for its members. Students learn basic fundamentals, which will make them more proficient on their instrument and teach them how to problem-solve in their practice sessions. The band will participate in schedule concerts and festival(s) throughout the year.

Band Council The Band Officers, elected by the Band, are as follows:

President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer Historian Senior Representatives: Junior Representatives: Sophomore Representatives: Freshman Representatives: Middle School Representatives:

Attitude

Those students who have a positive mental attitude, regardless of their individual skills, will always have a place in the Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive and you are not doing your personal best to make the group successful, you should not be a part of this organization. In fact, students who do not project an attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to change their personal perspective or leave the organization. Those who have pride in themselves will generally project a positive mental attitude.

Characteristics of a positive mental attitude include a generally cheerful outlook toward rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and maintenance of equipment and facilities, and an eagerness to do what is necessary to be successful.

In short, the total band member is someone who is always willing to give their best for the good of the organization.

Marching Band

The Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band has a history of excellence. The Band successfully competes on the state level with students representing grades 7-12 playing members and 9-12 aux units. An organization of this magnitude requires extreme dedication and pride on the part of each member.

The Bulldog Marching Band performs at all football games, half-time, parades, contests, and various performance opportunities in the area. All students at Bethlehem Center have the opportunity to participate in Marching Band. The Bethlehem Center Band performs in Pre-game Shows, Parades, and Special Events. Membership in the Marching Band requires attendance at all rehearsals and performances. Members must also meet their budgetary obligations. The rehearsal schedule is normally set well in advance, allowing students to plan other activities and obligations around the established schedule. Punctuality is a trait that will serve you well in any endeavor. Plan to arrive well in advance of the beginning of rehearsal -- do not try to sneak in at the last second. It is essential that we make efficient use of the rehearsal time we have. This can only happen when every band member is present and working to improve. The band member that misses rehearsal cannot improve, and the other band members around them have a less effective rehearsal due to the absence. We all depend on each other to "carry our fair share of the load" in order for us to achieve the level of proficiency for which the Bethlehem Center Band has become noted.

Rehearsals are never cancelled due to inclement weather, unless the school has been sent home early. We will not usually rehearse outdoors in the rain, unless it is just drizzle or intermittent light rain. In the event of steady rain, we will rehearse indoors and go out at the first opportunity. Students should dress for the weather. Not having the proper attire is not a satisfactory reason for having a poor rehearsal. Students should wear low-top tennis shoes and socks for rehearsals. This is important in that the style of marching step we use requires that the foot and ankle be permitted to move freely. Hats and sun block are recommended.

Directors should be notified IN ADVANCE if a student is going to be absent from a rehearsal or performance. Absences from band rehearsals or performances are unexcused unless due to (a) personal illness, (b) death in the family, (c) an emergency, or (d) special permission of the Directors obtained in advance by the parent or guardian. Students must exhibit consistent responsibility in these areas. Excessive absences for any reason may result in the student being placed on alternate status.

Organization Membership Requirements

Marching Band

To be a member of the Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band.  The student must have passed at least five (5) courses the previous semester, or must have made courses up through summer school. Each student must comply with all rules and regulations for that particular organization. The student agrees to attend band camp (exceptions through director approval). Exceptions must be approved by the directors in advance. Each member must meet all financial obligations and must attend all rehearsals and performances festivals, parades, and football games pre-game at all home football games. The student agrees to attend the rehearsal during the week designated to rehearse this show and all football games and homecoming festivities. All students will be financially responsible for band shoes, band t-shirt and uniform fees. To maintain membership and be eligible for all trips, members must follow all rules.

Concert Bands

To be a member of concert bands, the student must be enrolled in the proper band period during the fall and spring semester. Each student must comply with all rules and regulations for that particular organization. The student agrees to attend all after school rehearsals (including section rehearsal) and all performances. (Exceptions through director approval only.)

Jazz Band Ensemble

The Jazz Band Ensemble is a select group with membership through audition only. The student agrees to attend all rehearsals and performances. (Exceptions through director approval only.) Each member must be a member in good standing of the respective band class if he/she plays an instrument offered in standard band instrumentation.

Any student who drops out of any of these organizations during the season will not be allowed to rejoin at any time and must drop that specific class immediately or as soon as the administration deems possible. Any student who drops out at the end of the year will not be allowed to rejoin unless approved by directors. Any exceptions to the requirements above must be approved by the directors and the principal.

Instrument Care

School-owned instruments become the responsibility of the student to whom they are issued. (Instrument Check Out Forms are available from the Director.) Any damage other than normal wear and tear will be repaired at the student's expense.

Individual instruments must always be maintained in top playing condition. Always show the director your instrument before taking it in for repairs.

Remember that horseplay can cause damage to instruments and equipment. Be careful with your own instrument, place it out of harm's way if it is necessary for you to put it down, and never play around with or play on anyone else's instrument.

Grading Procedures

Band is a unique course at Bethlehem Center High School. It has curricular requirements, just as any other academic discipline, but it also has out-of-class time requirements. The strength of our band program is the consolidation of these requirements into one performance based, academic course of study. The level of commitment from each individual student is the driving force behind the organization and is reflected in the level of achievement reached by the individual and the program.

Band is a learning activity. Rehearsals, whether during or after school, are the means by which students learn, and by their very nature cannot be reproduced or made-up. Therefore it is imperative that students be present unless the absence is absolutely unavoidable. Excessive rehearsal absences will undoubtedly affect a student's performance. Although we frequently function as conductors, we are primarily teachers responsible for the musical and aesthetic education of each student in the band program. This is the reason we are absolutely insistent upon each student's daily participation. Rehearsals are not optional, and are reflected in the student's daily grade.

Performances are viewed as major tests: a performance is a learning experience that cannot be duplicated in a rehearsal hall or practice room; the level of concentration required in a public performance assists each student in developing an insight into his/her own level of performance; a performance is an important evaluative tool, allowing comparison of a student's performance in relation to classroom objectives presented and with past performances. Absences from performances are only excused in the event of an extreme emergency: serious illness or hospitalization of the student, death in the family, religious holiday, or other reasons deemed excusable by the directors. All absences from ... performances or rehearsals must be approved by the band directors IN ADVANCE. Unexcused absences may result in the student being placed in the "alternate status." Absences from a class must follow the policies and procedures set by Bethlehem Center High School. When a student is absent from class or rehearsal with an excused absence, they must turn in an individual practice time sheet to make up the rehearsal time that was missed. The forms should be filled out, signed, and returned within three days of the student's return to school.

Finally, we take our job as band directors seriously. The band as an organization provides a medium through which students progress academically, musically, and socially. Musicianship, attitude, attendance, punctuality, conduct, and a desire for excellence are absolutely expected from each member of the Bethlehem Center Band. Therefore, individual practice and preparation are essential. No other discipline in education requires the high level of achievement from all participants as does musical performance. Through the level of commitment required we hope to better prepare our students for the responsibilities encountered throughout their lives.

Classroom Procedures

All students are to be inside the band room before the tardy bell sounds. At three minutes after the bell, each student is expected to be in their seat, with stand, music, and necessary materials (especially your pencil). There should be silence in the rehearsal hall when the conductor gets to the podium.

Warm-up is a very important part of each rehearsal. This is when we focus on the fundamentals of our playing so that we may improve both as a group and as individuals.

Brass players should have all necessary mutes. Trumpet players should all have straight and cup mutes. These are called for quite often.

Reed players should have at least one spare reed at their seat during rehearsal. Ideally, you should have four to five reeds that all play that you rotate using from day to day. Your reeds will last longer and you will get better play from them if you do not use the same reed all the time from the day it is new until it is worn out.

Percussionists should each have a pair of concert snare drum sticks, mallets, and tympani sticks during Concert Season. During marching season, make sure you have all of the required equipment needed to perform on your assigned instrument.

Cases should be left in the Instrument Storage Room or around the walls in the rehearsal hall during rehearsal. They are unnecessary obstructions in the rehearsal area.

At the end of rehearsal, make sure you put all of your equipment away. Instruments should be put in the Instrument Storage Room until time to take home for practice. Music that is not being taken home should be placed in the appropriate slot in the music rack.

Percussion equipment is to be put away at the conclusion of rehearsals. Timpani and keyboards for which there are covers should be covered. Small equipment, including cymbals and concert snare drum, should be put in cases (if available) or returned to the appropriate storage area. This will help keep non-percussionists from "playing around" and will keep the equipment in better working order.

Problems of an individual nature (music missing, problems with instruments, etc.) should not take class time. These issues should be dealt with either before school, after school, or just before class as a last resort. (We are here by 7:20 a.m. every morning and are always available after school.) Talking during rehearsals must be kept to a minimum. Talking should always be about music we are studying and should never be a distraction to the conductor or other students.

DO NOT leave your money, purses, wallets, or other valuables UNATTENDED during rehearsals or during the school day. We cannot be responsible for valuables left in unsecured areas

Individual Accounts

The financial support of the Band program provides both a challenge as well as a considerable opportunity for band members and their families. The School Board provides a limited amount of money for the repair of school-owned instruments. Therefore, the Band Booster Club must generate the additional funds that are an absolute necessity in order to have a meaningful and successful program.

The Booster Club's Executive Board, which includes the directors and club officers, develops and submits a comprehensive budget of expenses for the upcoming school year. This budget is amended, if necessary, and approved by the Bulldog Marching Band Parents org. at the July meeting. All parents of students who attend Band Camp are voting members of the Band Booster Club. The amount of the budget is divided equally among the number of students. This amount is called the Individual Student Account.

All students will be able to march in the Pre-Game Show, Half-Time, Parades, and Special Events. There will be no required fees except for uniform fees, band shoes, gloves, white band polo shirt to participate in this performing organization.

An important and beneficial part of the total band experience is the opportunity to work together and earn the funds needed to support the Individual Account and entire Band program. From this the student learns the necessity to make the money to support his/her activities, budget for the required payments as well as to work together with other Band members and parents. The team-building that goes on during these work experiences supports the close working group that the Band must be in order to perform up to the BC Band standards.

These work experiences along with the other fund raising opportunities provides more than enough opportunity for every student to pay all Individual Account expenses without having to make any out-of-pocket payments. Please note that any fund-raising money intended to pay all or part of a payment must be turned in by the 15th of the month prior to the payment date. All money for fund-raising items and/or all unsold products must be turned in within two weeks of the deadline for credit to be received.

Monthly statements of your account will be available at all band parent meetings. They should be scrutinized closely and any questions or errors brought to the attention of the Treasurer in writing within 45 days. After that period, statements will be deemed correct no matter what.

The allocation of funds raised after April 1 will be determined by the Marching Band Board. Funds can roll over to the next year's account. Financial applications are available upon request. Any student wishing to participate in the Marching Band can participate actively in all fund-raising activities.

General Rules

1. All students must attend 2 of 3 practices in order to march in that weeks performance.

2. All students must notify a sponsor or a director of an upcoming absence. If the student fails to notify anyone, they will be warned the first time, The second time the student will sit out the next performance. If the student fails to show for three performances they will be asked to turn in their uniform.

3. When traveling, students must stay in the designated area. Only with a chaperone may the student leave that area. If the student leaves the area they will be benched for three performances and forfeit any leadership position. A second occurrence will cause that students expulsion from the band.

4. ALL STUDENTS MUST RIDE THE BUS TO AND FROM ALL PERFORMANCES. THE ONLY EXCEPTIONS ARE KENNYWOOD AND WASHINGTON FAIR, WITH ONLY YOUR PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIAN. YOU MUST NOTIFY EITHER DIRECTOR BEFORE LEAVING THE SCHOOL, THIS NOTIFICATION MUST BE IN WRITING BY YOUR PARENTS.IF YOU ARE RIDING HOME WITH YOUR PARENTS, YOUR PARENTS MUST CHECK YOU OUT WITH THE DIRECTORS AFTER THE PERFORMANCE AT THE BUS. IF YOUR PARENT IS NOT AT THE BUS TO CHECK YOU OUT, YOU WILL RIDE THE BUS HOME.

5. Couples -- remember this is a band function -- not a date!

6. Remember -- NO SMOKING!

7.If you bring food or drinks in the bandroom, please use the trash cans. If you make a mess, clean it up. If this is not done, we will stop allowing food and drinks in the bandroom. No gum in the bandroom or at rehearsals at any time.

8.Always take your uniform parts home (gloves, white band polo shirt, etc.). Do not leave equipment (instrument, rifle, flag) in the bandroom. Equipment should be stored in the proper room or taken home for practice.

9.Make sure your name is on all equipment (shoes, instrument case, bag, etc.).

10.Section leaders -- check each person in your section to make sure they have all parts to their equipment, especially on contest days.

11.You should remain in full uniform (minus hat) at all times at performances. Instructions will be given as to changing at contests. You will need your  band t-shirt at all performances.

12.All band members are to remain until the band is dismissed. At some games or contests we will march out as a unit.

13.Following any performance, you should hang your uniform on the proper hanger and rack. Do not remove your own plume.

14.Leave your valuables at home -- jewelry, etc.

15.Always wear a shirt under your uniform. (gold band t-shirts will be needed on festival days)

16.No T-shirts, hats, or any type clothing with alcoholic beverages, drug or other vice advertisements are to be worn during any band or school activity.

17.Visible, pierced jewelry is not acceptable. This includes ears, nose, lips, eyebrows, tongue, or any other visible part of your anatomy. (exceptions through director approval)

18.No painted hair will be accepted at any time.

19.Purses on trips may be put on the bus. Do not ask a chaperone to carry your purse. You may ask them to keep money for you.

20.Flip-folders and music should be taken to all football games.

21.Do what the chaperones ask. They are here to help you. They are equipped with band-aids, pins, Tylenol, buttons, etc…

22.Keep your language clean! You never know who might be listening. Continual use of inappropriate language will result in consequences.

23.NO SCREAMING!

24.If you must miss a rehearsal for a doctor's appointment, you must bring a note from your parents/guardian prior to the appointment or from the doctor following the appointment.

25.Each section is responsible for keeping any area used (Instrument Storage Room, section rehearsal area, bandroom) free from clutter. Each section will also have a designated clean-up day for the entire bandroom. A schedule will be posted at the beginning of the fall.

26.Remember to always cheer for the other bands.

27.The purchase, use, or possession of narcotics or alcohol in any form is strictly prohibited. The use of alcohol as a medication is not acceptable. If a student is taking a prescription drug, the directors should be notified in advance.

28.Remember you are a CLASS act. Do not do anything that would have to be explained. Always conduct yourselves as ladies and gentlemen.

Stands Procedure

1.Remember -- NO SMOKING.

2.No food or drinks in the stands before halftime.

3.Do not wear hats in the stands or with your uniform (except regular marching band hat). If it is cold, band ball caps, stocking caps, ear muffs, or something for warmth is permissible.

4.There is to be no random playing of instruments at any time. Any section or solo cheers should be cleared with the directors prior to the game.

5.At home games, sit in your assigned section (away games and contests, seating will depend on the type of stands). Sit in your assigned section the entire game -- even after third (3rd) quarter break. (breaks through director approval)

6.No outsiders allowed in the band sections. (exceptions through director approval)

7.Your concession break will be during the third quarter. You must be back in the stands, with 2 minutes remaining, in time to play at the end of the third quarter. Don't be late, watch the clock carefully. You will lose your break the next week if you are late.

8.NO SCREAMING !!!!! Yell for the team - not at each other.

Bus Rules and Procedures

1.DO NOT change buses. You must ride the same bus to which you are assigned. (exceptions through director approval)

2.On school buses, try to keep noise to a minimum. No loud screaming, radios, etc.

3.DO NOT play your instruments on the bus.

4.DO NOT throw anything out of the windows. Keep arms, head, etc, inside windows.

5.Answer roll call for yourself only. Keep the noise level down. Roll will be called by chaperones each time we load the bus.

6.Couples-remember this is a band function-not a date!

7.Put trash in garbage bags. On short trips, take trash off the bus when you leave.

8.When we return, be sure to close windows. This will help the drivers.

9.At away games and festivals, you must return with the band. (exceptions through director and principal approval)

10.Home games are over at approximately 9:30 p.m. We will give you a time that we will return to school on away trips. We will be within 15 minutes of that time one way or the other. Please have your rides here at school. We want to go home, too!

11.Remember -- NO SMOKING.

12.Be courteous, do what chaperones ask and thank the drivers and chaperones when we return.

13.Do not use the emergency exit doors unless an emergency arises. They are not to be used for loading and unloading the bus.

14.Purses may be put in the bus. Do not ask a chaperone to carry your purse. You may ask them to keep money for you. Leave valuables at home.

15.Do not take the large portable stereo radios on any trip. If you want to listen to the radio, you must use headphones. (Walkman radios are o.k.) There are many reasons for this -- courtesy for others.

16.Get your equipment off the truck when we return to the school. YOU must put your instrument and equipment back in the bandroom. If you ride home with your parents, make sure you have someone take care of your equipment.

1.Be on time: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Have rides here at 2:00 p.m. each day.

2.Do not leave campus during camp (especially during breaks).

3.Bring a sack lunch each day. Put your name on it. Cold drinks are 50 cents. Try to have correct change. There will be snacks for sale in the lobby.

4.Empty drink cans belong in the trash cans, not on the floor or the ground.

5.Absolutely NO GUM in the band room at anytime or at any rehearsal.

6.During band camp, you may eat lunch and drink cold drinks in the band room provided you do not leave food or cans sitting around. Use the trash cans. If this is a problem, we will stop eating in the band room. During school there will be NO food or drinks in the band room at any time.

7.Use restrooms on this end of the building. Do not go into the main building.

8.No Smoking.

9.Wear proper clothing-shorts, etc. No bathing suits. No tee shirts, hats, or any type of clothing with any type of vice ads on them when you are representing the Bethlehem Center Band.

10.Wear good comfortable, sturdy shoes. No sandals, bare feet, etc. Wear socks.

11.Wear a hat.

12.Be careful of the sun. Use sunscreen if you have fair skin. You can't give 100% if you are sunburned.

13. Our practice field increases the chance of sunburned legs, etc. Take necessary precautions. (Wear long socks or pants.)

14.We suggest you bring a towel for morning drills. Then wet it for your neck in the afternoon. Wet towels are for the neck not the fannies.

15.There will be no initiations of any kind. We will have a special day for Seniors.

16.Parents are here to help you. If you get sick -- let someone know.

17.You are covered by insurance during band camp.

18.Parents will serve you water during your marching breaks. Cups belong in the trash. Do not throw water or ice.

19.Be courteous to all staff and parents. They are here to help you.

20.Conduct yourselves as ladies and gentlemen at all times.

21.If you have to miss a practice due to illness or a death in the family during camp or any time during the year, you must let one of the directors know before rehearsal. You could lose your spot in the show. Please try to schedule doctor and dental appointments sometime other than during rehearsal times.

22.You must have a pencil, reeds, oil, and any other equipment needed for your instrument. We will give you a flip folder to use during marching season -- it must be returned at the end of the season or you will have to pay for it. Keep up with it. You should have a notebook with your co-ordinates for the show. You will have an assigned slot in the folder racks for your flip folder and co-ordinate book.

23.Be sure your name is on all your equipment. (Instrument, flip folder, notebook) These will be checked periodically.

24.There will be a music truck here several times during band camp, if you need any supplies.

25.Awards will be presented at the end of the camp.

26.Remember Positive Mental Attitude -- P.M.A.

27.Make this the best and most exciting Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band ever!

Travel Tips

1.Follow instructions of Directors or chaperones at all times. If you don't understand, ask.

2.No boys in girls' rooms, no girls in boys' rooms.

3.No unnecessary moving around on the bus. No standing in seats, sitting on backs or arms of seats on the bus. Do as the bus driver asks when on the bus.

4.Each bus will have a first aid kit on board. Ask chaperones for help.

5.Be quiet and cooperative during roll call on buses.

6.Use restrooms on buses as little as possible. We will make regular stops, and we don't want the restrooms to smell.

7.You are responsible for any damage to your room.

8.Know who the chaperone for your group is, and their room number.

9.Make no charges to your room (movies, phones, etc.). Use pay phones.

10.Take no souvenirs from your room, restaurants, or any other place of business. Remember: Shoplifting and stealing are crimes.

11.Make no calls between rooms after lights out, unless you are calling a chaperone to report a problem.

12.Don't leave your room unlocked.

13.No alcoholic beverages, non-prescription drugs, or any controlled substances (which includes tobacco and alcohol) are to be taken, bought, or consumed during the trip. Directors should be notified in writing if you are taking any prescription drugs.

14.No changing buses or rooms without directors permission.

15.Leave non-essential valuables at home.

16.Watch your belongings. If you put something down unattended, there is an excellent chance it will not be there when you return.

17.Profanity is not a part of this band. Make sure your language is never offensive.

18.Curfews will be announced and strictly enforced.

19.Personal radios and cassette players with headphones only are allowed on the bus. The volume should not be loud enough to be heard outside your head.

20.Behavior of students will be exemplary at all times. There is no excuse for rude, obnoxious acts.

21.All school rules are in effect throughout the duration of any trip.

22.Kindness and courtesy work miracles in almost every situation. Remember that PLEASE and THANK YOU cost you nothing and yet are highly valued, especially when received from a teenager.

23.There shall be no action for which an explanation is necessary. If you think someone might ask you "Why did you do that?" then don't do it.

Violations of these rules will result in disciplinary action that could include removal from the organization, confinement to your room for the duration of the trip, or being sent home. Detailed information sheets, showing departing and estimated arrival times, are distributed prior to any trip.

Contests and Festivals

Contests, festivals, and other adjudicated activities are important features of the Bethlehem Center Band program. It is through these activities that we obtain valuable feedback about our progress as individuals and as a program. Although we never "live or die" by any one judge's or any panel's opinion of our performance, it is important that we learn the value of giving maximum effort and standing by the results as our best possible effort that day.

Competitive performances are packed with emotion. Because of the amount of time, work, and discipline required to produce award-winning performances, we develop great camaraderie within the organization. We share hardship, discomfort, fatigue, oppressive heat, chilling cold, long bus rides, disappointment, tears, success and joy.

The band's image is based on each individual. Our public reputation is based upon our appearance, our actions, and our projection of pride and organization. It is the responsibility of each band member to insure that we present the best possible image at all times.

Student Leaders

The Band Council is a group of leaders that work with the directors in an advisory capacity. The students will also be called on for special presentations to accept awards, have pictures taken with political representatives, etc., on behalf of the Band. The Band Council is made up of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, Drum Majors, and two representatives from each class. Band Council elections are held at the beginning of the school year. To be eligible for an office, candidates must be full participants in the band program, exemplary in attitude, loyalty, dedication, and willing to give of their personal time for the betterment of the Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band. One of the primary assignments of all officers will be the Band's morale.

Section Leader/Guard Commanding Officer/Drum Major

These leaders are selected by directors and staff on the basis of musical/marching ability, service, dedication, loyalty, and leadership qualities. The number of section leaders for each section may vary from section to section and year to year.

All student leaders will carry out the policies of the Band, Band Directors, School, and School Administrators to the best of their abilities. Any time you question or disagree with specific instructions from a student leader, please avoid confrontation and discuss the problem with the directors at your earliest convenience. Student leaders do not handle money or fund-raising merchandise for any other student and cannot be held responsible. Student leaders cannot give you permission to miss a rehearsal or performance, be tardy, or leave early. Student leaders should be positive and work for the best interest of the Bethlehem Center "Bulldog" Marching Band at all times. Drum Major Prerequisite: To audition for the position of Drum Major or Assistant Drum Major you must be a current member with at least one year of Marching Band Experience and Registered in Concert Band Class

Tryouts will consist of the following four parts:

Voice and Whistle Commands Attention Parade Rest Horns Up Forward March To the Rear March Right and Left Flank March Halt

Conducting Conduct to a recording of an instrument group. Routine should be 2 -3 minutes long. Routine must include a fast and slow section. Conducting should reflect the style of music

Marching Candidates will be asked to march a routine, which will include forward, and backward marching and mark time. Candidates will march the above while conducting.

Interview Candidates will be asked to answer questions such as "Why do you wish to be Drum Major of the Bethlehem Center Marching Band?" "What qualities do you bring to the table that will help the band?"

Band Uniform Guidelines

1.Black Shoes: Shoes will be ordered at Band Camp. Cost is $19.95.

2.White Gloves: Purchase at band room for $2.00 per pair when uniform is issued. Each band member except percussion and guard is required to have at least one pair of gloves. Two pair are recommended. Clarinets and other instruments with open keys will have to cut the ends from the fingers. Freshmen, if you have a question about how to do this so the gloves won't ravel, see a uniform mom or ask an upperclassman in your section.

3.Gold Band t-Shirt: Purchase at band room when uniform is issued. Each band member is required to have at least one band shirt. They may be purchased for $6.50 each, except for sizes XXL and XXXL, which will be $2.00 extra. We also encourage parents and other family members to purchase these shirts to show your support of the band at contests. Chaperones must wear these. The shirts are available for purchase today or they may be purchased with the other uniform items on the days designated.

4.Section leaders will check with each person in their section to make sure each has his or her instrument and all parts of his/her uniform, especially on contest days.

5.Make sure your shoes, instrument case and all belongings have your name on them.

6.You should remain in full uniform (minus hat) at all times at performances, unless otherwise directed.

7.After you are dismissed following any performance, you are to take off your uniform and hang it up properly, place your shoes, hat and gloves in the their designated areas. Each student is responsible for keeping up with all parts of his or her uniform. (We don't have extras!)

8.Leave all valuables at home. Remove all earrings, facial piercing, rings (anything showing). Don't wear any nail polish!

9.Always wear your designated shirt under your uniform (white polo band shirts and white polo marching shirts should always be available).

10.No T-shirts, hats, or any type of clothing with alcoholic beverages, drug or other vice advertising are to be worn during any band activity.

11.Gold band t-shirts are to be worn on Pep Rally Days.

12.On days of performances, all band students should wear blue gym shorts to make it easier when changing clothes.

All prices are approximate and are subject to change with different shipments

Awards, Lessons, Staff/Chaperones

Band Awards

Each student that participates in the band program at Bethlehem Center High School, including the Marching and/or Concert activities, will receive a Band Certificate of Merit at the annual Band Banquet. After the first year of participation, students will receive a Band Letter. Each subsequent year they will receive an appropriate award signifying another year's service. Seniors will receive a beautiful wooden picture plaque with a listing of all accomplishments from their respective four (4) years in Band. In addition, students may be eligible for several special awards, selected by the directors, staff, or by vote of the band.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are the key to developing an outstanding musical organization. Students who study their instruments privately with a professional show rapid improvement in individual musicianship. As these students improve, their excitement towards practicing increases, they continue to improve, and they become a stronger contributor to the overall success of the band.

Private instruction has a great impact on the individual student and on our band program both this year and in the future. Directors will assist you, if needed, in selecting a private instructor. The key to satisfactory results from private instruction is to start as soon as possible.... SO START NOW!

Staff And Chaperones

Anyone on the staff of the Bethlehem Center Band has been selected due to the skills and qualities they possess and for the benefit they can bring the band program, and should be considered an extension of the directors. They are to be treated with the highest level of courtesy and respect.