Band Update - 9/3/10

Dear Band Parents and Students,

Well, we played the odds with the weather this afternoon... we were dry for about 70% of the rehearsal, and the rest was filled with intermittent "liquid sunshine!" My apologies for sending students back to class damp. But, the good news is that it looks to be beautiful and dry this evening.

Because I dismissed the students very quickly today, I wanted to highlight a couple of announcements for tonight:

-- Call Time is 6:15 pm in the band room.

-- Full uniform: including black band t-shirts, and black socks (ladies' hair should be tucked up into the hat)

-- Postgame Alma Mater: Tonight, we begin an exciting new tradition, in which the football team and the band join in the Alma Mater after the game. Students, please remember that, immediately following the conclusion of the game, we will form up in our "Poker Face" positions, moved forward onto the track, facing the home stands.

After the Alma Mater, we will form our parade block and march back to the HS. Please remember the improvements that we have made this week in our parade marching.

I look forward to seeing everyone tonight!
Thank you,
Jason Wyse
Band Director


 

Band Update - 8/31/10

Dear Band Parents and Students,

Congratulations to all on a successful first FB game and performance! Overall, it was a very smooth trip (with many thanks to our fine chaperones), and a solid debut performance... one that we can continue to build upon this week. I was very pleased with the energy and focus that students displayed on the field. We will work to bring an even stronger performance for our home crowd on Friday!

This week's events:

TUESDAY, 8/31 - Evening Rehearsal (6:00-9:00) - Stadium

We will begin rehearsal promptly at 6:00 pm on the turf. Students, be prepared to spend some time on Pregame. You must either know your music by memory, or have your flip folder with you*. Every contribution is important! If you need another copy of your pregame music, please visit the band website and print it out before rehearsal.

*If you ordered a lyre or flip folder during camp, it is now in. Please see Mrs. Astey.

Also, locks are now available for purchase. Every instrument locker should have a lock, and it must be a school lock (#v59, with a keyhole in the back). They can be purchased in the band office for $5.

WEDNESDAY, 9/1 - Open House (7:00 pm)

Parents, we look forward to seeing you on this night during your child's concert band period (5, 6, or 7)! Freshman parents should plan to come during the 5th period class block. This way, you will get to meet and talk with Mrs. Astey. All others should come during your 6th period (Symphonic Band) or 7th period (Wind Ensemble). The Jazz Ensemble will be performing in the cafeteria during the 3rd and 4th period blocks.

FRIDAY, 9/3 - HOME FB vs. Medina (CT 6:15 pm) - "Bees vs. Bees"

Our first home game of the year is coming up! There are many things of which to be proud from last week's game, and also several ways in which we can seek to improve. We will reflect on both the positives and the areas that require some attention as we continue into the season, always striving to get better!

Parents: in the interest of open communication and clear expectations, here are some areas of improvement that I will be addressing with the students on Monday:

- Giving full attention to the other performing band during halftime
- Demonstrating proper conduct during parade block marching
- Giving utmost respect to chaperones, bus drivers, staff, and each other at all times
- Keeping the uniform "zipped and clipped" at all times (even during break)
- Proper care of instrument and uniform after the game
- Responsible, cautious driving as you leave the parking lot at night

Again, there are many positives to be noted, as well... I think the 2010 Marching Bees are off to a great start!

Please feel free to contact me, Mrs. Astey, or Mr. Cocchiola by email or phone with any questions.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

We are looking forward to getting started!
Thank you,
Jason Wyse
Band Director