www.colerainbands.org Page 1

We would like to welcome you to the Colerain Band Program. This handbook is tool for you to use to find answers to all those first year questions. The handbook outlines what goes on for the
Marching Band Season and beyond. There is information on how to make payments, what is expected on Friday nights, Band Competitions, and much more.
We encourage you to learn about our program and get involved. One way to do this is attend the monthly Upbeat Club meetings. The Upbeat Club is a non-profit parent organization that supports the entire instrumental music program at Colerain High School. This group meets monthly in the Colerain Band Room.
This group is the backbone of the entire department. EVERYONE is invited and encouraged to attend. Please check the Colerain Bands web site at www.colerainbands.org
for meeting dates, and updates throughout the season.
Finally we encourage you to join the Colerain Boosters. Colerain Boosters have continually supported the efforts of all the music programs at Colerain High School. Our booster organization is known as the Colerain Boosters, NOT the Colerain Athletic Boosters, which means they support all programs at the high school. A booster membership is a small price to pay for the huge investment they have given to our program.
Again welcome to the Marching Band and we look forward to working with you the year!
“If you’re early, you’re on time;
If you’re on time, you’re late”! www.colerainbands.org Page 2

Why is there a marching band fee?
The marching band fee allows our students to have an incredible experience. Of the band fee $300 is Band Camp lodging, food, tour shirts, visual supplies, and food for
Friday Night Dinners and $100 is NWLSD pay to participate, for transportation, The fee is not meant to prevent anyone from participating. If the fee would tip the scales towards non-participation, please contact Mr. Smith to work through the situation.
Why do we still have fundraisers?
Many people believe that the marching band fee is enough of a financial contribution to cover costs of Marching Band. This is simply not true. The actual expense for each season is closer to $1000 per student. Much of this fee is budgeted by staffing, which is taken care of by the school. We operate on a budget which must cover , transportation busses, equipment trucks, and drivers), color guard design and equipment, costumes, uniform maintenance, member t-shirts, pep band music, competition dues and any other miscellaneous expenses that arise throughout the season. Many competitive marching bands cost at least $500.00 or more.
Could we field a marching band for less?
Sure. But we would not be able to offer a full competitive schedule or challenge our students with high level of music, drill and guard design that they deserve. The educational value of marching band is diminished if the music is too easy, the visual design fails to excite, and the students aren’t inspired to reach their fullest potential.
Please support our efforts by participating in fundraisers! We do not charge you the entire amount that it actually costs.
Where do I turn in money and forms?
Any and all monies for fundraisers, band fees, and forms should be turned in to the
“Black Box”, a locked mailbox in the band room. This box is checked at the end of every day. When at all possible, please pay for items with a check and make a note in the memo section as to what the check is for. Also place money in an envelope with your name /students name on front, this will help track payments during busy fundraising times.
Who do I make checks payable to?
All money that comes into the marching band is deposited with the Colerain Boosters.
ALL checks for Marching Band fees, fundraisers, trips, etc., should be made payable to
Colerain Boosters . The NWLSD Pay to Participate Fee check should be made out to
NWLSD
How do I find out my band account balance?
There is a link on the band web site www.colerainbands.org
that will take you to
Charms. Charms Office is a program we use to maintain student information and fees.
You can update information, see what uniforms number is assigned, fees charged, payments made and much more. More information will be given to you on how to access your student’s information www.colerainbands.org Page 3

Do we buy the band uniforms?
No. The band has uniforms that will be assigned to your student. They are responsible for the uniform and will be charged for damaged and/or lost uniforms which include the, the bibs, jacket, hats, gauntlets, and black shorts.
When do students get uniforms? Shoes?
During the week of pre-camp the students will be fitted and assigned a uniform.
Uniforms consist of black bib pants, red jacket with removable sash, black gauntlets, black gloves, and a hat. Students are responsible for taking care of this equipment during the season. They should report any damage or loss to a director as soon as possible. Keeping the uniform clean, repaired and hemmed, etc. is very important to the general appearance of the band. Guard uniforms are different.
Band students are required to have black drillmaster shoes as part of their uniform. This is the only part which students must purchase. The representative from RRR Band will be here during pre-camp to size students and order shoes. RRR Band will also size the guard for shoes, which may or may not be black, and gloves at the same time.
What do students wear under their uniforms?
Students should wear their tour shirt and shorts under their uniforms. During the colder months sweatshirts and long sleeves are appropriate. NO HOODED SWEATSHIRTS.
Long pants may be worn as long as the pants are rolled or pinned so they do not hang out below the bibs.
Tips to remember while in uniform:
Band and guard members are not permitted to wear any visible jewelry (this includes earrings, nose rings/studs, lip/eyebrow rings/studs, necklaces, etc.) Band members are to wear no makeup. Guard will be instructed what makeup to wear is this is part of their uniform.
Pre-camp, Camp, Rehearsals, and Practices
Do students have to attend all of the summer rehearsals?
Students are expected to attend all summer rehearsals. Students should arrange their work schedules to accommodate band rehearsals. Advanced notice of absence is required.
Do students have to attend all of band camp?
YES. Students must attend all of band camp. This is a group activity which requires everyone’s participation. Unlike athletic teams, there are no substitute players. If students miss a rehearsal or performance, there is no one to cover their parts. The majority of the music and drill are learned during band camp. If students miss camp they create more work for themselves, staff members and other students in order to help them learn the material they missed. The calendar for band camp has been published well in advance to allow families to arrange their summer plans around it. If there is an unavoidable conflict, speak with Mr. Smith ASAP!
What equipment/supplies will my student need?
FOR ALL REHEARSALS students need their instruments, a water bottle, binder with music in sheet protectors, a pencil, hat and sunscreen. Color guard members should www.colerainbands.org Page 4

bring their guard gloves and percussionists should bring any sticks or mallets they use during the show. Other band members need to make sure they have extra reeds, oils, or supplies they need for their instruments.
It’s raining/snowing outside. Does that mean rehearsal/performance is cancelled?
No. Rehearsals and performances are never cancelled
What should my student wear?
Students should wear comfortable clothes that allows for freedom of movement.
Acceptable clothing includes tennis shoes with socks, t-shirts, sweat, and athletic pants.
Please do not wear sandals, jeans, high top sneakers, flat sole shoes, dress shoes, or any other clothing that restricts movement. ALL CLOTHING MUST FOLLOW THE
SCHOOL DRESS CODE.
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Lodging
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Food
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Breaks
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Naptime
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Medicine
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Phones
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Visitors
BAND CAMP CONACT INFO
You may also utilize email ( dsmith@nwlsd.org
) and check your email and Facebook for updates. In cases of emergency, you can call or text Mr. Smith at 859-760-6434
-Arrive Monday at noon
-Upon arrival students should check in at the table located outside the band room.
-Students will be required to bring their own lanyard with them
-You should put your luggage in the grassy area by the glass door area.
-Students who need medication at camp, the parent will bring that into Mr. Smith in the band room.
-We will all help load the trailers and luggage bus.
-Please make sure everything is labeled!!! It would also be able to attach your name to your pillow or inside the pillow case.
-We are in need of donations of granola bars, rice krispy treats, popsicles, and white towels/bar mops etc. If you can send a pack of those in on Friday, that would be great.
Saturday Family Show
-We will have a family show on Saturday at 1pm. All Family members should attend. Bring a lawn chair.
Students will leave camp with their families after the trailers are loaded and the camp is clean.
If it is impossible for a student to return from camp with their families, please see if your child can ride back with another family.
Directions to Camp Higher Ground:
Higher Ground Conference and Retreat Center 3820 Logan Creek Ln.West Harrison, IN 47060
What to Pack For Band Camp
-Instrument
-Extra Reeds, Valve Oil, etc
-Music Binder and Music
-Water Bottle
-Enough clothing for five days
-Extra socks
-Two pairs of tennis shoes
-Toiletries/personal items
-Shower shoes
-Towels and washcloths
-Bathing suits and beach towels
-Sunscreen
-Bedding
-Flashlight
-Sunglasses
-Bug Repellant
-Hat www.colerainbands.org Page 5

When is the best time to talk to a director or staff member?
The best time is NOT as staff/director is getting ready for rehearsal or after a particularly late rehearsal. The most effective way is to email them.
Am I allowed to watch practice?
ABSOLUTELY!!! The bigger the crowd, the better the students perform. If the students have parents to perform to at rehearsal, it prepares them and pumps them up to do their best every time. Obviously parents should never go onto the field nor should they be loud or disruptive to the positive progression of rehearsal. AT NO TIME SHOULD
PARENTS INTERACT WITH STUDENTS OR STAFF AT A REHEARSAL.
FOOTBALL AND COMPETITION INFORMATION
What is the marching band’s responsibility during football games?
The marching band plays an important role in entertaining the crowd and cheering for our team. We perform a pre-game concert that includes the National Anthem, fight song, and other crowd pleasers. We play pep tunes and cheer for our team during the game and perform a half time show.
Half-time is over. Can my student leave the game now?
NO. All students are expected to attend the entire game. Football games are part of the commitment that all members make to the marching band.
Why does the guard have to be there?
Guard is a part of our ban d family. Although they don’t play an instrument they still participate by cheering for our team. They will also perform the half time show. Guard may sometimes use the game time for extra practice or to repair equipment, that way they don’t have to stay late after rehearsals.
Where does the band sit?
At home games the band sits in the left end zone by the score board facing the field. At all the games they are given a break during the game. At home games a small snack and drink are available to the students. There is always water available at anytime it is needed. Students do not visit the concession stand. Parents are not allowed to bring students food and drinks during the break. If a student has a specific need or issue, please contact the director or a staff member. This break is also a time for chaperoned restroom visits if necessary.
Where and when are the competitions?
Competitions are usually help on Saturdays beginning in mid September and ending with Championships in November. Any school can host a competition (usually called a
“show”). The closest shows in our circuit are held throughout Ohio and Indiana. Most competitive Marching Bands compete in at least one show per weekend and some perform at more than one show (such as an afternoon show scheduled close to an evening show). Our participation in Championship depends on whether or not we have a football playoff game. www.colerainbands.org Page 6

How do we get to the shows?
All marching band members and approved chaperones travel to and from the shows by bus. Parents and fans must provide their own transportation. Directions to each show will be in the CHS Band Tour Book and will be available the week before the show.
NOTE: You may follow the busses but you will not arrive until after the show starts. You will park in a separate area away from the busses, though there are workers and signs showing you where to park.
Where do we get tickets for the shows?
Marching band members get in free, but there is an admission fee which can range from
$5-$10 for spectators. Shows for championships or at professional stadiums will cost more. Tickets can be purchased at the gates.
What is a typical show like?
Shows usually begin with the smaller bands and end with the largest bands (Open
Class). Due to our size, Colerain will generally perform later in the show, we are
Class AAAA. Class size is determined by the number of playing members. Each band has approximately 15 minutes to setup, perform, and clear the field. Judges are in the announcer’s booth and watch for the overall effects of the performance. The stadium will be filled with fans, while areas such as parking lots and athletic fields are used by bands warming up. There are many talented bands in our area and they are amazing to watch.
How do we get the best seats?
The best seats are on the 50 yard line as high up as you can get in the stands. These seats go first, so you have to arrive early to get these seats. REMEMBER: If you follow the busses you will not arrive until after the show starts and these seats will be gone.
Wear your spirit wear and look for other Colerain fans so everyone can sit together. This is a great time to support the other bands and all their hard work.
Is there any special etiquette to being a marching band fan?
YES ! Here are a few tips to remember:
1. Please do not enter or exit the stands while the band is performing. If you need to enter or exit please do so before or after the band has performed.
2. Show support by applauding and cheering for all students regardless of the school.
All students have worked hard and are excited to perform for the audience. PLEASE refrain from making disparaging remarks about other schools, students, or performances. (This seems obvious, but you would be surprised how even the most well-intentioned people can get caught up in the heat of competition and make hurtful remarks.)
3. Noise makers (ex. cowbells, shakers) are fine before and after a performance BUT please do not use them during the performance. They may distract the performers and could even affect the band’s score if the judge is unable to hear the music. PLEASE NO
AIR HORNS AT ANY TIME. Cheering And applause are fine during a performance and may be especially appropriate after a solo or when the band or guard achieves a particularly striking effect.
4. Please do not talk during performances. Turn off cell phones. You would be upset if you missed your child’s performance because the people sitting nearby were chatting, www.colerainbands.org Page 7

answering cell phones, or otherwise making distracting noises. Please be respectful of others desire to see their child perform. Hopefully they will be respectful of you too!
5.Keep in mind that marching band is about putting forth your best performance. It is not about beating another band, winning a trophy or getting a certain score. It’s ok to be excited if the band improves their score or wins a certain award; but ultimately we hope the students feel a sense of accomplishment that come from the heart, not from a trophy.
I see my child warming up in the parking lot. Is this a good time to say hello?
Sorry, but no. Students have specific instructions about what to do when they arrive at the show and your arrival may put them into a conflict with those instructions. It put the student in an awkward position if their instructor is telling them one thind and then their parent arrives and tells them to do something different. The staff asks that you respect the following guidelines:
1. Please do not try to talk to your child until after the performance unless you have a very serious situation that absolutely can not wait. If this is the case, please approach the director or staff person first so they can help you to work through this situation with your child.
2. Please do not give your child food or drink before the performance. This can get clogged in their instrument, muddy the sound and is unsanitary. There will be time for them to meet you after the performance or visit the concessions stand. There is also time set aside for them to eat before them arrive at the show. They have an uncanny way of finding you when they need money for food! Trust me the will find you. If you wear spirit wear and sit near the other band parents it makes it easier for them to find you.
3. Please do not interrupt the warm up unless you have an emergency. The students and staff need to focus. If you have a specific, non emergency concern and need to speak to Mr. Smith or a staff member, this is not the best time. They would be happy to speak with you after the performance or arrange an alternate meeting time.
4. The best thing you can do before the show is to find a seat and watch the show.
There are many talented bands to watch and enjoy as they perform their show.
What happens at the end of the show?
After the last performance, the drum majors from each band will line up and march down the field. This is called “Retreat”. Scores and awards will be presented and students will then return to the bus. At this time directors and staff are invited to meet with the judges to discuss ways to improve their performance. This meeting is called
“Critique”.
The show is over, why hasn’t the bus left yet?
The most likely reason is that the staff is still at Critique. Groups meet with the judges in the order that they performed. Please be patient. The staff is as anxious to get home as you are!
The bus just got back to school, why can’t my child leave?
Students are responsible for unloading and properly storing all equipment, even if they do not personally use it. If we work together this process won’t take long and then everyone can go home. www.colerainbands.org Page 8

Where should I meet my student at the end of any band event including practice, games, or competitions?
ALL STUDENTS MUST BE PICKED UP BY THE BAND ROOM. STUDENTS NEED
TO LEAVE VIA THE DOOR CLOSEST TO THE STADIUM. PARENTS ARE
REQUIRED TO PARK IN A PARKING SPOT AND WAIT FOR YOUR CHILD. DO
NOT PARK IN THE DRIVEWAYS. ALSO, AT NO TIME ARE PARENTS ALLOWED
TO PARK IN THE PARKING SPOTS IN THE LOT OUTSIDE OF THE BAND ROOM.
THOSE ARE RESEVERED 24/7 FOR THE BAND AND ATHELTIC OFFICE STAFF.
What circuit do we compete in?
We compete in the Mid-States Band Association, Ohio Music Educators Association
AND Music For All. Check out their website www.midstatesba.org
, www.omea-ohio.org, www.musicforall.org.
How are bands divided into classes for Midstates?
Class size is determined by the number of playing members.
Class A 1-35 playing band members
Class AA
Class AAA
Class AAAA
36-54 playing band members
55-70 playing band members
71-100 playing band members
Open Class 100+ playing band members
Colerain is Class AAAA/OPEN
For OMEA Shows, the band is in AA (for big schools)
How are the bands scored?
In general the judges are looking for proficiency in music, visual and overall effect.
Judges are assigned to critique Music, Performance, Ensemble Music Performance,
Visual Effect, Overall Effect of Music, and Overall Effect of Visual. With in each of these categories, judges are assessing the show design, musical composition, difficulty level, quality of technique, musicianship and how effectively the performance portrays the shows concept through their playing, marching and guard work.
What are caption awards?
The host school has the option of presenting awards to the best performers in various categories (called captions), such as best color guard, percussion, drum major, etc. The performances of the color guard, percussion, drum major and other captions affect the overall visual and musical scores, but there are also separate judges who look at these areas completely apart from the overall band’s performance. The scores given by these judges are used to decide who wins a caption award and do not factor into the band’s overall score.
I thought the students did a great job, why wasn’t their score higher?
The students probably did do a great job. The most important thing is that they feel good about their performance and know that they did their best. The judges are professionally trained to look for specific skills that an untrained spectator may not even notice. Tiny discrepancies in marching technique, difficulty level, and musical proficiency can make a big difference in score, but might be totally unnoticed by the fans. Judging is fairly subjective too. Sometimes a judge may simply prefer a different style. Please remember that the most important thing is that our students push www.colerainbands.org Page 9

themselves to reach their highest potential. I n the end a score is just a number and a trophy is just a piece of plastic. Both are soon forgotten, but hard work, perseverance, and pride of accomplishment are lessons for a lifetime.
OTHER COMMUNITY EVENTS
In addition to regular and playoff football games and competitions the Colerain Marching
Band is often asked to participate in other community events and parades. The band
MAY participate in the Harvest Home Parade, elementary school events, the Red’s
Opening Day Parade and has led the Santa Parade at Northgate Mall for the last several years.
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A BAND PARENT WHEN………
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You make three or more trips than expected to drop off your child with everything they need
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You carry spare black gloves, needle and thread, safety pins, black socks and duck tape with you at all times
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You follow busses around all day on Saturday
 You can’t pick your child out of the crowd because they all look alike
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You no longer speak of your child as a fourteen-year-old daughter/son, but as a freshman trumpet, freshman flut e, etc….
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You prominently display a band calendar on in the kitchen, have band dates marked on the calendar in your purse, and/or have the band Website bookmarked in your favorites.
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You use your oven more for baking goodies for bake sales and treats for home football games than for sit-down meals.
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You know you will be wearing something Red and White every Friday night, and on
Saturdays
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Early is on time, and on time is late.
 You don’t leave home without cushions to sit on, camera and camcorder
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You are cheering with other band parents.
These are just a few ideas that some veteran families have found useful to bring with you for football games and/or competitions.
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Directions and the tour book. It is helpful to have the tour book in
case you run into problems and need to contact someone in the band.
Look into carpooling with someone you know for practices, Friday night
games and competitions if you work or otherwise are unable to make the
events.
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MONEY!!!! To purchase tickets, programs (they list all the bands and gives space to write scores, and awards given),concessions, fundraising booths and band-o-grams( you can send a good luck wish to your child or the band)
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Blanket, stadium seat, or a foam cushion to sit on while watching the bands. Blanket is a safe bet, you can wrap up in it later in the evening when it cools down
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Jacket, hats, gloves scarves, and hand and toe warmers. ( they can be found at Meijers or Dicks). It may be sunny during the day but when the sun goes down it can get quite chilly at the football games and competitions. Rain gear for Friday night games is something you should consider also, there were many a Friday night last year where we were sitting in the cold and rainy weather.
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Small pocket size snacks. Sometimes they are nice to have on hand to hold you over until you can go to the concession stand. Remember the concessions are a fundraiser for the bands hosting the competitions and is a nice opportunity to show your support. www.colerainbands.org Page 10

Auxiliary:
Battery:
Clean: also known as the color guard, this group creates much of the visual expression of the show through dance and the use of equipment such as flags, rifles, and sabers. refers to the marching percussion, including snare, tenor and bass
Drums
Critique:
Dirty:
Drill: means the students make few mistakes in their marching, playing, or spinning during the show . a meeting after each competition that allows judges and staff members to discuss ways of improving the performance. means that the basic elements of the show are present, but the students have not practiced enough to perform them with the precision that is needed. refers to the positions of the band and color guard on the field and
Pit:
Pit Crew : the steps that they take to create visual designs. refers to the ground percussion in front of the marching band, and includes instruments such as timpani, gongs, and keyboard instruments (marimba, vibraphone, xylophone, bells, and chimes) parent volunteers who help load and transport percussion equipment. They also have the important job of moving this equipment on and off the field for performances.
Retreat:
Shako: at the end of the competition, the bands or drum majors take the field to accept awards. refers to the style of head gear that is worn by the CHS marching band. It is not called a hat.
Show:
Spinning: refers to either the theme or performance of a particular band or to a competition, such as chapter championships. this term describes the use of color guard equipment, such as flags, rifles, and sa bers. We don’t call it twirling www.colerainbands.org Page 11