Frequently asked questions about participation requirements, transportation, uniforms, and band participation fees.
Participation Requirements
Do I have to MARCH in the MARCHING BAND!!?
Marching Band (Viper Vanguard) is required of every band student at Lake Buena Vista High School. The only exception are students in Beginning Band with no prior experience.
Remember, Marching Season only lasts until the beginning of November. IT IS NOT A YEAR-ROUND COMITTMENT.
Marching Band is the most visible component of our program, enthusiastic participation is critical to our long-term success and growth!!
Are there required after school rehearsals?
During Marching season, we rehearse Tuesday evenings and Wednesday afternoons. These rehearsals are required and part of their band grade for semester 1. The rehearsal schedule still allows for Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings to be free of band activities.
What happens if I don’t/can’t make a rehearsal?
All rehearsals scheduled are required. If a student must miss rehearsals (medical issues, family leave, etc.) prior communication to Mr. Cunningham is required for the absence to be considered excused. We cannot replicate a rehearsal scenario, every member must be there for each other to get better!!
Any absence not communicated to Mr. Cunningham will not be excused. No-call, no-shows will risk not performing with the ensemble and credit will not be given for the absences.
Absences must be communicated to Mr. Cunningham by a parent/guardian. While we appreciate when a student notifies us of an absence, a parent must be the point of contact when student attendance is in question. THIS IS FOR STUDENT SAFETY!
Transportation
Do I need to drive my child to band performances?
All Marching Band, Concert Band, and Jazz Band performances will have transportation provided by either school or charter bus. This is another part of the fair share.
Occasionally for solo performances (Solo and Ensemble, state Solo and Ensemble, select winter guard activities) students will need to work together with parents to find transportation.
Can I take my child home from a football game/festival/contest?
Of course!! Students can travel home with parents/guardians when the following conditions are met:
1. Parent/guardian has sent an email to william.cunningham@ocps.net to indicate the child will be travelling home with another adult instead of school transportation; AND
2. Student and adult check in with either directors or chaperones prior to departure to ensure the student is safe and has a way home.
We have transportation difficulties with after school rehearsals or performances. What do we do?
Any time we have an “evening” rehearsal not immediately after school dismissal, a director will be on campus from the conclusion of the school day until the beginning of rehearsal. Students who cannot get transportation BACK to school for evening rehearsals are encouraged to stay in the band area and practice, work on homework and relax before rehearsal.
Students who have difficulty finding a ride home are encouraged to talk to other band members to see if kids/parents can help take them home. MANY OF OUR FAMILIES ARE MORE THAN WILLING TO HELP, all you need to do is ask.
“I don’t have a ride” isn’t an excuse. Please make arrangements, if you have difficulties, please talk to the directors to see if they can help.
Uniforms
Marching Band – Do I have to purchase a uniform?
Members will be issued a Marching Band Uniform as part of the fair share. Members will be trained in proper care for the uniform.
One pair of marching shoes will be purchased as part of fair share for each student when they enroll initially in band. Replacement pairs (growth, damage, etc.) are the responsibility of each individual member.
Members will be issued a uniform T-Shirt as part of their fair share. The shirt will be worn underneath the marching uniform and is considered “part of the uniform”.
Members need to provide their own LONG BLACK SOCKS and appropriate athletic shorts/undergarments for their uniform.
Concert Bands – Is there a concert uniform?
Members of Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensembles wear concert dress black for performances. Tuxes and dresses are part of the long-term plan and we are working to implement a permanent system for concert attire for all students.
Participation Fees
Is there a cost to participate in the band?
Please visit the Band Fees page for information on fees and fundraising.