WHAT TYPE OF SUPERVISION IS THERE AT BAND CAMP?
Chaperones are carefully selected by the music staff to ensure the students have adequate and appropriate supervision when they are not practicing with the band. There is always a nurse or medical person available to the students and staff for emergencies. The chaperones act as substitute parents for the students while they are at camp and are available to help students through various “crises” that occur in a teenagers life. Staff is also available as resources to the students at camp.
WHERE IS BAND CAMP HELD?
Band camp will be held at Bellbrook High School at the end of July. Band camp is a closed camp. Visitors are not allowed. This helps the students maintain focus on their performance and preparation for the season.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO BAND CAMP?
(a packing/check list will be given out, but most items are listed below)
Sunscreen (lots), lots of socks, several pairs of shoes (not sandals), bedding or sleeping bag (twin XL sheets), fans (as air conditioners don’t always work), snacks (especially healthy ones), water bottle,music, music stand, instrument, PJ’s, personal hygiene products (soap, toothbrush, etc.), towels and wash cloths, money for snacks (minimal), props and clothes for skit night, and nice outfit for dance night.
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THE STUDENTS AT CAMP?
Drink lots of water! It is easy to get dehydrated quickly when marching. Marching is generally done early in the morning and in the evening. Students don’t generally march in the middle of the day to help prevent heat-related problems. Students are expected to learn to be on time at all activities. Students also learn to take proper care of their instruments at camp. Students are expected to learn to cooperate with each other and staff to enable the band to perform at the highest level possible. Students are encouraged to push themselves hard and strive for the extra little bit of effort at camp and in all practices and competitions.
I HAVE HEARD STORIES OF BAND CAMP FATIGUE. WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
It is very possible that you will be very tired after camp. It is recommended that you don’t plan for a heavy duty/action-packed Sunday after camp. On the other hand some students come back from camp with lots of extra energy and excitement. ALL students can expect to come home with lots of laundry and fun memories.
WHAT DO I NEED TO WEAR AT MARCHING BAND PRACTICE?
First of all, come PREPARED to be marching outside, whether it be on the field or even on the parking lot surface! With this in mind, you will definitely need a good pair of socks and good “tennis” shoes (often those advertised as walking shoes or jogging shoes are the best) that have been worn before. You do NOT want to start marching with a new pair of shoes and have to deal with tired feet from marching and blisters from new shoes! Also, you do NOT want a worn pair of shoes as they will not provide enough support. Your clothing needs are dependent on the weather. You will always want to wear comfortable clothing, most wear a t-shirt and shorts during the summer. A hat is most helpful to block out the sun. AND, speaking of blocking out the sun, do NOT forget sunscreen!