Parent/Booster FAQs
Who are the Valley View Band Boosters?
PARENTS ARE BOOSTERS! All current parents and family members are strongly encouraged to become actively involved!
We need assistance on a continued basis to make the program successful. Everyone is welcome to work together to support and improve the instrumental music program for our students. Attend the monthly meetings and get involved in the decision making.
What do the Boosters do?
We provide support in the form of volunteer time and money. Both of these aspects are extremely important! Without volunteers, we cannot raise the necessary funds to support the Valley View High School Music Program or provide physical assistance in the form of uniform fittings, truck driving, feeding the band, etc.
Why should I join the Band Boosters? Why me?
If you have a child in the band program, you’re already a member. Parents and guardians are asked to support the organization by volunteering whenever possible. In addition to helping to enrich your child’s experience, volunteering is a great way to meet other band parents.
Many close friendships have started while serving in the concession stand, chaperoning, working in the pit crew, etc. Board meetings are held approximately once a month during the school year. Just show up and see what’s it’s all about!
If your child is part of the program, then you are part of the support system. If each of the band parents contributed a modest effort, none of us would find the tasks difficult. Some of us enjoy the camaraderie of regular band events and look forward to the opportunities band parents are given to interact with a terrific bunch of kids!
How do I get involved?
We appreciate all the help and support from everyone involved in the booster organization, and we would not be able to function without everyone helping out. Passing out plumes before a football game, getting donations for baskets to auction, or even ideas given at a booster meeting are all ways to help. For more information, please contact booster from the Exec Board Page or fill out our online Volunteer Form.
Who/What is the Booster Executive Board?
The Band Booster Exec Board is comprised of elected positions to help the Booster organization run smoothly. The positions are President, Vice-Presidents, Treasurer, and Secretary. To so who currently holds these positions and their contact information, go to the Band Booster page.
When are Booster Meetings?
Booster meetings are typically on the second Thursday of the month. Sometimes other events arise, so please check the Calendar for updated meeting dates.
What if I have very little time to dedicate to volunteering?
The band boosters will take whatever you are able to give. You will find the boosters to be encouraging and appreciative for the time you are able to give. And you will certainly feel more connected to the process, the parents, and your students by spending time with the band family.
Is there a Fee to be in Band or Color Guard?
As with each Band Program, there is a participation contribution assessed to each student to cover our basic operating costs (assessments fees, uniforms, travel, etc).
But don’t let that frighten you off! Our Band Booster Organization works very hard to ensure that there is ample opportunity to fundraise throughout the year. Some students have their entire fee paid through fundraising opportunities. More information regarding fees and payment options are discussed at the Parent meeting at the beginning of the school year. If you have questions regarding this, please feel free to contact the Band Director for further information.
What is SCSBOA?
SCSBOA is the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association. They provide opportunities in music, raising performance and adjudication standards, and improving teaching techniques. Meaning they are the association that creates competitions for the bands in Southern California.
If a student participates in marching band, will they still have enough time to complete school work?
Studies have shown that a marching band student’s grades are actually higher on average during the marching band season. Students learn to manage their time between rehearsals and schoolwork. Students will have plenty of time, even on rehearsal days, to go home and complete homework adequately.
My student is in Color Guard. Is that considered part of marching band?
Absolutely! Color Guard is the visual ensemble that is an integral part of the marching band.
Is this marching band or sports?
In short, it is both. Practice, especially the early days, can seem a lot like a sports practice.
Modern Marching band requires quite a bit of athletic and musical training. Endurance training like running and pushups help the kids get physically ready for some very long days ahead.
The modern marching band member must be flexible, powerful, conditioned, and expressive. For some children it is a very intense experience that can leave them feeling sore, frustrated, and off balance. How you handle this is likely based on your parenting style and your child’s personality. Try not to blow off your child’s concerns, but keep in mind there are some valuable life lessons to be learned about working with others. Talk to them, support them, and encourage them to hang in there.
What exactly are Marching Band Competitions?
They are all-day events that serve as fundraisers for the hosting bands. Bands from many surrounding schools compete for various awards, such as Music, Overall Performance, Color Guard and Best in Show, to name a few. A competition day lasts about 12-14 hours, depending on the location of the competition.
Students spend the morning at Valley View High School campus practicing their show, then eat lunch, pack up the buses, and head out to the competition. All families are encouraged to attend competitions to support our VHHS Band & Color Guard.
Are families allowed to come watch the band perform at competitions?
Absolutely! Not only are parents/families allowed, they are encouraged to come and cheer for the band. The students love to hear cheers and applause from VHHS Band & Color Guard supporters. Don’t forget your camera!
What do I need to bring to competitions?
You will need to pay for a ticket into most competitions ($10 to $15 per person). Bring cash. Tickets and concessions are usually cash only, as are some souvenir vendors. Many times you will be sitting on concrete bleachers – portable stadium seats or cushions are great investments for competitions and football games!
What is a call time?
Call time is the time that the students must be ready (dressed in uniform, full water bottle, instrument, sitting in commons, or ready to start rehearsal). Students must be ready before call time; therefore, everyone is expected to arrive 10-15 minutes early so that they have time to prepare.
What is the “Show” that keeps getting mentioned?
Typically, a marching band will have one show that is used for halftime performances and competitions. This involves complex music, intricate drill maneuvers, and colorful flag choreography.
This show will have a theme that runs throughout the music, the colors of the flags, the shape of the formations, etc. It is a lot of hard work, but it is also a great deal of fun! By using the “total show concept,” marching band then has a greater challenge, more visual appeal, and a greater performer and audience interest level.
This year’s show is in the planning stages. We should have the theme picked, as well as having the music available, by Band Camp. There will be many visual effects, poses, lunges, dance, props, and many more fun and creative effects to enhance this great musical program. The staff is very excited about the show! We are sure that the students will enjoy it as well!
What if my family cannot afford these costs?
Again, no child should be denied a chance to participate in band because of money. Most expenses can be offset by participation in fundraising events. If there is real financial hardship, parents should speak to the band director privately to see what arrangements can be made.
What if my child can’t attend a practice or performance?
The success of our program depends on each student being prepared and fulfilling their commitment to the band by being present at every scheduled practice and performance. Unless there is a serious reason, students are expected to attend every scheduled practices and performance. We understand that illness, unforeseen events and emergencies will occur but we request that doctor’s appointments or other activities not be scheduled during practice or performances.
If an absence is necessary, from any event, Student and Parent must complete an “Absence Form” (found near front door of band room) according to our attendance policy.
I have a question, but it’s not on this list…
See the Parents page for more information.
Including: What does my child need? What to expect on show days?
Or send us a message: Contact us.
New Parent FAQs
Why Should I Do This?
The primary reason for the booster organization is to support your children.
The music, showmanship, spectacle and pageantry of the marching band experience are also reasons that you may participate as a band booster. The friendships you will make and the enjoyment of participating in this activity are other benefits you will realize. But first and foremost, this is for your child and their classmates.
What Can I Do?
There are hundreds of things that you can do to be active as a booster. One of most important things you can do is to attend booster meetings. These meetings are where you should ask questions and voice your concerns and ideas about the organization’s activities. This is where the decisions are made, and you should be part of that. Additional ways to help out are to volunteer to chaperone, participate in fund raisers, help out with band camp, or work on the “Pit Crew”.
I Am New, Do They Really Need Me?
Regardless of your occupation or area of experience there are many services you would be able to provide to a band program. The following is an incomplete list of occupations or professions that would be great assets to a band program: Accountants, Nurses, EMTs, Paramedics, Doctors, Welders, Equipment Operators, Electricians, Sound Technicians, Website Designers, Carpenters,Truck Drivers, Cooks, Metal Workers, Machinists.
Another important thing to do as a new band parent is get involved right away; do not wait for someone to ask you to help. Many times a small nucleus of members do the majority of the work. There may be several reasons for this, but many times it is because they fear rejection from other parents, do not know who is willing to help, or are too busy getting things done to recruit new members. New band parents are like new band students because they are “not new by the end of the season”. First year marchers are expected to learn their music and march their drill just like the seniors. First year band parents should do the same. Do not wait a year or two to get involved. The time will go by much too quickly.
If you are an experienced member of the boosters, you should try to make other members feel welcome and needed. You may have to go outside your comfort level and introduce yourself to new members and make them feel like part of the team.
Why Are They Always Doing Fundraisers?
Funds received from the School District does not cover all of the necessary expenditures needed to successfully facilitate our growing Music Program. It is vital that all students participate in the fundraising activities. Funds raised are used for a variety of areas to keep our programs running, such as: competition entry fees; and instructors for auxiliary and drum line units. There are also expenses for equipment, instruments, promoting events, and other general operating expenses. Fundraising also helps reduce the cost of participating in band.
Student FAQs
Do I have to have experience to join Band or Color Guard?
No. All skill levels and backgrounds are welcome. Many of the current members had no prior experience.
Do Performing Arts classes count as academic classes?
Yes, most classes meet the University of California “F” requirement for Visual & Performing Arts, so they get the same weight as any other academic classes.
Is participating in Performing Arts helpful for college admission?
Yes. Most universities like well-rounded students. Participation also shows a commitment to giving back to the school. The leadership opportunities you will get in Performing Arts are also a plus on applications.
If I take a full load of academic classes, can I stay in a Performing Art group all four years?
Yes, but depending on what other activities and groups you want to participate in, you may need to take summer school
Can I do Sports and Performing Arts at the same time?
Will participation in Performing Arts hurt my GPA?
Typically, our Performing Arts groups have the highest GPA’s of any group on campus. It will come down to how well you manage your time.
Does Performing Arts require outside of school time?
Yes, some more than others, but the directors are very careful to make sure they do not interfere with academics.
Can I be involved in multiple Performing Arts groups?
Yes. We have quite a few students who do multiple programs (Dance, Choir, Theater, Band).
Do I have to audition to be in a Performing Arts group?
Some of the more advanced groups require an audition, but there is a place for everyone willing to put in the effort.
I want to be in band, but I don’t own an instrument. Can you provide one?
Yes, we can. We can also help you with what and where to purchase if you need.
Does Marching Band count as a PE class?
Yes! You earn PE credit, so there is no need to take PE Class.
What is the Crimson Regiment Marching Band?
The Marching Band is an award winning musical ensemble consisting of students from grades nine through twelve (with special invitations given to selected eighth grade band members from our feeder schools).
The Marching Band performs frequently in the community, at football games, and at various band competitions. All band members should be members of the Marching Band. Marching Band is designed for students interested in playing band instruments or in flags and dancing.
Students will develop instrumental/movement skills as well as precision teamwork, body carriage, musicianship, and showmanship. Attendance at summer, after school, and Saturday rehearsals and performances is mandatory.
What is Color Guard?
The Color Guard are an important part of the Marching Band. They provide “color” to the overall effect of the show by closely choreographed interpretative dance routines that match the drill design. The Color Guard utilizes flags, saber, rifles, and other props to enhance the overall show and make it visually appealing.
What’s so special about being in Band and Color Guard?
For many, band becomes a second family, where there is a support system in place to help students deal with the stresses of high school life.
Younger students receive help and wisdom from older members. Older members receive the opportunity to mentor younger students, offering guidance and support.
Like any other worthwhile activity, performing with the Band or Color Guard requires time, hard work, and dedication. Practicing and performing with the guard teaches members valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Most of all…IT’S FUN!!!
What is the Battery/Drum line?
The Drum Line or Battery consists of marching members of the percussion section and includes snare drums, tenor drums, and bass drums.
What is the Pit/Front Ensemble?
The Pit or Front Ensemble is the other half of the percussion section. Marimba, xylophones, electronic instruments, gongs, and other noise makers. It is located at the front of the field. The members of the pit do not march.
What is a section?
A “section” is a component of the Concert or Marching Band and consists of a group of like instruments.
What happens after marching season ends?
Do you have to know how to march to be in band?
Is it possible to participate in more than one music ensemble at a time?
Yes. You can easily arrange your schedule to accommodate more than one music class.
What is Band Camp? Do I have to attend?
Band Camp is the time when members, old and new, of the band and color guard get together to learn how to march, play, and perform the music for the upcoming marching band season.
Yes! it is absolutely essential you attend the full sessions of Band Camp to learn the music, choreography, and team building. If, for any reason, for any length of time you wish to be excused from any portion of band camp, you must first get permission from the director. There are extremely few exceptions for missing band camp. All Marching Band members are required to attend.
How long is Marching Band season?
Will I be able to march and play at the same time?
Sure, you will! That’s why we have Band Camp!
You may not believe it now, but any veteran band member can tell you that you will be marching like a pro by the end of the week. Band Camp is usually the first week of August. New students even get a few extra days beforehand to learn how to march. We publicize this date months in advance, so families can plan vacations and other activities. It’s very important for all students to attend this important 2 weeks of rehearsal.