Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions
of students and parents.
- How do I become a member of the Band Boosters?
- What is the purpose of the Band Booster association?
- Does the NHHS Band Booster Association charge a membership fee?
- What is the Band Booster Executive Board?
- When are the Booster meetings?
- As a parent, what can I do to help support the NHHS Band Booster Association?
- Whom do I contact if I want to volunteer?
- What is Band Camp?
- Are there any expenses or fees for Band Camp?
- What is the Pit?
- What is the Pit Crew?
- What is a Section?
- What is a Drum Major?
- What is Colorguard?
How do I become a member of the Band Boosters?
Membership in the NHHS Band Boosters shall be made available to
anyone interested in the welfare of the NHHS Band, without regard
to race, color, creed or national origin. Any parent or guardian
who has a child enrolled in NHHS Band will automatically become a
voting member of this organization. All other members shall be
non-voting members. Non-voting members may become voting members
by actively participating in band functions and attending two (2)
prior meetings.
What is the purpose of the Band Booster association?
The objectives of this association are: To provide positive and
active moral support and assistance for the benefit of the band
program of New Hanover High School. To provide financial support
in all aspects of the NHHS band program by engaging in sound
fundraising activities and by seeking the acceptance of
donations. To cooperate with the director of the NHHS band, so
that he can better use his talents to develop the mental,
physical and musical skills of our students. Finally, to arouse
and maintain an enthusiastic public interest in all phases
of the band program of New Hanover County Schools.
Does the NHHS Band Booster Association charge a membership fee?
There are no Band Booster membership fees, but members may make
contributions by cash, check or money order payable to: NHHS Band
Boosters.
What is the Band Booster Executive Board?
The Band Booster Board consists of officers elected by the
general membership and the previous board members. Chairpersons
are appointed according to involvement and interest in the
organization. If you aspire to become a member of this group, get
involved! Board meetings are held on the first Monday of the
month.
When are the Booster meetings?
Booster general meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each
month at 6:15 pm in the band room.
As a parent, what can I do to help support the NHHS Band Booster Association?
The Band Boosters are a group comprised of highly motivated
parent volunteers that do whatever is needed to help the students
and the program be successful. Without this group of parents, the
students would not be exposed to many of the positive aspects the
program offers.
The Boosters handle things such as chaperoning, hospitality,
fundraising, equipment, building necessary items, etc. They
enthusiastically support the band at all performances and events.
Booster Board meetings are held the first Monday of each month
and general Booster meetings are held the first Tuesday of each
month at 6:15 pm in the band room.
The general meetings are open to everyone and you are encouraged
to attend to stay abreast of activities, fundraisers and band
events.
Whom do I contact if I want to volunteer?
You may contact any Band Booster Executive Board member by phone
or email. Board members can be found on the Band Boosters link on
the webpage.
What is Band Camp?
During summer vacation, the Marching Band begins to practice the
field show that they will perform at football games and
competitions. The Band Director will schedule some mini-camps
which may last one or two days, a one week long Band Camp and
some sectional practice days. During these camps and practices,
the band not only rehearses the music that they will be
performing, but they will learn the "drill" routine that they
will be marching while they perform the music.
Are there any expenses or fees for Band Camp?
T-shirts--$20, Shoes--$25, Gloves--$5. The shirt, shoes and
gloves will be measured and ordered for you at a date to be
determined. These must be paid for before you receive them. All
expenses must be paid by the end of band camp. If you will have
trouble meeting this obligation, please see your Director or the
Band Camp Chairperson to work out arrangements.
Returning members will only have the T-shirt and gloves to
purchase and/or shoes if needed.
What is the Pit?
Some of the percussion instruments at a Marching Band performance
aren't practical to carry and march with. These are instruments
such as timpani, marimbas, xylophones, chimes, gongs, and others.
These instruments are placed at the front of the performing field
and are collectively known as the "pit".
What is the Pit Crew?
Typically this refers to a group of parents and kids that move
the pit instruments onto and off the performance field.
What is a Section?
Each instrument group (woodwinds, brass, percussion, etc.) is a
section.
Each section has a Section Leader, appointed by the Director, and
is in charge of his/her section of the band. All students should
adhere to the directions of the section leaders.
There will be sectionals which are rehearsals called by the
Director and/or Section Leader. All students in the section are
expected to attend all sectionals.
What is a Drum Major?
The student in charge of all students while on the marching
field. All Section Leaders and band members must follow the Drum
Major's commands. The Director assigns the Drum Major
responsibilities and Drum Majors must audition for the position.
What is Colorguard?
Colorguard is a non-musical section of the band that uses props,
along with movement, to express dynamic passages in the music
accompanying the show. Anyone interested in colorguard must
audition for the position.