Author: A Fellow Band Parent
To My Fellow Band Parents in Orlando and Beyond...
First, let’s take a breath. The season never really ends, does it? Whether you are here in Central Florida prepping for Winter Guard, or up north shoveling snow off a practice field, I want to say simply: Thank You.
We often say "The Band Directors work miracles," and they do. They are the architects, the visionaries, and the disciplinarians. But if the Directors are the architects, we are the foundation.
Without you, the prop truck doesn’t get loaded. Without you, 150 plumes don't get straightened. Without you, that one kid who forgot their black socks doesn't get a spare pair five minutes before gate time. Without you, the water stations are empty, the uniforms stay torn, and the stands are silent.
This activity does not exist without the village. So, to every parent who has burned a vacation day to chaperone a bus ride, or spent a Saturday sweating over a concession stand grill—thank you. You are raising not just musicians, but leaders.
To the Incoming Freshman Parents: Welcome to the Family
If you are reading this and your child is an 8th grader about to step onto the high school practice field for the first time, you might be feeling overwhelmed. You’ve seen the calendar. You’ve heard the rumors about "Band Camp."
Don't panic. You are about to embark on the most rewarding four years of your child's life. But, there is a learning curve.
To help you get ready, here are the Top 10 Things Every Rookie Parent Needs to Know.
1. Hydration is a Lifestyle, Not a Suggestion
In Orlando, the sun is an active opponent. But this applies everywhere. Sending your kid with a 16oz water bottle isn't enough.
- The Gear: Buy a 1-gallon insulated water jug. Label it. Decorate it. It is now their best friend.
- The Rule: They need to start drinking water the night before practice. If they wait until they are thirsty on the field, it’s too late.
2. "Early" is On Time. "On Time" is Late.
This is the golden rule of marching band. If the downbeat is at 4:00 PM, that means the rehearsal starts at 4:00 PM.
- To be ready at 4:00, they need to be on the field at 3:45.
- To be on the field at 3:45, they need to arrive at 3:30 to get their instrument.
Parent Tip: Adjust your drop-off clock by 15 minutes. Trust us.
3. Invest in a Stadium Seat
You are going to spend a lot of time on aluminum bleachers. Football games, competitions, showcase nights. Your lower back will thank you for investing in a stadium seat with a backrest (and maybe some extra padding). Get one for yourself, and maybe a spare for Grandma.
4. The Calendar is Law
Band schedules are complex. There are Tuesday night sectionals, Friday night games, and all-day Saturday competitions.
- Action Item: Sync the band calendar to your phone now. Do not plan a family barbecue on the third Saturday of October until you check the schedule.
- Flexibility: Rain delays happen. Bus tires pop. Learn to roll with the punches.
5. Label EVERYTHING
Imagine a pile of 100 identical black marching shoes and 100 identical black t-shirts. Now imagine trying to find your child’s specific shoe in that pile.
Write their name on their water jug, their dot book, their hat, their shoes, and even their sunscreen bottle.
6. White Socks vs. Black Socks
This causes more panic than anything else.
- Rehearsal: Usually white socks and athletic shoes (for visual uniformity).
- Performance: LONG Black socks (no ankle socks!) and Viper/Drillmaster shoes.
Pro Tip: Buy 10 pairs of long black socks and keep a spare pair in your car's glove box. You will be a hero one day.
7. Volunteer (Even Just Once)
You might think, "I don't know anything about music." That's okay! We don't need you to teach trumpet. We need you to: Hand out water. Push a prop onto the field. Sew a button. Chaperone a bus.
Why? It’s the best way to meet other parents and see exactly how hard your kid is working.
8. Competitions are All-Day Marathons
A competition day is not a "drop them off for an hour" event. It is often a 12-hour affair.
- Bring cash (some concession stands still don't take Apple Pay).
- Bring layers (it might be 90° at noon and 50° at awards).
- Cheer for everyone. We support all bands, not just our own. Classiness counts.
9. Trust the Process
In July, the show will look messy. The drill won't make sense. The music will sound rough. Your student might come home frustrated.
Be the cheerleader. Remind them that excellence takes time. By November, that same show will bring tears to your eyes. Trust the Directors; they know the destination.
10. Your Child Will Change (For the Better)
This is the most important one. Over the next four years, you will watch your child transform. They will learn time management. They will learn how to lead and how to follow. They will learn that "good enough" isn't good enough. They will find their "people."
Welcome to the Band Family. We’ll see you in the stands!