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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join Band or Color Guard?

Visit the JOIN! page to find information on how to join any of our ensembles as well as how to sign up for Band Camp. The Marching Band and Color Guard season begins with Band Camp in early August. Families are encouraged to sign up for Band Camp by July so that you are added to the Fall season roster.

Is Band Camp mandatory?

All students planning on participating in our Fall Marching Band and Color Guard unit are expected to attend our BAND CAMP at the beginning of August. If an unavoidable conflict arises where a student cannot make this event, they must contact the band director to be put on the roster so that they do not fall behind.

Does Marching Band count towards Physical Education credit?

Yes! Students need 2 years of P.E. and are required to complete one of those years as a Freshmen. Two seasons of Marching Band will count toward the second year of P.E.

Are students required to be in the marching band if they are enrolled in an instrumental class?

Students enrolled in any band class are strongly encouraged to attend Band Camp in August. Besides being one of the most popular performing groups on campus, marching band is a great opportunity to make friends and improve your skills dramatically by learning from our incredible instructional staff. Our Fall marching season runs from August through mid-November.

Is it safe to play together on campus yet?

Yes, instrumental ensembles in the SRVUSD have been meeting in person for safe outdoor rehearsals. All decisions made regarding student safety will be made with district and administrative approval. As safety guidelines change, we will continue to monitor all CDC, state, county and district guidance and regulations as we create performer protocols for students to return to in-person playing for the coming school year.

What costs are associated with joining the music program?

All students participating in an instrumental music ensemble are asked to submit a Fair Share Participant Contribution. Details on Participant Contribution amounts are covered at the Band Camp parent meeting, during classes, and during Back to School Night at the start of the year. You can find info on our PARTICIPANT CONTRIBUTION page. All payments are made via Cal High’s FutureFund registration system.

Can I join Band as a Sophomore/ Junior/ Senior?

Yes! It is never too late to join any of our ensembles!

Do I have to audition to join an instrumental ensemble?

Students do not need to audition to join Marching Band & Color Guard, Symphonic Band, Orchestra or Winter Guard/Percussion. Advanced ensembles such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble do require an audition.

As an incoming Freshman, can I audition to be placed in an advanced ensemble?

Incoming students are allowed to audition for advanced ensembles, but this is decided mainly based on instrumentation need. Freshmen musicians should expect to be enrolled in an entry-level ensemble. 

Can I join Band if I don't play an instrument?

Yes! We encourage any student interested in learning a new wind or percussion instrument to sign up for Symphonic Band and Marching Band!

Can students check out instruments from the school?

Large wind instruments (tuba, trombone, baritone, bass clarinet, tenor/bari sax) are available for check out. We have some smaller instruments available for check out (flutes, clarinets, trumpets, alto saxophones) on a very limited basis. String instruments are available on a limited basis. Families will need to fill out an instrument rental agreement form to use a school-owned instrument.

As a parent, how can I get involved?

All parents are encouraged to participate in our Cal High Instrumental Music Booster club! There are many positions and committees to serve on, including equipment road crew, hospitality, spirit wear, social media, photographer/videographer, and helping with various events throughout the year! Go to our VOLUNTEER page to learn more!

How long is the marching band season? Does marching band go all year?

Our Marching Band season lasts from Band Camp (beginning of August) through mid-November. See our Marching Band and Color Guard Rehearsal Schedule on our MARCHING BAND page

What is the time commitment for Marching Band rehearsals?

The Cal High Marching Band and Color Guard meets on Monday and Wednesday evenings during the Fall, as well as some Saturday afternoon/evenings. The Marching Band performs at all Friday home football games as well as 4-5 Saturday field competitions and a few parades and rallies in the Fall.

Can a student join marching band and also participate in sports or other extra-curricular activities?

Yes! Our Marching Band and Color Guard students are involved in many sports and clubs! The Band Director meets with coaches to create a conflict schedule so that Band/Sports students always know where they need to be on a given day.

Do ensembles participate in Spring performance tours?

Our advanced ensembles have the opportunity to participate in a Spring Performance Tour. These trips are dependent on amount of student sign-ups and ensemble fundraising.

Where can families go to learn about upcoming music events?

Go to the EVENTS page. We will also share event updates via our Facebook and Instagram accounts, and we send out a regular Instrumental Music newsletter to enrolled families.

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