Honor Ensembles Students who participate in honor bands are exposed to challenging music, incredible experiences, and they can help pave the way for success when preparing for college scholarship auditions. Honor bands are also great places to make new friends with students from around the community, state, or country. Below is a list of local and state honor bands. Many major universities offer honor band opportunities, so feel free to explore additional opportunities. All-State Honor EnsEmbleS These ensembles are sponsored by the California Band Directors Association (CBDA) and the California Orchestra Directors Association (CODA). All audition recordings and materials must be submitted by the CHS Music Director (TBD). Honor Band and Orchestra performances are held at the CASMEC conference in February. For more information, go to: Band: https://cbda.org/all-state-ensembles/auditions/ Orchestra: https://www.codaorchestras.org/high-school-all-state-orchestras/ Contra Costa County Honor Band Info for the CCCHB can be found at www.cccbda.org All Northern Honor Band The NCBA All Northern Honor Band is an exciting event for advanced music students to perform under the baton of highly respected music educators. The Honor Band performance takes place in Stockton typically around mid-January. The audition materials are the same for both CBDA and NCBA Honor Bands. Scales/etudes for honor bands as well as CAJ instrumental jazz materials are already posted on CBDA website. Honor Orchestra audition materials are posted on CODA website. For audition info, go to: https://www.ncbaonline.net/?page_id=176 National Honor Ensembles Music for All presents three positively life-changing honor ensemble experiences for the nation’s outstanding high school concert band, orchestra, and jazz musicians. As part of the Music for All National Festival, the honor ensembles provide a national stage and world-class learning and performance opportunities with distinguished conductors, artists, and master teachers. For audition info, please visit: https://festival.musicforall.org/honor-ensembles/

Program Handbook Concert Attire Equipment Auditions Concert Bands Cal High offers three concert band classes that provide a structured pathway for musical growth at every level. From developing fundamental techniques to mastering advanced ensemble performance, each class is tailored to meet students where they are in their musical journey. Whether you're just building your skills or ready for the challenge of honors-level repertoire, there's a place for you in our band program. Learn more about each ensemble below. CONCERT BAND Open to all students with prior experience on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument or those exploring a second instrument, this class focuses on developing instrumental technique through a diverse range of wind band literature. Students will also explore music theory, historical and cultural context, and make meaningful connections to other academic disciplines, enriching both their musical and educational journey. SYMPHONIC BAND (AUDITION BASED) This class builds on intermediate and advanced instrumental techniques through the study of a wide range of challenging wind band literature. Students will engage in a deeper exploration of musical elements, historical and cultural context, and interdisciplinary connections. Incoming 9th graders with advanced experience are encouraged to audition. WIND ENSEMBLE (AUDITION BASED, HONORS BAND) This honors-level course is designed for advanced musicians looking to further develop their skills through the study of sophisticated wind ensemble literature. The class emphasizes advanced instrumental techniques and includes an in-depth exploration of musical elements, historical and cultural context, and interdisciplinary connections. Note: Auditions for Symphonic & Wind Ensemble are now open. All information regarding audition dates, times, and requirements are in the google classrooms. Refer to the Auditions page for more details. All auditions need to be submitted to the google classroom by Thursday April 30th, 2026. For more information about Concert Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Instrumental Music Marching Grizzlies Music Class Bundle Participant Contribution Support the Cal High Instrumental Music Program with a Tax-Deductible Donation Your generous contribution helps fund essential program needs including instruments, expert instruction, transportation, and valuable performance opportunities. If your employer offers company matching, we greatly appreciate your help in maximizing your impact. CHS Instrumental Music Boosters is a 501 (c3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID. 68-0077940 Thank you for supporting music education at Cal High! Ways to Contribute Choose the method that's easiest for you: Zelle Send using a QR Code (on the right). Refer to Zellpay for instructions on how to use Zelle QR Code. Use the following email: calhighbandboostertreasur@gmail.com Before submitting, leave a note indicating the following: For Marching Ensemble: ME - [Student First & Last Name] For Instrumental Music: IM - [Student First & Last Name] Check Payable to CHS Instrumental Music Boosters Leave a note indicating the following: For Marching Ensemble: ME - [Student First & Last Name] For Instrumental Music :IM - [Student First & Last Name] Drop off check in the Director's office lock box located in the band room FutureFund Donate online through the secure FutureFund system. Refer to links above or each section below. Enter your donation amount and student name. Participant Contribution During Registration The Instrumental Music page includes three contribution options based on the music program that your child is enrolled in – Option A Music Class only, Option B – Marching Grizzlies only, and Option C – a discounted bundle for students who are enrolled in both an Instrumental Music class and the Marching Grizzlies. Suggested donation amounts for each option have been calculated with the utmost care to ensure that Cal High’s Instrumental Music program can continue to operate and provide each student with a high-quality music education. We accept payment via installments/payment plans and corporate match. Instrumental Music payments can be made by credit card, check, or Zelle (see details below). Your donation is sincerely appreciated and is fully tax deductible (Tax ID: 68-0077940) . If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Music Boosters President . Thank you! Ways to Pay Choose the method that's easiest for you: Zelle Send using a QR Code (on the right). Refer to Zellpay for instructions on how to use Zelle QR Code. Use the following email: calhighbandboostertreasur@gmail.com Before submitting, leave a note indicating the following: For Marching Ensemble: ME - [Student First & Last Name] For Instrumental Music: IM - [Student First & Last Name] Check Payable to CHS Instrumental Music Boosters Leave a note indicating the following: For Marching Ensemble: ME - [Student First & Last Name] For Instrumental Music :IM - [Student First & Last Name] Drop off check in the Director's office lock box located in the band room FutureFund Donate online through the secure FutureFund system. Refer to links above or each section below. Enter your donation amount and student name. Instrumental Music Class - Option A Contributions to the Instrumental Music classes are essential for sustaining the Cal High Instrumental Music Program. The Cal High Instrumental Music program relies almost entirely on community donations and family contributions to operate as it receives little to no funding from the district or school. Every contribution iscrucial in meeting expenses associated with all our amazing music classes(including Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band, Symphonic Band,Wind Ensemble (Honors Band), Strings Orchestra, and ChamberOrchestra). Funding supports the purchase of music, maintenance of themusic library, repair and acquisition of instruments, upkeep of inventory,compensation for clinicians, entrance fees for music festivals, and generalrequirements such as music stands and other equipment necessary toensure a high-quality music education. OPTION A is intended for students who are enrolled only in a Cal High Music class (not the Marching Band program). Suggested contribution per student: $150. Donate Now Instrumental Music Class Donations are used to support the instrumental music classes throughout the school year. Donations are used to purchase music and maintain the music library, to purchase and repair instruments, to bring in classroom coaches and clinicians, and to support band related costs such as music stands and other equipment. Your donation is greatly appreciate and fully tax deductible. Recommended school year donation is $150 Donate Now Marching Ensemble - Option B The Marching Grizzlies is Cal High’s award-winning marching band and color guard! The Cal High Marching Grizzlies program relies entirely on community donations and family contributions to operate, as it receives no funding from the district or school. Your contribution helps cover costs like competition fees, transportation, music and drill writing, color guard and music equipment, uniforms, supplies, and hospitality during camp and competitions. Option B is intended for students who are enrolled only in the Marching Band or enrolled only in the Color Guard (not enrolled in a Music class). Your contribution to our program goes toward: Show Design: music and arrangements Clinicians and Consultants Drill Writers, Show Choreography Music: purchasing, printing, licensing Uniforms: cleaning, repairs, and replacing of uniforms and shoes, gloves, color guard show outfits Equipment: instrument purchases and repairs, props, flags, sabers, etc Competitions: entry fees, transportation, dinners U-Haul truck rentals Recommended donation for the school year is $900 Donate Now MARCHING GRIZZLIES & INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC CLASSES (BUNDLE) - OPTION C Students who plan to participate in BOTH the Marching Grizzlies AND one or more of the Instrumental Music classes (e.g., Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble (Honors Band), Strings Orchestra, and/or Chamber Orchestra) should select this DISCOUNTED bundle. Option C is intended for students who are enrolled (i) in marching band or color guard AND (ii) in one or more Instrumental Music classes. Suggested Bundle Contribution per student: $925 ($800/Marching Grizzlies and $125/Music Class). INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC T-SHIRT: Every student who registers for one (or more) of the Cal High Instrumental music classes or programs will receive a Cal High Instrumental Music T-shirt for free. Exact design/style is still to be determined. Please select your student's T-shirt size. Recommended donation for the school year is $925 Donate Now Donate Now Marching Ensemble The Marching Ensemble Participant Contribution is essential to the success of the Marching Ensemble Program. Marching Ensemble is an extracurricular program primarily funded by the Cal High Instrumental Music Boosters (a not for profit organization), so all participants are asked to make a financial contribution to support our program. Your contribution to our program goes toward: Show Design: music and arrangements Clinicians and Consultants Drill Writers, Show Choreography Music: purchasing, printing, licensing Uniforms: cleaning, repairs, and replacing of uniforms and shoes, gloves, color guard show outfits Equipment: instrument purchases and repairs, props, flags, sabers, etc Competitions: entry fees, transportation, dinners U-Haul truck rentals Recommended donation for the school year is $900 Winter Percussion Participant Contribution The Winter Percussion Participant Contribution is essential to the success of the Marching Ensemble Program. Winter Percussion is an extracurricular program primarily funded by the Cal High Instrumental Music Boosters (a not for profit organization), so all participants are asked to make a financial contribution to support our program. Your contribution to our program goes toward: Show Design: music and arrangements Clinicians and Consultants Drill Writers, Show Choreography Music: purchasing, printing, licensing Uniforms: cleaning, repairs, and replacing of uniforms and shoes, gloves, color guard show outfits Equipment: instrument purchases and repairs, props, flags, sabers, etc Competitions: entry fees, transportation, dinners U-Haul truck rentals Recommended donation for the school year is $700 Donate Now Instrumental Music Boosters Donation Support the Sound of Cal High! This general donation is a powerful way for current Cal High families to directly support our Instrumental Music Program. Your contribution helps provide students with high-quality music education, essential equipment, performance opportunities, and lasting memories. Every dollar makes a difference in keeping our program strong, enriching, and accessible for all student musicians. Join us in investing in their passion and potential—thank you for your support! Donate Now

MEDIA INSTAGRAM Instrumental Program: @calhighmusic Color Guard: @calhighguard Percussion: @calhighpercussion Orchestra: @californiahighorchestras Music Boosters: @calhighmusicboosters FACEBOOK @calhighmusic YOUTUBE @CalHighMusic

PROGRAM HANDBOOK 2025-2026 REGISTRATION VOLUNTEER Register for 2025-2026 School Year Cal High’s Online Registration is OPEN! ALL California High School students (both returning and new!) should complete the California High School online registration process as soon as possible, and no later than August 14th. Registration is important for a variety of reasons – this is where parents can join PTSA and other parent groups on campus, where you will sign your student up for ASB, order PE clothes, purchase spirit wear, access the school directory, and provide financial support for your child’s classroom programs, especially the electives that receive little to no financial support from the district. As you progress through the online registration process, you will arrive at the Instrumental Music page, and it will include three contribution options based on the music program that your child is enrolled in – Option A Music Class only, Option B – Marching Grizzlies only, and Option C – a discounted bundle for students who are enrolled in both an Instrumental Music class and the Marching Grizzlies. Suggested donation amounts for each option have been calculated with the utmost care to ensure that Cal High’s Instrumental Music program can continue to operate and provide each student with a high-quality music education. We accept payment via installments/payment plans and corporate match. Instrumental Music payments can be made by credit card, check, or Zelle (please select “check” during checkout for Zelle). Your donation is sincerely appreciated and is fully tax deductible (Tax ID: 68-0077940) . If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Music Boosters President . Thank you! Donate to Cal High Instrumental Music! CURRENT CAL HIGH FAMILIES COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS

PROGRAM HANDBOOK interest form REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Winter Percussion Cal High Winter Percussion is an award winning dynamic theatrical percussion ensemble renowned for its bold performances and musical excellence. After a 6 year hiatus, in Winter of 2025, Cal High transformed the stage into an immersive soundscape combining marching percussion, mallet instruments, and contemporary music to create electrifying shows that resonate with powerful precision and emotional depth. Under expert instruction, student members hone their skills in rhythm, technique, and ensemble artistry, developing not only musicality, but also teamwork, discipline, and creative expression. With a proud tradition of competition and a supportive community of peers, families, and school spirit, Cal High Winter Percussion inspires both performers and audiences alike every season. Winter Percussion rehearses during the Winter on Monday and Wednesday evenings, as well as some Saturday mornings and afternoons. The band typically competes in 4-5 field competitions. Indoor percussion is the winter-season equivalent of marching band, but performed on a basketball court instead of a football field. While the setting changes, the overall structure, teamwork, and performance experience remain very similar. An indoor percussion ensemble is typically made up of two main sections: Drumline (battery) Front ensemble (pit) Some shows may also incorporate additional elements such as winds, strings, non-percussion instruments, or a visual ensemble. Because each production is uniquely designed, the show concept and the number of participating members can influence the exact ensemble makeup. For example, in the 2025 season, our group featured two cymbal players who also performed a brass duet as part of the show design. Awards 1st Place - 2025 NCBA Scholastic Regional A: Granada Winter Show 1st Place - 2025 NCBA Scholastic Regional A: Foothill Winter Show 2nd Place - 2025 NCBA Scholastic Regional A: Winter Championships DRUMLINE Snare, Tenor & Bass Drums, Cymbals Drumline is a high-energy performance ensemble made up of battery and front ensemble percussionists. The battery section features snare drums, tenor drums, bass drums and cymbals, providing the driving rhythm and visual impact in field shows, parades, and school spirit events. As a core part of the marching band, the drumline develops students’ musical and technical skills through regular rehearsals, performances, and competitions. Open to all percussionists, it offers a dynamic team experience that builds coordination, discipline, and school pride. FRONT ENSEMBLE Mallet Keyboard and Auxiliary Percussion Front Ensemble is an essential part of the marching band, featuring mallet keyboard instruments such as marimba, vibraphone, and xylophone, along with a wide range of auxiliary percussion including cymbals, tambourines, concert bass drum, and more. Positioned at the front of the field, this group adds depth, texture, and melodic elements to the overall performance. Students in the front ensemble develop strong musicianship, coordination, and ensemble skills while contributing to dynamic field shows and competitions. HORNLINE Woodwind and Brass Instruments Hornline is the core melodic and harmonic section of the marching band, made up of woodwind instruments such as flutes, clarinets, and saxophones, and brass instruments including trumpets, mellophones, trombones, baritones, and tubas. This powerful ensemble brings energy and expression to field shows, parades, and school performances. Hornline members build strong fundamentals in tone, technique, and teamwork while performing challenging and exciting music throughout the season. Course description can be found in the handbook and UC/CSU admissions info can be found on the district website . For more information about Winter Percussion, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Fundraisers Shop at Bricks & Minifigs from Dec 11 - Dec 13. Show the QR code below during Checkout Dine at Dos Coyotes Border Cafe from Dec 1st to Dec 7th between 11:30am and 8pm With every purchase of a Gingerbread House, The Chocolate Dozen will give 20% of its proceeds to Cal High Music. Order through December 12th or while supplies last Concert Concessions Enjoy sweet treats from The Chocolate Dozen at our upcoming Winter Concerts! We’ll be featuring festive favorites including Gingerbread Cookies, Ube Furikake Chex Mix, and Peppermint Chocolate Cookies. Supplies are limited, so be sure to stop by the concession tables before the concert and during intermission to grab these popular treats while they last!

Google Calendar VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISERS Upcoming Events Join us in cheering on the Cal High Music ensembles as they bring music, energy, and school spirit to every performance! From exciting halftime shows and spirited community events to concerts, festivals, and competitive showcases, our students never fail to impress. Each event highlights the hard work, dedication, and talent of musicians across marching band, concert bands, jazz, orchestra, percussion, and guard. Don’t miss out — come support our performers and experience the music for yourself! Be sure to check back regularly for performance dates, competition results, and special event updates throughout the year. Tap calendar below for a downloadable .pdf. 📆 Access and subscribe to our Google Calendar .

PROGRAM HANDBOOK Volunteer Signups Potluck Signup BAND CAMP At Band Camp, you'll spend a week bonding with your fellow bandmates in sections, working on technique and learning fun music. By the end of camp, you'll feel right at home with the Cal High Band! Camp activities will be monitored to ensure students are getting plenty of water breaks and time in the shade. The majority of camp will be outdoors, so it is very important that all students bring the proper items to have a successful and safe experience. BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS: Be on time and prepared. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled rehearsal time. Be respectful of the equipment and the space you use. If you borrow an instrument from the school, treat it as you would your personal instrument. Help clean up all spaces at the end of rehearsal blocks. There will be time for fun and games, and time for focus and hard work. Be respectful toward your instructional staff. Have fun and be willing to meet new people! The people you meet at band camp may end up becoming your best friends! WHAT TO BRING TO CAMP: Hat and sunglasses Backpack Sunscreen Lunch A mechanical pencil and 3-ring binder with sheet protectors for all music/exercises (instrumentalists only, not guard) Rehearsal Water Jug (must be at least 32 oz; half-gallon recommended: Coleman 1-gallon Beverage Cooler Jug ) Flip Folders and Lyres (required for wind musicians, see Mr. G if you are unsure of which one to buy) Flip Folders Brass Lyres Woodwind Lyres Ear protection (required for drumline members), recommended: Vic Firth Regular High Fidelity Ear Plugs Wind players: Instrument in working condition, including mouthpiece/extra reeds. Shoe lace or string to hang dotbook around neck during rehearsal 3x5 spiral notebook for drill Color Guard: Please wear clothing you can stretch in. Your hair must be pulled back away from your face. No obtrusive jewelry. All members: Please keep in mind that you will be moving all day. Dress in comfortable athletic clothing and running shoes. No jeans. No sandals/flip flops. PARTICIPANT SAFETY We will be following the current state and district guidelines to ensure all members are safe and comfortable during our Camp. Any changes to district guidelines will be communicated to all families via email. 🎶 Band Camp Schedule 🎶 📅 August 4 – August 9, 2025. *Students will need to provide their own lunch* Monday Camp Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 8:00am – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm Tuesday - Friday Camp Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 9:00am – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm Saturday Camp Hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm Lunch: 12:00pm – 1:00pm * Drumline Practice: 9:00am – 4:00pm Break: 4:00pm – 5:00pm Parent Preview: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Potluck Dinner: 6:00pm See Potluck SignUp to bring a dish

Come play with the Cal High Marching Band! SIGN UP HERE!

Check Eligibility Awards and Regalia As a dedicated member of the Cal High Instrumental Music program, students have the opportunity to earn special recognition for their commitment, growth, and contributions throughout the year. These honors include prestigious "Varsity" Block Letters, colorful Honor Cords, and distinguished Graduation Stoles—each symbolizing the hard work, passion, and pride that students bring to the program. These awards not only celebrate musical achievement but also serve as lasting reminders of their time and impact within the Cal High music community. How can I earn these items? MUSIC Varsity Instrumental Music Block Letters can be earned after either 3 years or 6 semesters of instrumental music classes taken at Cal High. Cal High currently offers the following instrumental music classes: Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Jazz Ensemble, Strings Orchestra, and Chamber Orchestra. A student may earn a Block Letter by participating in any combination of these music classes for a total of 6 semesters. A student must receive a passing grade for it to count toward block letter eligibility. MARCHING BAND & COLORGUARD Students in the Varsity Marching Band or Colorguard have the opportunity to earn a Block Letter after completing 3 full seasons (typically three Fall semesters) of participation in the program. To qualify, students must receive a passing grade for each Fall semester of Marching Band or Colorguard, as successful academic performance is a key component of eligibility. Additionally, students who participate in a Cal High winter marching season - such as Winterguard, Winter Percussion, or a similar ensemble - may count one of those seasons as a substitute for a Fall semester toward their Block Letter requirement. This flexible pathway allows students with a deep commitment to the program to be recognized for their dedication and continued involvement. SENIOR HONOR CORD Graduating seniors who have demonstrated long-term dedication to the Cal High Instrumental Music program are eligible to receive a Senior Honor Cord—a symbol of their commitment, perseverance, and contribution to the music community. To qualify, students must have actively participated in the program for all four years of their high school career. This includes consistent enrollment in one or more music ensembles each year, such as concert band, orchestra, jazz band, marching band, or color guard. The Honor Cord is worn during the graduation ceremony and serves as a visible recognition of the student's sustained involvement, musical growth, and lasting impact on the program throughout their time at Cal High. SENIOR STOLE Graduating Seniors who have participated in the Cal High Music program (for any number of seasons or semesters) may opt to purchase an Instrumental Music Graduation Stole. Stoles will be available for purchase for $20. Please complete the form (linked above) to find out if you qualify for a Block Letter and/or Senior Honor Cord. Most students typically become eligible for a Block Letter during their junior year. If you’re not eligible this year, no worries - you may qualify in the future as you continue your involvement in the program.

Area Band Festival March 18 , 2026 🎶 Area Band Festival 🎶 📅 Wednesday, March 18, 2026 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 🕖 Concert begins at 7:00 PM Join us for an inspiring evening of music as student musicians from across our local schools come together for the Area Band Festival — a celebration of dedication, growth, and the shared journey of learning an instrument. From first notes to confident performances, this concert highlights every stage of the musical path and showcases the incredible work of our young performers and directors who guide them along the way. Featuring Performances By Elementary Schools Bollinger Canyon Country Club Golden View John Baldwin Montevideo Neil Armstrong Twin Creeks Walt Disney Middle Schools Iron Horse Pine Valley High School California High School 🎶 A Celebration of Music & Community 🎶 From first notes to polished performances, the Area Band Festival highlights the collaborative spirit of our elementary, middle, and high school music programs. Our dedicated music educators are proud to share the results of months of hard work, growth, and commitment from their students. Families, friends, and community members are warmly invited to enjoy an evening of beautiful music while supporting our young musicians and the journey they are just beginning. 🎶 Student Performer Information 📅 Wednesday, March 18, 2026 To help ensure a smooth and successful performance day, please review the rehearsal and arrival details below. 🎺 Dress Rehearsal Schedule Elementary Band 🕗 8:00–10:00 AM 📍 California High School – Band Room 🚗 Drop-off: Front of the Music Building 6th Grade Band 🕞 3:30–4:30 PM 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 7th & 8th Grade Band 🕟 4:30–5:30 PM 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 🎼 Evening Concert Call Time (All Performers) 🕡 6:30 PM 📍 Check-In Location: Music Building Please check in and drop off instrument cases upon arrival. 👔 Attire & Materials Please refer to your director’s instructions for concert attire and any required materials to bring. Rehearsal/Performance Map