Leadership Expectations Leadership Application Submit Audition Videos Student Leadership The Cal High Band Leadership Team is a vital part of our Instrumental Music program, playing a key role in supporting students and maintaining program expectations. Our leadership structure beginning with the Band Director and extending through the Drum Major and Section Leaders is essential to the success of both our band and guard. Student leaders are expected to take responsibility for their section’s preparedness at rehearsals, performances, and beyond, and also be responsible to their section by fostering a positive, high-level learning environment. To be eligible for a leadership position, students must be enrolled in Marching Band. Applications open near the end of the school year, and dedicated, responsible students are encouraged to apply. LEADERSHIP APPLICATION Students considering applying for leadership will need to fill out a Google Form application which includes a short answer essay section. (Google form will be posted in March) DRUM MAJOR AUDITION Those interested in the role of Drum Major will submit a conducting video audition in addition to filling out a Leadership Application. (Drum Major application requirements posted in March) Please email drum major audition videos to calhighmusic.auditions@gmail.com SELECTION PROCESS Leadership is chosen by the Band Director based on quality of application responses, audition performance (for drum majors), a student's yearly performance, and consultation with teachers, administrators, instructional staff and boosters. The Band Director may ask to sit down with applicants for an interview prior to selecting the leadership team. 2025-2026 Leadership Team Drum Majors Om Iyer & Yasasri Chintapalli Section Leaders Flutes: Cindy Li Reeds: Aathirai Arunkumar High Brass: Josh Mann Low Brass: Zailey Fogelman Battery Captain: Owen Burlingame Front Ensemble: Akshay Mahendran Color Guard Co Captains: Hannah Ly & Naomi Parsons Managers Equipment Manager: Kaleo Abadam Community Engagement Manager: Mercy Rajan Uniform Manager: Amiia Lyons Locker Manager: JD Cardinalli Librarians: Xiaolei Zhang & Kate Shu

May 13 - May 17th Spring Online Auction FLASH SALE!!! Click Here to Register & Bid FLASH SALE .... We have a few items left from our Spring Online Auction at great prices!!! The FLASH SALE will kick off on Monday, May 13th at noon and end on May 17th at noon. Act fast .... these items won't last!! DONATIONS Huge thanks to all of our AMAZING donors!!! Business Logos

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New Member & Returning Member Orientation Meetings New Member Orientation 🗓️ Date: Thursday April 17, 2025 📍 Location: Cal High Theater ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM Returning Member Orientation 🗓️ Date: Thursday April 24, 2025 📍 Location: Cal HighBand Room ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM This orientation meeting will go over everything you need to know about the music program at Cal High. If you are interested in starting a new instrument 🎷, continuing the same instrument 🎺, or playing in a new ensemble 🎼, we will go over all of the necessary materials to help you get started. We will discuss all of the classes 🏛️ offered for the music program as well as auditions, prerequisites, calendar dates 🗓️, and volunteering opportunities.This will be a great opportunity to meet fellow members, our student leadership team, instructional staff, parents, and the executive booster board to learn more about our organization and ask any questions you may have. We are asking if you are going to be in the instrumental music program this coming year that you attend one of these meetings. If you are a new member you only need to come to the new member meeting. Thursday April 17, 2025. If you are a returning member you only need to come to the returning member meeting. Thursday April 24, 2025. This meeting is open to all students and parents.If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact Bob Grigas, Director of Instrumental Music at CHS, at rgrigas@srvusd.net

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.

About The Cal High Instrumental Music Program offers students life-changing, world-class experiences through the power of music. Open to all Cal High students, our program is built on a foundation of excellence, inclusion, and fun—helping students grow not only as musicians, but as confident, connected individuals. From inspiring concert performances to high-energy field shows and spirited parades, our students bring music, heart, and school spirit to everything they do. When you join the Cal High music program, you become part of a vibrant, welcoming community. Students collaborate, perform, and travel together—building lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re performing in a packed stadium with the Marching Grizzlies, captivating a concert hall audience, or competing in a jazz festival, you’ll be surrounded by teammates who push you to be your best. Our program celebrates every student’s growth, and we believe that when young people come together to create music, they create something truly magical. Students can explore a wide variety of instrumental music courses, including Marching Band & Color Guard, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, String Orchestra, Jazz Band, and audition-based groups such as Wind Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, and Jazz Ensemble. No matter your musical interest or experience level, there’s a place for you here. Guiding and supporting our students is a dedicated instructional team that brings both expertise and passion to every rehearsal and performance. Bob Grigas leads the program as the Instrumental Music Director, with Lori Willis serving as Orchestra and Choir Director, and Briana Berastain as Marching Ensemble Co-Director. Together, they foster a supportive and challenging environment where students can grow musically and personally. Our program is also backed by a committed Booster Club, made up of Band, Color Guard, and Orchestra families who believe deeply in the power of music education. The Boosters play a vital role in fundraising, organizing volunteers, and assisting the directors with event planning throughout the year. Every family with a student in the Cal High Instrumental Music Program is automatically a member and is encouraged to participate. Booster meetings are held monthly during the school year beginning in August. Come make music, make memories, and make lifelong friends at Cal High. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create.

Become a Sponsor California High School Instrumental Music Sponsor Program 2025-2026 Cal High’s Instrumental Music Boosters is a non-profit organization made up of Marching Band and Color Guard, Wind, Symphonic, Chamber Orchestra, String Orchestra, Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble families. Marching Band and Color Guard is the largest inclusive performing ensemble at Cal High and is the only Marching Band in San Ramon. Sponsor contributions go directly into the Instrumental Booster’s general fund. This fund pays entirely for items including instrument acquisition and maintenance, music education, performance opportunities, scholarships, and much more. Your generous support will play a crucial role in empowering young musicians and fostering a lifelong appreciation for music. Your sponsorship will run for 1 year and we hope you consider renewing your support each year. As a token of our appreciation, we are pleased to offer the following benefits to our valued sponsors: Sponsorship Process: Complete Sponsorship application and select your sponsorship level. Email your Logo and Business information to calhighbandboosterfundraising@gmail.com . Please make checks payable to Cal High Instrumental Music Boosters or pay with Zelle (use the QR code on our sponsorship application). Mailing address: California High School 9870 Broadmoor Drive San Ramon, CA 94583 ATTN: Instrumental Music Boosters We will quickly process your application and send you confirmation of your sponsorship along with a non-profit tax deduction receipt. Thank you for supporting Cal High’s Instrumental Music program! Zelle donation option for sponsors: Platinum “Super Grizzly” Sponsor – $2,500+ Federal Tax Deduction letter - Cal High Instrumental Music Booster is a non-profit organization Company listed prominently as a sponsor on our website with link to your website Company listed prominently as a sponsor on our (monthly) newsletters Company logo included in sponsors poster at all of our concerts and events Full page Advertisement in all the Instrumental Music Concert programs (Fall, Winter and Spring) “Super Grizzly Sponsor” Video (a member of our team will go to your business and take video/interview you and include the video on our website. Or you can provide us with a video for us to share on our website) Social Media (Facebook and Instagram) posts (monthly during the academic school year) to patronize your company Gold Sponsor - $1000 - $2,499 Federal Tax Deduction letter - Cal High Instrumental Music Booster is a non-profit organization Company listed as a sponsor on our website with link to your website Company listed as a sponsor on our (monthly) newsletters Company logo included in sponsors poster at all of our concerts and events 1/2 page Advertisement in the Fall and Spring Instrumental Music Concert Programs Social Media (Facebook and Instagram) posts (Quarterly or the equivalent of 4 times over the course of the academic school year) to patronize your company Silver Sponsor – $500 - $999 Federal Tax Deduction letter - Cal High Instrumental Music Booster is a non-profit organization Company listed as a sponsor on our website with link to your website Company listed as a sponsor on our (monthly) newsletters Company logo included in sponsors poster at all of our concerts and events ¼ page Advertisement in the Fall and Spring Instrumental Music Concert Programs Social Media (Facebook and Instagram) posts (Twice a year: once in the Fall semester and once at beginning of Spring Semester) to patronize your company Bronze Sponsor – $250 - $499 Federal Tax Deduction letter - Cal High Instrumental Music Booster is a non-profit organization Company listed as a sponsor on our website with link to your website Company logo included in sponsors poster at all of our concerts and events Questions or interested in being a Cal High Instrumental Music Sponsor? – Please reach out to Kelly and Debora at calhighbandboosterfundraising@gmail.com for more information. Your donation is tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law. CHS Instrumental Music Boosters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Tax ID: 68-0077940.

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We are the California HS Music Mentorship Program! Winter guard is an indoor color pageantry sport with its roots in military and veterans organizations ceremonies. Modern winter guard incorporates choreographed dance, acting, flags, and non-functioning rifles and sabres, along with other props. Unlike traditional color guard, winter guard is performed indoors, usually in a gymnasium or an indoor arena. Performances make use of recorded music rather than a live band or orchestra. Winter guards compete in local, state, and national circuits and is a growing activity in schools and independent organizations throughout the country! Do I need dance or color guard experience? No experience is necessary! While it is always beneficial for members have at least one year of color guard or dance experience, if a student is willing and committed to working hard, they will find a place on our team!

ENSEMBLES No matter your musical passion or skill level, there’s a place for you in one of our many ensembles! Whether you're drawn to the rich harmonies of concert band, the energy and excitement of marching band, the creativity of jazz ensemble, or the elegance of orchestra, each group offers a unique and rewarding experience. Join a community of dedicated musicians, grow your talents, and make lasting memories through performances, friendships, and musical excellence. Come find your sound and be part of something amazing! Marching Grizzlies The California High School Marching Ensemble is a top-tier performance group in the Tri-Valley area, known for its energy, musical skill, and strong tradition of excellence. As the largest ensemble at Cal High, they perform at football games, rallies, parades, and competitions throughout the Fall season. Their schedule includes regular rehearsals on Monday and Wednesday evenings, plus occasional Saturdays. Each year, the band typically participates in several field competitions, parades, and school events. 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. Orchestra Cal High offers two orchestra ensembles as part of its dynamic music program. The String Orchestra is open to students with at least one year of experience on a string instrument and performs at school concerts and events. The Chamber Orchestra is an advanced, audition-based ensemble that includes strings, winds, and percussion. This group performs more challenging repertoire and participates in concerts, fundraisers, and regional festivals. Jazz Band Cal High offers two jazz performance classes for student musicians. Jazz Band is open to all students with at least one year of experience and focuses on styles such as blues, swing, and improvisation, with performances at school concerts and fundraisers. Jazz Ensemble is an audition-based advanced group that explores more complex jazz styles and theory, performing at school events and a spring festival. Winter Percussion Cal High Winter Percussion is a theatrical percussion ensemble known for its bold, high-energy performances and musical excellence. The group combines marching percussion, mallet instruments, and modern music to create powerful and emotionally engaging shows. Students build skills in rhythm, technique, and teamwork while preparing for 4–5 competitions each season. Rehearsals take place on Monday and Wednesday evenings, with some Saturday practices as well. Winter Guard Winter guard is an indoor color pageantry sport with its roots in military and veterans organizations ceremonies. Modern winter guard incorporates choreographed dance, acting, flags, and non-functioning rifles and sabres, along with other props. Unlike traditional color guard, winter guard is performed indoors, usually in a gymnasium or an indoor arena. Performances make use of recorded music rather than a live band or orchestra. Winter guards compete in local, state, and national circuits and is a growing activity in schools and independent organizations throughout the country

REMIND Text Communication What is REMIND and why is it safe? REMIND is a text messaging system that the Cal High Instrumental Music program utilizes to facilitate effective program communication. It is a great way to receive notifications from the Band Director about important events and updates. Two-Way communication is used during trips and events for emergency situations. With REMIND, all personal information remains completely confidential. Sign Up for REMIND! Parents & Students: Please send the text message (for the appropriate group) to the number listed below. Note: Marching Band is separated by the graduation year. You may be prompted to enter your first and last name. Do NOT use nicknames. Remember to capitalize the first letter of each. Example: Jason Rodgers MARCHING BAND & COLOR GUARD (Students & Parents): Class of 2022, text the code @mbcg22 to the number 81010 Class of 2023, text the code @mbcg23 to the number 81010 Class of 2024, text the code @mbcg24 to the number 81010 Class of 2025, text the code @mbcg25 to the number 81010 INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTERS (Parents only): Text the code @boostcal to the number 81010 CLASS ENSEMBLES (Students only): Symphonic Band, text the code @symphcal to the number 81010 Wind Ensemble, text the code @windcal to the number 81010 Jazz Band, text the code @jazzbcal to the number 81010 Jazz Ensemble, text the code @jazzencal to the number 81010

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.