Program Handbook Winds & Percussion Marching Band Stores and Equipment Recommended Online Stores Woodwind & Brasswind (recommended for band instruments and supplies) www.wwbw.com/ Sweetwater Sound (recommended for guitars, keyboards, drums and electronics) www.sweetwater.com Steve Weiss Music (recommended for percussion instruments and equipment) www.steveweissmusic.com Interested in purchasing or renting an instrument? Contact rgrigas@srvusd.net and bberastain@srvusd.net . Winds & Percussion Recommended Equipment Woodwinds Cleaning Swab (all woodwinds) Recommended for flute: BG Flute Cleaning Swab Microfiber Recommended for clarinet: GEM Silk Clarinet Swab Recommended for saxophone/bass clarinet: BG Saxophone Swabs Recommended for oboe/bassoon: GEM Silk Double Reed Swabs Cork Grease (all reed instruments) Recommended for all reed instruments: Vandoren Cork Grease Tube Single Reeds (clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophones) Recommended reeds: Vandoren Reeds or Rico Royal Reeds Double Reeds Recommended oboe reeds: TBD Recommended bassoon reeds: Danzi Student Bassoon Reeds (blue wrap) Brass Valve Oil (trumpet, mellophone, baritone/euphonium, tuba) Recommended valve oil: Yamaha Regular Synthetic Valve Oil Rotor Oil (French Horn, trombone with F attachment, bass trombone) Recommended rotor oil: Hetman Light Rotor Lubricant Slide Lubricant (trombone) Recommended slide lubricant: Slide-O-Mix Lubricant System Percussion Concert Drum Sticks (for Symphonic Band/Wind Ensemble percussionists) Recommended concert drum sticks: Vic Firth SD-1 General Drumsticks or Innovative Percussion IP-1 General Concert Snare Drumsticks Practice Pad and Stand Recommended practice pad: Evans RealFeel 2-Sided Pad 12-Inch Recommended stand: Lone Star Percussion Snare/Practice Pad Stand Mallets (provided by music program) Marching Band Equipment Required rehearsal items: 3 ring binder with sheet protectors for all music/exercises Rehearsal Water Jug Recommended: Coleman 1-gallon Beverage Cooler Jug Flip Folders and Lyres (required for wind musicians) Flip Folders: https://www.wwbw.com/Flip-Folders.wwbw Brass Lyres: https://www.wwbw.com/Brass-Lyres.wwbw Woodwind Lyres: https://www.wwbw.com/Woodwind-Lyres.wwbw (see Mr. Rugani if you are unsure of which lyre/flip folder to buy) Ear protection (required for drumline members) Recommended: Vic Firth Regular High Fidelity Ear Plugs Mechanical pencil 3x5 spiral notebook for drill (provided at Band Camp) Shoe lace or string to hang dotbook around neck during rehearsal A hat Sunglasses Sunscreen Weather appropriate athletic clothes that facilitates movement (NO jeans) Close toed tennis shoes and socks (NO flip flops or sandals)

Volunteer Requirements Volunteer Sign Up Be a Mentor Portal Volunteer with Cal High Music! Volunteers are the heart of our program, supporting everything from fundraising and moving equipment to fitting uniforms, cooking, serving, organizing rosters, arranging travel, and helping run festivals. No matter where your student’s passion lies—Concert Bands, Jazz Bands, Orchestras, Winter programs, or the Marching Ensemble—there are countless ways for you to get involved. Your time and support help create unforgettable experiences and lasting memories for our students during their years at Cal High! Volunteer Requirements In alignment with California State Assembly Bill 506, effective July 1, 2025, all SRVUSD volunteers will be required to complete a Livescan fingerprint background check as well as mandated reporter and sexual harassment prevention training to be eligible to volunteer for the 2025-26 school year. For more information on details and information on how to begin the process, links can be found above. Process for New School Volunteers (PDF) Log in to the Be A Mentor volunteer management system. Choose a volunteer level. You may choose Level One (no driving) or Level Two (with driving). Complete Livescan and TB requirements. Upload appropriate documents. Complete the Mandated Reporter training annually and the Sexual Harassment Prevention training every two (2) years. For Level 2 only: upload DMV driving record. Current School Volunteers Review the Volunteer Handbook and FAQ for more information on clearance requirements, how to change/add schools, or volunteer activities Discounted Fingerprinting & Reimbursement Cal High Music Boosters is excited to partner with Postal Annex - your go-to spot for Fingerprinting and LiveScan services! This collaboration helps make the volunteer process easier and more affordable for our music families. With convenient service and a special discount exclusively for Cal High Music volunteers, getting cleared to support our students has never been simpler. We're grateful to Postal Annex for supporting our program and helping us build a safe and vibrant community for all. As part of this partnership, volunteers can receive a discounted LiveScan fee and may also qualify for reimbursement of the rolling fee. Here's how: Discounted LiveScan is available only at Postal Annex, 9110 Alcosta Blvd, Ste H, San Ramon. (See location hours and contact info below.) Be sure to mention "Cal High Music" when requesting your LiveScan service. Music volunteers who sign up and help at 4 or more Fall 2025 Marching Grizzlies events can submit a reimbursement request at the end of the season (around November 2025). To be eligible for reimbursement, please include a copy of your LiveScan receipt with your request.

Rehearsal and Performance Dates Thursday, February 24- After School Rehearsal 3:30-5:00pm in Band Room Wednesday, March 2nd- **8th Grade Night Welcome Rally Performance** 5:30-6:15pm, Call time 5:15 in Band Room Thursday, April 21- After School Rehearsal 3:30-5:00pm in Band Room Thursday, May 19- After School Rehearsal 3:30-5:00pm in Band Room Friday May 20- **Pine Valley 8th Grade Promotion** (DRUMLINE ONLY) Call time 9:15pm at Pine Valley Middle School Thursday, May 26- After School Rehearsal 3:30-5:00pm in Band Room Sunday, May 29- **San Ramon Art and Wind Festival** Call time 11:30am at Iron Horse Middle School

Program Sign Up Marching Ensemble Course Elective WHY JOIN? Improves Cognitive and Academic Performance Music education doesn’t just build musical talent—it sharpens the brain. Studies consistently show that students involved in music perform better academically, particularly in math, reading, and language skills. Learning an instrument strengthens memory, enhances concentration, and promotes higher-level thinking—all essential for academic success. Enhances Social Skills Being part of a musical ensemble is one of the most effective ways for students to build teamwork and communication skills. It requires listening closely, working toward a common goal, and respecting others' contributions. These shared experiences naturally foster meaningful friendships and a strong sense of belonging—something every student needs. Boosts Mental Health Music is a powerful emotional outlet and a proven stress reliever. It gives students a way to express what words sometimes can’t, while also offering a sense of accomplishment and joy. For many, being part of a music program becomes a safe and uplifting space that supports their mental and emotional well-being. Develops Creativity and Self-Expression Music opens the door to creativity in a way few other activities can. Whether composing, improvising, or performing, students are encouraged to explore their unique voice. This freedom to create and express themselves builds not just artistic skills, but also imagination, open-mindedness, and innovation. Encourages Confidence and Self-Discipline Mastering an instrument or performing in front of an audience takes courage, focus, and perseverance. Students in music programs gain confidence through achievement and learn the value of consistent practice and preparation. These habits of self-discipline and resilience translate into all areas of life, setting them up for long-term success. Marching Ensemble Marching Ensemble Carrying on a long tradition of excellence, the California High School Marching Ensemble is one of the finest marching units in the Tri-Valley area. It is the largest performance ensemble at Cal High and has a strong history of competitive success. You will see them performing year-round at football games, school rallies, local parades and field competitions. Learn more about Marching Ensemble program and about Band Camp . Email Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net with any questions! Elective Course Register for an Instrumental Music Elective Course! ACCESS SRVUSD COURSE CATALOG Courses Offerings Marching Band & Color Guard (All grades) Concert Band (All Grades) Symphonic Band (All grades) Wind Ensemble (All grades, by audition) String Orchestra (All grades) Chamber Orchestra (All grades, by audition) Jazz Band (All grades) Jazz Ensemble (All grades, by audition) Students wishing to take Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band or String Orchestra can register during student registration in March. Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Ensemble will require auditions in addition to registering. Read below for audition information: Chamber Orchestra Audition submissions due Tuesday, April 8th at 11:59pm, click here for information. Concert Bands Audition information is located on the google classroom. The code is 6einh5yh All Wind auditions need to be submitted to the google folder by Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Jazz Bands Audition information is located on the google classroom. The code is sxpkigt Please submit all auditions to the google classroom by Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Playing with the combo will be held after school in the Cal High Band Room on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 from 2:30pm - 5:30pm. Improvisation for drums will be held after school in the Cal High Band Room on Thursday ,May 1st, 2025 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm. For more detailed information about each instrumental class see our "ENSE MBLES" page. CONTACT INFORMATION: Orchestra Director: Ms. Willis: lwillis@srvusd.net Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band & Jazz Ensemble: Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net Marching Band & Color Guard: Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net

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.

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 closed for the 2025-2026 school year. Information for the following year will be published in the Spring. For more information about Concert Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

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/

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

Fundraisers Volunteer Sponsorship Participant Contribution Support Us! There are many meaningful ways to support our Instrumental Music students, whether through a monetary donation, volunteering at events, joining our Booster Board, or purchasing spirit wear. Every contribution helps ensure our program continues to thrive. We’re committed to keeping costs manageable for families while maintaining the high standards that make our program such a valuable experience. Your support helps us provide exceptional opportunities, enrichment, and a vibrant musical community for our students and families. Thank you for being a vital part of our success!

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!

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

Calendar of Events Booster Club Bylaws Become a Volunteer INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTER CLUB We are a dedicated non-profit organization made up of Band, Color Guard, and Orchestra families who share a passion for supporting music education at California High School. As boosters, we play a vital role in enriching the Cal High Instrumental Music program through fundraising efforts, coordinating volunteers, and assisting the Band Director with planning and executing events throughout the year. Any parent, guardian, or caretaker that has a student in the Instrumental Music Program is automatically considered a valued member of our supportive music community. Their involvement plays a vital role in enhancing the overall experience for all students, whether through volunteering, attending performances, participating in booster meetings, or contributing in other meaningful ways. We encourage all families to stay engaged, as their presence and support help foster a vibrant, inclusive, and successful program for our young musicians. We hold monthly meetings during the school year, beginning in August, where we share updates, discuss upcoming events, and collaborate on ways to strengthen our program. Attending these meetings is a great opportunity to stay informed, have your voice heard, and connect with other music families. Active participation in the Booster Club allows you to make a direct impact on your student’s experience, help shape memorable performances and trips, and be part of a supportive, music-loving community. BOOSTER CLUB MEETINGS Join us for our Booster Club meetings everyone is welcome! These gatherings are a great way to stay connected on the latest news about what's happening, share ideas, and support our incredible student musicians. Whether you're a new parent or a returning volunteer, your voice and energy make a difference. Come be part of the fun and help us make this year unforgettable! All parents of current students are encouraged to attend! SCHEDULE Join us for our Booster Club meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the Band Room. Attend in person or conveniently virtually, we’d love to see you there! Dates for 2025-2026 Booster Meetings (click on date for meeting notes): 0 8/21 , 9/18, 10/16, 11/20, 12/18, 01/15, 02/19, 03/19, 04/16, 05/21 Virtual Link https://meet.google.com/dwo-sdhs-fyj 2025-2026 BOOSTER EXECUTIVE BOARD Vice President: Zenaida President: Julie Treasurer: Megan Secretary: Arti Fundraising: Kelly & Debora 2024-2025 BOOSTER CLUB COMMITTEE LEADS Hospitality - *Kads Lele - Lead, Varsha Govindani, Christian Mattei Volunteer Coordinator - Zenaida Abadam Newsletter Coordinator - Booster Executive Board Pit Boss - Jeremy Fogelman Transportation Coordinator - Bob Burlingame Prop Boss - Walt Rugani & Dan Rugani Spiritwear Coordinator - Arti Arora Webmaster - Kelly Cardinalli Photographer - Raju Bhupatiraju Elementary/Middle School Recruitment - Dan Rugani and Briana Berastain End of Season Banquet (Marching Ensemble) - Zenaida Abadam, Christine Helmer, Georgine Brenghause Open Chair Positions Grant Writer Alumni Coordinator