The official site for the California High School Instrumental Music Program. GO Band, GO Orchestra, GO Guard, GO GRIZZLIES! PASSION • EXCELLENCE • COMMITMENT Welcome to the California High School Instrumental Music Program! Our program has a proud tradition of excellence and school spirit, enriching campus life through music and community. Whether you're looking to grow as a musician, form lasting friendships, or create unforgettable memories, you'll find your place here. With a welcoming and inclusive environment, the Cal High Instrumental Music Program offers students a supportive space to thrive on and off the stage. 📢 ANNOUNCEMENTS 📆 Next Booster Meeting will be held on Thursday, 2/19 at 7pm in the Band Room. Attend in person or virtually via Google Meet. 🎼 Winter Events Winter Guard - CCGC Evaluations 1/24/26 Tabla Lessons. Mondays starting 1/26. B Period and 4-5pm NCBA Winter Percussion Competition - Antioch 2/7/26 Winter Guard Competition - San Jose 2/7/26 NCPA Winter Percussion Competition - Dublin 2/14/26 Winter Guard Competition - Union City 2/14/26 Winter Guard Competition - Fremont 2/28/26 1st Spring Concert - Jazz 3/10/26 Area Orchestra Festival 3/11/26 1st Spring Concert - Concert Bands 3/12/26 Winter Percussion Competition - Roseville 3/14/26 Cal High School Wind Ensemble & Contra Costa Wind Symphony 3/15/26 Area Band Festival 3/18/26 40th Annual Santa Cruz Jazz Festival 3/20/26 Winter Percussion Competition - Livermore 3/21/26 NCPA Winter Percussion Competition - Union City 3/28/26 Winter Guard Championships - San Jose 3/28/26 📆 For a complete schedule of events , visit our Events page GOLD SPONSORS 🪧 Get Your Company Name or Logo Here SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS 🪧 Get Your Company Name or Logo Here GOLD SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS

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 .

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.

Instrumental Music Full Program Calendar SYNCING INSTRUCTIONS Our Google calendar above contains full program events, festivals, concerts, fundraisers, Booster meetings, etc. Everyone should add this calendar! To add the Instrumental Music Calendar to your calendar, use the "+" sign at bottom of calendar.

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

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!

Our Bandapalooza event will be held in the spring semester. Dates TBD. Open to all Pine Valley & Iron Horse 6th-8th Grade Band students! Spend a day performing hits from your favorite movies, including Star Wars, The Avengers, Disney films and more! Rehearse and perform side-by-side with members of the Cal High Band! More info coming soon!! Questions? Please contact Mr. Javier Cerna, CHS Band Director at calhighmusic@gmail.com

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 Getting Here

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.

Area Strings Festival March 11, 2026 🎻 Student Performer Information Wednesday, March 11, 2026 To help ensure a smooth and successful performance day, please review the rehearsal and arrival details below. Elementary Strings – Dress Rehearsal Time: 8:00–10:00 AM Location: California High School – Band Room Drop-Off: Please drop students off in front of the Music Building 6th Grade Strings – Dress Rehearsal Time: 3:30–4:30 PM Location: California High School – Large Gym 7th & 8th Grade Strings – Dress Rehearsal Time: 4:30–5:30 PM Location: California High School – Large Gym 🎼 Call Time for All Performers Time: 6:30 PM Check-In Location: Music Building Please check in and drop off instrument cases upon arrival. Refer to your director's instructions for details on concert attire and what to bring. Rehearsal/Performance Map 🎻 Area Strings Festival Wednesday, March 11, 2026 California High School – 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 Strings Festival. This special concert celebrates the dedication, growth, and talent of young string players at every stage of their musical journey. 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 Strings Festival showcases the collaborative spirit of our elementary, middle, and high school music programs. Our passionate music educators are proud to share the results of months of hard work and commitment from their students. 🎶 Families, friends, and community members are warmly invited to enjoy an evening filled with beautiful music and support our young musicians.

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!

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