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Double or triple your donation to Cal High Music through your employer's matching gift program. Learn how to maximize your support for student musicians. Corporate Matching Double—or Even Triple—Your Impact Many employers offer matching gift programs that match charitable contributions made by their employees. Some companies may even double or triple an employee’s donation. Because each parent or guardian may be eligible to submit a matching gift request through their own employer, your family’s contribution to the California High School Music Boosters could have an even greater impact on our students. How Corporate Matching Works Search for your employer Click here to search for your company and see whether it offers a matching gift program. Review your company’s requirements Follow the steps provided by your employer. If your company is not listed, contact your Human Resources or Benefits Department to ask whether a matching gift program is available. Submit your matching gift request Your employer may ask for a donation receipt and information about our nonprofit organization. Encourage both parents or guardians to check When both employers offer matching gifts, each eligible employee may be able to submit a request. Finding Your Donation Receipt FutureFund Donations Log in to your FutureFund account and navigate to: Member Home → Order History → View Select the appropriate order to view and print your donation receipt. Zelle or Check Donations For donations made through Zelle or by check, or when you are unable to locate your receipt, please email the California High School Music Boosters for assistance. About Our Organization Our Mission The California High School Music Boosters is an organization of parents and other interested adults formed to sponsor programs that advance the Instrumental Music Department at California High School and to provide financial support for its programs and activities. About Our Cause The California High School Music Boosters raises funds to support the school’s instrumental music program, including: Marching Band and Color Guard Winter Drumline Winter Color Guard Orchestra Jazz ensembles Concert and symphonic bands Additional instrumental music classes, performances, equipment and student opportunities Your donation—and your employer’s matching contribution—helps provide meaningful musical experiences for California High School students. Nonprofit Information California High School Music Boosters 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization EIN : 68-0077940 9870 Broadmoor Drive San Ramon, CA 94583

2026-2027 Wind and Jazz Auditions Auditions for the music program at Cal High are now available. Any student who plays an instrument and is interested in joining the music program is encouraged to audition. Auditions will be available for Wind Ensemble (Honors Band), Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble (Jazz A) and Jazz Band (Jazz B) Rhythm Section. This is a great opportunity to be part of a performing ensemble, build musicianship, and participate in concerts and events throughout the year. All information regarding audition dates, times, and requirements are in the google classrooms. Wind Band Audition google classroom code is: 6einh5yh Jazz Audition google classroom code is: sxpkigt All auditions need to be submitted to the google classroom by Thursday April 30th, 2026. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact Mr. G immediately at rgrigas@srvusd.net 2026-2027 Chamber Orchestra Auditions Please review these instructions in order to properly submit your audition video(s) for Chamber Orchestra. You may submit as many video files as needed, but please attach all of them to the same form. Your video(s) should show your face, hands and instrument while playing #1, #2 and #3 below: Here are the excerpts which should be prepared for your auditions: Violin: Academic Festival Overture - bars 1-24, 41-49, 63-85. 88-106 downbeat (Play top note if two notes are given.) Suggested tempo: half note = 60 bpm Viola : bars 1-40, 88-106 (Play top note if two notes are given.) Suggested tempo: half note = 60 bpm Cello : Academic Festival Overture - bars 1-40, 87-106 (Play top note if two notes are given.) Suggested tempo: half note = 60 bpm Bass : Academic Festival Overture - bars 1-40, 87-106 Suggested tempo: half note = 60 bpm Piano : Scherzo / Beethoven - bars 55-102 Suggested tempo is dotted quarter = 92 bpm Play up to 1 ½ minutes of a solo piece you have selected. Pianists may play up to 2 ½ minutes. 2 octave scale which has been selected for your instrument. Pianists may play the 2 octave scale of their choice with both hands. Submit your video(s) HERE . Link to scales and excerpts is HERE . Deadline for submissions is Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 11:59pm. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact Ms. Willis immediately at lwillis@srvusd.net

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 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: Note: Auditions for the 2026-2027 Symphonic & Wind Ensemble are now closed For more information about Concert Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Fundraisers Corporate Matching Amazon Shopping Volunteer Sponsorship Participant Contribution Support Us! Every contribution makes a difference. Whether you make a financial donation, participate in your employer's corporate matching program, shop through our Amazon Associates links, volunteer at events, join the Music Boosters Board, or purchase Cal High Music spirit wear, your support directly benefits our student musicians. The California High School Instrumental Music program thrives because of the generosity, time, and dedication of our families, alumni, and community. Together, we help provide instruments, music, uniforms, transportation, equipment, scholarships, guest clinicians, and enriching performance opportunities that inspire students to grow both musically and personally. Our goal is to keep participation as affordable as possible while maintaining the exceptional experience that has become a hallmark of Cal High Music. Every gift—whether it's your time, talents, or financial support—helps ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn, perform, lead, and belong. Thank you for investing in our students and helping Cal High Music continue to inspire excellence for years to come.

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.

Program Handbook Concert Attire Equipment Auditions Jazz Bands 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 like blues, swing, and improvisation, performing at school concerts and fundraisers. Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, audition-based group that explores challenging jazz styles and theory, performing at school events and a spring festival. For more information, read details for each class below. JAZZ BAND (JAZZ B) The Jazz Band is a class open to all musicians wishing to learn about and improve upon various jazz styles, including the blues, swing, and improvisation. Students are recommended to have at least one year of playing experience on a wind or rhythm section instrument. The Jazz Band participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers. Note: Note: Auditions for the 2026-2027 Symphonic & Wind Ensemble are now closed JAZZ ENSEMBLE (JAZZ A - AUDITION BASED) The Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, auditioned ensemble comprised of saxophones, trumpets, trombone, and rhythm section instruments. Students may audition for Jazz Ensemble at the end of the school year. This class covers advanced jazz repertoire in various styles including Latin, Swing, and Rock/Funk, as well as jazz music theory concepts. The Jazz Ensemble participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers as well as a CMEA or NCBA festival during the Spring. For more information about Jazz Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

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.

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 – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 7th & 8th Grade Strings – Dress Rehearsal Time: 4:30–5:30 PM Location: California High School – Event Center (aka 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 – 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 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.

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

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

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