Spanish River

Mini Camp is immediately following the end of the school year in June. At this time, new members get an orientation to marching band and color guard. This is also the time that all marching band members receive the music for the fall show. The band can practice the new music prior to Marching Camp in August.

Marching Camp is held every day for two weeks prior to the first day of school. During this time the band has the opportunity to learn the formations on the field and the musical program for the season.
Attendance at band camp is mandatory unless prior arrangements have been made with the Band Director. Missing band and guard members create holes in the formation which make it difficult for those present to know where to move during the drill. Since there is so much to learn in a limited amount of time, 100% attendance at Band Camp will ensure a successful season. Attendance is especially important to freshmen since they are new to marching techniques and the routine and discipline of a marching band. Band camp has an added benefit for freshmen allowing them to get familiar with the campus and to get to know the fine individuals with whom they will spend the season. Band Camp is an amazing two weeks where band and guard members bond and another great show is born!
Most Band Camp days are from 9:00am until 4:00pm or from 12:00pm until 8:00pm with a break for lunch or dinner. Students are free to bring their own meal or go to one of many restaurants near campus and meals are occasionally provided. We practice indoors during the hottest part of the day and go on the field during the cooler hours before lunch or after dinner. Each student should bring a large thermos of water to stay hydrated.

SURVIVORS GUIDE TO BAND CAMP:
Bring all of the following items:
1. Instrument
2. Flip folder
3. Lyre
4. Light-colored hat
5. Sunscreen (required)
6. Sunglasses (suggested)
7. Athletic shorts (NO denim)
8. Light-colored shirt (White or band shirt preferred)
9. Running sneakers & socks (no Converse, Vans, etc.)
10. Valve oil/extra reeds
11. Pencil (put it in your case before you forget!)
12. Snacks
13. Lunch
14. BIG water jug (freeze water overnight)

TIPS FROM PAST SURVIVORS:

* Get a full’s night sleep every day of camp – turn off the T.V. and computer at least half an hour before turning the lights out.

* Eat a well-balanced diet throughout the week (avoid candy, soda, etc).

* Eat a complete, but not too heavy, breakfast before rehearsal. Good options for breakfast include: fruit, toast, bagel, eggs, waffle, or oatmeal.

* Avoid dairy products because it may upset your stomach in the hot sun.

* Hydrate yourself starting the night before rehearsal with a full glass of water, and have another glass for breakfast.

* COMPLETELY finish memorizing your music when you are told to do so. If you need help memorizing your music, do not hesitate to ask for help from your section leader or an older band member. We want to help you!

* After a long day of rehearsal during the full band camp week (Aug. 3-7), go home and RELAX. Don’t practice your instrument - get some down time so you can function later in the week.

* Most importantly, STAY POSITIVE!!! Band camp is hard, but it’s worth it!