What is Weeniehearsal?

• The May kickoff event for the new marching season.

• Includes show theme announcements, leadership recognition, and orientation for new families.

When is the registration deadline?

• May 8, 2026

Does my student need to attend Band Camp?

• Yes, it is very important to be at Band Camp. This is where the program starts and builds together as a team. If there are challenges with attendance, please speak with Mr. Townley in advance at mjtownley@wcpss.net.

What if I need financial assistance?

• The “No Music-Lover Left Behind” Commitment; A Promise to Help All Our Students Benefit from the Phenomenal Power of Band.

• Sanderson Band asks for tremendous effort from its students and contributes greatly to their development. If money is tight at any point during the band year, families should contact Mr. Townley or a member of the Band Boosters Board for a confidential scholarship conversation.

What are the Percussion Clinics and who attends?

• Anyone who wants to be part of the drumline or front ensemble is required to attend.

• These clinics allow instructors to evaluate skills and place students on the instrument that best supports the ensemble.

What are the Spartan Shape-ups?

• Fun outings hosted by student leaders and Boosters.

• Usually held at local parks with games, connection time, and popsicles.

• Not mandatory, but highly encouraged.

What is Fair Share?

• Fair Share is the annual participation cost divided among students to cover music, drill, staff, transportation, competitions, camp, insurance, banquet, and operational expenses.

• It may be paid directly or earned through fundraising.

Are fundraising opportunities required?

• Fundraising is optional but encouraged to offset Fair Share.

• Opportunities may include Raise Right, gift cards, Walnut Creek concessions (18+), coupon books, and online drives.

When can I start taking part in Fundraising Activities?

• As soon as your kids becomes a member of the band, you can start participating in fundraising with the most immediate opportunities being Walnut Creek Concessions.

Who are Band Boosters?

• All adult family members of marching band students are considered Boosters.

• Boosters support the program with time, talent, and financial stewardship.

When are Booster meetings?

• The third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM, typically in the band room or faculty lounge.

Who should I contact with questions?

• Marching Band Chair: marchingband@sandersonband.com

• Band Ambassador:

Where does Band Camp take place?

• At Sanderson High School.

• Drop-off and pick-up occur at the Spirit Rock in the main parking lot.

Is Band Camp mandatory?

• Yes. Attendance is required to perform at football games and competitions.

What is the purpose of Band Camp?

• Students learn the bulk of the show, including drill, music, and choreography.

• Rehearsals after camp refine and perfect the show.

What should students bring daily?

• Large refillable water bottle

• Athletic shoes (no crocs or sandals)

• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses

• Lunch

• Instrument and printed music

• Binder for music

• Deodorant and hygiene supplies

• Extra socks or shirt (recommended)

What if my student has an inhaler or EpiPen?

• Students must bring all required medication daily.

• Emergency medication should not remain in lockers.

• Parents must communicate medical needs in advance to the Band Camp Chair or Marching Band Chair.

• Staff and volunteers cannot distribute medication.

What happens during extreme heat?

• Wake County Schools monitors weather conditions.

• On Code Red days, rehearsal moves indoors.

Are snacks provided?

• Yes. Ice water, Gatorade, and snacks are provided.

• Families may be asked to contribute items during the season.

Is there a parent meeting during camp?

• Yes. A Parent Information Meeting is held during Week 2. Attendance is encouraged.

Is there a performance at the end of camp?

• Yes. Week 2 concludes with a Family Preview Performance.

What happens after Band Camp ends?

• Summer rehearsals continue refining the show until school begins.

Should students expect fatigue when school starts?

• Yes. Families should plan for hydration, rest, and balanced routines.

Should students have a dedicated band bag?

• Yes. A backpack specifically for band helps organize dot books, music, sunscreen, hydration supplies, and other essentials.

Are rehearsals mandatory?

• Yes. Please schedule appointments around rehearsal times.

What footwear is required?

• Athletic shoes daily. No crocs, sandals, or dress shoes.

Where can students go before school?

• The band room serves as a home base and is open on designated days.

Are football games required?

• Yes. Students perform pregame, halftime, and pep band tunes in the stands.

What do students wear to football games?

• Show shirt

• Bibbers (uniform pants)

• Black crew socks

• Compression shorts (optional but recommended)

• Khaki shorts early season (as directed)

What is a lyre and do we need one?

• A lyre is a music holder that attaches to wind instruments for pep tunes.

• All wind players must have one before the first football game.

What time is call time?

• Usually around 4:30 PM, but always check the Band App.

How are tickets purchased?

• Tickets are purchased online through GoFan.

When are students dismissed?

• After the game ends and all uniforms and equipment are properly stored.

Are competitions required?

• Yes. Competitions are a major performance focus of the season.

How do we get competition details?

• The Tuesday before each competition, the itinerary is posted via e-blast and Band App.

What should students eat?

• A hearty breakfast is critical.

• Students typically bring a sack lunch. Dinner plans will be communicated.

What should students bring?

• Water bottle

• Black crew socks

• Show shirt

• Battery pack

• Jacket (late season)

• Money ($20 recommended)

Can parents attend?

• Yes. Tickets must be purchased at the gate.

How can parents volunteer?

• Morning rehearsal help

• All-day chaperone

• Prop/Pit Crew

• Truck loading/unloading

• Spectator support

When is the Christmas Parade?

• The Saturday before Thanksgiving in downtown Raleigh.

What does the day look like?

• Students meet at school, bus downtown, perform in the parade, return for a shared meal, and later perform at the North Hills Tree Lighting.

What is this event?

• A festive holiday performance following the Christmas Parade.

Is it required?

• Yes, unless otherwise communicated.

What is the Band App?

• Our primary communication tool. Students and parents must join and enable notifications.

What is EXPO?

• Sanderson’s hosted competition in October and largest fundraiser.

• All families are expected to volunteer.

What is a Show Shirt?

• The themed shirt worn under uniforms and during pep events.

• Families may purchase one to show support.

What are Bibbers?

• Uniform pants with shoulder straps worn during performances.

What is the Pit?

• The stationary percussion section (marimbas, xylophones, etc.).

What is Color Guard?

• The dance and equipment team that adds visual storytelling to the show.

Is there a banquet?

• Yes. Held in May to celebrate accomplishments and present awards.

Are there other band opportunities during the year?

• Jazz Ensemble

• Spring Musical Pit Orchestra

• Winter Guard

• Winter Percussion

• Optional Spring Trip