Welcome to all new and returning members of the 2008 edition of the Award Winning WILLIAM TENNENT HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND. Last year the Marching Band continued to uphold our tradition of Superior ratings. In order to uphold the high standards that past William Tennent Bands have established, it is vital that everyone is totally prepared for DAY ONE of Band Camp. I fully expect this year's unit to equal the accomplishments achieved in past seasons.

            We are currently working on the music and drill for this coming season. Once again I am planning a challenging show that will provide a great deal of entertainment for our audiences and also permit us to retain our Superior ratings. The following information is to help you do your best from the very beginning.

SQUADS: Everyone has been assigned to a squad. The squad is the basic unit and the backbone of spirit in our band. Your squad leader is the first link in the chain of command and will help you to become a fine member of the unit. Your squad leader will be contacting you soon

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

Music Lyre - All brass and woodwind players MUST have a lyre that fits their instruments. Flip-Folio - All musicians, including percussionists, should have a music flip-folio.

            It keeps the music from getting lost or ruined.

            Lyres and Flip-Folios are available at local music stores.

3-Ring Binder - All members need a large 3-Ring Binder in which to keep drill sheets.

            Put your name prominently on the front of it.

Drill Discs - Plastic coffee can lids or similar type discs are used when learning drill sets.

            Everyone needs at least 5 discs or more with his/her name on each one.

BAND FRONT: Your additional equipment needs are detailed on another sheet.

BAND CAMP: Band Camp runs from August 24 to Sept 4th

Typical Daily Schedule:

8:00 a.m. - Arrive, meet old friends and make new ones.

8:15 a.m. - Squads meet.

8:30 a.m. - Block formation for Roll Call. Work on show.

Mid-morning Break - Once again our great Band Parents will be

                                              providing ice-cold drinks for break.

Lunch - You should bring a lunch, as you are not permitted to leave the WTHS campus for

             lunch.

Resume working on show after lunch.

3:00 p.m. - End of practice.

FUN! FUN! FUN!

A number of "fun" activities are being planned by your officers.

The Band "Family Picnic" is a great time every year.

It is our premier performance of the season and an opportunity to "show off" and have a lot of fun. (and of course your whole family is invited).

It is scheduled for THURSDAY, September 3rd , AT 6:00 PM, rain or shine.

More information will be available later.

BAND CAMP SURVIVAL TIPS

***Eat a Good Breakfast Before Coming to Camp ***

*** Wear A Hat ***

*** Use Sunscreen Lotion ***

*** Wear Comfortable Shoes ***

*** Bring A Water Bottle ***

SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER - NOVEMBER

REHEARSAL SCHEDULE: When school begins, the basic Rehearsal Schedule is as follows:

MONDAYS - TUESDAYS - THURSDAYS 2:45 PM TO 5:30 PM

Bus transportation is provided after rehearsals.

UNIFORMS: Uniforms will be distributed according to an announced schedule each day after Band Camp. Information on proper care will be handed out at that time.

ALL MEMBERS ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE A COLLARED MARCHING BAND SHIRT,which is available at cost from the Band Parents' Association.

SHOES: Each member provides his/her own footwear. We have made arrangements for you to be able to purchase excellent footwear at well below market prices with the added convenience of measuring, ordering and delivery right at WTHS during Band Camp. More information will be available at a later date.

SOCKS: Every one will wear the same type socks.  These socks will be sold to you at cost (approx. $3.00 a pair)

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE: Our current performance schedule is listed on the schedule page of this website. A few additional performances may be scheduled.

Please keep these dates and times posted in a visible place. A comprehensive calendar showing other activities, rehearsals and events is being developed and will be available at Band Camp.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: On the first day of Band Camp, you will receive the Band Handbook, which explains more fully what is expected of each WTHS Marching Band Member.

Each and every one of you is a strong link in the chain of success. Everyone is required to attend ALL Rehearsals and performances. You really can make this year's unit the best ever, and in the process experience the thrill of exciting performances and make some of the best friendships of your life. I am very pleased to be your Band Director and very pleased to have you in our "Band Family".

Sincerely,

Mr. Joseph Lovecchio

WTHS Band Director