Columbia HS Marching Band - Encourage your child to join.
Hi,
I would be happy to share this on our HSA website and FB page. Also, is this something that can be shared with the middle schools for incoming Freshmen?
Both my children participated in CHS Marching Band; the younger one graduating this year. One was in Color Guard for 3 yrs and assumed a leadership role, the other played an instrument and became a section leader. An enriching experience to say the least. It's considered a sport, they receive a "letter" and truly feel like they're part of a team. They attend competitions and are there for each other. Colleges like to see this as part of being a well-rounded H.S. experience and it's also a great way to make instant friends at college if they have a Marching Band or Pep band. I will continue to go to the football games to see them perform. They're a great group of kids! Mr. Bauer is passionate about his Marching Band, too.
trinity,
Yes, that would be great. Spread all you want. I think many kids are intimidated about joining the band, but it's a really great group and anyone can join.
Thanks so much
Terrific!! @cats, I may need to quote you when I share this. 
Also, I'll need your real contact information. You can msg it to me.
And may I put in a plug for CHSMPA? (pronounced chizz - mip'- pah)
The Columbia High School Music Parents Association is crucial to the running of the Marching Cougars, and helps every other musical group in the high school. Volunteering as a chaperone though CHSMPA affords you a glimpse into the life of your teen and their peers. Getting to interact with Peter Bauer, Todd Van Beveren and Jamie Bunce-Arraial shows you just what great teachers our music department has.
Mr. Bauer was my son's savior. He hated school, etc., etc. Joined the Band and couldn't be happier.
Need to stress that being highly talented or skilled is not a requirment. They practice and get up to speed quickly.
The OPEN HOUSE is being held to promote interest in this extra curricular. Remember, it's not just for musicians. Color Guard is an integral part of the Marching Band. They incorporate dance and work with flags, sabres and rifles. Open to all, no experience necessary. Check it out!
I agree with this and would just add that as a parent, if you want, there is a bunch of opportunities for you to get involved and it is fun for you!!
krugle1 said:
Wondering if your child should join Marching Band? I have been a proud CHS Marching Band Parent for 5 years (so far) and my answer is YES!
1. Fun! - It is a great group of kids who have a great time together
Marching band is a diverse and inclusive group. They work and play together, and support each other. They get to know each other at band camp in late August, so when school starts your child will have a group of 70 friends throughout Columbia. The friendships continue to grow throughout the season and throughout high school. Words can not describe how much fun they have together. My older daughter's best memories of CHS are associated with the marching band and I suspect that is typical of band kids.
2. Teamwork - they work together and appreciate everyone's contribution
Everyone is important to every show, everyone gives their best effort and counts on each other to do their best as well. They help, encourage and inspire each other. There are plenty of people and things that will wear kids down and erode their self-confidence, but in marching band they build each other up. That is invaluable for adolescents.
3. Responsibility - they show up on time, work hard and see the rewards
When I hear anyone complain about "teenagers today" I tell them to spend some time with a marching band. These kids show up early, practice for hours, are responsible for their equipment and their appearance, take on leadership roles, and take pride in the end result, which is an impressive show.
4. Meeting challenges - they learn how much they can achieve through their efforts
Music and drill have to be memorized and all of the parts have to flow together, which can seem impossible at the start of the season. In our world of instant gratification, marching band requires time and hard work to achieve the goal, and when they at last perform the entire show and they know they did a great job, they are exhilarated and triumphant. It's awesome to witness this as a parent.
I could go on and on. Get your kids into band. At least get them to the Open House on June 4th at 7:00 in the CHS Cafeteria. Contact me if you have any questions, and I hope to meet you soon.
Wondering if your child should join Marching Band? I have been a proud CHS Marching Band Parent for 5 years (so far) and my answer is YES!
1. Fun! - It is a great group of kids who have a great time together
Marching band is a diverse and inclusive group. They work and play together, and support each other. They get to know each other at band camp in late August, so when school starts your child will have a group of 70 friends throughout Columbia. The friendships continue to grow throughout the season and throughout high school. Words can not describe how much fun they have together. My older daughter's best memories of CHS are associated with the marching band and I suspect that is typical of band kids.
2. Teamwork - they work together and appreciate everyone's contribution
Everyone is important to every show, everyone gives their best effort and counts on each other to do their best as well. They help, encourage and inspire each other. There are plenty of people and things that will wear kids down and erode their self-confidence, but in marching band they build each other up. That is invaluable for adolescents.
3. Responsibility - they show up on time, work hard and see the rewards
When I hear anyone complain about "teenagers today" I tell them to spend some time with a marching band. These kids show up early, practice for hours, are responsible for their equipment and their appearance, take on leadership roles, and take pride in the end result, which is an impressive show.
4. Meeting challenges - they learn how much they can achieve through their efforts
Music and drill have to be memorized and all of the parts have to flow together, which can seem impossible at the start of the season. In our world of instant gratification, marching band requires time and hard work to achieve the goal, and when they at last perform the entire show and they know they did a great job, they are exhilarated and triumphant. It's awesome to witness this as a parent.
I could go on and on. Get your kids into band. At least get them to the Open House on June 4th at 7:00 in the CHS Cafeteria. Contact me if you have any questions, and I hope to meet you soon.