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ITT

IGH

CHOOL

NSTRUMENTAL

USIC

EPARTMENT

800

ITT

MI.

48820

517-668-3212

normanm@dewitt.edzone.net

Michael P. Norman, Director

May 8, 2008

Dear Band Parents,

New High School Band Parent/Student Meeting:Monday, January 14. 2008 7pm DHS Band Room

How very proud you must be of your child's progress on their instrument! The personaldiscipline and commitment have paid off many times over. It is apparent we have found a very talented musician in your family. BRAVO!It is now the time of year when students must schedule classes for the upcoming year. Mostimportant, your child needs to make certain that BAND is part of her future curriculum.Please call the counseling department to express your desire to see your child is scheduledfor band in the upcoming semester;

and 3

nine weeks are the recommendedselections for all freshman

. 2

nine weeks is a viable option, 4

nine weeks is by auditiononly. If you have any questions about this process, feel free to call me at my office 668-3212.If there is any indecision concerning your child's future participation in the band program,please make an appointment with me so we can discuss the possibilities. It may seem thatthe required courses/athletics allow no room to schedule band, but there are an infinitenumber of ways to include band class with some personal attention to your child’s schedule.Every effort will be made to see that this is accomplished for the benefit of your student.Our flexibility is well known as we have had captains of the varsity football team and varsity cheerleaders participate. We want your student to enjoy all the positive growth in terms of personal self-esteem andself-worth for their educational career. Group participation is the key to making this a reality,and there is nothing that brings out the sense of personal contribution quite like the feeling of being in an award winning, nationally recognized band program! Again, I encourage your communication in this important step forward. Whatever assistanceI can provide is yours for the asking. Please call me at your convenience.Musically yours,Michael P. NormanDirector of BandsDeWitt High School

ITT

IGH

CHOOL

ANTHER

ARCHING

AND

Marching Band 101

A Course For ParentsAnd The Students Who Love Them

2008 Field CommandersLiz FedewaBrian Sprague

Why?

Have you asked your child why he/she wants to be a band member? Enjoying music andplaying an instrument is probably part of the reason. Being with their friends is sure to beanother part of the reason. However, band (especially marching band) involves muchmore. The students need to realize that the following 5 areas are important to having asuccessful band experience.

Attitude

…..Be positive. Stay positive even when others aren’t or when it is hard.

Commitment

…..Band is a major time commitment. Marching band includes class time,Monday night practices, sectional practices, varsity football game performances, and aminimum of 3 special shows.

Respect

…..Follow directions and rules. Respect others including chaperones, sectionleaders, instructors, and all band members. Be courteous. Remember: when you wear aband uniform, you and your actions reflect on the rest of the band and the school.

Responsibility

…..Be better than “on time”. Arrive early. (On time is defined as “10minutes early”). Be prepared: have your instrument, complete uniform, and musiclearned. Get all information to your parents about band events and fundraisers. Don’tmake them have to remind you or ask.Being a member of the band is not just a musical experience. It is being part of a “family”and making friendships that last long after graduation. It is a time of making memories.