The short answer is, yes. However, we understand that students may have other commitments over the summer, especially things like family vacations. Please let the director know ahead of time about any such upcoming commitments. If you become ill, text your section captain immediately and email dlschwartz@mhrd.org. Work, non-emergency appointments, and just not feeling like it are not acceptable reasons to miss summer rehearsals.

If you’re on time, you’re late. Anytime you are given a report time, you are expected to arrive 15 min prior unless otherwise noted. If your report time is 6 PM for practice, you should be fed, hydrated, sun-protected, with your instrument in hand, warmed up and ready to play your first note at 6 PM.

Yes, band camp is mandatory for all members. Under extreme circumstances, exceptions could possibly be made for a pit ensemble member, but there is no way a student who intends to march will be able to learn the show without going to band camp.

Your band camp packet is located in the MEMBERS dropdown menu.

Band camp details are fully finalized about 3-weeks prior to camp. This gives our new section leaders a chance to choose theme days and activities for the week.

Once the new band camp schedule is finalized, the new packet will become available.

Uniforms are issues at the end of band camp. A uniform distribution date will be communicated ahead of time. The school will provide everything needed for the season, except shoes. Shoes will be purchased separately.

The band director orders shoes for all new students (or for those who require replacement shoes) during band camp using the information you provided at registration. The cost is approx. $40 cash or check made out to Morris Knolls Band Boosters.

The band director orders shoes for all new students (or for those who require replacement shoes) during band camp using the information you provided at registration. The cost is approx. $40 cash or check made out to Morris Knolls Band Boosters. It sometimes takes some time for shoes to arrive. If we do not have your shoes by the time you wear your uniform for the first time, instructions will be provided by the director.

The Marching Band program is designed for high school students (or soon-to-be high school students) and emphasizes personal responsibility and maturity. The Band Director expects students to take ownership of their experience by actively listening, staying informed, and following guidance from both the director and student leaders.

While Band Boosters (parents/guardians) are valued partners, they may not receive every detail or piece of information shared with students—especially when it comes to section-specific instructions communicated by Section Leaders.

Students are expected to develop the ability to stay informed and follow directions independently, without relying on a parent to manage their responsibilities. This independence is a vital part of their growth and one of the many important life skills cultivated through participation in marching band.

Band Booster (parent/guardian) meetings are typically held on the second Tuesday of each month during the marching band season. Exact dates and times are listed in your season schedule document.

As mentioned in the previous FAQ, parents may not receive every piece of day-to-day information shared directly with students. However, all essential updates and available information are communicated at these meetings.

Each meeting includes important updates from band leadership, so attending is highly encouraged. Meetings begin at 8:00 PM and end at 9:00 PM—conveniently wrapping up just as practice concludes, making it easy to coordinate with student pickup.