New Students Frequently Asked Questions

Watch out for our band camp schedule in the Calendar page, normally held one month before school opening. This is the best way to try out and to know Santa Cruz High School band.
I don't play an instrument. Can I still be in band?
Absolutely—practically anyone can learn to play an instrument. If you can't afford private lessons, talk to the director(s) about what is currently needed and a practice/lesson schedule can be arranged. Other options include joining the color guard, or being a standard carrier.
​What is the time commitment outside of class?
The Marching Band will compete on 5 Saturdays in the Fall and at Home football games on Friday nights.  The Winter Guard and Drumline sometimes competes on 4 Saturdays in March, with weekend practice in late January and February. ​
​Color Guard
​Color Guard is an activity that combines flag-spinning skills with innovative dance routines. There is a strong emphasis on dance technique and routine memorization. The Color Guard performs with the Varsity Band in the Fall and Spring marching seasons. This group has intensive performance requirements with many performances outside of class time. Performances include competitions throughout California and all home games. Attendance at these events outside of class is required. Students may receive 5 units of PE credit their junior and senior year.​
Jazz Band
The jazz ensemble provides players of saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass, guitar, and drums to perform music from the big
band era to the present. Swing, Bop, Latin, Rock as well as other styles will be covered. Basic concepts of form, style and improvisation will also be included. Performances include two yearly concerts plus festivals, competitions and other local performances. Attendance at these events outside of class is required. Ability to read music is preferred, but any serious musician will be considered. Auditions may be required on certain instruments at the director’s discretion.
Does my student have to own an instrument?
The Band has some instruments/equipment which may be used by the students. Each student wishing to use school-owned equipment must return a completed checkout form with a parent signature to the Band Director, prior to receiving the instrument/equipment. It is the responsibility of the student to maintain and cover any repair costs during the school year. Students and parents will be held responsible for damage not caused by normal wear and tear
​​Will there be rehearsals outside of class time?
Most events are planned well in advance and students are informed and updated constantly. Keep in mind our schedule is dependent upon students coming to class prepared and ready to perform their part. It is preferred that we never have to have an extra rehearsal outside of class, but there are times when we must hold an extra rehearsal. Extra rehearsals scheduled with 2 weeks notice or more are considered "mandatory."
Varsity Band
The varsity band is the premiere-performing group on campus. This group has intensive performance requirements with many performances outside of class time. Some performances include, competitions throughout California, a variety of home games and semester concerts. Attendance at these events outside of class is required. Marching and concert literature will be performed throughout the year.

More Questions?

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