In the spring, we are doing solo and ensemble, all region band, sectionals, concert contest, spring concert, spring trip, possibly a festival and possibly state solo and ensemble contest plus a myriad of other actual band related activities.
While I do understand it is good for PR, how many organizations are doing things for the band for good PR? We are not the jukebox for the athletic department unless they want to fund it.
It is very easy to get overburdened and burned out in this job. Look at the number of divorces in the band director community because of things like this.
Yes, basketball band is bigger in other parts of the country but the trade off is that in a lot of those parts of the country, the marching commitment is not to the level we have here in Texas.
At some point we have to draw a line in what is best for our bands and for our own personal time.
I love what I do. I love where I work. I did not sign up to be a band director 24/7 and I do not get paid to be a band director 24/7.
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