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HS Band Numbers

Posted by Dazed and Confused on 9/27/2024, 11:33 am

I just took over a very small program, the first eligibility report hit and I am looking at having 17 kids in the stands for the upcoming football games.
I have 1 flute, 4 clarinets, 3 A Sax, 2 bass clar, 0 trumpets, 1 FH, 1 TBone, 2 Baritones, 1 tuba and 2 percussionists.
Searching for any suggestions on making this work. TYIA for your time.

Re: HS Band Numbers

Posted by there on 9/30/2024, 9:06 am, in reply to "HS Band Numbers"

Do you have a college near by? You might be able to get a few volunteers to come play with your group. I was at a small school with half the band kids playing football. I had some well vetted college kids play in the stands with us to fill out some sections.

I agree with an earlier post. I'd definitely skip UIL this year.

Re: HS Band Numbers

Posted by Maybe on 9/28/2024, 12:48 pm, in reply to "HS Band Numbers"

We always think we're just barely ready until the first six weeks hits and turns our bands into Swiss cheese. Several years and it still knocks me out whenever those shocks happen.

How different are the clarinet and trumpet's parts? Is there one you can trust to come in for some after school lessons and teach them basic trumpet to take over for a while? Or, really, anyone in your band that you believe would be able to switch and learn quickly?

That's really the biggest issue I see. At least you have one in every other section. Especially with tuba!

Re: HS Band Numbers

Posted by Perc on 9/28/2024, 12:20 am, in reply to "HS Band Numbers"

I heard a band recently with just two percussionists, both on snare. Excellent performance in the stands and on field. I suppose one could have played bass drum, but whatever you do, do it well. Some suggestions: 1 bass + 1 snare, or 1 bass + 1 tenor. It is possible, with the right equipment (cymbal attachment), for a bass drummer to also play cymbals.

Re: HS Band Numbers

Posted by really retired on 9/27/2024, 10:51 pm, in reply to "HS Band Numbers"

seriously, can you play trumpet? Taught a group similar when I was in college. I marched them out in the center of the field, played a song and left. A recent grad played the bass drum for them. Another time, another school - marched a parade where I played my horn and marched with them. There are ways. I remember a line from a movie: "Let it be a challenge to you." Don't take it personal. Make something work just enough to show the boss you are trying. I'm fairly sure that UIL marching waits till next year. m

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