FAQs
Student Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I have to join as a freshman?
A: No. You may join during any year in high school. We even accept eighth grade students, at the band director's discretion!
Q: Do I have to take band class to be in the marching band?
A: No. However, you do need to have previous experience playing your instrument.
Q: Do I have to try out for the band?
A: No. All students with prior experience playing an instrument are welcome! However, members do audition or compete for leadership positions in the band.
Q: Does the marching band participate in competitions?
A: Yes. The Dominion Marching Titans participate in several competitions each year, both locally and throughout the state.
Q: Am I required to participate in every band activity or is that optional?
A: Members of the marching band are required to attend all marching band activities, including athletic events, competitions, parades, and assessments, to the best of their abilities. Just like any other group activity, the success of the group depends on the participation of each member!
Q: Will I be able to balance marching band and school? What if my grades slip?
A: The marching band practices three nights per week during marching season (September through November). In addition, students perform at home varsity football games, the DHS homecoming parades, showcases, and competitions. The marching band schedule is provided to students and parents at the beginning of the season so that students can budget their time--an important life skill to master! Students who are taking college entrance exams are asked to schedule those around the marching schedule, but there are always a few open weekends each season, so it is manageable.
Q: I don't own an instrument and I can't afford to buy or rent one. What do I do?
A: The marching band has instruments and equipment available to rent at a lower rate than music store rentals. In addition, we are able to provide financial assistance to students in need. Contact the band director for more information.
Q: I've heard that band members have to participate in fundraising events. Is that a requirement?
A: Yes. Fundraising is vital to our ability to offer a high-quality music program. It allows us to purchase instruments, equipment, music, programs, props, and uniforms. It also allows us to provide financial assistance to band members in need.
Parent Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why do we have to pay for our child to participate in marching band?
A: Just as students on athletic teams pay for uniforms and, in some cases, meals, equipment, and the cost of travel, or students participating in clubs pay club dues, students participating in the marching band contribute to the operating costs of marching band. Fundraising helps us to lower the participation fee and to offer assistance for students in need.
Q: Why do I feel like I am always being asked to volunteer?
A: Marching band is one of the most complex activities at the high school level. With so many moving parts, the marching band relies heavily on support from parent volunteers. Every event requires multiple parent volunteers to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes so our students can focus on their performance. Fundraising activities help offset our costs. With so many different ways to get involved, there is something for everyone. Plus, it's an excellent way to spend time with your student, get to know their friends, and join the band family. Volunteering to help the marching band is a very worthwhile endeavor where everybody wins!
Q: Our family has a prior commitment that conflicts with a marching band activity. Is our child permitted to miss the band activity?
A: Please contact the band director as soon as you aware of the conflict to discuss your family's situation.