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1018 July 31, 2010 at 14:39 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash August 21st at Fitzgerald Auto Mall

Safeway informed us this week that due to another fundraiser that starts in August (previously unaware of), we will not be able to have our car wash that was scheduled for August 7th.  

The car wash has been rescheduled for August 21st at Fitzgerald Auto Mall off Route 85.  It will be held from 9 a.m until 3 p.m.  Parents and students should respond to Patricia Staples at rstaples17@comcast.net with the time they can commit to this car wash.  We budgeted $3,000 for car washes this year and are not at the $1,000 mark yet so we need everyone. 

If there are ANY questions, let me know either via email, text or call.  

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator
rstaples17@comcast.net
301-606-0041 cell
301-293-8905 home

1017 July 31, 2010 at 14:37 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Basket Bingo Information

Hello Band Families :
 
Are you ready for Band camp ?  It is just around the corner ! One of our most successful fund raisers will be here soon and I need your help.  The Basket Bingo will be on Sunday Sept. 12 at the Middletown Firehall. I would like every band member to benefit from this fund raiser!  Each band member can help this be an even bigger success by doing 2 little things.
 
1) You will be given bingo tickets to sell during band camp ( or at the rookie meeting).  The more tickets you sell, the more money you earn for your trip account and for our fantastic band program!  So start talking to your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, or anyone else you can think of!
 
2)  I need every band member to contribute something to be used to fill the baskets.  Click the link below for a letter to take to businesses when you ask for donations. 
 
 
You can ask at any place you frequent : hair salons, restaurants, stores, gyms, home based businesses ( this is good inexpensive advertising for them!)  or any other business you can think of.  In my experience, most places are happy to donate either some merchandise or a gift card.  You just have to ask.  OR you can purchase or make something to donate.   
 
I will need all donated items no later than Sept. 3.  I will be at band camp most mornings and evenings if you have questions.  
 
Thank so much!! 
 
Nancy vom Lehn
Band Booster President
(240) - 236 - 7400 ext. 67513

 

1016 July 29, 2010 at 23:47 Stacy Black black1988@comcast.net Band Camp is just around the corner

Time is ticking away and we have a goal of having this year be FANTASMIC.

 

I still need some help for band camp week.  I need meal coordinators for Sophomore and Freshman classes, someone to coordinator the Friday evening picnic and more volunteers for band camp runners.

 

The meal coordinators contact other parents in that class for donation of food, help serving, making desserts, and takes charge of planning the menu and pulling it all together.

 

The runners are available during band camp times, usually doing a 4 hr shift or what fits into your schedule - 8am-12pm, 12pm-4pm and 4pm-8pm.  This is just being open and available, Mr Shearer may have a special request, keeping fluids available, any kid that needs assistance - just doing "the parent thing". 

 

The picnic coordinator is  the closing event Friday evening, it is very informal but a nice time to wind down and get to know each other after we  have viewed the first performance of the 2010 field show.  There is a budget for this picnic and last year was catered by a local vendor.

 

Let me know where you can help, no matter how big or small, remember many hands make little work. 

 

Thanks

 

Stacey Black, MHS Band Booster parent 

H 301-293-0137

W 240-313-9954

 

1015 July 26, 2010 at 16:54 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Fantasmic! music posted (for winds)

Music for this years field show, Fantasmic!, is now posted for wind players.

Only the first movement is posted.  The remaining movements will be posted soon.

 

To print music:

Login to your student info page

Click on the MUSIC link

Click links to music for Fantasmic! to open the PDF

PRINT!

Also print music for the National Anthem, Fight Song, Warm Ups, and F Tuning!!

See you all soon!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

1014 July 26, 2010 at 15:24 Stacy Black black1988@comcast.net Summer Band Camp needs

Where has the summer gone? I am getting ready to flip the calendar again and there is BAND CAMP. So not only are the kids getting out their instruments, we parents need to get back in the grove of band parent volunteering.

 

Summer Band Camp is a great way to help the kids, Mr Shearer and staff get off to a great start. Some of the needs we have identified thus far:

  • Parent runners for during camp times – Monday – Thursday 730am til 8pm and Friday 730 to 5pm. This is pretty simple but important. Mr Shearer will have last minute requests, keep fluids going, possibly hand out cool pops, or any other duties to support the week. Typically people sign up for shifts and we cover as much as we can. Contact me if interested.
     
  • Since the kids are at school all day, we supply a meal in the evenings for them. Senior parents (Monday evening), Junior parents (Tuesday evening), Soph (Wed evening) and Freshman parents (Thursday evening), Friday we have the closing picnic for all to enjoy. I do need a parent representative for each night to help coordinate. We will also be requesting donation of food and supplies, etc. for these meals. Could someone take this over?
     
  • Please remember to make sure your kids bring water bottles or fluids with them, the heat this year seems unusually unbearable. Also sneakers, sun screen and a great attitude will make the week more enjoyable. This is a long tiring week for everyone involved, so my goal is to make it as comfortable as possible for everyone.
     
  • Get in touch with me where you are able to assist either by email Black1988@comcast.net , work 240-313-9954 or home in the evenings 301-293-0137. Looking forward to seeing you there, lets have this year be FANTASMIC…

Stacey Black, MHS Band Booster parent
 

1013 July 22, 2010 at 15:59 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Update: MHS Band Car Wash July 24th at Safeway from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The car wash this Saturday at Safeway is a GO! I have plenty of parents (thank you) but could use a few more students.  Even if you did not sign up, if it works for your schedule for any time between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., come out and lend a hand.  We will be able to make more $ with a few more helpers!

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator

1012 July 10, 2010 at 13:44 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Update or Unsubscribe Email List Subscription

Please follow the links at the bottom of this email to update your email list preferences or to unsubscribe.

By updating your preferences you will receive less emails that do not apply to you.

Thank You,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
 

1011 July 09, 2010 at 10:52 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash July 24

Parents and Students, 

There are only 3 students and 3 parents signed up the upcoming car wash on July 24th from 10-2 at Safeway.  I need a minimum of 1 more parent and 7 more students to make this successful.  So far I have:

Parents:

Bryon Black

Beth Guyton

Patricia Staples

 

Students:

Jessica Black

Lacey Guyton

Bobby Staples

 

I need a response by July 18th with a "Yes I can Help".  Look at your schedule and let me know if you can join us!

Patricia Staples

Ways and Means Coordinator

1010 June 29, 2010 at 10:27 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Commitment Fee Deadline - June 30

Marching band commitment fees are due tomorrow, June 30, 2010. Many students have registered but have not sent in the $100 commitment fee. Each summer, Mr. Shearer writes the show for the upcoming season. Only those students that have registered AND paid their fee will be written into the show.  If you have a financial hardship and are not able to make the payment on time, please contact me to discuss alternative payment arrangements.   
 
If you have not sent your payment yet, please sent it today. Make the check payable to "MHS Band Boosters." Write the student's name in the memo portion of the check.  Mail it to MHS Band Boosters, 200 Schoolhouse Drive, Middletown, MD 21769. Then send me an e-mail to let me know you have sent the payment so I will know to look for it.
 
The payment schedule for the participation fees is as follows:
 
$100 Commitment fee due June 30, 2010
$150 due August 13, 2010 ($100 for each sibling)
$150 due September 17, 2010 ($100 for each sibling)
 
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the participation fees.  Enjoy your summer vacation.  I am looking forward to seeing you all in August as we start another exciting season with the Middletown Marching Knights!     
 
Thanks,
Pam Harris
Booster VP
301-371-7828

1009 June 26, 2010 at 18:14 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Band Newsletter June 26, 2010
Dear wonderful band families :
 
On behalf of the MHS Band Boosters executive board, let me be the first to welcome you to what will surely be a FANTASTIC band season!  I hope you are enjoying your relaxing summer.  There are a few bits of band infomation I want to send out to you.
 
1) Summer Dates :  Get out your calendars and mark these dates !
 Fund Raisers : Contact Patricia Staples at rstaples17@comcast.net for more information!    
      July 18 : Baker Park Summer Series Fund Raiser
      July 24 : Car Wash at Safeway 
      Aug 7 : Car Wash at Safeway
      Aug 15 : Baker Park Summer Series Fund Raiser    
 
Rookie Meeting : Sunday August 8 at 6:00
 
Band Camp : August 9 through August 13 - Parents can help by being a runner, dinner coordinator, picnic organizer and more.  Keep an eye out for emails with more information coming soon!
 
Booster Meeting : Tues Aug 17 
 
2) Don't forget your $100 commitment fee is due by the end of June.  You may drop it off at the school office in an envelope labeled MHS Band Boosters.
 
3)  How would you like to coordinate selling our Knightmare t-shirts?  All you have to do is set up the schedule and send out remiders to your volunteers!  This is a great and easy way to get invloved!
 
4) Does anyone know where the large water jugs are ?  We looked in the shed, the trailer, the instrument and uniform closets and the band room loft!  No Luck !  Or would you like to donate a large water jug to the band? 
 
5) Basket Bingo :  Sunday Sept, 12 at the Middletown Fire Hall
 We would like every band family to contribute items to fill the baskets. You may choose to pair up with another family to fill a larger basket if you like. Here are a few ideas.

 Are you creative ? Make something to go into a basket. Crochet a scarf and hat. Build a bird house. Make your world famous cookies. The possibilities are endless!

 Offer your talents! Donate an hour or two to rake leaves, wash cars, take family photos, or organize a garage. Provide consulting in home decorating, filing taxes, car maintenance, or any other area of expertise.

 Create a theme basket. For example for a "Movie Night" basket, purchase a DVD and some microwave popcorn. Or a "Middletown High Fan"basket, donate pompoms or seat cushions. Use your imagination !

 If you have your own business, you can sponsor a basket. Cash donations are welcome. Donate a gift certificate from your business.

 Purchase a gift certificate from your favorite business to donate - movie theaters, restaurants, stores, or any other !

We will collect your donations during band camp.  Thank you in advance for all of your help!!
 
Please feel free to contact me at any time with any questions, concerns or ideas.  We have a wonderful group of musicians, dancers, and parents and we know this will be the best year of band yet! 
 
Nancy vom Lehn
Band Booster President 2010 -2011
1008 June 21, 2010 at 18:09 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net MHS Band Boosters Car Wash and Baker Park fundraisers

During the summer we have two important fundraisers coming up that can put $ in your student account to be used in the upcoming band season.

Car Washes at Safeway in Middletown on:
July 24th and August 7th from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Need at least 4 parents and 10 students


Baker Park Summer Series at Baker Park on:
July 18th and August 15th from 6:45 until 8 p.m.
Need at least 2 parents and 6 students

Students and parents need to respond to this email by July 4th to let me know which fundraisers will work for your schedule.   If you have any questions, give me a call or send me a text to 301-606-0041.  My email address is rstaples17@comcast.net.

We need YOU to make these fundraisers successful. 

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator

1007 June 09, 2010 at 08:21 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Marching Band Participation Fees
If you have not already registered for marching band, please go on the band website, www.mhsknightsband.net, and register now.
 
Participation fees for the 2010 season are $400 per student.  For families with more than one student in the band, the fee is $400 for the first student and $300 for each sibling.
 
You may pay the $400 fee now or you may pay according to the following payment schedule:
 
$100  Commitment Fee due by June 30, 2010
$150  Due August 13, 2010  ($100 for each sibling)
$150  Due September 17, 2010 ($100 for each sibling)
 
Please make checks payable to "MHS Band Boosters."  Write "participation fee" and your student's name in the memo portion of the check.  Checks can be sent to MHS Band Boosters, 200 Schoolhouse Drive, Middletown, MD 21769. 
 
If you have a financial hardship and are unable to pay according to the payment schedule, please contact me at 301-371-7828 or Bob8har@aol.com so other arrangements can be made.  If you know anyone that would like to join the marching band but has not joined because they are unable to pay all or part of the fee, please have them contact me.  We do not want to exclude any student because of a financial hardship. 
 
Thank you!
Pam
1006 June 09, 2010 at 08:21 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Fundraiser - Baker Park Summer Concert Series - June 13
Our first Baker Park Summer Concert Series fundraiser will take place this Sunday, June 13, 2010.   
 
What is the Baker Park Summer Concert Series fundraiser? 

During the months of June, July and August, free concerts are held at the bandshell in Baker Park.  To provide support for the community, the Summer Concert Series committee established the "Music For All Students Fund" (MFAS FUND) to help ensure the availability of musical instruments and sheet music for economically disadvantaged public school students.  Each week, representatives from Frederick County band booster organizations collect monetary donations.  Collected funds are divided between the participating band booster organization and the MFAS Fund. 

This is an easy fundraiser that requires only a short time commitment.  A portion of the funds raised will be allocated to the student trip accounts of the students that participate.
 
Students will need to be at the bandshell in Baker Park by 6:45 pm on Sunday, June 13, 2010.   They will be given a container and will walk (in pairs) among the audience soliciting donations.  It should take about a hour.
 
We need 5 student volunteers for this Sunday.  The first 5 students to respond will be selected to participate.  Please contact me at bob8har@aol.com if you can help.
 
Thank you,
Pam Harris
1005 June 07, 2010 at 09:14 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Band Booster Meeting Monday June 7 - LOCATION CHANGE

The next meeting of the MHS Band Boosters will be held tonight June 7. The executive Board will meet at 6:30 in the band room. The location for the general meeting  at 7:30 has been changed to the band room. All are welcome to attend.

We will be voting on the proposed amendment to the by-laws regarding back ground checks. The proposed amendment change can be found on the band website http://www.mhsknightsband.net. Click on "forms and docs" on the left side of the screen. You will find the link to the amendment at the top of the next page (above the table of documents).

We will also discuss the budget, band camp and plenty more exciting topics. Please come and get involved!

Thanks!

Nancy vom Lehn
MHS Band Booster President 2010-2011

1004 June 03, 2010 at 07:12 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Band Booster Meeting Monday June 7

The next meeting of the MHS Band Boosters will be held on Monday June 7.  The executive Board will meet at 6:30 in the band room.  The general meeting will be held at 7:30 in room 210.  All are welcome to attend.  
 
We will be voting on the proposed amendment to the by-laws regarding back ground checks. The proposed amendment change can be found on the band website  www.mhsknightsband.net. Click on "forms and docs" on the left side of the screen. You will find the link to the amendment at the top of the next page (above the table of documents).
 
We will also discuss the budget, band camp and plenty more exciting topics.  Please come and get involved!
 
Thanks!
 
Nancy vom Lehn
MHS Band Booster President 2010-2011

1003 June 02, 2010 at 11:14 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash for June 6th Cancelled!

Parents and Students,

We have learned that there is a scheduling conflict with the car wash at Safeway scheduled for this Sunday, June 6th.  Based on this, the decision has been made to cancel the car wash and reschedule at a later date.   

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator

1002 May 28, 2010 at 11:08 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com By-law Amendment

This year, a concern was raised at the Executive Committee meetings regarding staff and background checks.  Occasionally, we hire or may want to hire additional staff members to assist with the band.  We currently have no written policies or procedures that require the person pass a background investigation before being hired.  Sadly, in today's society, this is no longer advisable.  Therefore, we are proposing an amendment to the by-laws that would require any new staff member submit to and pass a background investigation before entering into an independent contractor agreement with the Boosters.
 
The proposed amendment change can be found on the band website www.mhsknightsband.net.  Click on "forms and docs" on the left side of the screen.  You will find the link to the amendment at the top of the next page (above the table of documents). 
 
We will be voting to accept or decline the amendment at the next Booster meeting which will be held at 7:30 pm on Monday, June 7, 2010.  The new officers will assume their positions at this meeting.
 
Have a safe and fun weekend,
Pam

1001 May 28, 2010 at 08:49 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash June 6th from 1-4 at Safeway

The MHS Band's next car wash will be Sunday, June 6th at Safeway from 1-4 p.m.  We need adults and students to participate.  We are especially in need of dads to "man" the hoses.  Email Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com if you can participate.  We need YOU to make this successful.  If you have any questions, feel free to email Jessica or myself at rstaples17@comcast.net

 

Thanks, 

Patricia Staples

Ways and Means Coordinator 

1000 May 18, 2010 at 12:20 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Ens - rehearsal wed 5/26

The Jazz Ensemble will rehearse for the Dance Recital on Wednesday, May 26th at 2:15 to 4:00. 

It is essential that everyone attend this rehearsal.

THANKS!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

999 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Knight Letter

The final issue of the 2009-2010 Knight Letter is available on the MHS website. Or it may be accessed at: http://www.academypublishing.com/schools/middletown/.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

998 May 14, 2010 at 09:57 Band Boosters boosters@mhsknightsband.net Car Wash May 16th 1-4 at Safeway

This Sunday we will have one of the most fun and wettest” MHS Band Fundraiser at the Middletown Safeway from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 

Please even if you have not signed up, come out Sunday from 1 - 4 here in Middletown.

In the past, we have raised several hundred dollars from the wash and donations--

This can be even bigger and raise more money for our Band and YOUR band account! 

Yet, to make successful we will need you. 

Please help us -  We hope to see you there! 

Jan Titus and Jessica Bower Amoia

997 May 14, 2010 at 09:07 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Sign up for marching band!!

Another reminder to sign up for marching band!!  If you are planning on doing marching band please register now so the music can be arranged custom to the musicians in the band!

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members/2010_2011/register_1011_marching.php


THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

996 (no subject)
995 May 11, 2010 at 09:12 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Election Results

 

would like to congratulate and thank the following people for accepting Band Booster Officer positions for this coming year:
 
President:  Nancy VomLehn
VP:  Pam Harris
Treasurer:  Celeste Denier
Secretary:  Shelly Hill
 
I would also like to thank Patricia Staples for staying on as Ways and Means Chairperson and Susan O'Neill for accepting the position as Publicity Chairperson.
 
The proposed budget for the 2010-2011 year was circulated and will be voted on at the June meeting.
 
During the recent budget meeting a decision was made to offer a discount on participation fees for families with more than one student in the marching band.  The participation fee for the first student will be $400.  The fee for each sibling will be $300.
 
The proposed by-law amendment regarding background checks for new staff was circulated and will be voted on at the June meeting.  A copy of the proposed amendment will be posted on the band website in the next day or two if you would like to read it.
 
The next Booster Meeting will be June 7, 2010.  The new officers will take office on this date. 
 
I would like to say thank you to everyone that came out for the Booster Meeting last night.  I would also like to thank all of you for your support this past year.  I know Nancy will do a great job leading this organization.  I am looking forward to working with her and with all of you this coming  year.
 
Pam
994 May 10, 2010 at 10:35 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com General Meeting In Band Room

Seems that Room 210 was triple booked for tonight (don't ask me how this happened because I have no idea)!  We have been moved to the band room.  Therefore, the Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room. The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm IN THE BAND ROOM.
 
If you are planning to come at 7:30 pm for the General Meeting, you are welcome to come into the band room when you arrive.  The Executive Committee Meeting will be in progress until 7:30 pm so I ask that you please be considerate and enter quietly.  If you need to discuss things with other members before the meeting, please do so in the cafeteria or in the hallway. 
 
See you tonight.....in the band room.
 
Thank you!
Pam

993 May 10, 2010 at 07:09 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Jazz Recording

Anyone interested in ordering the recording of the All County Jazz Concert should contact the FCPS Visual and Performing Arts office by emailing Kay Schroyer at kay.schroyer@fcps.org

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

992 May 10, 2010 at 07:02 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meetings Tonight

 

Hello Everyone,
 
The May Band Booster Meetings are tonight, May 10, 2010.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone is welcome to attend.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in Room 210. 
 
At the General Meeting, we will be presenting the budget for the 2010-2011 year, voting on an amendment to the by-laws regarding background checks for new staff and voting for new officers. 
 
See you tonight!
 
Pam
991 May 09, 2010 at 20:04 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Knights Leadership

Students interested in the following leadership positions must complete an application and return it Tomorrow!

Drum Major
Field Commander
Drum Line Captain (application due at drum line audition)
Dance Line Captain (application due at dance line audition)
Section Leader
Head Manager

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/marching_knights_leadership_application.pdf

Drum Major Auditions will be held TOMORROW at 2:30.

Student's auditioning for drum major will conduct and sing the National Anthem
Demonstrate conducting patterns in 2, 3, and 4 while showing dynamic changes and a clear cut off. Demonstrate basic drill commands.
Answer interview questions related to leadership skills.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

990 May 08, 2010 at 10:30 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Jazz Concert Today

Come out and see the All County Jazz Band today at 2pm at Middletown High School.  There are many Middletown students in the ensemble and the concert is free!

See you there!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

989 May 07, 2010 at 09:32 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Seniors-Trip Account Balances

Wow, just a few more days and you will be graduating!  Before you leave us, I want to remind you that if you have any money in your student trip account, you have the option to "will" it to another band student.  You can log into your student account on the band website to see the balance in your account.  If you want to have the money transferred to another student's account, click on the link below, print and fill out the form, then give the form to Mr. Shearer before June 30, 2010. 
 
If you do not want to will the money in your account, you do not need to do anything.  The money will automatically be transferred to the general operating account on June 30, 2010.
 
In accordance with the Booster by-laws, trip account money cannot be refunded. 
 
 
Best wishes!
Pam

988 May 07, 2010 at 07:07 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Complete SmartMusic Assignments!!

COMPLETE YOUR SMARTMUSIC ASSIGNMENTS!!!!

Many of you have not completed any SmartMusic assignments for this term. 

Assignments submitted after midnight tonight are not guaranteed to be reflected on your midterm grade.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands and Orchestra
Middletown High School

987 May 06, 2010 at 09:11 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash Info

Band Students and Families:  

Your help is needed,  our first of the two summer car washes is planned for

Sunday, May 16th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00pm

At the Safeway 815 E Main St, Middletown, MD (301) 371-3126

Helping out with this car wash can make this fundraiser even bigger and raise more money for our Band, uniforms, music and YOUR account!  However, to make this overwhelming success we will need all of you.   The more students and parents – the more money we will bring in.

Also, sometimes businesses like to bring their work vehicles to wash and we need to make sure we have enough people to wash, so we cannot  do it without you!   We also need students to help waive signs and ask for donations.

Lastly, we also want to have students with instruments to help create an awareness and stand out from other fundraiser groups.  

Again, to make this a successful event we need as many students and parents as possible. So please, come and work as many hours as you can!  And dont forget to tell your family, friends and neighbors about thisupcoming fundraiser event.  SO, this cannot happen without your help.  We need you and your families to commit and sign up.  To do this, please respond via email Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com  or call Jessica.  Also, when you RSVP, let us know what time you will be arriving, how long you can stay and whether you prefer to work the car wash area or the solicitation area or both.

Reminder -  jazz players—bring your instrument if you want to solo for donations…..

And spread the word about this upcoming fundraiser event.

Thanks,

Jessica Bower Amoia

Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com 301-514-4055

986 May 06, 2010 at 08:41 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Car Wash May 16 at Safeway- Response needed by 5 p.m. on May 11th

The email below was sent out on March 26th to save the date. As of today, we have 3 adults and 4 students signed up.

 

Please respond to Jessica at Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com by the 5 p.m. on May 11th to let her know if you or you student can assist with the car wash. Please email me or Jessica with any questions.

 

Patricia Staples

rstaples17@comcast.net
 

985 May 06, 2010 at 07:12 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Banquet Request

We have gotten several requests in the past couple days from from people that did not sign up to come to the band banquet but now want to come or from people that want to bring additional people. I am very sorry but we cannot accommodate any more people at this late date. We had a deadline to submit our final numbers to the Ruritan and they will not permit us to change that number now. We did our best to get an accurate count and to give everyone the opportunity to come.  We extended our deadline twice and Mary sent individual e-mails to everyone that did not initially respond to give them one last opportunity. Please do not contact Mary today or tomorrow with any more requests. I appreciate your understanding and cooperation. 
 
Pam

984 May 05, 2010 at 06:24 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Today's Dress Rehearsal and Performance Canceled

Today's concert band dress rehearsal and performance for the 8th graders are canceled.

Tomorrow's events will still go on as planned.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

983 May 03, 2010 at 20:09 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Photo DVD for Sale at Banquet

As you all know, Maria Pope has been taking pictures at all the band events throughout the year.  She has made a DVD slideshow that she will be featuring at the band banquet. Maria has offered to take orders for anyone that would like a copy. The DVD runs about 50 minutes and the cost is $20 (which includes shipping and packaging).   
If you would like a copy, here is what you need to do:
 
1.  Look for Maria's husband, Greg, at the banquet and request an order form.
2.  Complete the order form and return it and $20 to Greg on Friday night.  
    (Greg will accept cash or checks-make the check payable to either Maria Pope or Image Impressions, Inc.)
3.  Wait for your DVD to arrive in the mail sometime in the next few weeks. 
 
Don't miss out on this great opportunity to have many fabulous photos to remember the 2009-2010 year.  We are so fortunate that Maria gives her time to do this for us. 
 
I will see you all on Friday night!
Pam

982 May 03, 2010 at 18:55 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Drum Line Audiitons

Middletown Marching Knights
Drum Line Auditions

Audition - May 19 at 7pm

Rehearsals - May 17 and 18 and 7pm

Click the link below for a PDF of the audition letter and audition repertoire.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Drumline_Auditions_2010.pdf

980 May 03, 2010 at 11:23 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Message for Seniors
The band banquet is this Friday evening.  Every year, the seniors get up in front of the audience to say a few words.  This year, you will be given an opportunity to speak but we are going to do it a little different.  I am asking that you choose to share either your favorite band memory OR your funniest band memory.  Then you can say a few words of thanks to anyone you want to recognize that has meant a lot to you or has helped you during your time in band.    You do not have to speak if you do not want.  It is completely optional.  Since we have so many seniors this year, you will need to keep your speech to 1 minute or less.  (short and sweet)  Please think about what you want to say before the banquet.  We will not have time, nor does it look good on your part if you are unprepared and struggling to think of something to say. 
 
Some of you jotted down very nice words of thanks on the marching band senior night bio forms.  We did not have time to read those at the time.  However, I kept the forms.  If you would like me to send you an e-mail to remind you what you wrote just let me know. 
 
Let me take this opportunity to say congratulations to each one of you!  We are very proud of all you have accomplished! 
 
Pam Harris
979 May 01, 2010 at 09:47 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Knight Club Help Needed!!

Knight Club is TONIGHT! We are in need of volunteers for set up. Jazz students, unless excused prior, are required to assist. Bring your friends and families at 10 am in the cafeteria! Adult help is also in great need. There more hands we have the quicker we can finish the set up and everyone can prepare to relax and have a good time for the show! SAT kids, don't forget to come by when you are done to give a hand.

See you all there!
 

978 April 29, 2010 at 06:58 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Officers

Hello Everyone,
 
After much thought, I have decided I will not run for or stay in the position of Band Booster President.  I will continue to stay involved with the Boosters but in some other capacity.  To date, no one has expressed an interest in filling any of the officer positions.  Celeste Denier has agreed to stay on as Treasurer, if no one else steps up to do it.  That means we still need a President, Vice President and Secretary.  Accepting one of these positions does require a commitment of your time for the next year but working with the Boosters is also very rewarding.  I am proud of how much we accomplished this year and I have truly enjoyed working with all of you. We need to  elect the new officers at the May 10th Booster Meeting.  That is only a couple weeks from now so please think about it, and let me know if you can devote some time and serve as an officer of this great organization..  You can reach me at bob8har@aol.com or 301-371-7828,
 
Thank you,
Pam
 

977 April 25, 2010 at 17:10 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Knights Leadership Application

Students interested in the following leadership positions must complete an application and return it to me by May 10, 2010.

Drum Major
Field Commander
Drum Line Captain
Dance Line Captain (application due at dance line audition)
Section Leader
Head Manager

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/marching_knights_leadership_application.pdf

Drum Major Auditions will be held on May 10th at 2:30.

Student's auditioning for drum major will conduct and sing the National Anthem
Demonstrate conducting patterns in 2, 3, and 4 while showing dynamic changes and a clear cut off. Demonstrate basic drill commands.
Answer interview questions related to leadership skills.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School


 

976 April 23, 2010 at 14:45 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Banquet - May 7

I want to remind everyone that the Band and Orchestra Banquet will be held Friday, May 7, 2010 at 6:00 pm at the Jefferson Ruritan Center.   All band and orchestra students and their families are welcome to attend.  The cost is $13 per person for a full meal, including dessert.  Come join us as we celebrate the end of the school year and recognize our very talented students for their accomplishments. 
 
If you plan to attend, please put cash or a check made payable to MHS Band Boosters in an envelope and mark the outside of the envelope "Band Banquet." 
 
Then place the envelope in the black lock box in Mr. Shearer's office. 
 
If you cannot get the money to Mr. Shearer's office (I know some of your students do not have band class right now and it is difficult for them to get by the band room), just send me an e-mail and we can make other arrangements. 
 
In order to make sure everyone has an opportunity to attend, we are extending the deadline to pay until April 29, 2010.  Don't miss out on a fun evening! 
 
Thanks,
Pam

975 April 23, 2010 at 14:39 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Music Class Schedule for 2010-2011

There are some slight changes in the high school music class schedule for the 2010-2011 school year.

Music classes for 2010-2011 are as follows:

Concert Band
Jazz Ensemble
String Orchestra
Concert Choir
Vocal Ensemble
Music Theory
Guitar (2 sections)
Piano

All winds and percussion will be enrolled in Concert Band and all strings will be in String Orchestra.  This will allow the advanced players to have a stronger influence on the younger players, which will raise the over level of the ensembles and give the advanced players more opportunity to develope their leadership.

There is no longer a split 4th block.  Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Choir and Vocal Ensemble will meet for a 90 minute block and only for one semester.  This makes scheduling a lot easier and allows students to take a music class without having to "give up" another class, which should hopefully result in more students taking music classes.

Please encourage students to stay involved with music.   Students admit that the ensembles are more fun the bigger they are, and they can't get big unless students stay enrolled in them!!  I also wouldn't want anyone to miss out on a fun trip either; not to mention the life long benefits of being in a performing ensemble!

ITS NOT TOO LATE TO CHANGE YOUR SCHEDULE!!!

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

974 April 23, 2010 at 06:31 Matt Shearer shearermr@gmail.com M-Town Jazz Camp

Registration for the M-Town Jazz Camp is now open!

July 19 - 22, 26 - 29
8am - 12pm

go to http://www.matthewshearer.net/jazz_camp_register.php for more info and registration

Please email if you have any questions!

Matt Shearer

973 April 22, 2010 at 12:48 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Dress Rehearsals May 5 & 6

Dress Rehearsals for the May 13 Concert are as follows:
 

Concert Band - May 5, 2:30 - 4:00
Symphony Orchestra - May 6, 2:30 - 4:00

Students who are filling in for these ensembles need to be at the dress rehearsals.

If the stage is not available, the rehearsals will be held in the band room.


The Percussion Ensemble will perform at the May 13th concert.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

972 April 22, 2010 at 07:14 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Corrected Permission form for State Adjudication

I have corrected the permission form for the State Orchestra Adjudication.  Sorry if there was any confusion!
The adjudication is at Morgan State University, we depart MHS at 7:30am and will return around 3pm.  Our performance is a 11:30.  Students need to pack a lunch.

Please return the form tomorrow.

If any parents can chaperone please let me know.  We could use a few more!

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk%20MMEA%20Orchestra%20Adjudication%202010.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

971 April 21, 2010 at 14:53 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org State Orch. Adjudication Permission Form

Download the permission form from the the link below, print, complete and return Friday.

All students who performed at the County Adjudication at Catocin High School are going to the State Adjudication.

If you can chaperone please let me know!!

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk%20MMEA%20Orchestra%20Adjudication%202010.pdf

THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

970 April 20, 2010 at 12:11 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Jazz Rehearsals

All County Jazz Rehearsals:

All are at Middletown High School

TONIGHT! April 20, 6pm - 9pm

Wednesday, April 28, 6pm - 9pm

Thursday, May 6, 6pm - 9pm

Friday, May 7, 9am - 4pm

Saturday - Rehearsal TBD, Concert in the mid afternoon.

 

All County Jazz Members from Middletown:

Dana Doggett and Kia Blum - Alto Sax
Eddie Hill and Curtis Meggit - Tenor Sax
Paul Fritz - Bari Sax
Matthew Thomas, Noah Denier, and Kevin Spillman - Trumpet
Nick Pope, John McCahey, Matt Sweeney - Trombone
Bryan Goodyear and Nora Leighton - Guitar
Joe Dorsey - Piano
Adam Meadors - Bass
Phil DiGioia - Drums

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

969 April 19, 2010 at 20:49 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Knights Registration Open!

Registration for the 2010 Marching Knights is now open!!

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members/2010_2011/register_1011_marching.php

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

967 April 19, 2010 at 17:33 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Get your "Knight" Club Tickets!

Time is running out to order advanced tickets for

An Evening of Jazz at the "Knight" Club

May 1, 2010 7pm

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/jazz/knightclub.htm

This is the last week to buy tickets online!  They are going fast so be sure not to miss out on an incredible evening!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

966 April 19, 2010 at 11:40 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Banquet Invitation Reminder

Don’t forget to send your money in for the Band Banquet and Awards Program!!! 

INVITATION
Middletown High School Instrumental Program Banquet
For Marching Knights, Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and Percussion Ensemble
May 7, 2010
6:00 PM

Jefferson Ruritan Center
Lander Road at Route 340
Jefferson, MD

$13.00 per person

Full Meal (Turkey & Ham) & Dessert

Student Awards Program

Payable by Cash or Check to MHS Band Boosters

Due by April 26, 2009

200 Schoolhouse Drive
Middletown, MD 21769

Or Deliver to Band Safe in Mr. Shearer’s Office


 

965 April 12, 2010 at 11:10 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting Tonight (April 12)

The April Band Booster Meeting is tonight, April 12.  The Executive Meeting will start in the band room at 6:30 pm.  Anyone can attend this meeting.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in Room 210.  Come find out what the Boosters have been up to!  

As a reminder, we have three big events coming up real soon. 

The Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, April 30 at Musket Ridge.  If you enjoy golf, there is still time to form a group and sign up to play.  If you are not a golfer but can help in any way on that date, please contact Nick Cockerham at nickybeth63@aol.com or Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net

The Jazz Knight Club will be held at 7:00 pm on Saturday, May 1.  This is always a great performance.  Come enjoy an evening of music, dance, and hors d'oeuvres.  Get your tickets in advance on-line.  Go to www.mhsknightsband.net for ticket prices and additional information.  

The band banquet will be Friday, May 7 at 6:00 pm at the Jefferson Ruritan Center.  The banquet is for marching band, concert band, jazz ensemble, symphony orchestra, and percussion ensemble students and their families. The cost is $13 per person.  Money can be sent to MHS or placed in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office.  If you have any questions or need information on any of these events, please feel free to contact me OR come to the meeting tonight to get all the details!  
 
See you tonight!
Pam
964 April 10, 2010 at 11:57 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Grease Pit schedule

Grease Pit rehearsal schedule this week!

Monday  4 - 9
Tuesday 2:30 - 9:30
Wednesday 6:30 - 10
Thursday 7:30am - 4pm

Showtimes!!

Friday 7pm
Saturday 7pm
Sunday 2pm

963 April 09, 2010 at 18:19 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meeting-April 12
The next Band Booster Meeting will be on Monday, April 12. The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room. As always, anyone is welcome to attend this meeting. The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210.

This month, I will appoint a Nominating Committee comprised of three voting members to nominate officers for the coming year. Nominations will be accepted from the floor during the General Meeting as well. Nominees must be parents of band members enrolled in the band in the following year. The officers will be elected at the May Booster meeting. The officers will assume their duties at the June meeting.

Below you will find the duties of each of the officers as specified in the by-laws. If you are interested in any of these positions, please let me know. If you decide to run for a position, you will not be sorry. It is truly an honor to work with such a supportive, caring, appreciative, hard-working and fun-loving group of people.

If you have any questions about the Booster Organization or any of the officer positions, please feel free to contact me.

Pam

The President shall discharge the duties normally associated with that office and serve as an ex-officio member of all committees. The President, with the approval of the Board of Directors, shall appoint the standing committee chairpersons. The President shall be bonded, and the bond shall be paid by the organziation.

The Vice President shall collect participation fees and forms; perform all designated duties and all duties of the President in his or her absence. The Vice President shall be bonded, and the bond shall be paid by the organization.

The Treasurer shall collect all money and pay all authorized bills. All checks will require the signature of the Treasurer and one officer. A Treasurer's report will be read at each general meeting. The records of the Treasurer shall be open at all times for inspection by any member of the organization. At the termination of the term of office or annually, all funds of the orgazniation hall be turned over tht the Treasurer's succesor and the books shall be reviewed as quickly as practical. The Treasurer shall be bonded, and the bond shall be paid by the organziation.

The Secretary shall record minutes of each regular meeting and perform such other duties as pertain to that office. The minutes shall be read and approved at the next regular meeting. The Secretary shall be bonded, and the bond shall be paid by the organization.
962 April 09, 2010 at 10:56 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Banquet Invitation

Middletown High School Instrumental Program Banquet
Marching Knights, Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble
May 7, 2010
6:00pm
Jefferson Ruritan Center
Lander Road at Route 340
Jefferson, MD

$13.00 Per Person
Full Meal and Dessert
Student Awards Program
Payable by Check to MHS Band Boosters
Due by April 22, 2010

Send checks to
MHS Band Boosters - Banquet
200 Schoolhouse Drive
Middletown, MD 21769

or deliver to black safe in Mr. Shearer's office.

961 April 07, 2010 at 12:08 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Concert Tomorrow! 4/8/10

Come out to the Middletown High School Jazz Ensemble Concert tomorrow, April 8, 2010, at 7:00pm!!


SEE YOU THERE!!


Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

960 April 07, 2010 at 11:08 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org !!ATTN ALL STUDENTS!! Band Awards

You can still turn in your point form and be recognized for your acheivements at the banquet.  (You will receive your actual pins, letters, etc... at a later date)  All students will at least be handed an envelope containing their certificiate of participation so no one will be empty handed when recognized.

Here is the link to the form you must complete:

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Band_Awards_Point_Form.pdf

Please turn it in as soon as possible.

959 April 07, 2010 at 07:19 Shelly Hill lehseh@comcast.net Knight Club Help

 

Knight Club is coming quickly (Saturday, May 1st). Many hands make
light work and we need everyone's help to make this a success!

Jazz band students are required to come and help with the decorating
and set up, along with the dismantling of the event
.

 

Any and all band students are welcome and naturally,

any and all adult help will be appreciated immensly!!

Bring your friends along for the fun and we will complete

the tasks quickly!

Reporting time is at 10am sharp on May 1st, in the cafeteria where assignments

will be given out.

The more we work together the faster we will complete the project and
be able to get ready for a great night of jazz!!

 

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!

958 April 06, 2010 at 12:12 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Seniors VOTE NOW!

Marching Knights Seniors ONLY!

Please respond, or see me, to vote for the following:

Clark Dayhoff Memorial Band Award (Round 2):

CRITERIA: Nomination for the Clark Dayhoff Memorial Band Award is based on spirit, service, and dedication. This means a student has contributed extra time, extra service, and special concern for the success of the band program, not only his/her senior year, but for his/her entire tenure in the band.

Top 3 from first round

VOTE FOR ONE!

Leah Cockerham

Nicholas Pope

Matthew Thomas

 

THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

957 April 01, 2010 at 12:34 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jean Bond Booster Award - call for nominations

Please see the criteria below for the Jean Bond Booster Award and reply to this email to make nominations.

JEAN BOND BOOSTER AWARD:

  1. This award is given to the band booster parent whose commitment and service to the band program has gone above and beyond the call of duty.
  2. Nominations are made by the general booster membership.
  3. Final selection is made by the band director and the booster executive committee.
     

THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

956 March 31, 2010 at 12:46 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Vote for Band Awards

All students who participated in Marching Band this past season (and are not currently in one of my classes),

please stop before the end of the day tomorrow, Thursday, April 1, to vote for band awards.

Thanks! SEE YOU TOMORROW!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

955 March 30, 2010 at 16:49 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org "Knight" Club Tickets On Sale!

An Evening of Jazz at the “Knight” Club
Middletown High School
May 1, 2010 – 7:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)

Music by the MHS Jazz Band
Dance performed by the MHS Dance Team
Hors d’oeuvres, Desserts, Soft Drinks and Coffee

Advance Tickets available until April 26, 2010
Admission: $13 in advance/ $17 at the door

Senior (65+) $10 in advance / $15 at the door
Reserved Tables $120 (8 Tickets), $90 (6 Tickets) or $45 (3 Tickets) – Limited

Purchase online with PAYPAL at:

www.mhsknightsband.net/jazz

954 March 26, 2010 at 14:27 Jessica Bower Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com Car Wash at Safeway, May 16th, 1pm - 4pm - SAVE THIS DATE

Band Students and Families:  

Your help is needed,  our first of the two summer car washes is planned for

Sunday, May 16th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00pm

At the Safeway 815 E Main St, Middletown, MD (301) 371-3126

Helping out with this car wash can make this fundraiser even bigger and raise more money for our Band, uniforms, music and YOUR account!  However, to make this overwhelming success we will need all of you.   The more students and parents – the more money we will bring in.

Also, sometimes businesses like to bring their work vehicles to wash and we need to make sure we have enough people to wash, so we cannot  do it without you!   We also need students to help waive signs and ask for donations.

Lastly, we also want to have students with instruments to help create an awareness and stand out from other fundraiser groups.  

Again, to make this a successful event we need as many students and parents as possible. So please, come and work as many hours as you can!  And dont forget to tell your family, friends and neighbors about this

upcoming fundraiser event.  SO, this cannot happen without your help.  We need you and your families to commit and sign up.  To do this, please respond via email Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com  or call Jessica.  Also, when you RSVP, let us know what time you will be arriving, how long you can stay and whether you prefer to work the car wash area or the solicitation area or both.

Reminder -  jazz players—bring your instrument if you want to solo for donations…..

And spread the word about this upcoming fundraiser event.

Thanks,

Jessica Bower Amoia

Jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com 301-514-4055

953 March 23, 2010 at 12:00 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com Band Awards Reminder

Please remember to hand in your Band/Orchestra award points form to Mr. Shearer by Friday, March 26, 2010.  Pins/Certificates and Bars are awarded based on these forms.  Anyone not handing in the forms will not be receiving their awards.
 
The forms are available on the band website
Here is the link
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Band_Awards_Point_Form.pdf
 
Thank You
 
Mary Sweeney

952 March 22, 2010 at 13:30 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org !! Permission Form - Concert Band Adjudication

Attention students performing at the Concert Band adjudication on Wednesday, March 24, 2010.

Please downloand, print, complete, and return the permission form (2 pages and all necessary signatures please!)

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk%20FCPS%20Band%20Adjudication.pdf

 

THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

951 March 21, 2010 at 10:33 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org County Jazz Auditions Monday 3/22

County Jazz Auditions
Monday, March 22, 2010, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Walkersville High School

Grease Pit will end at 4 so students can eat and get to WHS for auditions.

Auditions will start at 5:30 PM, to accommodate a few students who have specifically requested an early time due to other obligations that night.

Auditions will run from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM

Traffic into the Walkersville areas in the early evening is very heavy. You should plan to arrive earlier than 5:30 to avoid traffic and get warmed up, etc.

We cannot provide lunches for judges due to budget constraints. Sorry!

If you need a later audition time please be at WHS no later than 6:45 PM, so that you can warm up and we can conclude auditions by 7 PM if at all possible.
 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

950 March 15, 2010 at 20:36 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz trip deposits

The Jazz Ensemble will not be going to Disney World.

Please let me know if you would like your check sent home with the student, voided, or if you would like to arrange a time to come pick it up.

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

949 March 15, 2010 at 20:21 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Chaperones needed

Chaperones are needed for the Orchestra adjudication this Thursday, 3/18 and the Band adjudication next Wednesday 3/24.  Please let me know if you can help out.

Thanks!!

 

Symphony Orchestra, Catoctin High School, Thursday 3/18

8:00am - Depart from MHS
9:00am - Warm up
9:30am - Perform
10:00am - Sight-read
10:30am - Depart Catoctin
11:30am - Return to MHS

 

Concert Band, Tuscarora High School, Wednesday, 3/24

(TENTATIVE)
10:50am - Depart from MHS
11:30am - Warm up
12:00pm - Perform
12:30pm - Sight-read
1:00pm - Depart Tuscarora
1:30pm - Return to MHS

948 March 15, 2010 at 11:13 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Band - Save the Date !
Dear Band families~
 
Save the date !  September 12, 2010 will be the date of our annual Basket Bingo Fund Raiser !  As we have done in the past, we would like to fill every basket with donations from our band family.  Last year several parents said they would have made something if they had known sooner about the bingo. So the time is now to get creative.  Do you knit ? crochet ? paint ? wood work ? sketch ? paper craft?  or any other creative effort ?  Please consider this opportunity to share your talents. Make something for inclusion in a basket.  Donations will be accepted during band camp !  Thanks in advance for all your help !
 
Nancy vom Lehn
 
PS - There will be many other ways to help with basket bingo !
947 March 15, 2010 at 07:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Symphony Orchestra Adjudication Permission Form

Attention students in Symphony Orchestra (and those performing with the Symphony Orchestra):

Please download, print, complete and return the permission form for the FCPS Orchestra Adjudication by Wednesday.

Direct Link: http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk%20FCPS%20Orchestra%20Adjudication.pdf

Link to Forms and Documents: http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands and Orchestra
Middletown High School

946 March 10, 2010 at 14:27 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Music UPDATE!!!

 

Please reply to this email to confirm you have received it!

Attention All County Band members,

There have been changes to the rehearsal times for Saturday, March 13, since there is an administration of the SAT tests that morning, and we wished to avoid any additional conflicts for students. There are NO rehearsals during the morning of March 13 for either group.

Please disregard the previous plan for Saturday's rehearsals.

The All County Band WILL REHEARSE at 1pm - 3pm on Saturday, March 13, on stage at Tuscarora High School.

The All County Chorus WILL REHEARSE at 4pm - 6pmon Saturday, March 13, on stage at Tuscarora High School.

The concert is still scheduled for 7pm.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School
 

945 March 09, 2010 at 14:56 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Band and Orchestra Awards

In order to receive pins for Band and Orchestra Service Awards you must complete and return the BAND/ORCHESTRA POINT AWARD FORM to Mr. Shearer by FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2010.

No forms will be accepted after this date and you will not receive your pins.

The form and other information can be found at:
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/

Here is a direct link to the form:
www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Band_Awards_Point_Form.pdf

 

Thanks!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands and Orchestra
Middletown High School

944 March 09, 2010 at 14:25 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Jazz Auditions

All Jazz Ensemble students are expected to audition for the All County Jazz Ensemble. Please download the form, print, complete, and return to me tomorrow!!

Auditions are at Walkersville High School on Monday, March 22
Music to come
Auditions time TBD

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/county_jazz_app_09_10.pdf

THANKS!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

943 March 08, 2010 at 12:41 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Music Permission Form

All County BAND students please download, print, complete, and return the permission form from the link below by Thursday (3/11/10).

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk_All_County_2010.pdf

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

942 March 08, 2010 at 09:04 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meeting Tonight-March 8

Just a reminder that the Band Booster Meeting is tonight, March 8, 2010.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone is welcome to attend. The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210. 
 
There will also be a meeting for anyone interested in helping with the Golf Tournament at 7:15 pm in the band room.  The Golf Tournament will be on April 30, 2010 at Musket Ridge in Myersville from 9 am until 2 pm.  You do not need to be a golfer to help.  If you can help, even for part of the time, please come to the meeting tonight.  We need volunteers to make this fundraiser a success!
 
Thank you,
Pam

941 March 05, 2010 at 12:42 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Reminder -Golf meeting this coming Monday, March 8th at 7:15 in band room

This is a reminder that there will be a meeting for the golf tournament on Monday, March 8th at 7:15 in the band room. The tournament will be held at Musket Ridge.

These are the volunteer positions that will be needed:

Registration/Raffle/Tickets -4 people
Hole in One Sitters - 4 people
Putting Contest - 2 people
Double Your Money Sitter - 4 people
Prizes - 1 person

The tournament will run from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

You do not need any golf knowledge to be a volunteer.

If you can give ANY time to this fundraiser for our students, please respond via email or a call. See contact information below.

See you Monday! 7:15 is directly before the regular Band Booster meeting at 7:30.


Patricia Staples
301-606-0041
rstaples17@comcast.net

Nick Cockerham
240-409-7901
nickybeth63@aol.com

940 March 05, 2010 at 11:32 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meeting - March 8

The next Band Booster Meeting will be on March 8, 2010.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  As always, anyone can attend this meeting.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210. 
 
Come find out what is going on with the band program!
 
Pam

937 March 01, 2010 at 11:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Rescheduling Plans

From Russell Beaton (Curriculum Specialist for Visual and Performance Arts):

FCPS has rescheduled the high school all county music festival as shown below. The reason for delaying the orchestra to a later date is because nearly fifty percent of the members of the orchestra have scheduling conflicts for the weekend of March 12/13, which makes it impossible for the orchestra to perform. FCPS is exploring other dates for an orchestra rehearsal and performance in April, to be announced shortly (after all orchestra members have been contacted about potential conflicts). We are aware that individual musicians in the other ensembles have conflicts, but the overall number of conflicts is such that it is possible for the ensembles to go forward with the performances on March 13. Sincere apologies are extended to any students who have conflicts that do not permit their participation in this year’s performances. The only other option would have been complete cancellation of the event for this year for all ensembles, and based upon students/parent/teacher comments, that was not a preferred option.

All County Band:
Friday March 12, 9am - 4pm Rehearsal at Tuscarora High School
Saturday March 13, 10:30am - 12:00pm Rehearsal at Tuscarora High School
Saturday March 13, 7pm - Performance at Tuscarora High School


All County Chorus:
Friday March 12, 9am - 4pm; Rehearsal at Tuscarora High School
Saturday March 13, 1pm - 4pm; Rehearsal at Tuscarora High School
Saturday March 13, 7pm; Performance at Tuscarora High School

All County Orchestra:
TBA (in April)
 

936 February 28, 2010 at 18:56 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Check grades, Midterm was Thursday!!

Midterm was last Thursday, February 25th.  Make sure you check your grades to make sure there are no surprizes when the interims are distributed.

Jazz Ensemble - You had a major SmartMusic assignment due before Midterm make sure you complete the assignment!

Percussion Ensemble - Many students still need to enroll in Percussion Ensemble on SmartMusic.

Symphony Orchestra - Many students still need to enroll in Symphony Orchestra on SmartMusic.

Information on SmartMusic can be found at http://www.mhsknightsband.net/smart_music_info.html

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

935 February 25, 2010 at 12:10 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Monday, March 8th -Golf meeting at 7:15 (before regular band meeting)

 

Our annual golf tournament will be held on April 30, 2010 at Musket Ridge in Myersville.  In the past this has been one of our most profitable fundraisers.  Keep in mind, when profits are made by fundraising it helps keep our fees down.  Nick Cockerham is chairing our golf tournament this year.  He will be holding a meeting on Monday, March 8th at 7:15 in the band room.  This is 15 minutes before the regular band booster meeting starts. 
 
You should plan to attend the golf meeting if you can offer ANY assistance to this fundraiser.  
 
So...put these dates on your calendar and call or email me with any questions.  Three years ago was the first time I ever set foot on a golf course to help with the golf tournament and it was a lot of fun.  You do not have to know how to play golf (I still don't) to help. 
 
I look forward to seeing you there. 
 
Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator
301-606-0041 

 

934 February 25, 2010 at 12:04 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County - Please Respond!!

For those students who are in All County Band or Orchestra:

Would you be able to attend a rehearsal (9am - 4pm) on Friday March 12 AND a concert on March 13?

Please respond a quickly as possible.  I need everyone's response by 2:15 tomorrow (Friday).

THANK YOU!!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands and Orchestra
Middletown High School

933 February 25, 2010 at 11:41 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net Symphony Orchestra Uniform Fee Due

This is a courtesy reminder that the uniform fee for students in the Symphony Orchestra are due by March 1st.  Students who already have a uniform may disregard this email. 

Please contact Mr. Shearer to request payment terms or financial assistance.

Cyndy Zolfo

301 401 1257

932 February 22, 2010 at 15:39 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting Tonight-Location Change

Just a reminder that the Band Booster Meetings are tonight.  The Executive Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone can attend this meeting.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm IN THE BAND ROOM.  The location of the General Meeting is being changed for this month only.  Please be aware that the Executive Committee meeting will still be in session as you are arriving for the General Meeting.  I would appreciate everyone's consideration.  If you need or want to have a conversation with someone before the meeting, please do so in the cafeteria or in the hallway. 
 
Thanks so much!
 
See you tonight!
 
Pam

931 February 22, 2010 at 14:37 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Pink Out

Hello Everyone,

The girls basketball game against Walkersville will be played Wednesday Feb. 24, 2010.  Please spread the word this will be a "pink out."  We need everyone to come and wear their pink T-shirts to support Breast Cancer Awareness and the girls team:)
 
Pam
930 February 20, 2010 at 15:39 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz/Dance Senior Night, Wednesday 2/24

The Jazz Ensemble and Dance Team will perform at the girls basketball game on Wednesday, Feb 24.  Seniors will be recognized at halftime.  If you have not completed and returned a senior bio form, please do so ASAP.

Here is the link to the form (under the Jazz Ensemble column):

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

929 February 19, 2010 at 14:52 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Response to Parents re: FCPS Budget Meeting

I have received e-mail from several people expressing their concern about the effect the proposed budget cuts will have on the Middle and High School Music and Arts programs.  I have been meeting with the Presidents of the Band Boosters from the other high schools in Frederick County to discuss this issue.  At this time, the Music and Arts are not being directly targeted. We are against increased class size (i.e. reducing faculty) and reducing funding for extracurricular activities (i.e. stipends for after school activities).  A letter (signed by the Band Booster Presidents of all 9 Frederick County High Schools) was sent to the Board of Education thanking them for their support of the Music and Arts programs, expressing our concerns and letting them know that we are watching and listening. 
 
If you are planning to attend the meeting on Monday night (in lieu of the Booster meeting ), show your support for the Music and Arts program by wearing your spirit wear or school colors. 
 
Thanks to those of you who have provided feedback on this issue. 
Pam

928 February 18, 2010 at 14:21 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting-February 22

The February  Band Booster Meetings have been rescheduled for Monday, February 22, 2010.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone can attend this meeting.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in Room 210. 
 
We will be discussing the 2010 County Marching Band Festival, hosting a USSBA competition, and a proposed change to the by-laws.  We will also provide updates on the status of the new marching band uniforms, the ensemble uniforms and the uniform closet cleaning that took place on January 30.  During the month of January, the Band Booster Presidents from most of the 9 schools in the county got together to address budget concerns.  I will tell you what we did and what we plan to do.   Finally, it is time to start thinking about officers for next year (they will take office in June).  We are losing two officers (Nick Cockerham-VP and Cindy Doggett-Secretary).  However, the officers for each position are elected annually.  That means all positions are up for nomination.  We will be accepting nominations in April and holding elections in May. We are also losing Cyndy Zolfo who has held the position of Publicity Chairperson. 
 
Cure your cabin fever by coming to the meeting!
 
See you Monday,
Pam

927 February 17, 2010 at 22:14 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz/Dance Senior Night postponed

The girls basketball game scheduled for tomorrow (2/18) will not be played thus the Jazz and Dance Team Senior Night must be postponed.

I will let you know when a new date has been set.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

926 February 12, 2010 at 18:08 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Attn: Parents of Jazz Ens underclassmen

Hi, Senior Night for the Jazz band and Dance Team is on the 18th Feb (this Thursday ! ) .

We will be serving dessert and refreshments to the parents of the seniors as well as the Dance Team and Jazz Band.

If you are able to donate a dessert, water, 2L soda or juice please get back to me at gabriellamcook@earthlink.net

Thanks

Gabriella

925 February 11, 2010 at 20:51 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Music Update

All County Music ensembles will rehearse at GTJHS on Friday, 2/19, 8:30am - 4pm.
Updated permission forms will go out next week.

Here is the rehearsal schedule for Satuday, 2/20:

Band will rehearse on stage from 9 AM until 10:30 AM
Symphonic Orchestra will rehearse onstage from 10:30 until 11:15
Orchestra will rehearse on stage from 11:15 am until 12:15 PM.
Chorus will rehearse on stage from 12:15 until 4:00 PM

Concert begins at 7 PM. Concert order is chorus, orchestra, symphonic orchestra, band

Times for students to report to GTJHS MUST BE ANNOUNCED to them on Friday (after consultation between conductors and teachers).
 

Sincerely,
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands and Orchestra

924 February 08, 2010 at 13:42 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting Canceled
Since FCPS are closed today, the Band Booster meetings scheduled for tonight have been canceled.  As soon as I have a rescheduled date, I will let you know. 
 
Enjoy your evening!
Pam
923 February 05, 2010 at 11:00 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting Monday- Feb 8

The next Band Booster Meeting will be on Monday, February 8.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. in the band room.  The meeting is open to anyone that would like to attend. The General Meeting will start at 7:30 p.m. in room 210.
 
This month we will be discussing the 2010 County Marching Band Festival, hosting a USSBA Competition, and a proposed change to the by-laws.  We will also update you the status of the new marching band uniforms, the ensemble uniforms and the uniform closet cleaning that took place on Jan 30.  During the month of January, the Band Booster Presidents from most of the 9 schools in the county got together to address budget concerns.  I will tell you what we did and what we plan to do.  Finally, it is time to start thinking about officers for next year (they will take office in June).  We are losing 2 officers, Nick Cockerham (VP) and Cindy Doggett (Secretary).  The officers for each position are elected annually. That means all positions will be available.   We will be accepting nominations in April and holding elections in May.  We are also losing Cyndy Zolfo who has held the position of Publicity Chairperson.
 
Stay safe and warm this weekend and we will see you on Monday!
Pam 

922 February 05, 2010 at 09:28 Particia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Calling all Golfers

Golf is one of our biggest fundraisers for the MHS Marching Knights.  Our next Golf Tournament is scheduled for April 30th.  Nick Cockerham has agreed to chair this event for this year but he is the dad of a senior and will be leaving us.  We need YOU to step up and help Nick this year to learn the ropes for the upcoming years. 

Keep in mind fundraisers are necessary for us to keep our costs down.  We will need a lot of helpers to make this a successful fundraiser.  You do not have to know anything about golf to help.  Two years ago was my first time on a golf course and I ran the "double or nothing" hole.  It was a lot of fun!

Reply back to this email ASAP to let me know if you can be a co-chair or a helper.  If you are not sure of co-chairing on your own, ask another parent of a band student you are familiar with if they would share the role with you.  Call or email me with any questions.

 

Thanks,

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means Coordinator
301-606-0041

 

921 February 04, 2010 at 12:47 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County update

All County ensembles WILL rehearse tonight as scheduled at GTJHS (6pm - 9pm).

All All County Events for tomorrow, and Saturday are CANCELED and will be rescheduled. 

The concert will NOT be held on Monday.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

920 February 02, 2010 at 15:03 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County permission form

Students attending the All County Music rehearsal on Friday,

Please download, complete and return this form.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk_All_County_2010.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

919 January 28, 2010 at 12:11 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Last Chance for Photos

Just a reminder that the marching band photos will be going off line on 1-28-2010. Once the website closes, you will not be able to purchase the band pictures.

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net
In the "View and Event" type:
Username: MHS Band 2009
Password: 18103-MHS
Then click "Go."
Type in your email address and name, then you are ready to view and purchase the photos.

918 January 25, 2010 at 16:01 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Breast Cancer Awareness Shirts

I am not accepting any more orders for the pink Breast Cancer Awareness shirts.  Shirts will be available for sale at MHS this Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during lunch and at the home games on Tuesday and Friday night.  They will be sold on a first-come, first-sold basis until they are gone. 
 
Thanks to everyone that has shown their support by purchasing a shirt and/or making a donation. The response has been tremendous!  Wait until you see all the pink!   The Jazz Band and Dance Team will be performing at the girl's basketball game on Tuesday, February 2.  Wear pink and come on out for an evening of great entertainment!
 
Knightmare shirts will be available for sale at the game on February 2 as well.  
 
See ya there!
Pam

917 January 21, 2010 at 14:54 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Trip canceled

The Jazz Ensemble trip to Towson University scheduled for Saturday (1/23/10) is canceled.

I have yet to actually receive any sort of information or schedule regarding the jazz conference and there are few students with conflicts.

Enjoy your weekend!  Hopefully you wont be stuck inside!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

916 January 19, 2010 at 08:49 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Old Uniforms for Sale
It is really happening!  Our new marching band uniforms will be here in a few weeks.  To make room for the new uniforms, we will be getting rid of the old ones on January 30! 
 
If you would like to have your old uniform (jacket, sequenced insert and black pants), you can purchase it for $10 provided you meet the following two conditions:
 
1.  You MUST pay for the uniform BEFORE January 30, 2010.  Put $10 in an envelope.  Write your name, "Old Uniform" and your uniform number on the envelope.  Put the envelope in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office BEFORE January 30.
2. You MUST come to the school on January 30 at 9:30 am to get the uniform. If you cannot come, send someone to get it for you.  We will not hold any uniforms.  Uniforms that are not picked up will be gone.
 
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
 
Thanks,
Pam
915 January 19, 2010 at 08:48 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Breast Cancer Shirts-Art Work

Hello All,

Below is the art work for the Breast Cancer Awareness shirts.  If you want to order a shirt(s):
 
1. Send me an e-mail to let me know how many you want and what sizes you need. 
2. The shirts are $6 each.  Checks should be made payable to MHS Boosters (NOT band boosters).  Put the check or cash in an envelope and put it in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office. 
3.  Donations are also being accepted.   If you want to make a donation, you can add it to your shirt order or if you are not purchasing a shirt, just put the donation in an envelope and mark it "Breast Cancer Donation."
 
Thanks,
Pam
 
MHSCure

914 January 18, 2010 at 14:23 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org SmartMusic

Everyone should now be able to access their Term 2 assignments until 1/21/10.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

913 January 15, 2010 at 10:28 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Breast Cancer Awareness Shirts

February is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  The referees for the sports programs at MHS are asking that everyone that attends the basketball games and other sport events during the first week of February wear pink.  The MHS Sports Boosters decided to take this one step further.  They are ordering Breast Cancer Awareness shirts.  The jazz band is playing at a girl's basketball game on February 2nd.  The MHS Band Boosters will purchase shirts for the Jazz band to wear during their performance at this game. 
 
If anyone else would like to order a shirt, the cost is $6 per shirt (2XL are $8 each).  Please put your check (made payable to MHS Boosters-not band boosters, just Boosters) or cash in an envelope.  On the outside of the envelope, put your name, how many shirts you are ordering and the sizes you need.  If you could send me an e-mail to let me know the same information, I would appreciate it.
 
Shirts will also be available for purchase during certain lunch shifts at school (the exact dates and times are not known). 
 
The Sports Boosters are also accepting donations.  All the money will go to fight Breast Cancer.  If you are purchasing a shirt and would like to make a donation, you can write one check.  Just write the amount of the donation the outside of the envelope along with the information requested above.  If you are not purchasing a shirt but would like to make a donation, you can do that as well. 
 
Although the Sports Boosters is arranging this for the first week in February, the entire month is Breast Cancer Awareness month so show your support and wear your shirt and any other pink accessories you have all month! 
 
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 301-371-7828 or send me an e-mail.
 
Thank you,
Pam

912 January 13, 2010 at 12:46 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Auditions

Auditions for Jazz Ensemble will be held on February 18 after school.

See the band website for audition requirements.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/jazz

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

911 January 12, 2010 at 09:20 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Up for the Challenge?

Mrs. Clabaugh and her Amazing Administrators Bowling Team think they are quite striking.  Rumor has it that Mr. Mullins purchased new cool bowling shoes just for the occasion and Mrs. Boyll has been practicing on the Wii!  They think they are so good that Mrs. Clabaugh said she will bake something special for any team that can beat them.  Mr. Shearer and his Spectacular Staff team have talent to spare. They are gearing up to take on the contenders. Are you up for the challenge?  Pin down some friends and come out for a fun afternoon of bowling.  Pizza, soda, and shoe rental will be provided for all participants.   Prizes will be awarded to the INDIVIDUAL who collects the most pledges and to the TEAM with the highest game score by the end of the evening.  
 
When?  Sunday, January 17, 2010 from 6pm to 8pm
Where?  Terrace Lanes, 12 W. College Terrace, Frederick, MD 21701
 
Here's what you do:
 
1. Gather pledges from friends and family members. The minimum sponsorship amount required to bowl is only $30 per person. 
 
2. Complete the pledge form found at http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/bowl_a_thon_pledge_form.pdf 
 
3.  Send an e-mail to Mr. Doggett to let him know you plan to participate ( fddoggett@comcast.net)
 
4.  Turn in your sponsor form and pledges to Mr. Shearer by January 15, 2010 
 
5.  Practice on your Wii
 
6.  Show up on Sunday in your favorite bowling shirt warmed up and ready to bowl a perfect game (or at least keep the ball out of the gutter!) 
 
Questions: Please call or email Fred Doggett: (301) 371-0021/ (fddoggett@comcast.net )  
 
Additional parent volunteers are needed! 
 
Note: Adult participants should be aware that this is an alcohol-free event.

910 January 11, 2010 at 14:19 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Feedback Requested Today Please

Hello Everyone,
 
Today is the deadline for submitting sponsor forms and pledges for the Bowl-a-thon.  To help me prepare for the Booster Meeting tonight, I would like to ask a favor.  Could you please send me an email and let me know which of the following applies to you (or your student):
 
1.  A sponsor form and pledge money was already submitted. Please let me know how many people will be participating.
2.  A sponsor form and pledge money were not submitted but you do plan to participate and will be submitting the form and money this week.  Please let me know how many people will be participating.
3.  You will not be participating.  I would appreciate if you could include the reason.  I will keep the reasons confidential.  I am requesting the information strictly to help us as we organize and plan future fundraising events.
 
Thank you in advance for your responses!
Pam

909 January 11, 2010 at 09:01 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Booster Meeting Tonight

Just a reminder that the Band Booster Meeting is tonight.  The Executive Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone is welcome to attend.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210.
 
Come find out what is new and what is being planned.  The Booster meeting is your opportunity to learn more about the band programs, to ask questions and to discuss any band issues of interest to you.  Seize the opportunity!
 
See you tonight,
Pam 

907 January 08, 2010 at 16:52 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Booster Meeting Monday

Hello Everyone,
 
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday.  Our first Booster meeting of 2010 will be on Monday, January 11.  The Executive Committee will meet at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone can attend this meeting.  The General meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210. 
 
See you Monday!
Pam

905 January 06, 2010 at 11:32 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Bowl a Thon - January 17th, 2010

Our first fundraiser of the New Year will be an opportunity for fun and friendly competition during the winter break.

Don’t be left out! Form a team (6 bowlers) or sign up as an individual to participate in our first-ever bowl-a-thon. Music students, friends, parents, teachers, and staff are all invited to bowl on behalf of the MHS music program. In fact, rumor has it that certain MHS administrators are forming a team right now and believe they are unbeatable…don’t let the unthinkable happen!

Using the form at the following link, gather pledges from friends and family members. 
The minimum sponsorship amount required to bowl is only $30 per person
Prizes will be awarded to the INDIVIDUAL who collects the most pledges and to the TEAM with the highest game score by the end of the evening. 
Pizza, soda, and shoe rental will be provided for all participants. 

The evening should be a lot of fun and a great way to benefit your MHS music program. 

Here are the details:
Date/time: January 17, 2010, 6pm - 8pm
Location: Terrace Lanes, 12 W. College Terrace, Frederick, MD 21701
Pledge Form: http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/bowl_a_thon_pledge_form.pdf
Deadline to return sponsor form and pledges: January 12, 2010
Questions: Please call or email Fred Doggett: (301) 371-0021/ (fddoggett@comcast.net

Additional parent volunteers are needed!
 
Note: Adult participants should be aware that this is an alcohol-free event.

Respond to Fred Doggett by this Friday, January 8th regarding whether you plan to participate. 

904 January 06, 2010 at 07:21 Matthew Shearer matthew.shaerer@fcps.org Solo and Ensemble Apps Due

County Solo and Ensemble applications are due this week.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/solo_ensemble_app_09_10.pdf

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

902 January 05, 2010 at 16:36 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net Knightmare shirt sales

Tremendous thanks to all who have generously volunteered to assist in selling Knightmare shirts at the basketball games.

Below is a list of dates and assignments, but there are several spots left to be filled

 The time commitment is about two hours, and two parents are needed for each game. 

 (This is particularly important, in the event that one of the assigned persons finds it necessary to cancel.)   

 

Grab a band parent buddy and sign up for two hours of people watching, jazz band entertainment, and good chat time!

 

Dates that still need to be filled are :

 

Jan 8       Martha Pierce, Sandy Caho
Jan 14    one more needed to work with Janice Rockwell            

Jan 22    two needed

Feb 2      two needed

Feb 9      two needed
Feb 12   Dave Sweeney, Mary Sweeney

Feb 16    one more needed to work with Sandy Coho

Feb 19    two needed

 

*Please review the schedule if you have already volunteered, and confirm that you are able to work the assigned date.

 

Cyndy Zolfo

 

900 December 21, 2009 at 17:33 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Need your instrument?

If anyone needs to get their instrument out of the school I will be there tomorrow morning at 9 for a few minutes.  Otherwise, you should be able to stop by the school office any time tomorrow or Wednesday (during normal school hours) and request access to the instrument closet or band room for you instrument.

 Happy Holidays and enjoy you're extended vacation!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

899 December 15, 2009 at 21:14 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Change In Plans for Thursday-Dec 17

There has been a change in plans for this Thursday's 8th grade recruitment activity.  We will NOT be setting up a refreshment table.  The Middle School is planning to have a bake sale and we do not want to interfere with their fundraiser.  If you volunteered to donate baked goods to the Middle School bake sale, please continue to take your donation as planned. 
 
Instead, we will be playing a DVD and selling Knightmare shirts.  I have these activities covered so I do not need any additional help.  However, If any friendly students would still like to come and be available to talk to the 8th graders or their parents, they can come at 6:30 pm.  Please let me know if you plan to come so I can keep track of who will be there.
 
Thanks to everyone that responded to the first e-mail.  You are off the hook (this time)! I am sorry for the confusion. 
 
Pam 

898 December 15, 2009 at 12:34 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Bowl-A-Thon – January 17, 2010

Our first fundraiser of the New Year will be an opportunity for fun and friendly competition during the winter break.

Don’t be left out! Form a team (6 bowlers) or sign up as an individual to participate in our first-ever bowl-a-thon. Music students, friends, parents, teachers, and staff are all invited to bowl on behalf of the MHS music program. In fact, rumor has it that certain MHS administrators are forming a team right now and believe they are unbeatable…don’t let the unthinkable happen!

Using the form at the following link, gather pledges from friends and family members. 
The minimum sponsorship amount required to bowl is only $30 per person
Prizes will be awarded to the INDIVIDUAL who collects the most pledges and to the TEAM with the highest game score by the end of the evening. 
Pizza, soda, and shoe rental will be provided for all participants. 

The evening should be a lot of fun and a great way to benefit your MHS music program. 

Here are the details:
Date/time: January 17, 2010, 6pm - 8pm
Location: Terrace Lanes, 12 W. College Terrace, Frederick, MD 21701
Pledge Form: http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/bowl_a_thon_pledge_form.pdf
Deadline to return sponsor form and pledges: January 12, 2010
Questions: Please call or email Fred Doggett: (301) 371-0021/ (fddoggett@comcast.net

Additional parent volunteers are needed!
 
Note: Adult participants should be aware that this is an alcohol-free event.

 

 

897 December 15, 2009 at 07:45 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com HELP-needed Thursday-Dec 17

The Middle School Band concert is this Thursday, December 17th in the high school auditorium.  The MHS Band Boosters will set up a refreshment table in the cafeteria for the purpose of recruiting 8th grade band students for next year's band programs. 
 
I need the following:
1.  One or two people to help me set up, serve refreshments and clean up.  (Arrive at 5:45 pm.  The concert starts at 6:00.  Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the concert.)
2.  Donations of desserts/snacks (cookies, brownies, etc.) and punch.  (Please drop off all food at the cafeteria between 5:45 pm and 6:15 pm)
3.  A few friendly students that are willing to talk to the 8th graders and their parents about the band programs at MHS. (Students need to arrive by 6:30 and should wear a band shirt)
 
If you can help, please send me an e-mail to let me know what you are able to do.  Thank you all so much!
 
Pam

896 December 14, 2009 at 10:25 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Maryland Jazz Conference, 1/23/10

The Jazz Ensemble will be going to the MMEA State Jazz Conference on Saturday, January 23, 2010.

Exact times are TBD.

Students will perform for a clinician and attend masterclasses presented by the Towson University music faculty.  (Similar to last year, only we aren't presenting this year)

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

895 December 14, 2009 at 07:34 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meeting TONIGHT

The December Band Booster meeting is tonight.  The Executive Committee meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  All are welcome to attend.  As usual, we have a lot to cover in the meeting so I will need to start on time.
 
The General meeting will start at 7:30 pm in room 210. Some of the issues we will be discussing include Tag Day results, Basket Raffle results, upcoming fundraisers, All State Band/Orchestra awards, and uniforms. Come join us and stay "in the loop!"
 
I hope to see you all tonight.  (I will be away from my computer today so I am sorry I will not be able to respond to email before the meeting.)
 
Thanks,
Pam

894 December 10, 2009 at 09:42 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Booster Meeting-December 14

The next Band Booster meeting will be Monday, December 14, 2009.  The Executive Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room.  Anyone can attend.  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in Room 210. I hope ALL will attend!
 
If there is anything you would like considered for the agenda, please let me know.
 
Thanks,
Pam

893 December 10, 2009 at 07:47 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Holiday Band Concert tonight!!!
BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT
MHS Auditorium
Tonight, Dec 10, 7pm
FREE
 
It will be a short and sweet concert:
 
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Carol of the Bells
A Christmas Festival (a classic by Leroy Anderson)
Sleigh Ride (the very popular classic by Leroy Anderson)
 
See you there!!
 
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School
892 December 08, 2009 at 07:24 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Concert, Thursday, Dec 10 - INFO

Concert Band
Holiday Concert
Thursday, December 10 at 7:00pm

5:45pm - students report

6:00pm - warm-up begins

7:00pm - concert

Dress:

Guys: Black Slacks, black shoes, black socks, a dark green or dark red shirt with a matching neck tie. Please no “loud” ties.

Girls: Black shoes (no open toes), a dark green or dark red dress or skirt and matching blouse, knees must be completely covered when seated. You may wear black pants.
 

The concert should only be 30 minutes max.

Students will need to help clear the stage following the concert.

Participation in all aspects of the concert is graded:

Arriving on time and being prepared
Preparation of individual parts
Professionalism (musicianship) during warm-up, performance, and clean up
 

Happy Holidays!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

891 December 07, 2009 at 14:12 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Attn: Jazz Band, Dance Team and Other Interested Parents

I am sure you are all busy preparing for the holidays and if you actually have time to read your e-mail, you are doing better than some of us.  Well, the good news is that what I am about to ask can be done AFTER the holidays and will only take a few hours of your time!  We still need parents to sell Knightmare shirts at the girls and boys varsity basketball games when the Jazz Band and Dance Team are scheduled to perform. 
 
We need 2 parents from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on each of the following dates:
 
January 8, 14, 22
February 2, 9,12,16,19
 
We will provide further instructions to those who do volunteer (i.e. where to set up, location of the cash box and change, where to get the shirts, how to record the sales, etc.)
 
So for now, all you need to do is choose a date that works for you and let Cyndy Zolfo know.  You can contact her at cdz6@comcast.net.  Why not ask a friend to volunteer with you and have fun with it.  That is what Patricia Staples and I are going to do at tomorrow night's game!  Hope to see you there!
 
Thank you,
Pam
 

890 December 07, 2009 at 14:01 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Games and Agreement

Below is a link to a pdf of the Jazz Game schedule and agreement.  All of these dates were provided on the list of important dates that went out with the course syllabus at the beginning of the year.  The January 12th game has been moved to the 14th.  Also provided is a link to the original (updated) list of important dates.

Game Schedule - Please print, complete, and return tomorrow.

Important Dates (Jazz)

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

889 December 05, 2009 at 18:12 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Facebook and Twitter

In an attempt to communicate with more students and parents I have created a page on facebook and twitter. 

The emai list will certainly remain the primary means of communication. 

Please Note! I am by no means encouraging students to create facebook and twitter accounts.  I am only using these social utilities to make it easier for whoever already uses them to stay in touch with the band program.

I understand that parents may not allow their children to use these websites and I support the parents 100%!  (So, students, using this email as an excuse for your parents to allow you to get a facebook or twitter account is a moot point!)
 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Middletown-MD/Middletown-High-School-MD-Music/190955179542
 

Follow MHSKnightsBand on Twitter

http://twitter.com/MHSKnightsBand

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

888 December 05, 2009 at 13:57 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Holiday Spectacular Rescheduled

The Holiday Spectacular is canceled for today, Saturday, December 5th.

Come see the MHS Holiday Spectacular tomorrow, Sunday, December 6th, at 2pm and 7pm!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

887 December 02, 2009 at 08:45 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Congratulations!! All State Results

Congratulation to those who made All State groups!!

Matthew Thomas, All State Orchestra, (principal trumpet)

Nicholas Pope, All State Orchestra, (2nd chair trombone)

Eliza Zolfo, All State Concert Band, (principal horn)

Tyler Frazee, All State Orchestra, (Violin 2 section)

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

886 December 01, 2009 at 15:00 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Shirt Sizes

This is this years Jazz T-Shirt design.

All students in Jazz Ensemble, please respond to this email with what size t-shirt you would like.

The cost of the shirt is $11 (check payable to MHS Band Boosters, Inc.)

Thank you!!

Jazz Shirt 2010

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

885 December 01, 2009 at 12:04 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org New Uniforms!!

Principal, Mr. Berno, informed me this morning that MHS is contributing $5000 (five thousand dollars) toward the purchase of the new band uniforms!!

Mr. Berno expressed his appreciation of all the hard work the band parents have done!


All marching band members, who wore a band uniform for Malaguena, need to stop by the band room during lunch tomorrow (Wednesday, December 2nd) to be measured. This includes seniors!

You may stop by anytime during your lunch or during 3rd block.

Thank you!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

884 December 01, 2009 at 08:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org SmartMusic Reminder!!!!

Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble students have SmartMusic assignments due Friday!!

Mid Term is on Tuesday, December 8th!!

SmartMusic assignments are 40% of you overall grade.  If you do not complete this weeks assignments the highest grade you can receive on your Midterm is a 60%!!


Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

883 November 30, 2009 at 07:31 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Cake Off Photos Available

Photographs from the Cake Off are now on the website.  This is the last group of photographs that will be placed on the website.  Remember, today is the last day to order last year's photos.  This year's photos are available untill January 19, 2009.
 
Pam

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type:

Last year's which expires 11/30/2009 -   Username:  MHS Band 2008-09

                                                             Password:  18103

This year's which expires 1/19/2010-    Username: MHS Band 2009

                                                             Password: 18103-MHS

 Then click "Go."

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

882 November 30, 2009 at 07:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz/Bball games- Knightmare shirt sales- Help Wanted

Parents are needed to sell the Knightmare spirit shirts at the girls and boys varsity games when the jazz band and dance team are scheduled to perform. The shirts are an important source of income for our band program, and help the boosters to maintain the quality program that our students deserve.

Time is 6:00 - 8:00 PM on the dates listed below. 
Two parents are needed for each game. 

Please reply with your prefered dates, if you are able to help.  

Dec - 8

Jan -  8,12,22,

Feb -  2,9,16,19

Cyndy Zolfo
301 301 1257

881 November 29, 2009 at 12:42 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz rehearsals this week!!

The Jazz Ensemble will rehearse with the cast of the Holiday Spectacular this week on:

Wednesday, 7pm - 9:30pm
Thursday, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Friday, all day during school

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

880 November 24, 2009 at 14:54 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Audition Times

All County Band and Orchestra Auditions
December 1, 2009

Monocacy Middle School

6:15 - Violins, Cellos, Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones

7:15 - French Horns, Tubas

Please make sure you are prepared!  You should not be surprised by anything at the audition.
The judges are high school music instructors so I could possibly be judging you.

Good Luck!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

879 November 24, 2009 at 11:23 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Knightmare Shirts Order Form

Need a holiday gift idea?  The Band Boosters are still selling Knightmare shirts. We are planning to sell the shirts at the Holiday Concert on December 10, 2009 and the basketball games when the Jazz Band performs (see the band calendar for game dates and times). In addition, you can place an order by completing the attached order form and sending it, along with payment, to the school.  If you have any questions, please contact Cyndy Zolfo at cdz6@comcast.net . If you want the order to be a surprise, just let Cyndy know. 
 
Please see the order form for available sizes, prices and delivery options. 
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FeartheKnightorderform.doc
 
Thanks,
Pam

878 November 24, 2009 at 10:38 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Photos Available until January 2010

I would like to pass along an update from Maria.  Last year's band photos are available on the website until November 30th.  This year's marching band photos ( username: MHS Band 2009) are available until January 19, 2010. 
 
Senior Night photographs taken by Michael Summers are now on the website.  It was very kind of Michael to help out on Senior Night so Maria could proudly escort her son at the half-time ceremony and we could still have photos of all the seniors and their parents.     
 
Thanks,
Pam

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type:

Last year's which expires 11/30/2009 -   Username:  MHS Band 2008-09

                                                             Password:  18103

This year's which expires 1/19/2010-    Username: MHS Band 2009

                                                             Password: 18103-MHS

 Then click "Go."

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

877 November 24, 2009 at 10:39 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com ALL UNIFORMED MARCHERS 2009 SEASON!

Anyone who wore a marching band uniform this season:

 
UNIFORM MEASUREMENTS TO BE TAKEN ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2ND!!
 
Vaughn Sawdon from DeMoulin Uniforms will be at MHS from 10:45 thru 4th block to measure for the new uniforms to be purchased for next season.
 
Please report to the band room sometime during your lunch shift if you are not in a 4th block band class.
 
SENIORS:  WE NEED YOU ALSO!!  The measurements will give them the size ranges that they need for the 70 uniforms that we are ordering.
 
Thank you!
--

  Celeste Denier,  Uniform Committee Chair

 

875 November 23, 2009 at 11:14 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Tag Day Results

YOU raised $6,067.75 during Tag Day weekend!  Give yourself a pat on the back.  I want to say thank you to all students and drivers who participated.  Keep in mind that we will receive more $$ from the envelopes that you left at homes.  When I have a final total in about 2 weeks I will give you an update. 

I also wanted to say thank you to both Celeste Denier and Stacey Black who assisted with uniforms.  They both did an awesome job and I could not do it without them.  

A week ago I had 8 students signed up for Tag Day on Sunday and within the course of the next week that changed to 26.  Students, you did an awesome job of communicating with me when scheduling changes came up.  I was impressed with your committment to Tag Day.  

Looking forward to next year, I will be the parent of a senior.  With that being said, MHS Band will be in need of a new coordinator for Tag Day to take over in 2010.  I plan to participate but would like to have 1 or 2 parents who would be willing to learn the ropes.  If we have "a transisition year" with a new coordinator mentoring with a "seasoned" one then it makes it a lot easier and is more successful fundraiser.   So...if this could be an area that you could assist next year, please call or email me.  I will answer any questions you have about Tag Day!
 

Patricia Staples
Tag Day Coordinator
301-293-8905 home
240-586-7250 work
301-606-0041 cell

874 November 23, 2009 at 08:35 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Tag Day Thanks

I would like to thank Patricia Staples for doing a fantastic job organizing Tag Day this year.  Tag Day is one of our two biggest fundraisers.  Patricia spent a lot of time prior to this weekend getting the fliers printed, coordinating volunteers to stuff envelopes, scheduling students and making sure there were enough drivers.  Because of her efforts, everything went smoothly and the fundraiser was a success.  Thank you, Patricia, for taking on this very important fundraiser and doing such a great job! 
 
I would also like to thank Celeste Denier and Stacey Black for helping with uniforms and I would like to thank the parents that drove the students around.  Finally, I would like to thank all the students that came in to stuff envelopes or that went out there and worked hard to get donations to help fund the band programs.  You done good!  
 
Pam

873 November 23, 2009 at 07:04 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Volunteers Needed
 As you know, we have many senior students in the band this year.  This means that we will be losing many great parent volunteers.  From time to time, I will be soliciting parents to pick up where these senior parents have left off. Today I have three positions that I need to fill:
 
1.  One of the very special volunteers that will be leaving us is Karen Thomas.  Karen has been in charge of the marching band uniforms for many years.  Normally, I would not be looking for someone to take over the marching band uniform job quite so soon.  However, since we are moving forward with purchasing new uniforms, it would be very beneficial if the new uniform person could be involved now.  What better way to learn all about the new uniforms than from the uniform company representative himself.  Also, since Karen is still here she can answer questions and provide information to make the transition easier.  If you are interested in handling marching band uniforms for the Boosters next year, please let me know.  If you are willing to help with uniforms but do not want to be in charge, let me know that too.
 
2.  We have another senior parent that does so much for us but because most of it is behind the scenes she does not get the credit she deserves.  Cyndy Zolfo has been a tremendous asset to the Booster Organization. She really knows the band program inside and out.  Cyndy has been taking care of the uniforms for all the ensembles.  I would like to find someone that is willing to take over this function.  This person would need to work with Cyndy now to learn when orders are placed, where to place the orders, how to set the prices for the uniforms, etc.  They would also need to work with Mr. Shearer next year to find out if any changes will be made to the uniforms.  Boosters is also looking into a possible new program for some of these uniforms. If we find a volunteer now, this person can be involved in the decision-making process for this new idea.  If you are interested in handling the ensemble uniforms, please let me know. 
 
3.  Another important job Cyndy has been handling for the Boosters is an administrative task.  There is paperwork that must be submitted to the school to request permission to use any school facility.  This includes the marching band practice field, the stadium field, the cafeteria, the auditorium, etc. All the paperwork has been submitted for this year.  I would like to find someone that is willing to meet with Cyndy before the end of the school year to learn to learn what needs to be done so they can take over this job for next year.  If you are interested, please let me know.
 
These two women will be leaving some very big shoes to fill.  I would have no problem if two people want to work together to fill each of the uniform positions (co-chairs).  So if you are interested but don't want to do it yourself, grab a friend and volunteer now! 
 
Thanks,
Pam 
 
 
872 November 20, 2009 at 09:16 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Jazz Band Students/Parents

Maria Pope took pictures of the students performing at the Jazz Concert.  She would like to e-mail each student's pictures to them.  If you are in Jazz Band and would like to get your photos, please send an e-mail to Maria at eliza21755@comcast.net.
 
If you already received pictures, there is no need to reply. 
 
Thanks,
Pam

871 November 20, 2009 at 09:16 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Senior Night Photographs Available

Photographs from Senior Night are on the website.  Check them out! 
 
Remember, the photos will be available for sale only until NOVEMBER 30, 2009.
 
Thanks,
Pam
 
To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

870 November 20, 2009 at 07:33 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Uniforms and Tag Day

 

For those participating in Tag Day that do not usually wear uniforms:

 

Wear light shorts under your clothes to allow for room under your uniform. 

 

Wear black shoes

 

If possible, know your chest measurement.  It will help in getting you fitted into a uniform.

 

See you this weekend!  Please email or call me with ANY questions.

 

Patricia Staples

Tag Day Coordinator

301-606-0041

869 November 18, 2009 at 19:58 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Miss the Jazz Concert??

Did you miss the Jazz concert last night?

Then check out the recording online!

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/jazz/recordings/november_17_2009/

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

868 November 18, 2009 at 09:56 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Tag Day -November 21st and 22nd
Tag Day sign ups are going well.  We currently have:
 
Saturday 9:00-12:30
25 students / 10 drivers
 
Saturday 12:30-4:00
17 students / 6 drivers
 
Sunday 12:30 - 4:00
23 students / 9 drivers
 
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your shift starts to allow time to get into your uniform and get paired up with a driver.   Celeste Denier will be assisting with uniforms on Saturday and Stacey Black will be assisting on Sunday. 
 
THANK YOU to all students and parents.  This will be a successful fundraiser because of you!
 
Patricia Staples
Tag Day Coordinator
867 November 17, 2009 at 08:04 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Annapolis Photographs Now Available

Photographs from the Annapolis competition are now available for viewing/purchase on the website.  That Sunday was a beautiful day and Maria got some great shots.  We have some very photogenic students and staff members! 
 
Remember the photographs are available to purchase until November 30, 2009.  Don't miss out on this very special opportunity.  Keep in mind that the holidays are right around the corner and photos make great gifts.  
 
Pam
 

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

866 November 16, 2009 at 16:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Jazz Ensemble Concert - 11/17 at 7pm

MIDDLETOWN HIGH SCHOOL

JAZZ ENSEMBLE CONCERT

Tuesday, November 17, 2009
7:00pm

on the MHS Knight Stage
(the high school auditorium)

SEE YOU THERE!!!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

865 November 12, 2009 at 07:39 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com JMU Photos Available

Maria has added photographs from JMU to the website. There are a lot of great pictures so be sure to take a look.  She also added pictures from "pie night."  The picture of Mr. Shearer covered in whipped cream is priceless! 
 
Remember the photographs are available to purchase until November 30, 2009.   
 
Pam
 

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

864 November 12, 2009 at 07:39 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Gator Bowl Refund Checks

Just in time for the holidays!  Gator Bowl refund checks will be distributed at 9:00 am and 12:30 pm on November 21 and at 12:30 pm on November 22 in the school cafeteria.  This is the beginning of each Tag Day shift.  Checks will NOT be given to students.  Any checks that are not picked up by a parent on Tag Day will be mailed to the student's home. 
 
I would like to ask that you please do not request special arrangements for getting your check. We have a significant number of checks and this could become a terrible burden on our Treasurer.  I appreciate your understanding.  I also appreciate all your patience as we waited to get our money back.    
 
Thanks,
Pam

863 November 09, 2009 at 12:37 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Booster Meeting Tonight (Nov 9)
The November Band Booster Meeting is tonight.  I hope to see everyone there!
 
6:30 pm  Executive Committee Meeting in Band Room (Anyone can attend)
7:00 pm  County Festival Chairpeople to join the Executive Committee Meeting in Band Room
7:30 pm  General Meeting in Room 210
 
Thanks,
Pam
862 November 06, 2009 at 12:01 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com County Festival Photographs Available

The website for the Frederick County Marching Band Festival photos is ready for viewing. I only had a minute this morning to glance at it, but the photos are fantastic. When the festival started, it was daylight. The mountains, covered with trees of various colors, provided a perfect backdrop. Then the sky changed to a brilliant blue and by the time MHS was on, it was completely dark. As always, Maria did a great job! Be sure to sign on and see for yourself. An e-mail regarding this website has already gone out to the band directors and band booster presidents for each of the participating bands. Feel free to share the log-on information with friends and family that may be interested in viewing and/or purchasing photos. Images will be available for 60 days.

Pam

To access the website:

1- Type into your computer browser:
www.collages.net

2- In the "View an Event" type in the Username: Marching Band Festival

3- Type in the password: 18103 and click "Go".

4- Type in your email address and name, then enjoy the images. :)
 

861 November 05, 2009 at 08:28 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Booster Meeting-Monday-November 9

The next Band Booster Meeting will be Monday, November 9, 2009.  The Executive Committee meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room (County Festival Chairpeople to join at 7:00 pm). As always, anyone can attend this meeting. The General Meeting will be at 7:30 pm in room 210.  
 
One agenda item for this month's meeting is to recap the County Festival. I would like to hear what worked well and what we could improve if we get the opportunity to host another show.  I know a lot of you have valuable feedback to provide. In order to approach this in the most effective manner, I would like to ask any volunteers with information to share to contact the chairperson for your area.  I would then like the County Festival chairpeople to join the Executive Committee meeting at 7:00 pm to present the feedback for their program.   If any chairpeople are not able to attend, I would appreciate it if you could e-mail me your feedback so I can present it for you.  We will summarize all the information and present it at the General Meeting for everyone to hear.  We should also be able to announce the financial results of the Festival at this time.
 
If anyone has any other items you would like considered for the agenda for either meeting, please let me know. 
 
Thanks, 
Pam

860 November 05, 2009 at 08:28 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Annapolis Tailgate - Chef Needed

Dave Sweeney is looking for someone to help grill hamburgers and hot dogs at the Annapolis tailgate.  He and Mary plan to arrive early to set up and will start grilling around 11:00 am.  They will provide the grills.  If you are able to help cook, please contact Dave at davesweeney321@msn.com.
 
Thanks,
Pam

859 November 04, 2009 at 10:19 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Homecoming and Halloween Photos On-Line

Hello Everyone!
 
Maria has added photographs from Homecoming and Halloween to the website.  Be sure to sign on and see what is new!
 
Pam
 

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

858 November 03, 2009 at 11:53 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net JAZZ UNIFORM REMINDER

This is a reminder that students new to the ensemble this year must purchase their own shirt for the Jazz Ensemble. They are available at WalMart in the men’s department. 

Girls and guys wear the same shirt: Long sleeve black, plain collar dress shirt.
*there are two brands available. Last year’s students are wearing the less expensive of the two.  

Pants for girls and guys have been ordered and should arrive(unhemmed) early next week. Cost for the pants is $22 for men, $24 for ladies.

If you have not already done so, please send a check with your student made out to MHS Band Boosters.

Guys should wear black dress shoes and socks (marching shoes are acceptable) please email me if you don’t have them, and would like to use this option.

Girls may way either black marching shoes, or black flats with opaque black knee hi socks

Ties will be handed out before each performance.

Cyndy Zolfo
301 401 1257

857 November 03, 2009 at 11:28 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Annapolis Tickets Available

I have tickets for the USSBA National Championships in Annapolis this Sunday, November 8, 2009.  They are $20 each.  If you would like to purchase tickets, see me before or after practice on Wednesday, at the game on Friday or on Sunday morning before the band leaves MHS. 
 
Thanks,
Pam

856 November 03, 2009 at 11:23 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Tag Day -Second Request-Response needed by November 6th

Parents and Students,

 

The email below was sent on October 23rd with a response needed by October 30th.  I had 12 responses by the deadline.  I want to say thank you to the respondents.  If you responded, you can stop reading now.

 

For everyone else, I need a response to ensure that I have enough drivers for the students for Tag Day.  Keep in mind this is one of the two biggest fundraisers for the band (Tag Day and Golf).  If we do not raise the $$ we need then the band fees may go up.  In order to keep the fees down we need participation.  So PLEASE email me back with when you can participate.  If scheduling is an issue and you are not able to commit to these times, let me know.  If you have ANY questions, call or email me.  Remember we need EVERYONE which includes YOU!

 

Patricia Staples

Tag Day Coordinator

301-606-0041 cell

301-293-8905 home

240-586-7250 work

__________________________________________________

 

 

Parents and Students,

Tag Day will be held this year on Saturday, November 21st and Sunday, November 22nd

 

For those of you who are not familiar with Tag Day, it is when the band students (which includes Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Knights,  Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble) go door to door to solicit donations for the band.  You will wear a marching band uniform.  If you are not currently in a band program that has a uniform, you will be fitted for one when you arrive for Tag Day.  There are about 50 maps of areas around Middletown, Myersville and Wolfsville.  You will go door to door with at least one other band student (no one goes alone) and ask for donations to support our band program.  Parents will drive you to an area on the map. We will cover all 50 of the areas between Saturday and Sunday. 

 


Keep in mind that our uniforms are at least 15 years old so we need EVERYONE’s participation to help us raise money for new uniforms. 

 

  

The schedule for this year will be:

 

November 21st (Saturday)

9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

 

If you are able, I could use you for both shifts on Saturday.  Let me know so I make sure I have enough drivers.

 

November 22nd (Sunday)

12:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.


 

This is one of the biggest fundraisers for the band.  Two years ago we made over $13,000.00.  I have no doubt that with your help we can exceed this goal this year.  If you have someone you want to go door to door with, let me know that and I will pair you up together with the same parent/driver. 

 

I need everyone (parents and students) to respond back to this email by October 30th to let me know which shift you can work.  Please email me at rstaples17@comcast.net with any questions or call me at 301-606-0041.

 

Patricia Staples

855 November 03, 2009 at 11:21 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com Annapolis Tailgate

Dear Band Parents,
 
It's the last tailgate!  We need a few desserts and especially fruit for the tailgate on November 8, 2009 at Annapolis.  I will be at the Friday night game dinner on November 6 and you could drop desserts/fruits off between 4:30-6:30.  If you are going to Annapolis, you can just bring the dessert to the tailgate.
 
The weather for this weekend looks great!  Hope you can make it.
 
Let me know if you can help with these requests.
 
Thanks
Mary

854 November 01, 2009 at 04:49 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org SmartMusic Assignments

SmartMusic assignments can now be submitted through 11/2.  Hopefully the issues you've had recently have now been resolved.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

853 October 30, 2009 at 21:50 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Thank You!

Thank you to everyone that brought candy and desserts for the Halloween party.  You are an amazing bunch.  On Wednesday morning I had 3 people signed up to bring desserts  I was concerned we would not have enough so I sent out the plea for help.  The response was incredible.  We ended up with so many desserts that we decided to save some of them for the Annapolis tailgate. So if you did not see your dessert out last night, don't think it was forgotten.   It will be enjoyed by all next week. 
 
It is truly a pleasure to work with all of you. The Booster Organization would not be what it is without your support.  Thank you for all you do!
 
Pam
 

852 October 30, 2009 at 21:44 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org SmartMusic Update

Since the SmartMusic server was down today I have extended the final day to submit assignments to Nov 1st.  You should now be able to access assignments through Sunday.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

851 October 28, 2009 at 07:05 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Halloween Parade Night-Cookies Needed

Hello!
 
I want to thank everyone that brought in candy on Monday and everyone that is bringing cookies or other snacks on Thursday.  If you have not already contributed in some way, we could still use your help.  I would like to have a few more desserts so that we are sure we have enough for all the students and parents.  Remember, we will have the 8th graders and their parents joining us.  If you are like me, you don't have time to bake. Store bought cookies, cupcakes, etc. are fine (no more candy please).  If you can help, please let me know what you can bring. 
 
Thanks!
Pam
 

850 October 27, 2009 at 22:05 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Absence Request reminder

Tomorrow's marching band field trip is an official marching band event, thus the same policies for absence requests apply.  So you if you are missing any portion of tomorrows event you must submit an absence request!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

849 October 27, 2009 at 14:53 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net JAZZ ENSEMBLE UNIFORMS

 Important!   
Jazz Ensemble Uniform Information

 
If you need new pants or are new to Jazz Ensemble this year, please read the information below and respond to this email with the Student's Name and Pants Size NOW.

If you can use your pants from last year please respond with student's name and "will use old pants"
 
Submit a check payable to MHS Band Boosters to Mr. Shearer (or drop in lock box in band office) for the amount listed below.
 
THANK YOU!!!
 


The first Jazz Ensemble concert is approaching quickly. ( Nov. 21) In order to assure that all students are
properly attired for the concert,   we will need to place our order for pants by October 28th.
Mr. Shearer believes the ensemble looks best when the pieces are all ordered from the same company. We have researched several options to make sure prices are affordable. 
 
Ladies and young men wear the same thing; 
Black long sleeve dress shirt - plain collar (not button down) * please purchase your own at WalMart men’s department

orange tie(school will provide these)
 
Plain black dress pants (these are order by boosters) They arrive without a hem.
 
Women's Low Rise Dress Pants $24
Style 5608 (same as 6508)
Black
At the hip fit, no satin stripe
Sizes 2-18   (measure two inches below natural waistline)
 
Men's Plain Front Dress Pants $22
Machine washable; full cut, straight leg; 2 front, 2 back pockets; hook & eye closure, Ban-Rol waistband
Style# 2290Colors: Black,
Sizes 28-54     (worn fitted, not baggy. Measure 1 in below the belly button and round up to whole number

 

848 October 27, 2009 at 11:45 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Band trip tomorrow, 10/28

I have the following people volunteering for the marching band trip tomorrow:

Beth Cockerham
Kathy McCahey
Celeste Denier
Mike Wojton
Bob Harris
 

Please be at the high school at 8am.

Thank You!!


Schedule:

8am Get into uniform
8:30 Depart
9:15 Perform at Wolfsville
10:30 Perform at Myersville
11:45 Lunch
1:30 Perform in Stadium for Middletown Elem

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

847 October 26, 2009 at 20:28 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Permission and Risk Forms for Wednesday

Please turn in permission form for the Marching Band trip to the elementary schools ASAP.

Here is a direct link:

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk_10282009.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

846 October 26, 2009 at 14:50 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Senior Night Dinner

Dear Wondeful Marching Band Parents ,

If you are the parent of a senior, please stop reading now!

You may recall Senior Night will be Friday Nov. 6 and the parents of the underclassmen provide this meal. So far I have the following :

Main Course dishes : 5

Salads : 3

Rolls : 2

Boosters will provide dessert and beverages.

So I would like each of you to consider donating a dish for the dinner. Your main course can be vegetarian or meaty. What is that delicious dish that you take to those pot luck dinners / family gatherings that everyone just loves ? Can you make one of those for our amazing seniors ? Please send me an email and let me know what you can bring. Thanks so much for helping to make this a special evening for our senior dancers and marchers !


Nancy vom Lehn

845 October 23, 2009 at 09:00 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Halloween Parade Night
Dear Students, Parents, Family Members, and Staff,
 
The MHS Band Boosters invites you to join us for cookies and hot chocolate after the Halloween Parade on October 29, 2009. 
 
Students: Start planning your costumes!  Costumes will be judged and prizes will be awarded for the most spooktacular costumes in the following categories:
 
Most Likely to cause Uncontrollable Laughter (Funniest)
Most Likely to Scare the Dog (Creepiest)
Most Likely to be Imitated Next Year (Best Idea)
Most Likely Took Forever to get Ready (Most Elaborate)
Best Overall 8th Grade Costume
 
We will also have a raffle drawing for a chance to win more prizes.
 
Parents:  We are asking each family to donate either one bag of candy or one batch of cookies/brownies or other snacks (homemade or store-bought).  If you can donate candy, we will need to have it by the end of practice on Monday October 26.  If you can bring a snack, please bring it before the parade on October 29.  I would appreciate it if you can let me know what you plan to bring so I can make sure we have enough each.
 
Thanks,
Pam
 
 
844 October 23, 2009 at 08:58 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Today's Task

Below is another Today's Task that I would like to share with you.  Mr. R talks about success and winning.  

Pam 

Today’s Task – October 23, 2009

As a teacher, coach and leader, my goal is always to help the students achieve their potential, both individually and as a group. When my students play well in a concert or on the soccer field it is their effort that produced that performance. I like to believe that my teaching helped them accomplish that level of success, but I realize the performance was theirs. The quality of my teaching and leadership effort is where I find my defining and ultimate success.

Last night, following a very satisfying victory on the soccer field, a player said to me, “I guess it is for moments like this that you coach.” It was a very astute insight, but I am not sure he completely understands. See, he thinks I coach for victories, but I really coach to see the look of utter joy on my students’ faces when they accomplish something they never thought they could. Witnessing the outpouring of emotion they displayed as they ran around the field, screaming and hugging each other…that, is when I knew I had some level of success in my teaching. Success may result in winning, but winning does not necessarily make you a success. Success comes from the knowledge that you made the full effort to do the best of which you are capable.

Today, no every day, I encourage you to consider what defines success for you. Don’t allow others, or society as a whole, impose their version of success on you. Success may not always be about winning. It might just be that if you did your very best and fell short of the championship…you are still a success!

Have a great day!

Mr. R

843 October 23, 2009 at 07:05 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Tag Day -November 21 and 22nd

Parents and Students,

Tag Day will be held this year on Saturday, November 21st and Sunday, November 22nd

For those of you who are not familiar with Tag Day, it is when the band students (which includes Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Knights,  Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble) go door to door to solicit donations for the band.  You will wear a marching band uniform.  If you are not currently in a band program that has a uniform, you will be fitted for one when you arrive for Tag Day.  There are about 50 maps of areas around Middletown, Myersville and Wolfsville.  You will go door to door with at least one other band student (no one goes alone) and ask for donations to support our band program.  Parents will drive you to an area on the map. We will cover all 50 of the areas between Saturday and Sunday. 


Keep in mind that our uniforms are at least 15 years old so we need EVERYONE’s participation to help us raise money for new uniforms. 

  

The schedule for this year will be:

 

November 21st (Saturday)

9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

 

If you are able, I could use you for both shifts on Saturday.  Let me know so I make sure I have enough drivers.

 

November 22nd (Sunday)

12:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.


 

This is one of the biggest fundraisers for the band.  Two years ago we made over $13,000.00.  I have no doubt that with your help we can exceed this goal this year.  If you have someone you want to go door to door with, let me know that and I will pair you up together with the same parent/driver. 

 

I need everyone (parents and students) to respond back to this email by October 30th to let me know which shift you can work.  Please email me at rstaples17@comcast.net with any questions or call me at 301-606-0041.

 

Patricia Staples

842 October 22, 2009 at 11:54 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org SmartMusic assignments due 10/30/09

Students in Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble,

All SmartMusic assignments must be completed and submitted by  Friday Oct 30th.

Starting Oct 31, assignments can no longer be submitted.

Don't wait until the last minute!!!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

841 October 22, 2009 at 07:02 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org Senior Night Dinner
Dear Wondeful Marching Band Parents ,
 
If you are the parent of a senior, please stop reading now!
 
We will honor our super seniors and their parents at our last home football game on Friday November 6 with a special dinner.   I am looking for donations of dishes for this meal.  Now is your chance to show off your cooking talents by preparing and sharing your favorite dish : lasagna, baked ziti, vegetable parasean, mac and cheese or any other delicious dish !  We will need  both meat main courses and vegetarian selections.  I'll also need rolls and salads. Please send me an email and tell me what dish you would like to donate.   Food should be at MHS no later than 4:45.  Thanks in advance - This is such a great group of parents that I know this meal will be fabulous!
 
Nancy vom Lehn
840 October 22, 2009 at 07:00 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Centennial Photos Added to Website

Hello everyone,
 
I just wanted to let you know that Maria has added the night-time Centennial photos to the website. 
 
Pam

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

 

839 October 21, 2009 at 15:20 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Volunteers Needed!

The Marching Knights need chaperones and someone to pull the trailer on Wednesday Oct 28.

We are departing MHS at 8:30am and will return around 11:30am.

Please respond to this email if you can help!!!

THANK YOU!!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

838 October 21, 2009 at 12:25 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Knights go to the Elementary Schools

Marching Knights to perform at elementary schools on Wedensday, Oct 28th.

8:00am - Report to band room, get into uniform, load
8:30 - Depart for Wolfsville Elementary
9:15 - Performance at Wolfsville Elementary
10:00 - Depart for Myersville Elementary
10:30 - Perform at Myersville Elementary
11:15 - Depart for MHS
11:45 - Arrive at MHS, get out of uniform, eat lunch, get back into uniform
1:00 - In Block to march to Stadium
1:30 - Perform for Middletown Elementary
2:05 - Return to MHS

Be ready to perform:

Malagueña
Fight Song
Paint it Black
Chant
Burrito

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School
 

837 October 21, 2009 at 07:18 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Halloween Parade

Since we canceled the 8th grade band night due to weather, the 8th grade band will be joining us for the Halloween parade on Oct 29th.  Here is the schedule.

5:00pm report
5:15 in block with 8th grade to practice parading around parking lot
5:55 at the parade staging area (in front of the tennis courts)
6:00 parade begins

This is always a very fun night (as long is its not raining or extremely cold) so make the most of it and make sure the 8th graders have a fun time!!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School
 

836 October 21, 2009 at 07:08 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Frederick News Post On-Line

In addition to the pictures and article in the Frederick News Post yesterday, there is a video and an audio slide show on the FNP website about the County Festival.  If you haven't already seen it, check it out! 
 
 
 
Pam

835 October 20, 2009 at 14:34 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com JMU Tailgate

Dear Band Parents,
 
I need desserts and fruit for the tailgate at JMU on Saturday, October 24.  I will be at the Friday night game dinner and you could drop the desserts/fruit off between 4:30 and 6:30.  If you are attending JMU, you could drop it off at the tailgate site when you arrive.
 
Also, I need two crockpots for the tailgate.
 
The weather right now is looking iffy.  40% chance of rain.  We have one canopy.  Does anyone else have a popup/Canopy that we could borrow just in case.
 
 
Please let me know if you are able to help with these requests.
 
Thanks so much!
 
Mary Sweeney

834 October 20, 2009 at 09:26 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Leaving JMU early??

To those who are leaving the JMU competition early,

Dee or I MUST see you leave with your ride.  Make sure you and whoever is driving you says goodbye to one of us.  If you are carpooling, we need to see the whole group leave together.

If you have made a request but are now planning to stay at JMU, let me know now.  We need to know who to expect on the bus for the ride home.

There are still a few students who have made their online request but have yet to obtain administrative approval.

IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO LEAVE JMU EARLY YOU MUST HAVE APPROVAL FROM ADMINISTRATION!!

Please make sure this is done ASAP so we can avoid any uncomfortable situations come Saturday.

Thank you,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

833 October 20, 2009 at 09:26 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com County Festival

Congratulations to everyone for a very successful County Festival!  I want to say thank you to all the parent and student volunteers that came out last night to help.  We had over 75 volunteers helping!   Everyone worked together and got the job done. You all did a great job making our guests feel welcome.  I was so proud of our organization!  You should be proud of yourselves too! 
 
We owe a special thanks to Nick Cockerham.  Nick did a fantastic job organizing this event.  I know Nick spent a lot of time planning and coordinating every aspect of the Festival.  There were many, many details that had to be considered and he did not miss any of them.  GREAT JOB, NICK!
 
I also want to say a special thank you to our chairpeople-Shelly Hill, Mary Sweeney, Liz Buckley, Mary Jacques, Celeste Denier, Cyndy Zolfo, and Will Meadors.  Thank you for all your time and efforts. 
 
Were there some glitches?  Yes, of course.  But I am so impressed with how everyone just dealt with them and no one even knew there was a problem (okay maybe the squeaky, then dead microphone was a bit noticeable....but we got it fixed!).  Some highlights--We sold out of programs before the last two bands even performed, the concession booth had to go get more food because they sold more than they expected, we made the front page of the Frederick News Post today and there is a picture from each of the nine bands (see pages A1 and A12), we stayed exactly on schedule the entire evening, traffic moved smoothly and people were able to get in and out without incident, coffee and hot chocolate were hot items on a cold night, air grams and candy grams were selling great and MHS Marching Band put on a great performance (congratulations to the students and staff!).  I am sure I will hear more success stories as people reflect on the evening. 
 
We won't have final numbers for the event for a few days until after all the expense receipts are brought in and totaled but I can tell you it was a definite success. So pat yourselves on the back for a job well done!
 
Pam 

832 October 20, 2009 at 09:26 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com JMU Information

Now that the County Festival is behind us, it is time to get ready for the JMU Parade of Champions!  Below you will find important information about tickets, programs, parking, photos, videos and concessions. Information about stadium logistics, performance schedule, directions and more can be found at http://www.jmu.edu/music/mrd/poc.html, or on the band website at http://mhsknightsband.net/marching/jmu.htm
 
I will be purchasing tickets for chaperones, pit crew, and uniform helpers.  If you are going as a spectator and would like to avoid waiting in line at the event, you can pay me in advance and I will either pick up the tickets for you or have them waiting for you at the Will Call window.  If you would like me to do this, I will need the money by tomorrow, October 21, 2009 so I can place our order on Thursday. I will be in the cafeteria at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm tomorrow to take any orders.
 
There are still seat available on the charter bus.  Seats are $20 each.  Please let me know if you would like to reserve a seat. 
 
Thanks,
Pam
 
 
TICKETS & SOUVENIR PROGRAMS

Admission to the contest is valid all day.  Spectators will be given a wrist band to wear – this will act as your admission “ticket” to the event. 

ADULTS - $10.00
STUDENTS & SENIORS - $6.00
SOUVENIR PROGRAMS - $3.00

For tickets and programs, you will go to the Plecker Center ticket windows by Gate A and B of the stadium.   Admission to the event is through Gate B only.

PARKING

Parking for the 2008 Parade of Champions will be located in the JMU Parking Deck adjacent to Bridgeforth Stadium and the Plecker Athletic Performance Center.  Handicap parking will also be located on the first floor of the parking deck.  Overflow parking will be located in surrounding lots “P,” “X,” and “C.” 

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Pictures and video of the bands performing at the JMU Parade of Champions, including the JMU Marching Royal Dukes, will be available for sale at the event. 

CONCESSIONS

JMU Concessions and Domino’s Pizza will be running during this all-day event. 

 

831 October 18, 2009 at 10:57 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Schedule for tomorrow 10/19

FCPS Marching Band Festival
Monday, October 19, 2009

5:15 report and get into uniform, warm up on your own, tune!
5:45 In block, run through National Anthem
6:00 Play National Anthem
7:00 Move back to school to warm up for show
8:05 Perform
8:45 Band recognition

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

830 October 18, 2009 at 10:47 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Recap from Saturday

I always judge the success of a performance by the reaction of the crowd.  The sole purpose of a marching band show is to entertain, and you are without a doubt performing one of the most entertaining shows we've ever done (if not the MOST entertaining.)  People in the stands tell me what a great show it is and wonder why we didn't place better.  They comment on the energy, the excitement, the joy they see in you as you perform, the inovation of design.  You love to perform, you perform a great, entertaining and exicting show, and because of that you are successful!!

Now I can write about how different indoor shows are, and how marching band is an outdoor activity, and how different things might have been had the show actually been outdoors, but I am I going to let you think about all that.  I want you to reflect on your performance.  How well do you think you actually played? How much better do you think you could be?  How did you perform differently in the performance as compared to the warm up?

If you are wondering why we didn't score as high as the other bands, here is why:

WARNING! ONLY READ THIS SECTION IF YOU ARE OPEN TO CRITICISM AND CAN TAKE THIS INFORMATION AND USE IT TO GROW AS A MUSICIAN

I am letting you know this because this is exactly what the judges (and I) thought about your performance.  You have the ability to very easily fix all of these problems.  I am sure that with a little effort, our next performance will not have these issues, and your performance will be much better. Also remember that this is a very difficult show to perform well and that you are already doing many things very well!!!

Tempo - there are many times where sections of the band are not listening beyond their section to play together as a large ensemble.  Clarinets in the beginning did not listen to the tuba so the clarinets and pit, were not together with the tuba.  Right off the bat, we showed the judges that we are unable to play together.  Trombones through the "spread and wale" are playing together as a section, but you did not listen beyond your section to the drums or melody to make sure you part was lining up, so it was not together. Pit, you end up playing without listening back at all, you especially need to listen to how your part fits in with the ensemble and make sure it fits in perfectly.  Never play with "blinders" on!!  There were many times I felt uncomfortable with the tempo and feared it falling apart

Tone - Trumpets usually nail their soli part near the beginning, but there were a lot of cracks, missed notes, and thin tones, which made us sound like a beginning band and not the advanced band that we are.  The judges took that part and judged the rest of the show with that in mind. Tubas were great in warm up, probably because you were "saving" it for the performance, but the performance was over blown, out of tune, and out of control.  You think you are giving that extra excitement, but end up over playing and have sloppy articulations.  Woodwinds need to work on better tone production in the upper range, for clarinets and saxophones this may mean getting a better mouthpiece and ligature (it makes a HUGE difference.)

Dynamics - The judges noted the forte pianos and appreciated them, however everyone needs to perform the same.  Battery and Tubas were often not matching the same dynamics as the rest of the ensemble.   This goes along with listening and matching and being sensitive to the entire ensemble.  The judges view this as a beginner mistake and thus judges us on that level. The really loud parts lose their excitement because there's too much loud and not enough soft.  We need to go through the music, pick out the parts that need to really pop out, and make sure everything around is much softer.

Phrasing - The judges notice that there are strong players in the band who are phrasing very well, but the less advanced musicians stop playing phrases too soon.  You cut off the value of whole notes, or run out of air and let the end of the phrase get weak.  You need to play all the way to the end of the phrase and end the phrase strong.  There many times yesterday when we got to the end of a phrase and I wondered what you were doing; you can play it better than that!  Also, allowing yourself room to phrase when you are playing loud.  If you cannot still shape the music when playing FF then you are playing too loud!!  Just playing really loud is NOT COOL!  You might think its fun, but the judges and the crowd (though they might not know it) really don't like really loud playing unless its done musically, which means shaping the musical line with varying levels of dynamics. Not just loud!

A lot of this doesn't happen all the time and you can perform it better.  But the fact that it did happen is an issue and we cannot let this happen again if we want to get higher scores.

We will focus on much of this when we warm up tomorrow for our performance at the county festival.

Sincerely,
 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

829 October 17, 2009 at 09:26 Pam Harris Bob8Har@aol.com Pictures Added

Maria has added pictures from the South Hagerstown football game to her website.  
 
If you have not already done so, please take some time to visit the site. There are many great photos of the band you won't want to miss.
 
Pam

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

828 October 17, 2009 at 09:07 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Updated schedule for today 10/17

The competition has been moved indoors

No afternoon practice

Eat dinner before reporting, there will not be time for concessions at the competition

We are getting into uniform before we leave Middletown

4:15 Report
4:30 Rehearsal to run through indoor performance logistics
5:00 Load trailer and get into uniform
5:30 Depart for Germantown (Northwest High School)
6:15 Arrive at Northwest High School
7:45 Perform
8:45 Awards
9:15 Depart for MHS
10:00 Arrive at Middletown

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

827 October 15, 2009 at 13:41 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com Show shirts IN/Handwarmers/Programs

I have several items that you may wish to pick up.

 
SHOW SHIRT REORDER has arrived.  Please bring a check if you have not paid yet. I will be at the school at 6:00 tonight.
 
We have ordered handwarmers, they will arrive on Friday.  Cost is $1 per pack.  I will have them on Saturday at the school at 5:00 report time.
 
If you wish to purchase a program for the festival, I will also have some on Saturday. Email me if you know you want a copy or two.
 
Thanks!   celeste.denier@gmail.com     Go Knights!
826 October 15, 2009 at 07:29 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Today's Plan 10/15/09

 

Due to the 100% chance of rain from 1pm - 5pm. Rehearsal today is canceled.
 
Please report at 5:30 for dinner.
 
Dress however you need to stay dry and warm.
 
The halftime performance with the 8th grade is canceled.
We will still do a full performance of "Malagueña" at halftime.
We will play "Paint it Black" sometime during the game from the stands.
8th grade band members are still welcome to join us for the National Anthem and in the stands.
 
 
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School


 

825 October 14, 2009 at 11:50 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Today's Task

Previously, Mr. Shearer send out information about blog called "Today's Task" from Mr. Rupert, the band director at Smithsburgh HS (also my band director in PA in my senior year!).  Mr. Rupert sends out a thought or inspirational message every weekday. I wanted to share "Today's Task" with all of you. 

I have always been driven by doing what I think is right. I don’t do things for the money or the glory…after all, I am a school teacher. I get to work early and I stay late. I give extra time to students who are in need, or to create student performing groups that can’t fit within the normal school day. I donate my time to the soccer program as a volunteer coach. All of these things take of my time and energy, but they are the right things to do. Too often, these things seemingly go unnoticed.

The last several weeks have been dedicated to preparing the band for its most important performance of the season. Many hours have been spent, not only in preparing the music and drill design, but also making sure the field is lined for practices. All of these things are done for the benefit of the kids in the program. Last night, when we arrived home from the performance, one of my freshmen said the one thing that makes all the time and energy worthwhile, ‘Thank you.” I didn’t do any more for her than I did for the other 75 kids involved, but for some reason, she did the right thing. She was the only one who said thank you. It saddens me that saying these two important words is no longer part of the social norm. People are more inclined to whine and complain than they are to be thankful for the things they have.

Today, no every day, I encourage you to be thankful for all that life offers. More importantly, I encourage you express that thanks to those who influence your life in some positive way. I can assure you that it will make their efforts seem worthwhile…and it is the right thing to do!

Have a great day!

Mr R

824 October 14, 2009 at 10:39 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Rehearsal Etiquette Take 2

 

Rehearsal Etiquette 
 
A well-defined and executed rehearsal technique has a direct impact on the success of the group. It is expected that all members adhere to the following rehearsal etiquette: 
 
1)      Be in the right place in the right time with the right equipment. You should have the following items with you at all rehearsals: 
a)       Pencil; you will need to write several things down on your music and drill at every rehearsal. It is very difficult to remember everything from rehearsal to rehearsal. 
b)       Music and Drill Sheets  
c)       Water jugs; every member should have a jug of water especially during the summer months. There will also be water provided throughout band camp; however, it is strongly advised that each member bring his/her own water bottle or jug.  
d)      It is also advisable each member brass and woodwind member has a towel to set their instrument on at outdoor rehearsals. Remember, you are responsible for all damage done to a school owned instrument; this includes scratches due to the pavement and cement.
2)      All band members should dress comfortably and appropriately for all rehearsals. It is important for you to realize that we will be outside and moving at nearly every rehearsal. It is also up to you to watch the weather forecast and to dress accordingly. Appropriate clothing for rehearsals include: t-shirts, shorts, sweats, and tennis shoes (no sandals or dress shoes)
3)      Talking during a rehearsal must be kept to a minimum. There is a large number of band members, and a limited number of staff members. We cannot talk over you. Remember, “When the talking starts, learning stops.” Do not waste rehearsal time by talking. If you have a comment or question during a rehearsal, wait until the appropriate time. You will have the opportunity to give your input on a regular basis. We will also give you plenty of breaks for you to re-hydrate and socialize.
4)       Cell Phone use during rehearsal is strictly prohibited. If a student needs to be reached in an emergency, call Mr. Shearer’s cell phone 301-514-5800
5)      Always rehearse in the same manner you would perform. Never expect it all to come together the night or day of the performance. All members need to look at section leaders for instrument carriage horn angles, etc.
6)      Rehearsal etiquette is the same no matter who is conducting.

It is expected that all members come to rehearsal prepared to enjoy the music and movement of the Middletown High School Marching Knights. Practice and memorize at home, before rehearsal.

 

823 October 14, 2009 at 10:35 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Rehearsal Etiquette

As a gentle reminder, I am copying the section in the band manual on rehearsal etiquette.
Please pay close attention to numbers 3, 4, and 5 as these are the issues that have been address at rehearsals lately.  Number 4 has been added due to a increase of cell phone use during rehearsal.

Rehearsal Etiquette 

 

A well-defined and executed rehearsal technique has a direct impact on the success of the group.  It is expected that all members adhere to the following rehearsal etiquette: 

 

1)      Be in the right place in the right time with the right equipment.  You should have the following items with you at all rehearsals: 

a)       Pencil; you will need to write several things down on your music and drill at every rehearsal. It is very difficult to remember everything from rehearsal to rehearsal. 

b)       Music and Drill Sheets  

c)       Water jugs; every member should have a jug of water especially during the summer months.  There will also be water provided throughout band camp; however, it is strongly advised that each member bring his/her own water bottle or jug.  

d)      It is also advisable each member brass and woodwind member has a towel to set their instrument on at outdoor rehearsals.  Remember, you are responsible for all damage done to a school owned instrument; this includes scratches due to the pavement and cement.

2)      All band members should dress comfortably and appropriately for all rehearsals.  It is important for you to realize that we will be outside and moving at nearly every rehearsal.  It is also up to you to watch the weather forecast and to dress accordingly.  Appropriate clothing for rehearsals include: t-shirts, shorts, sweats, and tennis shoes (no sandals or dress shoes). 

3)      Talking during a rehearsal must be kept to a minimum.  There is a large number of band members, and a limited number of staff members.  We cannot talk over you.  Remember, “When the talking starts, learning stops.”  Do not waste rehearsal time by talking.  If you have a comment or question during a rehearsal, wait until the appropriate time.  You will have the opportunity to give your input on a regular basis.  We will also give you plenty of breaks for you to re-hydrate and socialize.

4)       Cell Phone use during rehearsal is strictly prohibited. If a student needs to be reached in an emergency, call Mr. Shearer’s cell phone 301-514-5800

5)      Always rehearse in the same manner you would perform. Never expect it all to come together the night or day of the performance.  All members need to look at section leaders for instrument carriage horn angles, etc.

6)      Rehearsal etiquette is the same no matter who is conducting.

It is expected that all members come to rehearsal prepared to enjoy the music and movement of the Middletown High School Marching Knights.  Practice and memorize at home, before rehearsal.

822 October 13, 2009 at 11:47 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Thursday Dance attire

Note for Dance Line Thursday evening:

I have purchased “Dancing with Pride” shirts for our 8th grade dancers.  Therefore, PLEASE plan on wearing your “Dancing with Pride” shirt for Thursday’s performance.  You’ll also be wearing your warm-up pants.  You will NOT change into costumes for the show (not enough time).  Don’t wait until the last minute!  Find your warm-up pants and T-shirts today!!!

Dee

821 October 13, 2009 at 09:52 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Competiton Tickets Available

I have tickets for the following competitions:
 
October 17, 2009
MD State Championship
Germantown, MD
$12
 
November 8, 2009
USSBA National Championship
Navy-Marine Corps Stadium
Annapolis, MD
$20
 
Thanks,
Pam

820 October 13, 2009 at 09:51 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Programs Available at Booster Meeting

County Festival Programs will be available for sale at tonight's Booster Meeting.  The programs are $5 each and contain a full page, color copy of the group picture of the band.  Celeste Denier did a great job creating the program.  She made a special effort to put together a quality booklet that the students and parents can keep to remember this year's marching season. 
 
We want to make the programs available to you in advance for your convenience. You won't want to risk forgetting to get one at the Festival (which can happen easily since we will all be busy working).  Also, if you get it tonight, you don't have to worry about carrying it around or leaving it somewhere on Festival night.  Quantities are limited.  Please don't count on getting one after the Festival.  Our goal is to sell out! 
 
See Celeste after the Booster Meeting tonight to get your copy.
 
See you tonight,
Pam

819 October 12, 2009 at 23:33 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Booster/County Festival Meeting 10/13/2009

Just a reminder that the Booster Executive Meeting will be tomorrow, October 13, 2009 at 6:30 pm in the band room.  The meeting is open to anyone that would like to attend.  The General Meeting/County Festival meeting will be at 7:30 pm in room 210.  We will go through the officers' reports quickly and then turn the meeting over to Nick Cockerham for information about the County Festival.  Everyone that is volunteering at the County Festival should plan to attend this meeting.
 
See you tomorrow!
Pam

818 October 12, 2009 at 15:25 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Dance Line T-shirts

I am asking CLH to make 2 shirts for the 2 8th graders who are dancing with us.  If any dancers have lost their shirt and need to purchase one, I need to know right away. 

Also, we are looking for Jordan DuMars shirt, which was last seen at Heritage Days Parade when she changed costumes to join the studio dance company.  Please let Jordan or her mom know right away if you have it! 

Thank you.

Dee

817 October 12, 2009 at 14:42 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org JMU 10/24 Updated Schedule

An awards ceremony has been added to the schedule for the JMU Parade of Champions on 10/24.

This means our awards will be sometime around 5:00pm. This allows us to depart earlier than planned and we should be home around 8pm.  It is still a tentative schedule so our return time could still change +/- an hour at most.

You can see our new itinerary online at www.mhsknightsband.net/marching/jmu.htm

This does not change anyone's request to leave early to attend homecoming.

There are still many people who have requested the absence online but have not obtained administrative approval. 

YOU MUST GET ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVAL IN ORDER FOR ME TO ALLOW YOU TO LEAVE JMU EARLY!!

Thank you!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

816 October 12, 2009 at 09:02 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com MHS Marching Knights Band Photos Now Available!

MHS Marching Knights are very fortunate to have their own personal band photographer.  You will see Maria Pope and her camera at the competitions, football games, fundraisers and numerous other band activities.  Maria volunteers her time and does a great job capturing many special band moments.  Last year, Maria decided to post her pictures to a website so they would be available if anyone wanted to purchase a photo.  She graciously agreed to donate a portion of the net proceeds to the MHS Band Boosters. 

Maria has decided to open the website again this year and she now has it up and running. She has started posting photographs and will continue to add to the site throughout the season.  E-mails will be sent to let you know when new photos are added.  The photos will be for available for purchase through November 30, 2009.

Please take time to visit the site.  Maria does a beautiful job with the photos.  If you have not seen the group photo Maria took for us this year, stop by the band room and take a look.  The group photo is one of many you can buy on the website. 

To get into the website:

Type into your computer browser: www.collages.net

In the "View and Event" type in the Username: MHS Band 2009

Type in the password: 18103-MHS and click "Go".

Type in your email address and name, then, enjoy the images.

Pam

815 October 09, 2009 at 11:10 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Report at 5pm Monday!

On Monday October 12, we will be playing the National Anthem for the field hockey game.

5:00 Report
5:15 In Block - no uniforms, wear band shirts and jeans please.
5:30 Play National Anthem in stadium for field hockey game

Rehearsal to follow.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

814 October 09, 2009 at 10:38 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org JMU/Homecoming Reminder

This is a reminder that you must obtain administrative approval to leave the JMU competition early to attend homecoming

AND

that you MUST ALSO complete an absence request through your student info page on the band website!! 

I have received administrative approvals from some students who have yet to request the absence online.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members


NOTE:

In order to leave JMU early you must have administrative approval.

To avoid an unexcused absence you must complete the request online before tomorrow ends!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

813 October 09, 2009 at 07:28 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Tomorrow's "Tailgate"-aka Picnic-Location Change

The location for Saturday's "Tailgate" (picnic) has been changed.  We will set up right on the band practice field at MHS.  You will need to bring your own chairs or a blanket to sit on.  We could use a couple more tables for the food.  If you can bring a table, please let me know.
 
 As a reminder-students are to report to the school at 2:00 pm for practice. They will break at 3:45 pm for dinner.  Students will begin to get ready to depart for the competition at 5:45 pm.   
 
If you have not paid the $20 per family fee, please do so now. 
 
Don't miss this opportunity for great food and time to relax and socialize with the students, staff and band families!   See you all on Saturday!
 
Pam

812 October 07, 2009 at 10:36 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Bus to JMU-Extra Seats $20

Want to go to JMU but don't want to drive?  There will be about 30 extra seats on the charter buses going to JMU.  Family members may reserve a seat for $20 per person. Please make sure all siblings are accompanied by an adult.  These seats will be available on a first come, first serve basis.  Checks can be made payable to MHS Band Boosters and can be put in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office.  Please write "JMU Bus Fee" and the number of seats you are reserving in the memo portion of the check.  As always, please place all checks in an envelope and write your student's name and the purpose of the payment on the outside of the envelope so make sure we are applying your payments properly.
 
Thanks,
Pam

811 October 07, 2009 at 10:36 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com JMU Bus Fees
The JMU charter bus fee for this year is $40 per student. 
 
If the student has money in their student account, the bus fee will be automatically deducted. You will not need to do anything. 
 
If the student does not have money in their account, please pay the $40 now. Checks should be made payable to MHS Band Boosters and should be put in an envelope and placed in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office. Please write your student's name and  "JMU Bus Fee" on both the check and the outside of the envelope.
 
If the student has some money in their account but not enough to cover the $40 fee, the amount in the account will be reduced to zero and the student will need to pay the balance due.  Please pay the balance due now. Checks should be made payable to MHS Band Boosters and should be put in an envelope and placed in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office. Please write your student's name and "JMU Bus Fee" on both the check and the outside of the envelope.
 
You can find out how much money is in the student's account by going to the band website, click on "student info" and sign into their account (two part sign in required).  The balance in the account is posted under their ID number on the left side.
 
Chaperones selected by Dee Buchanan and two uniform helpers selected by Karen Thomas will ride at no charge.  A separate e-mail will be sent with information for family members that would like to reserve a seat on the charter bus. 
 
Thanks,
Pam
810 October 07, 2009 at 07:40 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Rehearsal with 8th grade

The Marching Knights will be rehearsing with the 8th grade on Monday afternoon (10/12). 

You will be excused from class at 1:35. 
At that time you should grab your instruments and head directly to the practice field ready to begin at 1:45.  Practice may run past the end of the school day, if you must ride the bus or cannot find another ride home, that is fine, you may leave at 2:15. 
Your 4th block teacher may choose to keep you in class. 
Please make sure you talk to your 4th block teacher this week about the rehearsal!

We will be playing "Paint it Black" by the Rolling Stones.  Music will be handed out at today's rehearsal.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

809 October 06, 2009 at 16:50 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Student Volunteers Needed

We are in need of about 15 student volunteers to help at the County Festival. (Students in the marching band cannot volunteer since they will be with the band all evening.)  We are looking several responsible middle or high school students to stamp people's hands, collect tickets, carry air grams from the air gram table to the press box, deliver candy grams, and assist in the bus/parking areas. 
 
Please spread the word.  Volunteers need to contact me at bob8har@aol.com to be added to the list.
 
Thank you,
Pam

808 October 06, 2009 at 16:44 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Booster Meeting/County Fest Meeting Oct 13

We will have a combination Booster Meeting/County Festival Update Meeting at 7:30 pm, October 13, 2009 in Room 210.  All County Festival volunteers should attend this meeting.  I plan to take a short time to address any general Booster issues and then turn the meeting over to Nick Cockerham, County Festival Chairperson, who will address important, general information about the Festival including, a schedule of events, location of activities/restrooms/first aid station, how to dress, ID badges, how the bands will flow from the warm-up area to the field and off the field, how money will be handled at the end of the night, etc. There will be time at the end of the meeting for the individual Festival Chairpeople to meet with their volunteers to provide more detailed information about their specific jobs (time to arrive, where to meet, what you will be doing, etc.)  This will be your chance to ask any questions you may have. 
 
There will be a Booster Executive Committee Meeting at 6:30 pm on October 13th in the band room.  As always, anyone is welcome to attend.
 
If you have anything you would like on the agenda for either meeting, please let me know. 
 
Let me take this opportunity to thank all of your for your tremendous support this season.  You have been great!  Just wait until you see how many of you are giving your time to help with the Festival.  It is incredible!   
 
Thank you,
Pam 

807 October 05, 2009 at 21:25 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org JMU and Homecoming...

If you are planning to leave the JMU competition after we perform to attend the homecoming dance you must do the following:
(this is the policy for whenever you do not

1. Request the absence through your student info page before October 10th (required 2 week notice) www.mhsknightsband.net/members

2. Write a letter or email to Assistance Principal, Donna Clabaugh (donna.clabaugh@fcps.org) detailing when you plan to leave JMU and who is driving. Something like this should work just fine.

Please allow (student's name) to ride home with (name and relationship of driver) following the marching band's performance at James Madison University on Oct 24th, 2009 so that (he/she) may attend the homecoming dance.

Sincerely,

(name and relationship of person writing request)

3. Donna Clabaugh will then review your request and if approved, print and sign the email for my records.

 

You are still responsible for the full cost the the charter bus fee.

 

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

806 October 05, 2009 at 11:59 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com TAILGATE TIME!

Hey Everyone,
 
Are you ready to TAILGATE!  Our first tailgate will take place this Saturday, October 10th in Middletown Park (Park on Coblentz Road near the school).  The exact spot has yet to be determined and will be announced later.  Two other tailgates are planned for JMU (October 24) and Annapolis (November 8).
 
This Saturday, the students are to report to the school at 2:00 pm for practice. They will break at 3:45 pm for dinner.  This is when we will meet for the tailgate.  Parents and siblings are welcome and encouraged to come.  The students will report back to the school at 5:45 pm to get ready to depart for the competition. 
 
When you see Mary Sweeney, be sure to say THANK YOU.  She was informed about this tailgate this past Saturday and has been a great sport about putting everything together quickly. 
 
Mary plans to have a Taco Tailgate.  She HAS all the fixin's for the tacos (shells, meat, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, etc.), rice, nachos and cheese, sodas, water, plates, plasticware and napkins.
 
She  NEEDS fruit, desserts, salads, Mexican beans, and a veggie platter. Also if anyone can provide a vegetarian dish that goes well with the taco theme, that would be greatly appreciated. 
 
Mary will also NEED crock pots and some people that can help set up and clean up.
 
If you can provide food, a crock pot or assistance, please e-mail Mary at maryesweeney@msn.com and let her know what you will bring or when you can come to help. 
 
If you have not paid the $20 (per family) tailgating fee, please do so before Saturday!
 
See you all there,
Pam

805 October 04, 2009 at 12:30 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Frederick News Post Today

Hello Everyone!
 
Today's Frederick News Post (Sunday, October 4) has a great picture of the drum majors from the Frederick County High School Bands that will be performing at the County Festival.  There is also a short announcement for the Festival next to the photograph. (Page C-14)  We owe a special thank you to Cyndy Zolfo for getting the drum majors together for the photo and for all her efforts to get the county bands this recognition in our local newspaper. 
 
I also want to say congratulations to Mr. Shearer and all the students for the terrific performance yesterday.  You should all be very proud of your accomplishments.  I look forward to watching you shine the remainder of the season!
 
Pam
 
 

804 October 04, 2009 at 12:30 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Awesome Job!

Congratulations on an awesome performance at Westminster yesterday!! The judges and especially the crowd loved the show!

Winning best visual performance is a clear result of the time we focused on cleaning up our visual aspects of the show this past week. This is our strong point right now, but we certainly have PLENTY of work to do to make it perfect!

You musical performance was good, and we have made great strides in this area since our first show. The good news is that we really haven't focused a whole lot on making the music more precise and effective lately so we have A LOT of potential to make the music better. The music for the drum line is still very new to them (because of a lot of rewrites) so they have a tremendous amount of room to improve once they have some time to tighten up their parts. All musicians have an opportunity to add more dynamics to the music and clean up articulations and style to improve our music performance (4th place yesterday) and overall effect (3rd place yesterday).

Now we focus on improving our show faster than Urbana improves their show so we can pass them next week, and also not let any bands we've already beat catch up to us. This mean focusing on making rehearsals even more productive. We are getting to a point where we will be very picky. Our goal is perfection... being in your exact spot (within the form), playing all correct notes in tune with appropriate dynamics and style, carrying your body with proper fundamentals, rolling the feet, horn angles, flag angles, faces, I can go on and on... We need to learn to PERFORM our show rather than just learn the show.

I commend all of you on being very well behaved in the stands yesterday. Everyone (almost) had appropriate clothing to wear, you sat together as clearly defined group, and you were respectful of the bands performing. This is all a lot more than we could say about a few the bands around us. As the weather gets colder be sure to plan ahead as to how you will display our school colors. I will be a little less picky with colors once it's really cold since you will need heavy winter jackets.

Congrats again, and thank you for a great Saturday!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

803 October 01, 2009 at 15:04 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Competition Ticket Information

I do not have advance tickets for this Saturday's competition at Westminster High School.  You can purchase tickets at the gate for $15. 
 
I do have tickets for the competition at Centennial High School on 10/10/2009.  Tickets will be $10 for adults, $5 for students.
 
I also have tickets for the MD State Championship at Northwest High School on 10/17/2009.  These tickets are $12 each.  We are required to sell 50 tickets for this show (meaning Boosters pay for 50 tickets whether we sell them or not).  So if you are planning to go to the competition (other than as a chaperone, uniform helper or pit crew member), it would really help the band if you could purchase your tickets from us.  I will have the tickets from now until we arrive at the competition. 
 
For USSBA competitions, children 8 and under are free.  I assume this would apply to the State Championship on 10/17 as well.  I will contact USSBA to confirm this and will send out another e-mail only if my assumption is incorrect.
 
If you have any questions you can reach me at 301-371-7828 or by e-mail at bob8har@aol.com.
 
Thanks,
Pam

802 October 01, 2009 at 09:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Marching Knights Photo

At the beginning of practice tomorrow (Friday), we will be taking a group photo.

Bring EVERYTHING you need to dress in FULL UNIFORM (black pants) to school.
Shoes, Socks, Accessories, etc...

Basically, bring everything you would bring to school if we were to have a game tomorrow.

In order to end practice on time, please get dressed as soon as possible after school.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

801 October 01, 2009 at 07:21 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All County Band Forms Due

Forms to audition for All County Band are due today!  Please get them to me as soon as possible!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

800 September 30, 2009 at 08:28 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Today's Task

Students (parents, colleagues, and staff),

I have recently been introduced to a blog written by Mr. Gary Rupert, who was my predecessor and has been the band director at Smithsburg High School for the past 7 years.  His messages started as an outreach to his students and has since spread to many other people.

His post today is perfect for where our marching band is now.  Please read and reflect on the following:

In 1976, Indiana University’s basketball team was undefeated throughout the regular season and captured the NCAA National Championship. Controversial and colorful coach Bobby Knight led them to that championship. Shortly afterward, Coach Knight was interviewed on 60 Minutes. The commentators asked him, “Why is it, Bobby, that your basketball teams at Indiana are always successful? Is it the will to succeed?”

“The will to succeed is important,” Knight replied, “but I’ll tell you what’s more important: It’s the will to prepare. It’s the will to go out there every day, training and building those muscles and sharpening those skills!”

I am a true believer in these wise words from Coach Knight. Too often, students claim they want to be successful in band or on the soccer field, but their efforts during practice do not support that claim. They will give their best effort during a performance or game, but their best is minimized because their practice habits have not allowed them to develop their skills to a high enough degree. Too often, this lack of discipline results in opportunities lost.

Today, no every day, I encourage you understand the value of preparation in your life. Success depends, not merely on how well you do the things you enjoy, but how conscientiously you perform the things you don’t.

Have a great day!

Mr R

If you are interested in reading more of Mr. Rupert's messages please see the following sites:

http://todaystask.wordpress.com/

http://www.todaynoeveryday.com

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

799 September 30, 2009 at 07:10 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com County Festival-We Need You!

Hello!
 
Can you believe October is almost here?  In just about 3 weeks MHS will host the County Festival.  Marching bands from nine Frederick County schools will come to our field to perform.  That means hundreds of performers and hundreds of spectators, all at MHS for a night of great entertainment.  Nick Cockerham and his committee members have been working very hard for months planning and organizing this event. 
 
The committee chairpeople have been soliciting volunteers to help with the many tasks that need to be done.  If you have already volunteered to help, I want to say THANK YOU!  Your help is greatly appreciated!
 
If you have not already volunteered to help, WE NEED YOU!  You would only need to commit to helping on the night of the Festival, October 19.  We still  need people to help with concessions, sell programs, operate the wireless microphone, set up the trophy table, attend to the judges, sell tickets, work the pit crew and more. 
 
Please think about what you can do to help and then contact the committee chairperson for the area in which you want to volunteer.  If you do not have a preference, contact Nick Cockerham and he will determine where your services could best be used.
 
Below is a list of committee chairpeople, volunteers and positions still needed.  If you have volunteered to help but do not see your name on the list, please let me know so I can add you.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Nick Cockerham at 240-409-7901 or send me an e-mail.
 
Thanks,
Pam
 
County Festival Chairperson:  Nick Cockerham   240-409-7901
 
Band Host/Parking- Chairperson: Shelly Hill  lehseh@comcast.net  Volunteers:  Lesley Dorsey, Jim Johnson  (Shelly has many community members lined up to help.) (? more people needed)
 
Programs- Chairperson: Celeste Denier  celeste.denier@gmail.com   Volunteers:  Dawn Mowell, LeAnn Moore  (2 more people needed)                
 
Hospitality- Chairperson: Cyndy Zolfo  cdz6@comcast.net  (4 people needed-judge attendants, wireless mic, trophy table)
              
Press Box- Chairperson: Will Meadors   wmeadors@yahoo.com  (2 people needed to run Air Grams to the press box)
 
Concessions:- Chairperson: Mary Sweeney  maryesweeney@msn.com   Volunteers:  Dave Sweeney, Jennifer Smith, Kim Bower, Kathy McCahey, Yvonne Kepler, Jessica Bower, Nancy VomLehn, Jagruti Desai, Susan O'Neill, Karen Thomas, Mike Wojton, Beth Guyton  (7 more people needed)
 
Fundraising-Chairpeople:  Liz Buckley  lizjimb@comcast.net  and Mary Jacques  mary.jacques@fcps.org   Volunteers:  Dan Tipsord, Jan Titus, Jan Rockwell, Sandy Caho, Patricia Staples (? more people needed) 
 
And for our own band (must have attended chaperone training):
Chaperones:  Dee Buchanan, Jan Titus, Ann Soule, Cindy Doggett
 
Pit Crew:  Bob Harris (4 more people needed-please contact Jim Johnson at warjim@verizon.net)
 
Uniform Helpers:  (2 people needed-please contact Karen Thomas at kthomas98@gmail.com)
 
 
                     
 
 

798 September 28, 2009 at 17:23 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Maillist Info

All emails sent through this maillist are proofed, editted, and actually sent by Mr. Shearer, regardless of who they are "From:"

This allows you to easily respond to the person who wrote the email.  Mr. Shearer does not get email responses, unless of course the email came from Matthew.Shearer@fcps.org.

Those people who would like to send out an email compose the email and send it to Mr. Shearer.
There is no need to say, "please send out..." when mailling Mr. Shearer.
The "Subject" of the email to Mr. Shearer should match that of the email being sent out.
Please include a different signature line if you do now want me to include the one automatically included by your mail system.

The system does not handle attachments well.  If you can avoid an attachment, please do so!
For other situations when you would like to get a "form" sent out, Mr. Shearer will upload the form to the website and include a link to the form in the email.

Emails sent through the maillist are not SPAM, please do not report  them as SPAM and please check your junk mail periodically for emails from this maillist.  Sometimes emails get caught there when a new person uses the maillist.

Sincerely,
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

797 September 28, 2009 at 17:06 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Absence Policy Update / Reminder

What is an absence?
- An absence occurs whenever you miss any portion of any Marching Knight activity. Those activities include, but are not limited to, rehearsals, games, competitions, and parades.

When do I submit an absence request?
- As soon as you know of an absence!!
- Planned absences must be requested with at least 2 weeks notice.
- Emergency requests should be completed as soon as you have access to the internet. 
- When emergencies occur, call Mr. Shearer ASAP (even before submitting the request online), and you still must complete the request online.
- If you are not in school you now are also required to submit your Marching Knight absence.
- If you are asking yourself whether or not you need to submit an absence request, then you need to sumbit an absence request.

How do I submit my request?
- Go to your student info page on the band website
- http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members/
- Follow the instructions on the request page AND the page you see once you submit!

Will my request be approved?
- Yes, If you submitted a legitimate request with at least 2 weeks notice.
- Yes, if your request was a true emergency.
- Yes, if you also made verbal contact with Mr. Shearer regarding your absence.
- Not likely, if your reqest is for a social or entertainment activity.
- College visits are legitimite requests when made with at least 2 weeks notice.
- Always check your student info page periodically after your request to check th

For all requests related to an MHS activity, the Conflict Resolution form must ALSO be completed.

See the Attendance Policy in the Marching Knights Manual for more info.

Please plan and communicate responsibly!

Sincerely,
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

 

796 September 26, 2009 at 14:06 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Competition Update 9/26

The current plan:

4:00 Report / Chaperone Meeting
4:15 Load up and depart
5:30 Arrive at Century High School
7:00 Perform
7:20 Change out of Uniform
7:45 Watch remaining bands/Eat concessions
8:45 Awards
9:30 Depart for MHS

10:30 Arrive in Middletown

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

795 September 25, 2009 at 09:17 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Gator Bowl Refunds

The Boosters will issue refunds from the Gator Bowl trip after we receive our deposits back from the bus company and from Bowl Games.  We just do not have sufficient funds in the operating account to cover all the refunds and leave enough for the operating expenses without getting our money back first.  I have already contacted the appropriate people and requested the deposits be refunded.  I do not know how long it will take to receive the money. I appreciate your patience and understanding. 
 
Thank you,
Pam 

794 September 24, 2009 at 11:41 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com (final?) update

Cindy Doggett will take the Festival spot.  So we’ve got it all covered!

 

Football chaperones, you need to arrive at 6:30 pm for each home football game. 

 

THANK YOU! Dee

793 September 24, 2009 at 10:54 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Updated Chaperone List

After receiving your emails and additional offerings of help (thank you!), I’m providing an updated version of our schedule.  PLEASE REFER TO THIS SCHEDULE RATHER THAN THE PREVIOUS ONE.  Even if you didn’t email me changes or additions, I may have needed to rearrange based on availability you mentioned in your first email to me.  THANK YOU VERY MUCH!   (And we still need just one more chaperone for County Festival!)

 

Event

Date

 

Chaperones

Home Game

Friday, 9/25

1

Beth Cockerham

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Shelly Hill

 

 

5

Patricia Staples

 

 

6

Sandy Caho

 

 

 

 

Parade

Saturday, 9/26

1

Linda Sevin

 

 

2

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Kathy McCahey

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Jessica Bower

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 9/26

1

Cindy Doggett

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Jan Titus

 

 

4

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

5

Patricia Staples

 

 

6

Jag Desai

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/3

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Beth Cockerham

 

 

3

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

4

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

5

Susan Tipsord

 

 

6

Cindy Doggett

 

 

 

 

Home Game

Friday, 10/9

1

Sandy Caho

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Susan Tipsord

 

 

5

Shelly Hill

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/10

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Beth Cockerham

 

 

3

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

4

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

5

Cindy Doggett

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Home Game (w/ 8th grade)

Thursday, 10/15

1

Beth Cockerham

 

 

2

Linda Sevin

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

Mary Sweeney

 

 

6

Anne Soule

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/17

1

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

2

Cindy Doggett

 

 

3

Sandy Caho

 

 

4

LeAnn Moore?

 

 

5

Anne Soule

 

 

6

Jan Titus

 

 

 

 

County Festival

Monday, 10/19

1

Jan Titus

 

 

2

Jessica Bower

 

 

3

Anne Soule

 

 

4

Jag Desai

 

 

5

Dee Buchanan

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

Homecoming Game

Friday, 10/23

1

LeAnn Moore

 

 

2

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Patricia Staples

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Jag Desai

 

 

 

 

JMU Competition

Saturday, 10/24

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

3

Cindy Doggett

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

Jag Desai

 

 

6

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

 

 

Halloween Parade

Thursday, 10/29

1

Linda Sevin

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Sandy Caho

 

 

4

Jessica Bower

 

 

5

Pam Harris

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Home Game (Senior Night)

Friday, 11/6

1

LeAnn Moore

 

 

2

Jan Rockwell

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Patricia Staples

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Mary Sweeney

 

 

 

 

National Competition

Sunday, 11/8

1

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

2

Susan Tipsord

 

 

3

Cindy Doggett

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

Jan Rockwell

 

 

6

Anne Soule

 

 

 

791 September 24, 2009 at 06:59 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com No Advance Tickets for Saturday 9/26

We do not have advance tickets for this Saturday's competition at Century High School.  Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

$10.00/adults
$5.00/ students and seniors
4 and under free...
 
Staff will receive wristbands.  I will make sure chaperones, uniform helpers, pit Dads selected to go on the field and Maria (photographer) receive either a wristband or a ticket. 
 
Thanks,
Pam

790 September 23, 2009 at 15:29 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com Tailgating

Dear Band Families,
 
Just a reminder to please turn in your tailgating money.  I am buying supplies and getting everything ready for JMU. 
 
We are asking each family to initially contribute $20.00 to cover the
cost for the meals. Please drop off your money in the band office safe
as soon as possible and note "Tailgating" on your deposit or you can
give it to Mary Sweeney when you see me.
 
I will be at the Friday night game dinner and the Friday night game this week. 
 
Thanks
Mary Sweeney

789 September 22, 2009 at 14:21 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Chaperone Schedule (Final Take, sorry!)

Thank you to our chaperones for being so generous with their time!  This schedule was very easy!  Here’s what we still need:

 

1 chaperone for 10/17

2 chaperones for 10/24

3 chaperones for County Festival on 10/19  **Nick Cockerham, please stop taking all my helpers!

 

Please let me know if I’ve volunteered you for a date you can’t work.  THANKS!!!  Dee

 

Event

Date

 

Chaperones

Home Game

Friday, 9/25

1

Beth Cockerham

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Shelly Hill

 

 

5

Patricia Staples

 

 

6

Sandy Caho

 

 

 

 

Parade

Saturday, 9/26

1

Linda Sevin

 

 

2

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Kathy McCahey

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Jessica Bower

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 9/26

1

Cindy Doggett

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Jan Titus

 

 

4

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

5

Patricia Staples

 

 

6

Susan Tipsord

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/3

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Beth Cockerham

 

 

3

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

4

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

5

Susan Tipsord

 

 

6

Cindy Doggett

 

 

 

 

Home Game

Friday, 10/9

1

Sandy Caho

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

4

Susan Tipsord

 

 

5

Shelly Hill

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/10

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Beth Cockerham

 

 

3

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

4

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

5

Cindy Doggett

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Home Game (w/ 8th grade)

Thursday, 10/15

1

Beth Cockerham

 

 

2

Linda Sevin

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

Mary Sweeney

 

 

6

Anne Soule

 

 

 

 

Competition

Saturday, 10/17

1

Yvonne Kepler

 

 

2

Cindy Doggett

 

 

3

Sandy Caho

 

 

4

LeAnn Moore?

 

 

5

Anne Soule

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

County Festival

Monday, 10/19

1

Jan Titus

 

 

2

Jessica Bower

 

 

3

Anne Soule

 

 

4

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

Homecoming Game

Friday, 10/23

1

LeAnn Moore

 

 

2

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Patricia Staples

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Mary Sweeney

 

 

 

 

JMU Competition

Saturday, 10/24

1

Pam Harris

 

 

2

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

3

Cindy Doggett

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

Halloween Parade

Thursday, 10/29

1

Linda Sevin

 

 

2

LeAnn Moore

 

 

3

Sandy Caho

 

 

4

Jessica Bower

 

 

5

Pam Harris

 

 

6

Patricia Staples

 

 

 

 

Home Game (Senior Night)

Friday, 11/6

1

LeAnn Moore

 

 

2

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

3

Susan Tipsord

 

 

4

Patricia Staples

 

 

5

Sandy Caho

 

 

6

Mary Sweeney

 

 

 

 

National Competition

Sunday, 11/8

1

Nancy vom Lehn

 

 

2

Susan Tipsord

 

 

3

Cindy Doggett

 

 

4

Sandy Caho

 

 

5

LeAnn Moore?

 

 

6

Anne Soule

 

786 September 22, 2009 at 06:57 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Gator Bowl Update Meeting-Summary

Thanks to those of you that were able to attend the Gator Bowl Update Meeting on such short notice.  For those of you who were not able to attend, I want to provide a brief explanation of the purpose of the meeting and the outcome of the meeting.
 
In total, 30 students signed up to participate in the trip.  Although,we had a fairly good response from non-Rookie members, we did not pick up as many Rookies as we had hoped.  Recently, some students have expressed a desire to drop out of the trip because less than half the band is going.  When this information was presented to Mr. Shearer, he looked at the participant list and determined there were sections of instruments that were not represented.  A decision was made that since we did not have the proper balance of instruments, we would not be able to compete in the field show or the parade.  The Booster committee felt $1,400 was too much to spend to stand on the field for a few minutes with thousands of other students during the Gator Bowl half time show and to go to Universal Studios.  Therefore, it was recommended the trip be canceled for this year. A vote was taken and all parents at the meeting were in favor of canceling. 
 
Each participant will receive a full refund of the money that has been paid to date.  Please give us a little time to get all the checks written.   
 
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 301-371-7828 or send me an e-mail.
 
Thank you,
Pam

785 September 21, 2009 at 10:42 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com NOT TOO LATE for Photo Ads/Show shirts

Good news!  We have an order for 12 Malaquena shirts, so if you want one, please let me know ASAP so I can add it to the reorder!

You can still submit a photo ad for your student!  We have 3 from Tuscarora, only 2 from Mtown.  : (
Don't miss this opportunity!!  Just email me   celeste.denier@gmail.com and let me know of your intentions.
I am finishing the program this week.  If you want to take a photo of your student on Sat at the parade/competition, send me the message and email me the photo on Sunday.
Maria Pope, our awesome band photographer, is taking the group shots this weekend!

--
Peace,
  Celeste

784 September 18, 2009 at 14:42 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Nov. 7th SAT

I received word from USSBA that our Sunday, Nov. 8th date for the National Competition is locked in and you can safely sign up for the Nov. 7th SAT.

And FYI... the registration deadline is Oct 1st for the Nov 7th SAT.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

783 September 18, 2009 at 12:45 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Gator Bowl Update Meeting

There will be an important Gator Bowl update meeting Monday, September 21, 2009 at 5:30 pm in the band room for parents of students participating in the trip. 
 
Please plan to attend.
 
Pam

782 September 17, 2009 at 08:13 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com 9/17 chaperones

Can the following 5 people please chaperone this evening? 

Jessica Bower
Sandy Caho
Cindy Doggett
Shelly Hill
Patricia Staples
 

-- I realize that three of you just stated that I should use you if I need you.  Well, guess what?

 Please let me know.  THANK YOU for your hard work on behalf of our students!

781 September 17, 2009 at 07:23 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Gator Bowl Info Needed

Hello everyone!
 
If you are planning to attend the Gator Bowl but are not booking your trip through the band, please contact me.   I need an updated list as soon as possible.
 
Thank you,
Pam

780 September 16, 2009 at 15:08 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Tentative Schedules for 9/26 and 10/10 are posted

Schedules are posted for Century HS 9/26 and Centennial High School 10/10

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/marching/

click on the show location and date in the table of competitions

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

779 September 16, 2009 at 09:57 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Chaperone Assignments

Did you attend chaperone training?

 

Are you planning on CHAPERONING for Marching Knights events?  (This DOES NOT include helping with uniforms or being a Pit helper.)

 

If you answered YES to both of these questions, please fill out the below questionnaire and return it to me via email immediately.  Thanks very much!!!!  is of the essence because we need Thursday evening chaperones!  Thank you for your willingness to help!

 

Marching Knights Chaperone Questionnaire

2009-2010

 

Name: __________________________________________________

 

I am interested in chaperoning for __________(number) of trips.  Please assign me to trips based on my availability listed below.

Availability:

_____  Thursday, 9/17, Home Football Game

_____  Friday, 9/25, Home Football Game

_____  Saturday, 9/26 (morning), Heritage Days Parade

_____  Saturday, 9/26, Band Competition

_____  Saturday, 10/3, Band Competition

_____  Friday, 10/9, Home Football Game

_____  Saturday, 10/10, Band Competition

_____  Thursday, 10/15, Home Football Game

_____  Saturday, 10/17, Band Competition

_____  Monday, 10/19, County Band Festival at MHS

_____  Friday, 10/23, Home Football Game

_____  Saturday, 10/24, JMU Parade of Champions Band Competition*

_____  Thursday, 10/29, Middletown Halloween Parade

_____  Friday, 11/6, Home Football Game

_____  Sunday, 11/8, National Championship Band Competition

 

*Please note that MHS Homecoming is also 10/24.  Some students will be requesting an administrative waiver to leave early with their parents.  If there is any possibility you will need to leave early from JMU, please DO NOT volunteer to chaperone for that date.  Thank you!

778 September 15, 2009 at 16:52 Nancy vom Lehn nancy.vomlehn@fcps.org bingo final results

Dear Band Families,
 
 I can't begin to thank you for all of your help and support with bingo this year. 
 
There were so many items donated for baskets that we ran out of baskets to put them in!   We have items to create baskets to raffle off at some later event ( like Oct. 19! ) 
 
One of our donors was accidentally left off of the list on Sunday - my appologies again ! - I want to thank Cruise Holidays of Frederick for their very generous donation of a $50 gift certificate, tote bag and passport / document case.
 
Now for the numbers ( drum roll, please !)  
  • 210 tickets were sold
  • 173 people attended the bingo on Sunday
  • many raffle tickets, special games, 50/50 raffle tickets,and  delicous food items were purchased 
  • many band members and parents put in many volunteer hours Sunday to help make it a successful event

RESULTING IN A PROFIT OF OVER  $5500 !!!!!!!   Way to go Band ! 

None of this could have been done without the help of all of the band families.  I think we have the best band families ever!!  Thank you again one and all !    

now to begin planning for next year.......

Nancy vom Lehn

Basket Bingo Chair, 2009 ( anyone else want to take over ?)

777 September 15, 2009 at 10:55 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com Show Shirt Reorder/Scrubs/Photo Ads

Show Shirt Reorder:
         We have requests for 5 show shirts, but we need a minimum of 12 to reorder.  Send email to celeste.denier@gmail.com ASAP if you are interested.

Scrubs:
        If you do not have a pair of white scrubs, Frederick Uniform in Amber Meadows Shop Center may have want you need.
        We can't place another order because of high shipping costs.
        You will not need them for Thursday's game.  We are wearing the black pants.

Parents:
      If you wish to place a photo ad in the Festival program, please submit them to me soon.  All I need is the color photo JPG (300 dpi) and your message.  I'll do the rest.
      It is a permanent record of your love and support!!  (Teary eyes :) 
      Cost is $25 for 1/4 pg, $45 for 1/2 page.  Email me with order and check # and give me the check or drop in the lockbox

Thanks!


--
Peace,
  Celeste

776 September 15, 2009 at 09:24 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Volunteer Needed to Organize Senior Dinner

Hello Everyone,
 
I am looking for someone (preferably a parent of a Junior) to organize the Senior Dinner which will be held on November 6th.  Mary Sweeney has agreed to help.  Mary assisted with the dinner last year so she will be able to provide direction and information which will make the job a lot easier. (Mary is organizing the football dinners, tailgating and concessions at the County Festival so I appreciate her willingness to help with the Senior Dinners as well!)
 
If you are willing to organize this event, please let me know. 
 
Thank you,
Pam

772 September 14, 2009 at 15:40 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org No Competition, 9/19/09

Reminder:  There is no longer a competition this Saturday, Sept 19, 2009.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

771 September 12, 2009 at 10:58 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net Knightmare shirts will arrive Sept 21! HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED! 

The new “Knightmare” spirit shirts will be arriving on September 21st!

·          Parent volunteers are needed to sell the shirts at the home football games. 

·         Shirts are sold 30 minutes prior to the game, and we pack up shop just after half time.   

·         Shirts will also be sold once a week during 3rd block lunches in the cafeteria.  Parent volunteers needed for this also.

·         Band students  will have an opportunity to sell shirts to classmates for trip account credit. 

 

Questions?   Email me!

Cyndy Zolfo

770 September 12, 2009 at 10:58 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Mail List Subscribe

To AOL users who need to update their email address (to a non aol address),

To subscribe a different email address to the list please visit [PREFERENCES]

Thank you!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

769 September 12, 2009 at 10:41 Pam Harris bob8har@comcast.net Meals for today

I just want to let everyone know that we will NOT be tailgating today.  As of now, the only trips scheduled for tailgating are JMU and Annapolis.  We will notify you if this changes. 

 Mr. Shearer told the students to plan meals according the schedule.  Keep in mind, FCPS Bus rules do not allow eating while the bus is in motion.  Also, due to the schedule there will not be time for concessions.

 Therefore, please make sure your student has eaten BEFORE reporting to the school. 

Thanks,
Pam

768 September 11, 2009 at 17:42 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Bus List Update!

Updated Bus Lists per Mr. Shearer's request.

The Drummers and Dancers PROMISE not to rush any busses or cause any other stress to Mr. Shearer this season.  Low Brass also agrees!

Bus One:
Drum Major
Woodwinds
Trumpets
Pit

Bus Two:
Horns
Low Brass
Battery
Dancers

 

Dee Buchanan (via Mr. Shearer)
Head Chaperone

 

 

 

 

 

 

767 September 11, 2009 at 16:24 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org AOL emails...

IF YOU HAVE AN AOL EMAIL KEEP READING!!!

otherwise... ignore...

I will  be removing all AOL email accounts from the email list database on Monday, 9/14/09.

Lunarpages - our website host has informed me that SPAM reports are too high for mhsknightsband.net and this is most likely a result of AOL users.  In order to keep using mhsknightsband.net I must take all steps necessary to elimate SPAM reports.

I suggest you open a gmail account.  I have used many free emails in the past and have found gmail to be the best!

http://gmail.com

I apologize for any inconvenience,

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

765 September 11, 2009 at 09:36 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Expectations and Bus Assignments

Some reminders, expectations and requests:

  • If any band staff or chaperone ask you to do something, behave as if Mr. Shearer asked you.
  • EVERYONE helps to load and unload the trailer.
  • Listen carefully and react quickly.
  • Leave the bus the exactly as you found it.
  • No coed seating after dusk.
  • When we return to Middletown, chaperones will check the bus for cleanliness before you are allowed off the bus.
  • Thank the bus drivers with respect.  Do not be obnoxious if you sing "Thank you, Bus Driver"
  • When in the stands:
    • Sit it an organized fashion
    • No cell phones
    • Pay attention to each bands performance and treat them with respect, applaud appropriately, and keep all your comments as positive as possible.
    • It is appropriate to stand for the host band's performance.
  • You are all representatives of Middletown.  People WILL watch you and make judgements about our school and our community.  Be sure to leave them with a positive image!

BUS ONE:
Drum Major
Woodwinds
Trumpets
Horns
Battery

BUS TWO:
Trombones
Baritone
Tubas
Pit
Dancers

 

764 September 10, 2009 at 23:50 Dee Buchanan dee@dbdance.com Westminster Chaperones

Thank you to those chaperones who volunteered to help with this first competition.  Our six chaperones are:

 

Cindy Doggett

Pam Harris

Linda Sevin

Sandy Caho

Jan Rockwell

Stacey Black

 

See you all at 3:15 on Saturday!

 

Dee

763 September 10, 2009 at 23:37 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com How to Find Competition Details/Tickets

To find detailed information about the competition this Saturday go to the mhsknightsband.net. Click on Marching Knights (left side) or Marching (at the top).  The screen that comes up shows a grid for the Malaguena show.  You will see each competition listed in the grid.  "Westminster" is underlined.  Click on this and you will find a schedule for the day, travel rules, what to bring, and a link to get directions. 
 
Also, I will have tickets for sale tomorrow after practice and Saturday afternoon before the competition.  Tickets are $10 each.  (children 7 and under are free).  Chaperones, Pit Dads and Uniform Helpers with get their tickets or wristbands when we arrive at the competition.
 
Thanks,
Pam
 

762 September 10, 2009 at 18:45 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Update for Saturday, 9/12/09

Report time for this Saturday is 3:15pm

Check the updated schedule from the website:
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/marching/

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

761 September 10, 2009 at 08:37 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Permission/Risk/Health/InsuranceCards

This is a reminder that there are 4 things that you need to turn in...

Permission Form and Acknowledgement of Risk Form (same download)
Health Form (separate download)
Copy of the front and back of health insurance card

Many students are handing in packets missing some of the above.

Most are forgetting to turn in the copy of the front and back of the health insurance card.
Some turned in the copy of the ins card, but did not turn in a health form.
Many students have not signed the Acknowledgement of Risk form.


Please download, print, complete and return the following forms and a copy of the front and back of your health insurance card by Sept 11.

Field Trip Permission and Acknowledge of Risk Forms
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk_MK_09.pdf

Student Health History Form
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Student_Health_History_Form.pdf

Forms can also be downloaded from the Forms and Docs page of the website:
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

760 September 09, 2009 at 11:28 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com Game Day Dinners

Dear Band Parents,
 
I am coordinating the Game Day Dinners for the Marching Knights.  For rookie parents - the band members stay after school on the day of home games and we provide a meal for them before the game.
 
We provide the Pizza, salad, drinks, chips, etc.
 
I am in need of desserts and/or fruits for each of the home game dinners.
 
The dates of the home games are:
September 17
September 25
October 9
October 15
October 23
November 6 (Senior Night) - Special Dinner
 
Please let me know if you can bring an item, what you will be bringing, and which date you would like to bring something.
 
 
Thanks
Mary Sweeney
(301) 371-4038

759 September 09, 2009 at 11:28 Mary Sweeney maryesweeney@msn.com Tailgating

We are coordinating the tailgating dinners for the Marching Knights Competition season.  At this time, it looks like we will be tailgating for at least two events - JMU and Annapolis.
 
We are asking each family to initially contribute $20.00 to cover the cost for the meals. Please drop off your money in the band office safe as soon as possible and note “Tailgating” on your deposit or you can give it to Mary or Dave Sweeney when you see us.
 
If we tailgate at any other events or schedules change, the contribution asked by families could increase.
 
 
Thanks
 
Dave & Mary Sweeney

758 September 09, 2009 at 08:56 Karen Thomas kthomas98@gmail.com Shoes, Gloves, Scrubs

Today! Wednesday Sept. 9th, The following items will be available for Pick-Up before and after practice. 
 

  • Marching Shoes
  • Gloves
  • Scrubs

If you have not paid,... Please bring  payment for orders upon pick-up.

Thanks!
Uniform Committee
 

757 September 07, 2009 at 12:38 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Trip Permission and Health Forms

Please download, print, complete and return the following forms and a copy of the front and back of your health insurance card by Sept 11.

Field Trip Permission and Acknowledge of Risk Forms
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/FieldTripPermissionRisk_MK_09.pdf

Student Health History Form
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Student_Health_History_Form.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

756 September 07, 2009 at 11:35 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Booster/Chaperone Training Meeting Sept 8

I hope everyone is enjoying a relaxing Labor Day Weekend. 
 
The next Booster Meeting will be tomorrow, September 8.  The executive meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the band room (anyone can attend). 
 
If you plan to work with or around the students (as a chaperone, pit dad, uniform helper, etc.) you must attend Chaperone Training.  The last Chaperone training will be held tomorrow, September 8th at 7:30 pm in Room 210.  If you did not attend the August 20th training,  this is your last chance to become trained.
 
The General Booster Meeting will start immediately after the Chaperone Training (approximately 8:00 pm) in room 210.
 
See you all tomorrow!
Pam
 

755 September 06, 2009 at 13:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org All State Audition Information

All State Band General Info
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_band_audition_info.php?id=1

Junior All State Band Audition Requirements
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_band_junior.php?id=1

Senior All State Band Auditions Requirments
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_band_senior.php?id=1

Junior and Senior All State Band Music Requirements
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/images/control_panel_image/Band%20Music%20Req.pdf

 

All State Orchestra General Info
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_gen_orch_info.php?id=2

Junior All State Orchestra Audition Requirements
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_junior_orch_info.php?id=2

Senior All State Orchestra Audition Requirements
http://www.mmea-maryland.org/html/as_senior_orch_info.php?id=2

 

Applications and State Jazz Info will be sent out this week.

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

 

754 September 06, 2009 at 13:31 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org County Ensemble Applications

Applications for All County Band, Orchestra, and Jazz are available on the website.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/

Band and Orchestra Forms are due to me by Oct. 1, 2009
Jazz Forms are due to March 1, 2010

Audition music is not yet available.

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

753 September 04, 2009 at 12:08 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com Ad Order Form - Fundraiser!

Marching Band Students,

Here is an opportunity for you to earn $$ for your student trip account.  We are hosting the FCPS Marching Festival on Oct 19 and we will be printing a full color program.

If you know of a business that would like to place an ad download the form from here:

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/AdProgramOrder.pdf

The plan is to print 200 copies.

Please contact me before you solicit anyone!  We don't want to duplicate! 

You will receive 25% of the ad cost toward your account.

Deadline is September 21

--
Peace,
  Celeste

752 September 03, 2009 at 14:44 Jessica Bower jessica.bower.br51@statefarm.com Bingo Bake Sale

Calling all Julia Childs

 Your help is needed!

Please put on your chef hat or again reach into that pocket, purse….

I am coordinating the dessert donations for the Sunday, September 13 Bingo.

Some of you will be out of town or unable to bake and that is OK… maybe you could donate store bought snacks, (chocolate; gold fish cookies; potato chips; anything).. or even a donation of one dollar which will be used to purchase and wrap for this sale…

  Ultimately, we will wrap your bake goods in individual sized portions. We will sell them during the bingo for approximately $.50.   If you would want to bake/ buy and wrap for us that would be great too…

This is a great fundraiser.  Many folks come to play bingo and have dinner and dessert. With your help, the Band Boosters will to meet their fundraising goal

for this event.  Any baked good can be given to me on or before Sept 12th (we have the Westminster competition that day). Or if needed, the desserts can be brought to me at 3:30p.m. on Bingo Day, Sept 13th.  

 

THANK YOU!   Jessica Bower

301 514 4055

 

751 September 02, 2009 at 11:50 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com County Fest Photo Ads

The FCPS Marching Festival is being hosted by Middletown this year.

We are printing a full-color glossy booklet, so the booklet this year will truly be a keepsake!

Click here for Order Form - http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/photo_ad_form.doc
Click here for Sample Ad Page - http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/photopgsample.pdf

I am composing the program, so if you have any questions, you can track me down or email me.

Your student will receive 25% of the cost of the ad into their trip account which means the 1/2 page ad($45) really only costs you $33.75

Think $$=NEW Uniforms next season!!

Go Knights!

--
Peace,
Celeste Denier
MHS Band Boosters, Treasurer, Program Chair

750 September 02, 2009 at 07:14 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Booster Information-Keeping You In-The-Loop

Hello Everyone! 
 
I don't know about you, but I am still trying to get used to the "back to school" routine.  Boosters have been busy gearing up for this year's marching band season.  Here is some important information to keep you up to date:
 
1.   The next Booster Meeting will be September 8, 2009.  The Executive Committee will meet at 6:30 pm in the band room (anyone can attend the meeting).  The General Meeting will start immediately after the Chaperone Meeting (see #2 below) in room 210 (the chaperone meeting should be finished at approximately 8:00 pm).
 
2.  There will be a Chaperone Meeting on September 8, 2009 at 7:30 in Room 210. Anyone that will be working with or around the students must attend the meeting (chaperones, Pit Crew, Uniform Helpers).  If you attended the meeting last month, you do not need to attend again. 
 
3.  Tickets are available for the September 12th Mid-Atlantic Clinic and Preview competition at Westminster. MD.  Tickets are $10 each (children 7 and under are free-everyone else pays $10).  You can buy your tickets in advance from me or at the gate.  The cost is the same.  However, for each ticket we sell in advance, Boosters gets to keep a couple dollars.  We would appreciate it if you buy the tickets from us whenever possible.  Chaperones (selected by Dee Buchanan), Pit Dads (selected by Jim Johnson) and Uniform Helpers (selected by Karen Thomas) will be given complimentary tickets.  I am waiting for lists from Dee, Jim and Karen for the September 12th competition and will provide the names as soon as I get them. 
 
4.  Our remaining inventory of Game Face shirts is on sale.  Hoodies-$10.  T-shirts-$5. Limited sizes are available.  They will be on sale after practices on Mondays and Wednesdays until they are gone.
 
5.  We are not accepting orders for the new Knightmare shirts yet.  We will be sending out order forms after we complete the Show Shirt order.  Deadline to order a Show Shirt is today, September 2, 2009.
 
6.  Money collected from selling Basket Bingo tickets is due tomorrow, September 3, 2009.
 
7.  I want to say THANK YOU to Karen Thomas and her crew of workers.  On Monday night, Karen and several volunteer moms transported 200 uniform pieces from the dry cleaner to the cafeteria where the uniforms were sorted, mended, pieced together and hung up. It took several hours to complete the job.  Students, when you see Mrs. Thomas, be sure to say thank you for the clean, fresh-smelling uniform. Believe me, when Mrs. Thomas got the uniforms they were NOT fresh smelling!
 
If you have any questions/comments/feedback please feel free to contact me.
 
Thank you,
Pam

749 September 01, 2009 at 10:43 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Game Face Shirts - Price Slashed!!

We are having an inventory reduction sale!  To make room for the new Knightmare shirts, prices for the remaining Game Face shirts have been drastically reduced!   Hoodies are $10!  T-shirts are $5!  Limited sizes are available.   Shirts will be on sale after practices on Mondays and Wednesdays. 

Get yours today!

Pam

748 August 31, 2009 at 12:35 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Centennial, Oct 10, Program ad form

For anyone interested in placing an ad in the program for the Centennial Competition on Oct 10th...

Click here for the form...
http://mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/USSBA_Ad_Order_Form.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

747 August 31, 2009 at 11:46 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Ways and Means Volunteer Requested
I am looking for a volunteer to assist Patricia Staples on the Ways and Means Committee.  The Boosters conduct numerous fundraising events during the year. We have committee chairpeople that organize and run each of the events. The Ways and Means Committee oversees all the fundraisers and ensures the chairpeople have what they need for a successful fundraiser. As a Ways and Means committee member, you would help Patricia find chairpeople for new events or events currently chaired by parents of senior students, make calls to chairpeople to follow up on the progress of an event, make calls to get volunteers to work the events, and assist in preparing a report to present at the monthly Booster meetings,  If you can help, please contact me at Bob8har@aol.com or 301-371-7828. 
 
Thank you,
Pam
746 August 29, 2009 at 19:23 Nancy vom Lehn Nancy.vomLehn@fcps.org Basket Bingo News

Dear Band Families ~
 
Basket Bingo News :
  • If you have promised to donate items to fill baskets, I need them by the end of  practice Monday Aug. 31. You can bring them to practice OR drop them by the front office at school OR your band member / dance line member can bring the items to my classroom ( Room 527).
  • Flyers :  Please pick up a flyer to advertise basket bingo during Monday's practice.  Display them at work or your church or any place that potential bingo players might see them.
  • Keep selling those tickets.  You are responsible for selling at least the 3 tickets you received at band camp. ( Many people have sold more than 3!) Ticket money is due Thursday Sept. 3.

Thanks again to everyone for all your help.

Nancy vom Lehn

745 August 29, 2009 at 19:23 Cyndy Zolfo cdz6@comcast.net Baker Park Concert Fundraiser on Sunday

The last Baker Park Fundraiser is Sunday, August 30th.    If you have signed up to work this, please meet at the shack in front of the band shell at 6:45 pm.  Students should wear a Middletown Shirt.    We will be finished no later than 7:00 PM.

 

Please call 301 401 1257   Sunday (after 5:30 PM) to inquire about rain cancellation.

 

 

Cyndy Zolfo

744 August 29, 2009 at 14:19 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Congrats! Shirt Examples, Clarification and Expectations

CONGRATULATIONS to Dana Doggett for winning the show shirt design contest!

All shirts being sold by the band boosters are optional.

Examples:
Show Shirt Front, Show Shirt Back
Knightmare Front, Knightmare Back

Students (and everyone with the band) are expected to wear Marching Knights, or Middletown related shirts/sweatshirts/jackets etc. at competitions.  At a minimum, you should be wearing an orange and/or black shirt. 

Here is the policy from the band manual:

Performance and Competition Etiquette

8. Wear school colors and sit together when watching other bands perform at competitions. Visitors are welcome AFTER our performance. Public Displays of Affection will not be tolerated, students will be separated, and you will no longer be allowed to have a visitor. Blanket sharing is prohibited! Bring your own!

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

743 August 28, 2009 at 14:53 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Print Music!

This is a reminder to all wind musicians to print, and practice, the National Anthem, Fight Song, and Warm-Ups.  Please have them prepared for Monday's rehearsal.

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

742 August 28, 2009 at 14:53 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Malaguena Show Shirt Orders Due Sept 2

We are counting down the days to the first performance of Malaguena by the Middletown High School Marching Knights!  The Boosters are taking orders for Malaguena show shirts.  So that we can have the shirts for the first competition, the deadline to order is SEPTEMBER 2, 2009.  The styles and prices are shown on the attached order form.  Please place the completed form and payment (check made payable to MHS Band Boosters) in an envelope marked "Malaguena Shirt Order" and  either put the envelope in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office or give it to Celeste Denier or Pam Harris after practice. We cannot guarantee there will be any extra shirts or that a second order will be placed; so if you are interested, please place your order now.
 
Click here for the form:
 
There is also link from the "Forms and Docs" page of the website.
 
Thanks,
Pam

741 August 24, 2009 at 17:16 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Carpool Request

Susan O'Neill is looking for someone to carpool to/from band practice on Mondays and Wednesdays.  She lives in Jefferson but just over the Middletown border, near Jumbo's farm.  If you can carpool with Susan, please contact her directly to work out the arrangements.  She can be reached at 92st92@comcast.net.
 
Thank you,
Pam

740 August 24, 2009 at 17:15 Nancy vom Lehn Nancy.vomLehn@fcps.org Basket Bingo

Dear Band Families~
 Just a quick reminder :
  • If you have a donation for a basket, please send me an email or bring your donation to band practice or to the MHS office with my name on it.
  • If you plan to help on the day of bingo, please let me know.  You can help with set up or clean up and still play bingo!
  • SELL THOSE TICKETS!!!  If you need more tickets, let me know.  Write the band member's name and ticket numbers on the envelope when you put the payment in the lock box in Mr. Sharer's office. OR you can hand the envelope to me when you see me before or after band practice. All ticket money should be turned in by Sept. 3.

Thanks so much for all your help !

739 August 24, 2009 at 17:15 Patricia Staples rstaples17@comcast.net Golf Tournament

Nick Cockerham our golf tournament chair for 2010 is looking for someone who would be willing to be a mentor with him in 2010 and then take the leading role for 2011.  Keep in mind that Nick is the parent of a senior so we need to soak up all of his expertise before he leaves us.   If you have any questions that would help in making this decision do not hesitate to give Nick or myself a call.  The golf tournament is one of the biggest $$ making fundraisers that we have each year which helps reduce band fees for all of us.  Reply back to rstaples17@comcast.net if you can help.

 

Patricia Staples
Ways and Means
301-293-8905

Nick Cockerham
240-409-7901

738 August 21, 2009 at 13:22 Celeste Denier celeste.denier@gmail.com Band Scrub/Shoe Orders

Attention Marching Knights Instrumentalists:

  •   Monday August 24 Info after drill practice
  • Shoe and Glove Orders must be placed by end of practice on  Monday Aug 24th.  If you need an order form, you can pick one up from the Band Room at school on Monday.
  • There are a few pairs of used marching shoes still available at $5.00.  Ask a parent helper about them. 
  • ROOKIES- Look for order forms for white scrub pants to be worn over white bibbers this season.  Cost is $10.  Will place order next week and you may pay now  or when you pick them up. Anyone who doesn't have them, pick up and turn in an order form on Monday.
  • Order forms for Show Shirts will be available soon. 
                   Monday Aug. 31st 5:30-8:30pm in the MHS cafeteria:  Parent Volunteers needed to help with Uniforms --

  Celeste Denier

737 August 20, 2009 at 19:44 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Booster News - Important

1. Many of you have asked about having after-school supervision for the students on practice days.  Unfortunately, we cannot offer this.  Students will need to leave school and return at 5:30 pm. We are working with people to arrange carpools.  If you are interested in joining a carpool, please let me know.  Another suggestion that was made is that the students can walk to the public library and do homework until practice starts.
 
2.  Participation fees are due.  The total fee for this year is $400.  You have already paid $100 as a commitment fee.  The remaining $300 is due now. If you want to pay in installments, the first $150 was due last week.  The final $150 will be due September 15, 2009. 
 
3.  Look for an article and pictures from band camp in this Thursday's Citizen.
 
4.  The competition scheduled for October 17 at James Wood HS in VA has been changed.  Instead, we will attend the USSBA MD State Championship at Northwest HS in Germantown.  This competition will still be on October 17.  Only the location has changed.
 
5.  A Bowl-a-thon has been scheduled for January 17, 2010 from 6-8 pm.  Watch for more information about this fundraiser in future e-mails.
 
6.  The next Booster Meeting will be Tuesday, September 8, 2009.  Please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
 
If you have any questions/comments, feel free to contact me by e-mail or at 301-371-7828.
 
Thank you,
Pam Harris

736 August 19, 2009 at 06:59 Pam Harris BOB8HAR@aol.com Chaperone Training

Two Chaperone Training sessions have been scheduled.  If you want to be a chaperone for football games, competitions, Gator Bowl or any other band activity, you must attend ONE of these sessions.
 
Session 1:  Thursday, August 20, 2009  7:00 pm in the band room  (yes, that is tomorrow) or
Session 2:  Tuesday, September 8, 2009   7:30 pm in room 210 (this is the same day as the next Booster Meeting.  We will have the chaperone training first, followed by the General Booster meeting,)
 
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by e-mail or call me at 301-371-7828.
 
Thank you,
Pam

735 August 18, 2009 at 07:40 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Drill Coordinates and Charts

I have provided links to the PDFs of the Drill Coordinates and the Drill Chart.

Since many of you have ruined or lost your Coordinates, now you may print out you own! 

OR!

You can choose to print out  a drill chart (84 pages) instead.

Drill Coordinates - http://www.mhsknightsband.net/marching/drill/malaguena/Malaguena_Coords.pdf
note:  you do not need to print the whole document, just find the page with your name (or symbol #) on it and print only that page

Drill Chart - http://www.mhsknightsband.net/marching/drill/malaguena/Malaguena.pdf

 

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

734 August 17, 2009 at 22:17 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Band Booster Meeting-Tuesday- Aug 18

BAND BOOSTER MEETING
 
The Band Booster Meeting will be Tuesday, August 18, 2009.  The Executive Committee Meeting will start at 6:30 pm in the Band Room (anyone is welcome to attend).  The General Meeting will start at 7:30 pm in Room 210. 
 
I hope you all will plan to attend.  This is your chance to get informed.  Find out what is happening, what is coming up this school year and how you can help. 
 
The meeting is not only for marching band parents.  Parents with students in all ensembles are encouraged to attend. 
 
Thank you for your support,
Pam Harris
Band Booster President
2009-2010

733 August 16, 2009 at 14:35 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org T-Shirt Design Contest

T-Shirt designs will now be accepted at tomorrow's (Monday's) practice.

See you soon!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

732 August 12, 2009 at 22:29 Will Meadors wmeadors@gmail.com T-Shirt Design Contest

Here it is!!!

Your chance to get your creative design selected for all the world to see!

The only chance for 2009-2010 to create the colors you will wear proudly this season!

We need your design to be selected for the MHS Marching Knights official 2009 T-shirt and Sweatshirt design.

Designs need to be submitted to band staff for judging by Thursday at 8PM (end of the band camp day on Thursday) and the Winner will be announced on Friday at the Picnic.

Design Criteria:

The front must include the MHS Marching Knights name and the show title: Malaguen~a,

The back will include the show name and the dates of competitions:

Westminster, MD                                    Sep 12, 2009
Annapolis, MD                                      Sep 19, 2009
Century HS, Sykesville, MD                         Sep 26, 2009
Westminster, MD                                    Oct 3, 2009
Centennial HS, Ellicott City, MD                   Oct 10, 2009
James Wood High School, Winchester, VA             Oct 17, 2009
Frederick County Marching Festival, Middletown, MD Oct 19, 2009
USSBA National Championships                       Nov 8, 2009
Gator Bowl                                         Jan 1, 2010

Make sure to enter!

Thanks,
MHS Knights Band Boosters

731 August 12, 2009 at 22:29 Pam Harris bob8har@aol.com Gator Bowl -4th Payment

Just a reminder that the 4th Gator Bowl payment was due August 1.   Students-$250, Chaperones $100.  Please put the payment in the lock box in Mr. Shearer's office or hand it to me. 

Thanks! 

Pam

730 August 10, 2009 at 22:45 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Reminders...

The first day of band camp went great!  We hit our goals so far and are well on our way to putting an awesome show on the field!!

Here are a couple reminders...

ALL absence requests must officially be made through your student info page on the band website.  I appreciate the emails, but be sure to ALSO submit the request online!

Please turn in money for the band camp family picnic!  It was due Monday.

Please treat ALL band staff with courtesy and respect.  I have heard about a few students giving some of my band staff  "attitude" or being "sassy."  Don't behave around them any differently than you would behave around me; not to mention it is a very poor relflection on your character.

Lets make day 2 of camp even more productive then day 1!!

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

729 August 08, 2009 at 12:00 Pam Harris Bob8har@aol.com Rookie Parent Meeting

Parents of Rookie Students,

The school will not be open Sunday night when we have the Rookie Parent Meeting.  We will meet in the back near the entrance to the cafeteria.  You may want to bring a chair.

See you there,
Pam Harris

728 August 07, 2009 at 10:38 Matthew Shearer matthew.shearer@fcps.org Rookie Night and Rookie Parent Meeting

Sun, August 9, 6pm - 8pm - Rookie Night and Rookie Parent Meeting
Students - no instruments needed, be prepared to march
Parents - veteran marching band parents will talk with you about the marching program

(meet behiind the school at the entrance to the cafeteria)

See you soon!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

 

727 August 07, 2009 at 10:26 Liz Buckley lizjimb@comcast.net Band Camp Picnic

ANNUAL BAND CAMP PICNIC
please download and print the form below and return with payment on the first day of camp

August 14, 2009
5:30pm - Show Preview
6:00pm - Picnic
Band Members - $10
Additional Family Members - $5

CLICK HERE FOR THE INVITE AND FORM (.doc)
http://www.mhsknightsband.net/forms_documents/Band_Picnic_09.doc

 

Liz Buckley
Shannon's Mom!
301-371-8551

726 August 07, 2009 at 10:24 Liz Buckley lizjimb@comcast.net Band Camp Picnic