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

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

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

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.

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

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

 

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

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

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

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. 

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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

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
 

http://twitter.com/MHSKnightsBand

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

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

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

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!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

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

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

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

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

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

Anyone who wore a marching band uniform this season:

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

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

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

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. :)
 

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

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

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

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

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

 Important!   
Jazz Ensemble Uniform Information

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

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

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

Parents and Students,

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

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 21^st (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 22^nd (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

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

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

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
 

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
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

Note for Dance Line Thursday evening:

I have purchased “Dancing with Pride” shirts for our 8^th 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

I am asking CLH to make 2 shirts for the 2 8^th 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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!

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 ?)

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

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

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

HELP WANTED! 

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

·          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 3^rd 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
 

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

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

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

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

Calling all Julia Child’s

 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 12^th (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 13^th.  

THANK YOU!   Jessica Bower

301 514 4055

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

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

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

• 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

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

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

Thanks so much for all your help !

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

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. 

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

T-Shirt designs will now be accepted at tomorrow's (Monday's) practice.

See you soon!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We will need all donations by the Thursday of Band Camp. I will be around both morning and evening of each day of camp.

3)  All band members and parents are needed to work the day of the bingo.  We will need help with set up, selling raffle tickets and special game bingo cards, serving food to the participants, and clean up.  For every hour you work, you will earn money for your band account.

With everyone's help, this can be the MOST SUCCESSFUL basket bingo yet !  If you have questions or would like to reserve a basket to fill, please contact me at Nancy.vomLehn@FCPS.org  or 301-371-7457.  Thanks so much !

Nancy vom Lehn , Basket Bingo Chair

You can still join Jazz Camp for the 2nd week!  Just go to http://matthewshearer.net/jazz_camp_register.php
and register!  You can use paypal (make sure to only pay for the 2nd week!) or bring a check Monday morning.  The first week was a lot of fun and students learned a lot about playing jazz.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask!!

Matt Shearer

The next Baker Park fund raiser is less than two weeks away!   Four more students and one adult  are needed.   The time commitment for this is about one hour.    Students meet at the shack near the band stand at 6:45, and canvass the crowd for donations for Music For All.     We keep half of the income, and this is a great way to add to student trip accounts.    

Please reply to this email if you are willing and able to participate. 

Cyndy Zolfo

I hope everyone is enjoying their summer.  Four weeks until band camp!!  Here are a few updates/reminders.

Aug 9, 6pm - 8pm:

Rookie Meeting (for anyone participating with the Middletown Marching Knights for the first time, no matter what grade you are in!)
No instruments needed, Band Camp apparal required (see band manual)

Rookie Parent Meeting (for parents with children participating with the Middletown Marching Knights for the first time, no matter what grade they are in!)

Aug 10 - 13, 8am - 8pm:

BAND CAMP, be prepared!! See Band Manual
Show up between 7:30 and 7:45am, DO NOT BE LATE!!!!

Aug 14, 8am - 5:30pm:

Final day of Band Camp

Aug 14, 5:30pm

Field Show preview and picinic

Always check the band calendar!! 

REMEMBER!! ABSENCES REQUESTS MUST be submitted through your student info page and MUST be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance to be considered for approval.  Just submitting a request does NOT mean it will be excused.  Requests submitted late WILL be unexcused. (except for illness and emergencies).  You can tell band staff all you want about your absence, and that is greatly appreciated, but if you don't submit the request online, it will not be excused!!

MUSIC:If you haven't downloaded your music yet, you better be in the dance line or percussion section!
If you play a wind instrument (one you blow through) your music is available to download, and print... and practice... and memorize... before camp.  Just sign in to your student info page.

Drum Line music is currently being written and I will let you know when it is available on the website.

There is a MP3 of the music available on the website.  Put it on your iPods now!

DRILL (this is what we call the marching movements on the field that create part of the visual effect of the show)  This has yet to be written because we are still waiting on commitment fees from some students... still... waiting... get on it!!

PLEASE STAY UP TO DATE WITH ALL INFORMATION!!
Making sure you know what is going on is YOUR responsibility.  The band boosters and myself will do out best to communicate everything you need to know through email and website.  It is not our responsibility to make sure you know whats going on.  Be proactive, ask questions, and don't get left out of the loop.

The band staff is very excited about this years show.  It will be very competitive and very fun!  The more energy and dedication you put into preparing, practicing, focusing, listening, and performing the better our show will be, and the more fun you will have!

See you soon!

Sincerely!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

Registration for the M-Town jazz camp is still open!

Click Here for Info and Registration

See you there!!

Matthew Shearer

Marching show music for winds is now online for you to download!!

Sign in to your student info page: http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members/

Then click on the link "Download Music for Malagueana Here"

If your instrument has multiple parts and are unsure of what part to play, please email me.

All music is in PDF format.

Battery and Pit music is being arranged now, please allow  a few weeks for those parts to be posted.

Sincerely,
Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

matthew.shearer@fcps.org

Easy Fundraising Opportunity !!

Our band has been chosen again this summer to participate in the Music For All  fundraising at  Celebrate Frederick’s Baker Park Summer Concert Series  on Sunday evenings.

We provide 6-8 students to collect donations during the concert, and in return, our booster organization keeps 50% of the evening’s receipts.   

Students who volunteer for this earn money for their Trip Accounts!  

 Time is 6:45 – 8:00  PM  Meet at the shack in front of the Baker Park band shell

Dates are as follows. 
June 28
August 2
August 30 

Please email Cyndy Zolfo for additional details if you wish to volunteer. 

On behalf of the MHS Band Boosters, I would like to thank Maria Pope as well as everyone who assisted her for coordinating Jazz Night in May.  We made over $857.00.  Maria is known for her ability to organize and get things accomplished!  Thanks again!

Patricia Staples

Ways and Means

This Friday, June 19, Linganore High School will be hosting the Top 12 DCI Drum and Bugle Corps, The Glassmen.  The group will rehearse at LHS in preparation for their competition that evening in Chambersburg, PA.  Students are invited to come and watch the corps rehearse from 8am - 3pm on our practice field and in our stadium.  At approximately 1:45, The Glassmen will provide a staff member who will meet students in the home bleachers to talk about the drum corps, followed by an ensemble rehearsal and run-through of the group's show.  Drum Corps International represents the best in the marching activity, and students will be inspired by the level of performance, work ethic, and enthusiasm The Glassmen bring to each rehearsal.  As a Division 1 drum corps, most Glassmen members are college-age students (they can be no older than 21), so this is an activity in which many of our students might aspire to participate.  DCI groups are based all over the country, and hold auditions each fall for performance tours the following summer.

Our new address is not yet supported on most computer mapping or GPS systems, so best to follow these directions:

To get to the new Linganore High School, take I-70 east to exit 62, New Market.  At the top of the ramp, turn left onto 75 north.  At the next light, turn left onto 144 west.  Proceed through new Market and then two traffic lights, one at Boyers Mill Road and one at Mussetter Road.  At the traffic circle, turn right onto Eaglehead drive to the school.  If you are coming from the east, you also take exit 62, bearing right at the end of the ramp, crossing over to the left lane, turning left on 144 and following the remainder of the above directions.

Carroll County directors, please share this info with your students and colleagues, and extend our invitation to attend.

We hope to see many directors and students on Friday!  Please post attached flier.

Thanks,
Kevin

Kevin Lloyd, Director of Bands
Linganore High School

Note our new address and phone numbers!
5850 Eaglehead Drive
Ijamsville, MD 21754
240.566.9478 band room
240.566.9401 fax

EARN MONEY TOWARDS YOUR GATOR BOWL TRIP!

All you have to do is wash a few cars this Saturday at the June 20th Car Wash.
 
The car wash is at the Walmart at 7400 Guilford Drive Frederick from 9 am to 3 pm. 
 
Come for the whole day if you can.  If you can only make it for part of the day, that's okay.  Just let us know when you plan to be there.
 
 
Special Note to members of the Class of 2013, this is your first opportunity to earn money for your band account.  Don't miss out!  
 
 
Sign up today by emailing mdkeplers@msn.com or calling 301-371-6234.

I want to remind everyone that the photographs Maria Pope took during last year's season are still for sale on the web.  However, this site will close down on 7-7-2009.  If you try to order pictures after that, they will cost twice as much!  Maria is able to offer the photographs at the discounted prices through 7-7-09 because she is working with Collage's.  Collage's can charge less because they purchase their paper and ink at a reduced bulk rate.  If you have not been on the website, I encourage you to do so.  There are hundreds of fantastic photographs of the students.  As an added benefit, 50% of the net profits from the photographs sold will be donated to the band. 

Here is the site and log on instructions  http://www.collages.net/

1- Type into you computer browser: http://www.collages.net/

2- In "View and Event" type in the username: MHS Band 2008-09

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

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

Thanks,

Pam

Tonights game with the Keys is now a double header.  Gates open at 4 pm and first game starts at 5.  Our first pitch will be done between the two games, probably between 6:30 or 7pm.  Fireworks are still on and it's mousepad night also.  Our tickets are good for the entire time so anyone who wishes to get there early you are good to go!

See everyone there!

Shelly Hill

There is a $100 Commitment Fee for everyone who is participating in the Marching Knights.

This fee will go toward the $400 participation fee.

You are not considered officially registered for marching band until this fee has been paid.

THIS FEE IS DUE BY JUNE 17!!!!!!!

Make checks payable to "MHS Band Boosters"

Please drop the check in the safe in the band office or mail it to the high school.

Please email Mr. Shearer if you need to make other arrangements to cover the commitment fee.

Why is there a commitment fee??

There are a few reasons...

All students who move around the field during the field show are assigned a "dot" as part of a drill book which tells that student exactly where to go on the field and when. 

When all the "dots" are put together they make all the forms that we create on the field. 

If we write a "dot" for someone who does not participate the ENTIRE DRILL needs to be rewritten so there are not any holes in the forms. This takes time and money, thus making marching band more expensive for everyone!

But I am in the pit and don't get a dot? 

Well, the pit music is written specifically to the number of musicians we have in the pit.  If one musician is not there, part of the music is missing and very often this can be a very essential part to the overall effect of the music.

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

www.mhsknightsband.net

WHERE SHOULD YOU BE NEXT FRIDAY NIGHT??

AT THE FREDERICK KEYS GAME!! 

WHY? BECAUSE EVERYONE IN MIDDLETOWN IS GOING TO BE THERE...

OR AT LEAST BECAUSE THERE'S FIREWORKS!!

Contact Shelly Hill at lehseh@comcast.net for tickets now!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

For those of you who skipped the rehearsal yesterday:

We are wearing hawaiian shirts, khaki shorts, and sandals/flipflops for the dance recital performances.

Please be here at 6:30 tonight and 1:30 on Saturday.

Thank You

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

Only three hoodies remain in our inventory of the 08 marching show shirts.  These items are now a “classic”, and  will be available at a discount price of $20! 

1 medium

2 xl

Please reply to this email if you would like to purchase one.  

Cyndy Zolfo

Several Wind Ensemble students have yet to pay fees for their uniforms.  As you know, these were purchased for each student and are kept at home. Most  new students to Wind Ensemble this year would have some payment due.

Please send your payment in as soon as possible, as our treasurer will be turning over the books at the June booster meeting, and it will be most helpful to have this account up to date.

Dresses are $25.
Tuxedos are $65

Please call or reply if you have questions.

Cyndy Zolfo
301 401 1257

M-TOWN JAZZ CAMP

July 20-23, July 27-31, 2008; 8:00am - 12:00pm

All students taking jazz, interested in jazz, or just enjoying playing their instrument are encouraged to attend!

For more info and to register go to:

http://matthewshearer.net/jazz_camp_register.php

Dear Band Students and Families :

Our Florida Bowl Trip will be here before you know it ---- so make plans
to work at the next car wash on June 20th!  Helping at the car wash is
a great way to earn money for the Band Program and your TRIP TO THE GATOR BOWL GAME. 

So~ plan to help on Saturday, JUNE 20, at WALMART on Guliford Dr in FREDERICK, 9am to
3pm.

Please sign up by responding to this email or calling either of us.

To make this a successful event we need as many students and parents as
possible to help.

Come and work as many hours as you can and bring your smiles.

Make sure you tell your family, friends and neighbors about this event
so we'll have a successful day.

See you then.

Thanks,

Yvonne Kepler and Jessica Bower Amoia 

You can now listen to some recordings from the "Knight" Club online.

www.mhsknightsband.net/jazz

I apologize for the skips... apparently Christian's computer just can't handle the intensity of the jazz ensemble!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

MARCHING KNIGHTS MINI-CAMP

MAY 30, 2009
1pm - 4pm

This camp is for all students registered for the Marching Knights and for anyone who still might be interested.

We will start in the high school band room at 1pm.

You do NOT need bring your instruments.

Dress for outside weather and do NOT wear flip flops, sandals, etc...
Wear tennis shoes, sneakers, running shoes, whatever you like to call them.

See you Saturday!!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

Greetings!

Registration for Marching Band is going GREAT! 

This is was we currently have, but certainly can use more!!

1 - Drum Major
3 - Flutes
3 - Clarinets
0 - Bass Clarinets (bass clarinets help support the woodwinds, we need some!)
3 - Alto Saxes
1 - Tenor Sax
0 - Bari Sax (this show has some really cool bari sax parts! we need at least one!)
7 - Trumpets (SOLID! - but can always use more!)
0 - Mellophones<-- THIS YEAR'S SHOW NEEDS MELLOPHONES!!
4 - Trombones
2 - Baritones
1 - Tuba (I am pretty sure we will have at least one more here)
4 - Pit
5 - Battery (Already auditioned, one person still needs to register)
10 - Dancers (Already auditioned, 4 still need to register!)

At this point I am projecting about 50 members total, but could use a few more! 

GO RECRUIT YOUR FRIENDS!

Sincerely,

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

Today is last day to get tickets online for the Jazz Knight Club.  Ticket prices are as follows:

Individual PayPal - $13.00

Individual Door - $17.00

Senior(Over 65) PayPal - $10.00

Senior(Over 65) Door - $13.00

Reserved Table for 10 PayPal - $150.00

The Jazz Knight Club will be held in the MHS cafeteria on May 16.2009.  The show starts at 7:00 PM.  Hors d’oeuvres available. 

The PayPal option will only be available through Tuesday, May 12, 2009.  After Tuesday tickets can be purchase by contacting Maria Pope at 301-371-8117 or they can be bought at the door.

Come enjoy a fun evening of Jazz, dancing and food. 

MHS Band Boosters

Band Students,
   As we had last year, Mrs. Pope is making available again, the band's season highlights on DVD.  This is a one-hour custom-made limited edition presentation that will run on DVD players as well as on computers, and covers highlights of all the bands for year 2008-2009.  
  
   Senior nights for Marching Band and Jazz Band, Concert Band memories and Wind Ensemble performances are captured for your viewing pleasure, with musical accompaniment.  Even last year's Jazz Night is included, with musicians and dancers featured at various events.

   Don't miss out on this opportunity.  Order forms will be available at the annual banquet.  The cost will be the same as last year- only $20, which is still a bargain for a year's worth of memories!  Don't miss out, make sure you order one at the banquet.

See you at the banquet Middletown High School Band Program on Friday May 8, 2009 - 6:00pm at the Jefferson Ruritan Center, Lander Road at Route 340 in Jefferson Maryland. 

Will Meadors
Band Boosters President

THE CAR WASH AND FUNDRASIER TO BE HELD AT THE FREDERICK SUPERWALMART THIS SATURDAY(May, 2) HAS BEEN CANCELED

  Unfortunately, due to the bad weather predictions and the lack of student participants we will be canceling the fundraising event for tomorrow.  

We will plan for the next CAR WASH and FUNDRAISER to be held on Saturday, June 20^th 8:30 – 2:30 at the Wal-Mart ( Super Wal-Mart in Frederick).

Please mark your calendars now…  These fundraisers have been very successful and have worked to add monies to student’s trip accounts.  However, we need more student to make them work.  Please plan on attend and participating on June 20^th!

Thanks!

Knight Club is coming quickly (Saturday, May 16).  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!! 

Reporting time is at 10am sharp in the cafeteria for assignments (Saturday, May 16)

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

Dear Band Families!

KNIGHT CLUB TICKETS NOW ON SALE!!! 

Applications for a leadership position in marching band are due tomorrow May 1!

I have only received a couple, and they are both from Drum Line. 

The following positions require an application:

DRUM MAJOR
FIELD COMMANDER
SECTION LEADER
HEAD MANAGER

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

Thank You!!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

The final instrumental concert is on Wednesday, May 13 at 7:00pm.

This includes the Concert Band, Wind Ensemble and Orchestra.
(plus the Wind Ensemble and Orchestra combining as a Full Orchestra!)

The Wind Ensemble and Orchestra will have rehearsals after school on Monday, May 11 and Tuesday, May 12 until about 3:30pm
These will be the only times we get to rehearse as a full orchestra so attendance is crucial!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

Middletown High School is hosting the 2009 FCPS Marching Festival on Monday, October 19, 2009 with a rain date of Monday, October 26.

This means the band boosters need to help organize this event and we need some volunteers.
If you are interested in volunteering for any of the following, please let me know!

County Marching Festival Chairperson - To oversee all the details and communicate with me.  This person will need to communicate with Frederick County for the use of the park.

Tickets and Programs - Someone to take care of getting tickets and a program made and recruiting volunteers to collect/sell tickets and hand out programs.

Band Host - Someone to make sure each band knows where to go and when, as well as organize a group of students to serve as band guides for each high school.  This person will work with me to design a logistics plan for spectator and bus parking, band warm-up areas, moving to and from the stadium, etc... This person will also be in charge of parent volunteers helping with parking, stadium gates, etc...

Concessions - Someone to organize the concession stand, recruit parent volunteers to set up, clean up, sell, make, cook, etc..

Fundraisers - Someone to organize tables of various fundraisers.  i.e. T-shirt sales, "best director",  "best pit crew", air-grams, candy-grams, (just ideas, we don't need to do all of theses...)

Press Box Host - Someone to help the judges, the announcer, set up PA system, and anything else that might be going on in the press box.  This person may need student volunteers to act as runners.

There may be other people needed as well, so this is just to get things rolling.

Thank You!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

CAR WASH
Saturday, May 2nd, 9am - 3pm
Frederick Super Wal-Mart at Rt 85 & Guilford Dr.

Reply now to MDKEPLERS@msn.com (just hit reply on this email!)

Indicate when you will be there and if you prefer the car wash, soliciting donations or both.

We raised over $1000 at the first Wal-Mart car wash and donation solicitation on April 18^th
And even better news!   You have the opportunity to raise even more money on Saturday.

THE BOTTOM LINE IS that If we have more students and parents we will bring in more money.  This will help earn trip account monies especially as the GATOR BOWL events sound great!

Also, I have heard from a few businesses that they would like to bring their work vehicles out to make sure we have cars to wash, but we cannot do it without you!

We have more than a dozen students and a few parents at our last car wash but we must double this number to have the help we need.   We need students to help waive signs; wash cars and ask for donations.  We also want to have students with instruments to help create an awareness and stand out from other fundraiser groups.    

So, this cannot happen without your help.  We need you and your families to commit and sign up.   

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 don’t forget to tell your family, friends and neighbors about this upcoming fundraiser event.

See you next Saturday.

Thank you,

Yvonne Kepler and Jessica Bower Amoia

Yvonne’s: MDKEPLERS@msn.com
 301-371-6234

If you are planning on participating in Marching Band please register now!

Band Staff would like to have an accurate as possible count going in to next week.

http://www.mhsknightsband.net/members/registration.php

Thank you!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

As of today only 11 people have responded for the band banquet.

Please be sure to turn in your money tomorrow, Wednesday, April 22, in order to attend the banquet.

BAND BANQUET INVITATION - RSVP REQUIRED - by Wednesday April 22
click here for official invitation(.doc)

Middletown High School Band Program Banquet
May 8, 2009 - 6:00pm
Jefferson Ruritan Center
Lander Road at Route 340
Jefferson Maryland

$13.00 per person
$10.00 if you were a student in Marching Band this year
($3 credit for money left over from tailgating at competitions)

MONEY DUE BY WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2009!!
(this is our deadline for our dinner headcount)

You may drop money off to Mr. Shearer (the safe in the band office),
or mail it to the high school (must be received by April 22!!)

MHS BAND BOOSTERS, INC.
Middletown High School
200 Schoolhouse Drive
Middletown, MD 21769

Students interested in holding a leaadership position for the 2009-10 Marching Knights need to complete an application (available on the website) and return it no later than May 1, 2009. 

These positions include: Drum Major, Field Commander, Drum Line Captain, Dance Line Captain, Section Leader, and Head Manager.

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

Drum Major auditions will be held on Monday, May 4, 2009 after school.

Thank You!

Matthew Shearer, Director of Bands
Middletown High School

This is a reminder that the Tri-M recitals are this Sunday, April 19 and this coming Tuesday, April 21.  You should dress nicely (no sneakers or jeans) and plan to arrive 30 minutes before the recital start time.  You are required to attend BOTH recitals, even if you only perform on one date.

Sunday’s recital is at 2 pm.  Please arrive by 1:30 pm

Tuesday’s recital is at 7 pm.  Please arrive by 6:30 pm. 

Please feel free to invite parents, relatives and friends.  We will be recording the recital. 

See you on Sunday!

Ms. Parsley and Mr. Shearer

Only two students in pit orchestra have paid their $15 for their t-shirt and the dinner that was provided.

Please turn this money in ASAP!  Checks should be made out to MHS.  NOT band boosters.

Thank You!

Matthew Shearer, Direcetor of Bands
Middletown High School

Band Students and Families:  

Thank you to all of the students and parents who have already committed to Saturday's car wash.  Your dedication is appreciated. 

We still need more help at the car wash this Saturday, April 18th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00p.m. at the SUPER WALMART- off of Route 85 ~ 7400 Guilford Drive Frederick~