Things to Know for Band Camp

The Online Registration Form is required of all Members: Rookies & Vets.

Dates:
All new members will attend Rookie Camp, which will begin on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 8. Dorm check-in for all rookies will be from 2-4 p.m. on Aug. 8. Vets will report on Saturday, Aug. 10. If you are marching drum corps this summer, you will need to report to camp by Tuesday morning, Aug. 13. Any vets planning to live in the dorm for band camp must check into the dorm at the same time as the rookies, on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 2-4 p.m.

Housing:
If you would like to be housed in a dorm room during band camp, here are a few things you will need to know. For those of you that will be staying in a dorm as your permanent housing for the fall semester, you will move directly to your permanent dorm when you check in at camp. If you are not staying in the dorm for the upcoming academic year, you will be housed in Dixon Hall (males) or Fitzpatrick Hall (females) until Wednesday morning, Aug. 14. At that time you will need to move to your apartment, house, etc. The dorms do not provide any of the basic necessities needed for overnight stays; therefore, you will need to bring your own linens and toiletries for band camp.

Meals:
Sodexo Food Services on campus will be open during band camp. If you are interested in eating there, you may do so. You can purchase meals (all you can eat) at the door (cash only) for the following prices: $6.75 for breakfast, $7.75 for lunch and $8.75 for dinner. Many students bring small refrigerators, buy groceries, and prepare their meals themselves. Otherwise, you should plan to visit restaurants in town for your meals. (Please note that some local restaurants do not accept credit/debit cards, and others do not accept checks. Please plan accordingly!)

Attendance:
Our outstanding band organization did not gain its national reputation without the full attendance of its members. Accordingly, your perfect and timely attendance is expected to be the norm. Please print and keep the camp schedule for reference during band camp. Minor adjustments in the rehearsal schedule will occur as needed; however, the time parameters will not be expanded. Ask off from work NOW!

Equipment:
Your instrument and equipment should be brought to each rehearsal (including our first meeting). You will need a pencil to mark your music and drill charts. During rehearsals it is very important to wear only quality athletic footwear. The asphalt practice field will take its toll on your feet, so be prepared!

Uniforms:
Uniforms will be checked out during band camp week. Your Band Uniform Maintenance Fee of $140.00 is required to be paid prior to uniform checkout. In addition to your black patent leather uniform shoes, each student must purchase his or her own white uniform gloves ($3.00). Everyone wears the same type of shoe for Southerners. A representative will take orders for shoes during camp ($28). New Members will be required to purchase a plume ($25).

Instruments:
The instrument manager will check out university-owned instruments during the first meeting of band camp. All large instruments (20-Js, percussion, baritones and mellophones) are provided by the University free of charge. However, individuals are responsible for any damages. Please take care of our precious instruments!

Music & Charts:
Although the Southerners always memorize their music for performance, we prefer that instrumentalists carry their music for reference during all rehearsals. Also, please plan to carry a small notebook and pencil for drill coordinate notes. These items significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of our rehearsals. Download the traditional stand music here.

Color Guard:
Members will be required to purchase some personal items for use in the guard. Please be prepared to make these purchases upon arrival at camp. Please check the Colorguard website for any additional information.

Ballerinas:
Be sure to maintain contact with your Group Leaders for all other details regarding Ballerina preparations. Please check the Ballerina website for any additional information.

Questions?
You may contact the Band Office at (256) 782-5562 for general information. For more specific questions regarding your section, it is recommended that you post your question on the Southerners community website. You can usually expect an answer there within a day or two.