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Prospect Band — PMK 101

PMK Band Boosters Page i

Just About Everything You Need toKnow When Your Student Becomes a

Prospect Marching Knight

PMK Band Boosters

www.prospectband.com

http://www.prospectband.com/


Page ii PMK Band Boosters

Foreword

This is Prospect Band – PMK 101: Just About Everything You Need to Know When YourStudent Becomes a Prospect Marching Knight. The PMK Band Boosters put this together tohelp you get up-to-speed about the Prospect Marching Knights faster than you would throughany of the normal channels: hearsay, osmosis or telepathy.

While this will be a good reference — read, use and follow the up-to-date information that theBand Director will distribute throughout the year for all band activities.

The images you’ll see in Prospect Band – PMK 101 came from the Photo Gallery section of theBand Booster website (www.prospectband.com). Thanks to everyone for sharing them.

We did our best to make this correct and complete. Please give us a shout if you think we missedanything. To help you out with that, we gave you a form in back with plenty of space.

The EditorsKathleen and Dan Knopoff


PMK Band Boosters Page i

Contents

Welcome to the Prospect Marching Knights ..........................................1

Band Boosters ..........................................................................................3

What’s In It For Us? ........................................................................................... 3

What’s In It for You? .......................................................................................... 3

What You Need to Know…................................................................................ 4

What is the Prospect Band Program All About? ....................................5

During Marching Season ................................................................................... 5

During Concert Season...................................................................................... 5

What You Need to Know…................................................................................ 5

PMK Executive Board...............................................................................8

PMK Committees ......................................................................................9

Chaperone ......................................................................................................... 9

Communication .................................................................................................. 9

Concert and Symphonic Uniforms ..................................................................... 9

Eighth Grade Coordinator ................................................................................ 10

Hospitality ........................................................................................................ 10

Marching Uniforms........................................................................................... 10

Newsletter Editor.............................................................................................. 11

Publicity............................................................................................................ 11

Senior Recognition and Chevrons ................................................................... 11

Transportation.................................................................................................. 12

Volunteer Coordination .................................................................................... 12

Water Bottles ................................................................................................... 12

Ways & Means................................................................................................. 13

Fundraising .............................................................................................14

Basketball Concession..................................................................................... 14

Borders Gift Wrap ............................................................................................ 14

Candle Sales.................................................................................................... 14

Candy Sales..................................................................................................... 14

Dinners at Summer Band Camp...................................................................... 15

Dinners at Area Eateries.................................................................................. 15

Entertainment Books........................................................................................ 15

Flower Sale ...................................................................................................... 15

Frontier Days ................................................................................................... 16


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Garage Sale..................................................................................................... 16

Knight of Champions........................................................................................ 16

Mary Kay Sales................................................................................................ 16

Market Days..................................................................................................... 16

PMK Generic Wear .......................................................................................... 16

School Jackets................................................................................................. 16

Shop and Share ............................................................................................... 17

Theme Shirts.................................................................................................... 17

Yellow Pages Delivery ..................................................................................... 17

What You Need to Know….............................................................................. 17

Knight of Champions..............................................................................19

Committee Chair .............................................................................................. 19

Ad Book ........................................................................................................... 19

Concession ...................................................................................................... 19

Parking............................................................................................................. 19

Ticket Takers ................................................................................................... 19

Sign Makers ..................................................................................................... 20

Sign Distributors............................................................................................... 20

Entertainment Book Table ............................................................................... 20

Ad Book Table ................................................................................................. 20

Security ............................................................................................................ 20

50-50 Split the Pot Raffle Ticket Sales ............................................................ 20

Guides.............................................................................................................. 20

Runners ........................................................................................................... 20

First Aid............................................................................................................ 20


Marching Band Uniforms .......................................................................22

Who Owns the Uniforms? ................................................................................ 22

General Maintenance....................................................................................... 22

The Parts of the Uniform.................................................................................. 23

What to Wear Under Your Uniform.................................................................. 24

Band Member Responsibilities ........................................................................ 24

How do the Marching Knights Take the Field? ................................................ 25

Keep Stuff Clean.............................................................................................. 25

Uniform Fittings................................................................................................ 25

Uniform Volunteers .......................................................................................... 26



PMK Band Boosters Page iii

Concert Uniforms ...................................................................................28

Boys’ Concert Uniform ..................................................................................... 28

Girls’ Concert Uniform...................................................................................... 28

Summer Band Camp...............................................................................29

Two Sessions................................................................................................... 29

Preparing for Band Camp ................................................................................ 29

Where Does the Band Hold Summer Band Camp? ........................................ 30

Want to Know What’s Going On? .................................................................... 30


PMK Generic Wear..................................................................................31

Dress for Success............................................................................................ 31


Competitions...........................................................................................32

A Typical Competition Day Schedule............................................................... 32

Band Classifications......................................................................................... 33

Judging ............................................................................................................ 33

Typical Individual Awards ................................................................................ 34


Parades....................................................................................................36

A Typical Parade Day Schedule ...................................................................... 36

Uniforms........................................................................................................... 37


Football Games.......................................................................................38

A Typical Football Game Day Schedule .......................................................... 38

When It Rains .................................................................................................. 39

Homecoming.................................................................................................... 39


Pep Band for Basketball.........................................................................40

A Typical Basketball Game Day Schedule ...................................................... 40

The Band in the Stands ................................................................................... 40


Rehearsals ..............................................................................................41

When Does the Band Hold Rehearsals? ......................................................... 41

A Typical Rehearsal Schedule......................................................................... 41



Page iv PMK Band Boosters

Band Trips...............................................................................................43

What do you bring on the bus?........................................................................ 43


Major Band Trips ....................................................................................44

Trip Payments.................................................................................................. 44

The Trip Committee ......................................................................................... 44

Fundraising ...................................................................................................... 44

A Typical Trip Itinerary ..................................................................................... 44


Day of Knights ........................................................................................47

A Typical Day of Knights Schedule.................................................................. 47


Band-O-Rama..........................................................................................48

What Happens at Band-O-Rama?................................................................... 48

A Typical Band-O-Rama Schedule .................................................................. 48


Concert Season ......................................................................................50

Solo and Ensemble.......................................................................................... 50


Chaperone Tips.......................................................................................51

Before a Trip .................................................................................................... 51

On the Bus ....................................................................................................... 51

Once Back at Prospect .................................................................................... 52

Arriving at a Hotel ............................................................................................ 52

Once Settled In ................................................................................................ 53

On the Way Out ............................................................................................... 54

A Few More Trip Odds and Ends..................................................................... 54


District 214's Cocurricular Code............................................................56

Background Information................................................................................... 56

Purpose............................................................................................................ 56

Procedures....................................................................................................... 56

A. General Rules.............................................................................................. 57

B. Coaches/Directors/Sponsors Rules............................................................. 58

C. Cumulative Violations.................................................................................. 58

D. Consequences ............................................................................................ 58


PMK Band Boosters Page v

Violations ......................................................................................................... 58

1. First Violation ............................................................................................ 58

2. Second Violation....................................................................................... 59

3. Third Violation........................................................................................... 59

E. Enforcement and Review ............................................................................ 59

F. Overnight Activities ...................................................................................... 60

G. IHSA Activities Regulations......................................................................... 60

H. School Rules, District Policies and the Law ................................................ 60

I. Distribution of the Code ................................................................................ 61

J. Voluntary Admission .................................................................................... 61

K. Suspension from School.............................................................................. 61

Band Speak .............................................................................................62

Prospect High School Endowment for the Performing Arts................67

How’d We Do?.........................................................................................68


PMK Band Boosters 2005-2006

Welcome to the Prospect Marching Knights

Welcome to the Prospect Marching Knights. Boy, are you and your student in fora wild and exciting ride.

The marching bandprogram at ProspectHigh School is prettyamazing. Nationallyrecognized, theProspect MarchingKnights have marchedin parades from coast(Macy’s in 1989 and2002) to coast (RoseParade® in 1985 and2006) with a stop in-between and theFiesta Bowl Parade

(where they won the Fiesta Bowl National Pageant of Bands). They have alsoperformed for the president of the United States on three separate occasions andmarched in the Lord Mayor of Winchester Parade in London.

The Marching Knights do pretty well in-state too, capturing the GrandChampionship Governor’s traveling trophy at the University of Illinois MarchingFestival for 23 consecutive years. Just mention Prospect to any Illinois highschool band-geek parent; and they will know about the program.

So, how does this happen?There’s a ton of dedicationrequired. Miles on the road.Hours of work and waitingaround. Lots of hemming(some hawing, too). Candybars and ad coupons inevery pocket. Lots of blue.Fundraising oozing out atevery opportunity. Beingamazed how quickly the summer camps build into coldParents’ side.

The students will spend hours in the band room and maThey will forget their socks and misplace their gloves. Telated. They will be tired. They will be hot. They will b

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Page 1

fall nights. And this is the

rch for miles on the practice field.hey will complain. They will be

e cold. They will have a blast.


Page 2 PMK Band Boosters

So now they (and you) have survived Band Camp and they are in uniform. And now theyare marching out onto the field.And when you watch theperformance, you wonder howthat rag-tag group of high schoolstudents can turn a football fieldinto a concert hall. That yourstudent who can’t keep his shoestied can be part of such precision.That your student with the greenstreaks in her hair (this week)marches with her head up. Thatyour incoming freshman thatdidn’t know anyone can meet thischallenge and be part of a teamthat truly is more than its parts.

Actually, there is one more thing. All students thatparticipate as members of the Prospect MarchingKnights must adhere to the District 214 Co curricularCode. The Co curricular Code is a system of guidingrules and principles that communicates norms andvalues which defines standards of conduct for allstudents that choose to participate in a cocurricular program. We have included a copy ofthe Co curricular Code in Prospect Band – PMK101 just to make sure both you and your studentare aware of the program.

Joining the Prospect Marching Knights will be an astonishing experience for yourstudent. And it only happens with your help and gets even better with yourparticipation. In this booklet we cover just about everything you’ll need to know

to make thebandexperience asuccess foryou and yourstudent. Readon – andwelcome tothe ProspectMarchingKnights.

Former Band Director, Dave Morrison, 2003 Illinois Teacherof the Year, at the 2002 performance for Leo Burnett

The Knightsin the stands at

2004 BOA SuperRegional in St. Louis

Chris Barnum, ProspectDirector of Bands


PMK Band Boosters Page 3

Band Boosters

If the Prospect Marching Knights were a racing car, the Band Boosters would bethe pit crew (pit players, please excuse the analogy).

The Band Boosters keep the band program filled with gas. We also make sure allthe students keep their wheels on and don’t have any flats (or sharps?) during theyear. And then cheer like crazy at each lap.

Officially, we are the Prospect Band Boosters Association and we’ve been inbusiness since we incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization (which means we arean officially government recognized not-for-profit charitable organization) in1974.

What’s In It For Us?

As we covered earlier, we support the Prospect Knights Marching Band and forthem, we:

Provide additional funds. Even though Prospect High School provides agenerous budget, it is not enough to support the expenses of a competitive bandlike the Marching Knights. Part of the money we raise goes into a general fund tocover expenses like equipment, drill charts and extra instructors. We’ll cover thisin the Fundraising section.

Provide funds for special programs. In the 2005-2006 marching season, forexample, the band was selected to march in the Tournament of Roses® Parade inPasadena, California. It was an expensive undertaking. To help defray some of thecosts to the band members, the Boosters organized a special fundraisingcommittee, which raised nearly $50,000 for this specific program, over and abovethe Booster’s normal fundraising efforts.

Provide much needed extra assistance. There are not enough hands to geteverything done that the band needs without Parent volunteers. From loadingtrucks to distributing and maintaining uniforms, to keeping the band members fedand watered and moving equipment on and off the field. We’ll cover this in thePMK Committees section.

What’s In It for You?

The minute your student joins the Prospect Marching Knights you are “us.” TheBand Boosters provide an esprit de corps (DCI, please forgive us) and a greatopportunity to just being able to hang out and meet other parents who are alsowilling to make a difference in their student’s lives. Band Boosters gives you achance to:

Demonstrate that Marching Band is important. When you are involved, it iseasier to keep your student involved.



Leave your mark. The Band Boosters are always looking for a few more hands.There is always one more event to run or uniform to fix or truck to unload. Thereare as many ways to contribute as there are people that can contribute. What waycan you think of to leave your mark?

Help your student be a success. A band program such as the MarchingKnights succeeds in part because of the continuity of support it gets from theBand Boosters. In a good band, every player must be good. It’s not just takingcare of your band member – it’s taking care of all the band members.

Have a blast. The Band Boosters is a great way to meet a great bunch of parentswho love band. Then you will fit right in with the other crazies bundled up at thefootball games counting down the clock for halftime.

Know the who’s and where’s of some of your student’s friends. Not thatyou’ll be watching all that closely, but you will have the opportunity to find outwho your student is hanging out with. And when your student talks about meetinga clarinet, you’ll know that she means a student from that section and you mightbe able to say, “Is that the tall one with the wavy dark hair?”

What You Need to Know…

Who are the members? Parent (or grandparent, or god-parent, or foster parent, orstep-parent, or adoptive parent, or great grandparent, or even“just like a parent”) of a band member.

What does it cost? $25 per school year per family. You can include the BandBooster fee with your regular school fees.

What do I get? A newsletter, information published through the website, achance to attend the meetings and a chance to help out.

When are the meetings? Usually the second Tuesday (and an occasional Wednesday)of just about every month. They start at 7:30 and run about90 minutes, or so.

Where do we hold theBooster meetings?

More often than not, in the Band Room.

What is the ProspectMarching Knightsmailing address?

Send all correspondence and payments to Prospect BandBoosters, PO Box 63, Mount Prospect, IL 60056. Please donot send anything directly to Prospect High School.

What is the websiteaddress?

www.prospectband.com



What is the Prospect Band Program All About?

The Prospect Marching Knights are a competitive marching band. Theyparticipate in marching band competitions – judged performances – through thearea and travel to larger competitions out of state.

While winning is fun, it is not the aim of the program. The goal is to work towardbeing better each time. To play and march and perform better every time the bandtakes the field. To step up to the challenge of representing Prospect High Schoolwith pride, dignity and a professional attitude.

And it is a challenge. It could be one of the hardest things your student ever does.One student said, “I’ve never worked so hard at anything I’ve loved so much.”But by believing in themselves, students learn that nothing is beyond their reach.

During Marching Season

Marching band members participate in:

Competitions

Parades

Football Games

Pep Band for Basketball

We’ll cover each of these later.

During Concert Season

Once marching season is complete (more or less the first semester), studentsparticipate in either Concert or Symphonic Band (more or less the secondsemester). Students must audition to be in the Symphonic Band. We’ll cover thesebands in more detail in Concert Season.


Who joins the band? All students have the opportunity to join and participate inband at Prospect, not just the soon-to-be-college-music-majors. In fact, 10% of Prospect High School students are inthe Marching Band.

Are freshmen eligible? Yes, we accept and teach students at all levels of music ability.

How much time does itreally take?

While the Marching Knights have a (well deserved) reputation, itcomes from hard work by the students and the band support staff.Band members participate in Summer Band Camp then meetafter school two or three nights a week with rehearsals onSaturday and most days off from school during marching season.



When do the studentsdo their homework?

It is amazing how well the students learn to budget their timein order to accomplish different tasks. It might take somemembers time to adjust to the schedule and you can helpthem manage their time. Many of the band members are onthe honor roll and participate in sports. Once members havethe band schedule, they adjust their time accordingly. You’llalways find members sprawled out in the band hallway withbooks surrounding them. Band practice is part of thehomework, so it takes as much precedence as math and ISS.Some of the brightest, most motivated and successfulstudents at PHS are in the band. In fact, many bandmembers say they are more organized and manage theirtime better during marching season than after the season isover. One more in fact; 70% of Band Members are on theProspect Honor Roll.

Is there time for otheractivities?

Yes, many band members are involved in sports and/or otheractivities at Prospect. Just check out the students’ jacketsand shirts. Participation in these activities is what makes thehigh school experience so terrific. The Band Director alsoencourages this participation through his willingness to workout conflicts.

What does it cost? The band fees cover such expenses as summer band camp,band instructors, preparation of the competitive show, travelexpenses and competition fees. The Boosters and BandDirector do a nice job of creating the yearly budget but thefees do change a bit every year. You’ll find the details in yourBand Packet, in the newsletter and on the website. To helpdefray the expense, we offer a bunch of fundraisingopportunities, which we’ll cover later in this guide. Contact theBand Director should you have any concerns about themaking payments on the band fees.

What about fees forspecial trips?

There are additional fees for special trips, like the RoseParade trip in the 2005-2006 season. The Boosters puttogether payment plans to help budget for the special tripsand develop special band-wide fundraising targeted to defraythese costs. Check the packets your band members bringshome as well as the website and newsletter.

Where does that moneygo?

Your band fees only cover a portion of the band expenses.The rest of the money comes through the budget fromProspect High School and Band Booster fundraising efforts.The budget covers travel, equipment, drill charts, extrainstructors and scholarships.



Are there any otheradditional costs?

Yes. As covered in the Uniform Section, there are additionalone-time charges for marching shoes, socks and gloves.There might also be a meal or two on an overnight trip notcovered by the band budget or student fees.

How do we makepayments?

You should make all checks out to Prospect Band Boostersand send all payments to Prospect Band Boosters, PO Box63, Mount Prospect, IL 60056. Payments not sent to the POBox will not be credited to your account.

How will I find out what Ineed to know during theseason?

This guide is an attempt to dump it on you all at once andthere will be a detailed calendar. But whenever you havequestions, you should check the website, read the newsletter,attend a rehearsal, contact the band booster officers or giveanother band booster a call. Your student will forget to tellyou things and one day you will be surprised when they saysomething like, “Mom, did I tell you that we’re going to play inRoselle tonight?”

Is it OK for my bandmember to miss a bandrehearsal?

Band students are expected to attend all rehearsals andperformances but family emergencies do occur. Contact theBand Director in case of a family emergency.

Who do I call if my bandmember is ill and isgoing to miss anything?

Call the Band Director, Chris Barnum, at 847/718–5363.

Who do you recommendthat we go to for privatelessons?

While private lessons are voluntary, they are highlyrecommended. You’ll find a list included as part of your BandPacket.

Do doubles get tomarch?

Yes, the Band Director finds a place and time for everyone toget on the field!



PMK Executive Board

The Band Boosters organization is run by the Executive Board made up of thefollowing positions:

Position Duties

Band Director The Prospect teacher who runs the band and isresponsible for all the major decisions for the band.Once the school year starts, you can contact ChrisBarnum by phone at 847/718-5363 or via e-mail [email protected]..

President Runs the booster meetings, sets the agenda, andcoordinates competitions, hotels, and any other job that isnecessary; works side by side with the Band Director.

Vice Presidents There are two vice-presidents. They help the Presidentas needed; collect each departing chairperson’s recordsand disperse them to the new chairperson.

Treasurer Handles all payments and collections; prepares monthlyfinancial statements; owns the student database;maintains Student Accounts.

Recording Secretary Takes notes at all band meetings, types, distributes themat the next meeting, prepares meeting highlights for thenewsletter.

CorrespondingSecretary

Handles all correspondence that need, to go out from theBand Boosters; collects and maintains medical andpermission forms.

We elect a new Executive Board every year in April. Refer to the Prospect Bandwebsite, www.prospectband.com for the officers for the current year and up-to-date contact information. Don’t be surprise if you see more names than positionsas the Band Boosters has a history of couples “job sharing.”

http://www.prospectband.com/



PMK Committees

You’ve been introduced to the PMK Executive Board. Now, they work throughcommittees. Committees get the work done on a specific area. When you join theBand Boosters, you have the opportunity to work on one or more of them.Committees are headed up by a person or two. Check out the website for contactinformation for each Band Booster Committee Chair.

Here’s the general list of the committees (in alphabetical order) and what they dofor the Band and Band Boosters. Remember that this list will vary from year-to-year based on participation and events scheduled for the year, but it will give youa great idea of the work to be done.

Chaperone

Some of the perks of being the chaperone coordinator are lots of exercise, meetingnew people, front row seats at competitions, and the first to see the band’s video,free meals, and fun, fun, fun. What you generally do is:

Recruit parents to chaperone the various competitions, parades and trips

Act as Lead Chaperone (or assign this to some other Band BoosterStalwart)

Being a chaperone is a great opportunity to be a part of the band and really get toknow the students as well as other parents. Some of the basic duties of chaperonesare: ride the student buses during trips, provide water, possibly be part of the crewto bring pit equipment on and off the field, supervise the students during mealsand at the hotels, and generally be available for anything the band may needduring a trip. See the Chaperone Tips for lots more details.

Communication

Remember when the Band was to be back at Prospect at 3:00? Well things havechanged and they won’t make it home until 5:00. Coordinating and distributingthese last minute notifications through phone calls and e-mail contact are theresponsibility of the Communication committee.

Concert and Symphonic Uniforms

Band Members wear Concert Uniforms at performances during Concert Season.Unlike Marching Uniforms, once issued, band members keep these uniforms athome. What you generally do is issue, account for and store these uniforms.Check out the Concert Uniform section for more details.



Eighth Grade Coordinator

The Prospect Band gets its members from the incoming freshmen from the feedermiddle schools and junior high schools. The Eighth Grade Coordinator acts as liaisonbetween the feeder schools and the Band. What you generally do is:

Send Prospect Band information to the feeder schools

Arrange the meeting for incoming Freshmen parents

Arrange 8th Grade band programs

Hospitality

This committee is responsible for organizing and serving meals. It runs the entireyear from during the marching season through the end of the concert season.What you generally do is:

Reserve the space needed for the meals

Create “menus” for the meals and order and pick up the food

Coordinate hospitality helpers

Set up, serve and clean up after meals

Marching Uniforms

The Marching Knights wear their Marching Uniforms for all performances,competitions and parades. The Marching Uniforms are under the care of theUniform Parents (both Moms and Dads are welcome). The words of the UniformParents are the law when it comes to the uniforms. What you generally do is:

Fit everyone in the Marching Band with a uniform, shoes and hat

Order gloves, socks and plumes

Take care of the uniforms

Get the Band ready for performances either at home or on the road

Re-rack uniforms once a performance is complete

Check out the Marching Band Uniforms section for more details.



Newsletter Editor

Want to be called “Chief” (you have to go back to the old Superman televisionshow to get this reference, sorry)? Want to know what’s going on before justabout everyone else? Want to wear one of those little fold-up hats and never hadthe chance? Then Newsletter Editor is the spot for you. What you generally do is:

Set deadlines on all the board members and band members for gettingsomething printed into the monthly publication of the newsletter

Prepare and publish a monthly newsletter of band activities and makethem available to all band parents and boosters on a timely basis

Work closely with the webmaster to publish information to the web

Have a touch of a creative bent or a bit of whimsy (couldn’t hurt)

Publicity

Do you like seeing the Marching Knights mentioned in the local press? Thosementions get there through the Publicity committee. What you generally do is:

Notify local media of band events, in advance of the event and escortreporters or photographers at the event (when we get them to attend)

Report the results and accomplishments after an event

Keep a log of our press coverage and exposure

Senior Recognition and Chevrons

The Band Boosters give awards to Band Members in order to recognize themember’s hard work and continuous dedication to the band program. What yougenerally do is:

Maintain records of band member participation

Purchase and distribute membership awards and senior gifts



Transportation

The Prospect Marching Knights travelwith a lot of stuff (large musicalinstruments, uniform racks andequipment). Transportation moves thatstuff from the school to the event (andback again). What you generally do is:

Coordinate truck rentals

Load and unload the truck

Drive to and from the events

At a competition or performance,assist pit members and chaperonesin getting equipment on and off the field

Volunteer Coordination

As we have been telling you, the Band Booster exists solely on its volunteers.Coordinating them is vital. What you generally do is:

Prepare and distribute a Prospect Marching Knights Volunteer Form

Collect completed forms and maintain the Prospect Marching KnightsVolunteer List (is your name on it yet?)

Work with the President to schedule volunteers to committees and events

Water Bottles

You can lead a Band to water but you can’t make it drink, unless you are part of theWater Bottles committee. Competing and marching can be a hot, dry business.Getting the Band watered is this committee’s main goal. What you generally do is:

Maintain the Band water bottles

Provide ice and prepare coolers of water before each competition orparade

Walk the ranks in parades and when in formation (at some venues) inorder to “water” the Band

The TransportationTeam hard at work in2002



Ways & Means

According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Ways &Means is “the financial resources or methods for increasing the financialresources available to a person or group for accomplishing a specific end.” Incode, then, when you think Ways & Means think Fundraising. The Ways &Means chair coordinates fundraising efforts, oversees each individual chairperson,and generally pitches in when needed.

As all Ways & Means activities typically have some fundraising of some form orother, we earmark the profits before the event as being either for the general fundor split between the general fund and the student accounts. We have alsoestablished fundraising events where all profits end up in the student account. Seethe Fundraising section for more details on fundraising activities.

Webmaster

We have become very attached to our website, www.prospectband .com. We useit to keep our communications fresh, share pictures, make forms available andgenerally keep all Boosters as up-to-date as possible. What you generally do is:

Receive information from all sources s possible

Maintain the Booster e-mail list

Publish information to the band website

Maintain the website prospectband.com

http://www.prospectband .com/



Fundraising

Here’s the general list of the Ways & Means committees that we have used at onetime or another (in alphabetical order) and what they do for the Band and BandBoosters. Remember that this list will vary from year-to-year based onparticipation and events scheduled for the year but it will give you a great idea ofthe work to be done.

We identify the fundraising purpose of each activity in the list, with profitsdistributed either to:

The Band Booster General fund (G€neral Fund)

Shared between the General Fund and the Student Accounts ($hared)

Exclusively for Student Accounts ($tudent Account)

Basketball Concession

We have a chance to work during basketball games at the concession standserving typical game-day fare. G€neral Fund

Borders Gift Wrap

We provide gift-wrapping service at the Borders in Randhurst and at any otherlocation we can finagle. Dates are established and volunteers work specific shifts.Bring your own gifts, please. G€neral Fund

Candle Sales

We have had access to sell Yankee Candles from their brochures. It is a great wayto shed a little light upon your Band Member’s Student Account. $hared

Candy Sales

We offer candy for sale. We establish a sign up date and then have the candy atthe Band Room for the students to pick up. Members must pay for their candy asthey pick it up. Band members can walk the halls at Prospect during a two-weekperiod approved by the school and hawk their wares or convince parents to set upsmall candy booths at their places of employment. $hared


PMK Band Boosters

Car Wash

This is not your father’s car wash, andonce again proved that the Knightsdon’t do anything in a small way.Initiated for the Rose Paradefundraising, the Knights raised nearly$18,000 through this event. It was heldat 11 locations simultaneously inMount Prospect and Arlington Heightsand required more than 40 Boostervolunteers to pull it off. But based on the return, it was really worthw

Dinners at Summer Band Camp

Think of it this way. Summer Band Camp can mean extra work for yogulped down quickly by a harried band member. So, to help make it a(and to bring in a bit more cash) the Boosters will be selling meals onduring the summer. G€neral Fund

Dinners at Area Eateries

Some area restaurants have a “benefit day” program where, on certaindonate a percentage of your purchase back to our Band Boosters orgaJust go eat and help the Boosters a few bucks. G€neral Fund

Entertainment Books

The Entertainment book has coupons for hotels, restaurants, entertaintickets, and a host of services. There is a version of this book for theNorth/Northwest, Central/West, and South/Southwest areas. They alldowntown Chicago area. You can normally obtain or exchange booksband practice on Thursday nights. You can return unsold books and mtime during the “selling season.” $tudent Account

Flower Sale

Held in April and May, offers spring flowers for the garden. Only thefor sale, you’ll still have to do your own gardening. $hared

at the car

The Knightshard at workwash in 2005

Page 15

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Frontier Days

Arlington Heights puts on a festival each year during the 4th of July week. Wevolunteer to work a tent (typically either food or beverage) and Boosters andBand Members can sign up to work a shift. If you have ever had a meal outside,you have enough experience to volunteer. For more details, a Festival worker willexplain what needs to get done as you arrive for your shift. G€neral Fund

Garage Sale

Nothing packs in the garage sale fanatic better than a large garage sale. The BandBoosters organize a garage sale for its members in the Prospect parking lot.Typically held in early June, you purchase a spot, set up your table and sell yourjunk goods. $tudent Account

Knight of Champions

We host a competition at Prospect called Knight of Champions. We bring in apassel of Bands and they slug it out on our football field. This is our biggestfundraising event of the year and we cover it in more detail in the Knight ofChampions section. G€neral Fund for everything but the ad sales for the Knightof Champions Program which is $hared.

Mary Kay Sales

The Boosters usually have a contact who distributes Mary Kay products. TheMary Kay distributor typically organizes parties and has catalogs from which youcan order Mary Kay products. A portion of the sales go into the general bandaccount. $hared

Market Days

The Band Boosters run the Market Days program at Prospect High School.Market Days happens on a monthly basis. We distribute the forms and have thepurchases available for pick-up at the school. You are also able to place orderson-line to make ordering even easier. G€neral Fund

PMK Generic Wear

Each year the Band Boosters offer a line of clothing with “Prospect MarchingKnights” plastered somewhere on it. We have had sweatshirts, polo shirts, sweatpants, flannel pants, hats, cushions, shorts, tank tops. Boosters and other bandsupporters are not cool if they attend a competition or band event without somekind of PMK clothing. The committee chair works with the clothes vendor andruns this committee like a small store. See the PMK Generic Wear section formore information. G€neral Fund



Shop and Share

Dominick’s calls it “Benefit Days.” Jewel calls it “Shop & Share.” Whatever youcall it, it means bucks for the Boosters. Both programs are an easy way for yourfamily and friends to support band activities by doing something you’re going todo anyway – go grocery shopping. On certain days, they donate 5% of yourpurchase back to our Band Boosters organization. G€neral Fund

Theme Shirts

The theme shirt illustrates the Band program theme for the year. There is a contestfor the design that the members canparticipate in. The theme shirt is the“band shirt” for performances not infull uniform (like the HomecomingParade). All members receive one shirtas part of their summer band fees.Members and Boosters can orderadditional shirts (you should reallyconsider this for your Band Member).The order form is included in the BandPacket. G€neral Fund

Important The Theme T-Shirt is not part of the PMK Generic wear. The twoorders happen at different times and through different committees.

Yellow Pages Delivery

This is one of the best fundraising opportunities of the year for building up aStudent Account. Yellow Book USA uses Band Members and Band Boosters todeliver directories to homes and businesses within pre-determined suburban areas.In recent years, they have paid between 23 and 25 cents for each directorydelivered to a separate address, depending on the book’s thickness. We have hadband members who have raised over $700 using this fundraiser. $tudentAccount


Where does the moneycome from?

Through the efforts of Band Boosters participating in one orall of the Ways & Means events.

Where does the moneygo?

Boosters also have fundraisers that benefit either the BandBooster General Fund, shared between the General Fundand the Student Accounts or exclusively for StudentAccounts. We use the General Fund to cover the yearlyexpenses incurred by the marching band and/or band events.

The Knights in their theme shirts forthe 2003 Homecoming Parade



How do I turn in funds? Please write a check for all payments (if you collect cash,please replace it with your personal check) made out toProspect Band Boosters. Always include a band member’sfirst and last name on the envelope or check. Do not assumewe know your band member’s first and last name based onthe name printed on the check. And always include anexplanation for the check payment. Mail all checks toProspect Band Boosters, PO Box 63, Mount Prospect, IL60056.

Do I have to participatein Fundraising?

One of the key functions of the Booster organization is toprovide a variety of fundraising activities to help pay for thecost of the fall marching season and the major trips takenevery other year. Families do not have to fundraise. Writing acheck to pay for band expenses is certainly welcome.However, most families take advantage of some fundraisingto help defray the cost. Money that is raised through theseactivities is placed in a family student account. Some of thefundraising events also help build a sense of band pride andcommunity that just writing a check does not cover.

What are studentaccounts?

The Band Boosters maintain a student account for each bandmember. The student portion of all fundraising makes its wayinto the student account once all of the paperwork is up-to-date. We publish the amounts in the accounts periodically.With your authorization, you can use the funds in the studentaccount to pay for band expenses.



Knight of Champions

Knight of Champions is a band contest held at Prospect High School, hosted byProspect Band Boosters. Thecompetition features topMidwest high schoolmarching bands competingin a field show. We use a tonof volunteers and they (you,actually) work in shifts, sothat everyone is able towatch the bands perform.The hard work is rewardingfinancially (Knight ofChampions is our largest fund raising event) and emotionally (it is quite amazingto see the Prospect stands filled with band supporters from around the Midwest).The committee is typically made up of the following volunteer positions:

Committee Chair

Organizes all of the volunteers for the Knight of Champions. Works with theBand Director and the President to coordinate all activities leading up to andsurrounding the Knight of Champions.

Ad Book

Organizes ad sales, creates forms, sales pieces, accumulates letters fromdignitaries, “personal ad” sales, concession offerings, rosters, schedules, andwhatever else we can think of. Keeps records of ad sales, and itemizespercentages of ad sales to be given to each student account. Assembles theprogram and coordinates printing and distribution.

Concession

Purchases all necessary supplies and food. Grills need to be rented or borrowed.Communicates with Chairperson for tables, chairs, and other supplies borrowedfrom the school. Finds volunteers to grill, serve food, and collect money. Thereare usually two to three shifts in the concession area. First shift helps set up andlast shift helps clean up.

Parking

Ropes off parking lot before event. Directs traffic in the parking lot for visitorparking and visiting band buses and equipment trucks.

Ticket Takers

Takes tickets and hands out those bracelet thingys at the entrance gate.

Volunteers at the 2002 Knight of Championstake a break during the

Knights’ performance



Sign Makers

Generates signs for Ticket sales, Washrooms, Areas off limits, First Aid,Programs, Raffle tickets, Entertainment book sales, Concession sales, Prices,Marching Band Apparel, and sign distributor.

Sign Distributors

Distributes signs for display in area businesses, schools, library and any other flatsurface we can locate.

Entertainment Book Table

Sells Entertainment Books.

Ad Book Table

Creates a large slotted container for cash donations. Sell/accept donations forprograms and ad books inside the gate.

Security

People are stationed at the entrance and exit gates to direct spectators and bands toappropriate areas. People are at the entrance to the bleachers to prevent spectatorsfrom walking through the stands while bands are performing. People periodicallycheck the washrooms for supplies or problems. Keep generally aware of peopleand make sure no one is causing a disturbance.

50-50 Split the Pot Raffle Ticket Sales

Sells tickets at a table or in the stands between performances. We hold thedrawing for the winner while scores are being tallied after all bands haveperformed.

Guides

Assigned to each competing band, they escort them to practice fields, assists BandDirectors in obtaining their packets, directs bands to the correct gates so that theycan get to the field at their designated performance time.

Runners

Junior High students or band siblings to run scores and food to the judges.

First Aid

Licensed medical people to be available in case of emergency.




How many volunteersdo you need for Knightof Champions?

In the area of 200. Many of our Band Booster alumni comeback and give us a hand.

How do you select whodoes what?

People volunteer for a committee or committee chairs recruitvolunteers as they need them.

How many schoolsparticipate?

We had over 15 bands participate in the 2005 Knight ofChampions.

What are the hours forthe Knight ofChampions?

The hours depend upon the number of bands we haveparticipating. The gates typically open around 3:00 and wehave the awards ceremony following the Prospect MarchingKnight performance (anywhere between 7:00 and 9:30,depending upon the number of bands). The hours you wouldwork as a volunteer would depend upon the committee.

What is the timecommitment when youvolunteer?

It depends upon the committee. There is a ton of work to dobefore we can host the event and work starts on the nextyear’s competition pretty much following the close of the thisyear’s. At the Knight of Champions, we try to assignvolunteers into shifts so that everyone has a chance to seesome of the schools participate.



Marching Band Uniforms

To look good is to play good. If only thatwere true. On the other hand, theMarching Knights do “look mahvelous.”But that is not an accident. Continuing tolook good only happens because theproper care and feeding of the MarchingBand uniforms.

Who Owns the Uniforms?

The school district owns the uniforms.They only entrust them to the care ofthe Uniform Parents who watch themrelentlessly. To make sure they arealways available and not somewherethey don’t belong, members never takethem home and must treat them with reverence.

There is a budget for uniforms but this is a district budget item; we have to sharewith other schools and are in line for new uniforms once every eleven years.

General Maintenance

Uniforms are very expensive and we expect Band Members to be careful withthem. We do ask Band Members to:

Not eat while in uniform (pizza sauce on the bibs is awful).

Watch where they sit or kneel (like, don’t change flat tires) to minimizesoil and wear.

Not to lay uniform jackets on the ground (picnic after a competition onceyou have changed, please).

Be a clean, makeup-free zone when wearing uniforms (lipstick and basecoat don’t look good on blue).

Treat their uniforms with care and do things like hang them properly tomaintain trouser creases and prolong uniform life.

We dry-clean the uniforms at least once a year. We have had times in the pastwhen we dry-clean them more than once during the performances year. EachBand Member is responsible for a $10 dry cleaning fee.

In sort of a “lovely to look at, lovely to hold” frame of reference, we charge theBand Member should a uniform require an extra dry-cleaning cycle because ofcarelessness on a Band Members’ part (“Aw man, I didn’t know that pepperonicould fall off”).

Uniform racks in the Band Hallway



We also sic the Band Director onto students who don’t take proper care of theiruniforms (you, know, like manage to lose or destroy parts of them). And theUniform Parents will also be upset – and we don’t know what would be worse.

The Parts of the Uniform

Here is the uniform in action:

The Marching Band uniform consists of:

Component Who Provides This? Cost

1 Jacket Provided by the district No charge

2 Bibs (1 black & 1blue)

Provided by the district; bluefor competitions and parades;black for Football Games

No charge

1 Hat & Hat box Provided by the district No charge

1 Black Plume Purchased by the student fromthe band freshman year

$16.00

Gloves Purchased by the student fromthe band

$2.00/pair

Gauntlets Provided by the district(percussion members requirespecially fitted gauntlet)

No charge;replacement costfor lost gauntletsis $5.00/pair.

Special marchingshoes

Purchased by the student fromthe band freshman year

$29.00

A jacket that closesup the back

Pants that areactual bib-overalls

Marching shoes

Gloves

A hat

A plume (not afeather)

Gauntlets

Black sox



Component Who Provides This? Cost

Black dress knitsocks

Purchased by the student fromthe band.

$3.00/pair

Band T-shirt Purchased by the student as partof summer band camp fees.

In summer bandfees

Really Important Band Members are not allowed out onto the field withoutbeing completely in uniform so lost or missing items must be repurchasedbefore each performance. Students purchase socks and gloves freshmanyear and can use them for their entire Marching Band career if they do notlose them and keep them in working order. Students can purchase additionalpairs of gloves and socks throughout the year.

What to Wear Under Your Uniform

We don’t always have access to special changing areas so Band Members shouldalways be prepared to change into their uniform in some drafty, open, co-edspace. To make this possible, Band Members should wear their band T-shirt andlightweight dark nylon athletic shorts (like those from Nike or Umbro), undertheir street clothes so changing anywhere is possible.

When it gets colder (and Band Members will march in cold weather) consideradding lightweight long underwear beneath the uniform.

Band Member Responsibilities

The band is judged on music, marching, and appearance, so it is critical that eachband member looks identical and their uniforms must be clean and crisp for everyperformance.

The Band provides a labeled uniform bag to keep the uniforms clean and together.Students place their uniforms in the bag and then hang their bag on the uniformracks. We expect Band Members to neatly hang their uniforms in the bags andreturn them to their assigned places on the rack after every performance.

The transportation committee arranges to have the racks at a central location forall performances. We have labeled each position on the racks with a student nameand the names (and racks) are in alphabetical order. The racks are checked toinsure all uniforms have been returned to the rack prior to being loaded on thetrucks. We provide hatboxes for each student to protect his/her hat. Students willneed to brush/clean their shoes and stow them in the rack below their uniformafter each practice or performance. Students should also return hat boxes to theirassigned location on the uniform rack after every performance.

It is essential that students check their uniform bags before leaving for acompetition to make sure everything they need is in the bag prior to loading theuniform racks on the truck.

Important The bags are great for protecting uniforms, not for holding heavyitems, like marching shoes, that have a tendency to rip the bags to shreds.



How do the Marching Knights Take the Field?

The Band warms up before each performance. Band Members should be “fieldready” before the warm-ups in order to go from warm-up to performance. Thismeans:

Hair does not peep-out from beneath hats so Band Members will need tohave their hair secured with gel, spray, bobby pins and clips.

There is no jewelry (this includes earrings) on any Band Member at aperformance. Best to not bring it along.

There is no nail polish on any hands (under the socks, is probably ok).

Keep Stuff Clean

Band Members should take their gloves, socks and t-shirt home after eachperformance so they can wash them. What’s worse than dirty, smelly gloves?Dirty, smelly socks, what else? When you take them home to wash themremember to get them back before a performance or you will have to purchasethem again before a performance.

Uniform Fittings

We traditionally hold uniform fittings for incoming freshman and new BandMembers from the winds section in the Spring. We fit the pit and percussion andother new members during Summer Camp. This allows these members to haveuniforms to wear for the Memorial Day Parade. Depending upon our in-housestock this uniform will either be permanent or just for use during the parade.We’ll let the Band Members know at the fitting.

Before we fit the incoming members, we typically go through the process ofhaving the current Band Members (those that marched the previous year) gothrough and try everything on to see if they need any adjustments. If we couldfigure out how to keep students from changing shape, we could save lots of timebut Mount Prospect does not allow the Asian art of body-binding.

The uniform volunteers (that is, the Uniform Parents) fit and adjust the uniforms.We generally issue uniforms first to Seniors (rank has its privileges), then Juniorsand so on. Occasionally, a student may need to switch uniforms during the seasonto help assure a better fit for everyone. We also make every effort to keepuniforms looking good despite growth spurts so it is possible that some BandMembers will switch uniforms during the year.



Uniform Volunteers

Can you tell a good crease from a bad one? Do you know how to match hanging bagswith names on them to names on the uniform racks? Can you tell dirty wet clothesfrom clean dry ones? If so, please help out with the uniforms.

We always need adult volunteers to check and hang uniforms after every homefootball game and after every competition. Volunteers check the uniforms after theperformances at home football games and on the Monday evening following eachweekend competition to make sure that the uniforms are clean, dry and hung neatly.Contact a uniform coordinator if you can help in any way. We can use you for anyamount of time you can give us. It’s also a wonderful way to meet Band Members!


What if my child missedmarching uniform fittingday?

Please call the Uniform Chairperson as soon as possible. Wemight also refit the uniforms at the end of the school yeareven if it fit “perfectly” during marching season. To allow timeto get everything cleaned before competitions, fittings mustbe done by the 4th of July parade.

When do new studentshave to pay for uniformpieces?

The $55 uniform fee for incoming Freshmen is typically due inApril. You will get the details during parent meetings, in thenewsletter and on the website.

What if a student ismissing socks or glovesbefore a performance?

He or she must purchase a new pair or they cannot take thefield.

What should the bandmember wear undertheir uniform?

Because they might be changing anywhere (bus, hallway,field) they should be wearing lightweight dark nylon athleticshorts (like those from Nike or Umbro), and a band t-shirtunder their street clothes.

What about studentswith long hair?

Students with long hair should have it “up” and pinned (andmoussed and pinned, if necessary). The object is to have allof the hair beneath the uniform hat.

What about wearingjewelry?

Students are not allowed to wear jewelry when in uniform. It’sbest to not even take any jewelry with them when they knowthat they will be in uniform. There is no one available to“watch their stuff” and the Band is not responsible for loststuff.

Why are percussionmembers fit last?

We fit the winds first to allow them to march in the MemorialDay parade. We don’t have enough percussion equipment forfive grades of the Knight Line (incoming Freshman andoutgoing Seniors) to march.



What if my bandmember grows out ofhis or her uniformduring the year?

We expect all of the Knights to look their best. If your bandmember needs a replacement uniform during the year, ouruniform parents make the switch. We do have a few extraslying around just for this kind of thing.

What about the colorguard?

We design special color guard uniforms each year to supportthe program theme and fit members during Summer BandCamp.



Concert Uniforms

In late fall, students will be fitted for concert and symphonic uniforms. Studentskeep these uniforms at home (unlike the Marching Band uniforms) and returnthem to Prospect at the end of the performance season. The school issues theuniforms yearly.

Boys’ Concert Uniform

Boys get a black tuxedo. For a performance, they need:

A white dress shirt with a collar meant to accommodate a bow tie

Black socks

Black dress shoes

You also need a bow time. From time-to-time we have them for purchase throughthe school but you should plan on finding one of your own, just in case. You alsodry-clean the tux at the beginning of the season. The pants need to be hemmed orthe sleeves need to be let out? Yep, that’s yours to do too.

Important When you do the alterations, please, please, please do not cutany fabric from the jacket or pants. Need some help with getting around thesewing machine? Ask around to other band parents.

Girls’ Concert Uniform

Girls get a long, black dress and bow. For a performance, they need to wear blackdress shoes.

Unlike the tuxedos, you can wash the girls’ concert uniforms on a gentle cycle, ifneeded, between performances. Hemming the dress is up to you for a better fit.

Important When you do the alterations, please, please, please do not cutany fabric from the dress. Need some help with getting around the sewingmachine? Ask around to other band parents.



Summer Band Camp

Summer Band is the band’s preparationfor the competitive marching season.During the first session, band memberslearn the basics of how to march and playand learn a significant portion of thecompetition show. The second sessionteaches the students the remainder of thecompetition show. Summer Band isrequired. It is vitally importantpreparation for the fall marching season.

Two Sessions

Summer band consists of 2 sessions of about 2 weeks each. We typically holdSummer Band Camp two weeks prior to the 4th of July Parade, and two weeksprior to the beginning of the school year.

Important: We will attempt to work with conflicts on a limited basis. Pleasenotify the Band Director as soon as possible if there are any conflicts.

Preparing for Band Camp

Students should come prepared to work. The Band provides a small spiralnotebook that students can hang around their necks for important information oncharts and timing. Students should also have:

Water container (one of thosecoolers with a spout) – not just awater bottle

Sun screen, hat and sun glasses Jacket (or long sleeves) for

change of weather Flexible tennis or walking shoes/

NOT SANDALS Chalk; the bucket with the giant

sticks Instrument / reeds

Masking tape for the ends of thechalk (some of the toothbrushholders work great for storingchalk)

Pencil to take notes and writedown your marks/charts

Snacks and “lunch” for the mealbreak

Rain Gear (depending on theweather)

Bug spray / insect repellent /after bite

A few more words… Dress for the weather. Drink liquids. Get rest. Drink liquids.Consider long sleeves and long pants in the evening. And … drink liquids.

Band Camp session in theparking lot 2002



Where Does the Band Hold Summer BandCamp?

The Prospect Marching Knights take overthe school and the campus for band camp.Different sections will meet in differentareas in and around the Prospect schoolcampus (music rooms, parking lot, fieldhouse, gyms). Exactly where and whendepends upon the weather. The Band alsopractices marching in formation for paradesby marching a route around theneighborhood.

Want to Know What’s Going On?

The Band Director typically holds a short meeting at the end of each rehearsal.Students gather around (or just drop to the ground, depending on the day’s work).After the Band Director is through the instructors, Drum Majors and Boosters gettheir chance for announcements. If you want to know what’s going on, listen inbecause this is the freshest information you are going to get.


What is Summer Band? Summer Band Camp is the band’s preparation for thecompetitive marching season.

Why are there twosessions?

During the first session, members work on the basics ofmarching and playing. They also start the work on learningthe competition show. The second session focuses onlearning the competition show.

Is Summer Band Camprequired?

Summer Band is required. It is the major preparation for thefall marching season. We will attempt to work with conflictson a limited basis. Please notify the Band Director as soon aspossible if there are any conflicts.

Can parents watch? Yes, you should, and bring guests, too. It is a great time tomeet other parents and see the progress of the program. Wealso use volunteers during the summer for Parking Lot Watchso check the volunteer pages for more info.

What is a good time tocome?

The Band Director typically holds the last half hour or so outside(about 8:30) regardless of what was done earlier so try then.

What time do thestudents have to be atSummer Band Camp?

Watch for your Band packet for details, but the typical plan is:

First session; first year students 2:00 till 9:00 andveterans 5:00 till 9:00 during the first week and then2:00 till 9:00 the second week.

Second session, all students 1:00 till to 9:00.

Band Camp session aroundthe construction in 2002



PMK Generic Wear

Show your support and buy some PMK Generic Wear. We sell the PMK GenericWear at the beginning of the summer, laying out the goodies for the year at theinitial Booster Meeting.

Dress for Success

Generic Wear includes things like hats, sweatshirt, sweatpants, jackets, cushions,tank tops and shorts all emblazoned with PMK or Marching Knights or ProspectMarching Knights.

There is a difference between Prospect High School clothing and PMK GenericWear. PMK Generic Wear is not clothing just supporting Prospect High School.While this seems like a level of misdirection, keep this in mind – buying PMKGeneric Wear really helps the Band. PMK Generic Wear sales is a Band Boosterfund raising activity. A part of your payment ends up in our general fund so buyearly and buy often. No sale of Prospect High School clothing (other than schooljackets) helps our bottom line.

Another thing. It’s cool to go to a competition wearing something PMK. This willreally hit home at your first competition.

Most of the Band Members use the flannel pants as bus wear, so you might wantto get a set of those. Some also wear the flannel shorts under their uniforms.


Why should wepurchase an extra t-shirtor PMK wear?

Cause it’s cool to wear PMK wear when supporting the band.

Where can I see whatclothes we have for theyear?

We have a display of them at the first Booster meeting of thesummer.

When can I order PMKGeneric Wear?

We place the order in the summer so that you will have PMKstuff by competition time.

Is there an order later inthe year if I miss thesummer order?

In the past, we’ve just made one order per year.



Competitions

Competitions are events where the Prospect Marching Knights take their showand measure it against other high school marching bands. There are judges atcompetitions who score on each band on its musicianship, showmanship andmarching. Awards are given out for bands with the highest scores.

A Typical Competition Day Schedule

Competitions are all day affairs. The typical schedule for a competition day issomething like:

Arrive at school in time for the call.

Load the equipment trucks and buses.

Take the bus from Prospect to the competition venue.

Unload at the competition.

Hold a rehearsal.

Eat something.

Change into uniforms.

Warm up.

Line up for the show.

Perform the show.

Jump around after performing.

Quiet down for the Band Director’s short critique.

Change out of your uniforms.

Get back on the bus.

The Knights on thefield at the U of I

competition in 2005


PMK Band Boosters

Usually, eat something again.

Drive back to Prospect.

Unload the bus and equipment.

Go home.

There will be variations depending on the length of the trip as some competitionsare as close as Wheeling High School where others will require an overnight stay.

Important You can expect an itinerary for each competition listing times andlocations. The Band Director distributes copies to all students. The itinerary isalso usually posted on the PMK website (prospectband.com).

Band Classifications

All bands are notmarching equally.Depending uponthe competition,the bands competewithin theirclassification.Bandclassifications arebased either on thenumber of membersstudents at the schoo

Judging

There are a number odetermines what sysmarching band is judincluding:

Movement /

Music – Win

Percussion

Visual Effect

Overall

Some competitions hround (held at night)competition, bands mbe able to participate

While we want Prosp

2

Moving pitinstruments onto thefield during a competition in 200

Page 33

that are marching (marching or band size) or the number ofl (school size).

f judging and scoring systems. The host for the competitiontem it will use. Regardless of the scoring system used, aged on how it performs its show in a number of categories,

General Effect

ds / Brass

– Color Guard / Auxiliary

ave a preliminary round (held earlier in the day) and a finals. These rounds are judged separately. Depending upon theust place at a certain level during the preliminary round toin the finals show.

ect to walk away with the number one rating at all



competitions, and can’t understand why the judges don’t agree with us, rememberthat:

Judges look at a show’s performance level not its entertainment value.

Contest guidelines might require that bands demonstrate certain specificskills in performance such as playing both loudly and softly.

Judges pay more attention to a band’s feet (for marching skill) than therest of their uniforms, flags or props.

Judges only know what they can seethe day (or night) of theperformance so the students have totake their great rehearsals andperform them during competitions.

Judges watch for the small mistakes– some more subtle than you or Ican fathom.

Regardless of the technical aspects,all artistic judgments are subject tosubjectivity and marching band is anartistic endeavor.

The Band is not performing to win. The Band uses competitions to helpcontinue improving its performance

Typical Individual Awards

While bands with the best scores are awarded trophies and medals, manycompetitions also have awards for the individual areas in which the bands arejudged, as well as an award for Drum Major.


When is the call for acompetition?

It will depend upon a number of things such as thecompetition venue and whether there will be a rehearsal atProspect before the competition. Band members will get aschedule at school and the times will usually be posted onthe PMK website (prospectband.com).

How do the students getto a competition?

We bus Band Members to the competitions. Buses will leavethe Prospect High School parking lot at the posted time.

How do I get to thecompetition?

The name and location will be on the itinerary and is usuallyalso available on the PMK website. You can also go to thecompetition website (when available) for more details. Youalso can volunteer to chaperone and then ride on the bus andhaul equipment when we get there.

Prospect Boosters in the standsat the Lancer Joust in 2002



What does it cost at thegate to get into acompetition?

Figure on about $10 per person. Some shows have adiscount rate for students or families. When there is apreliminary round and finals show, there is typically one costfor both rounds. Chaperones don’t get to see all of the bandsperform but do get in free to see the Marching Knights.

What about patches? Band members typically receive a patch for their participationin a BOA competition. You have to purchase them at schoolshaving area competitions (when they have them to sell). SeeAre there any other costs?, below.

Are there any othercosts?

Competitions are fundraising events for the schools that hostthem. The booster clubs for the host school sell programsand typically patches and/or pins and t-shirts and trinkets.You might want to bring home a program and a patch.

What should I bring to acompetition?

Consider the weather. Most competitions will go on in the rainso be prepared. You might want to pack one bag at thebeginning of the year with rain ponchos, blankets and bugrepellent to have just in case. You can typically buyrefreshments at the show but you can also take food anddrinks into most shows (signs will be posted when you can’t).And you can’t have enough pictures of you student on thefield, so don’t forget your camera or video recorder. Butplease, if there is a request for no video recording during acompetition, please respect the host’s request.

Where should I sit whenI get to the stands?

Look for the PMK Band Boosters at the far 40 yard linelocation (at Prospect, this would be 10 yards south of the 50yard line). When you get there, just squeeze in next tosomeone else wearing blue. The bands play to the “home”side of the field and at some competitions you cannot sit onthe “visitor” side. At other shows, the visitor side is where theband students sit until they pack-up and leave.

What is typical PMKBand Booster behavior?

Just a few dos and don’ts. Do cheer for everyone. You knowhow much work is involved in getting a show onto the field. Don’tenter or leave the stands while a band is performing. There isenough time to scurry in or out while bands are leaving andentering the field. Do stay for the entire event, the traffic will betoo heavy to make much difference so just don’t leave after ourperformance. All-in-all, be a role model for Prospect.

What are Regionals? Bands of America (BOA) holds regional competitions fromSeptember through November at various locationsthroughout the country. These regional competitions providea real chance for the Marching Knights to measurethemselves against some of the best Marching Bands in thearea. BOA typically holds its Midwestern Regionalcompetitions in Toledo, Ohio; St. Louis, Missouri; andIndianapolis, Indiana.



Parades

In a typical year, theProspect Marching Knights(parades put the Marching inthe Marching Knights)participate in the followingparades:

Memorial Day Parade– Mount Prospect

4th of July Parade –Arlington Heightsand Mount Prospect

Homecoming Parade– Mount Prospect

U of I Festival ofBands Parade – Champaign-Urbana, Illinois

Winter Festival Parade – Mount Prospect

In the past, we have also marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, the FiestaBowl Parade and the Tournament of Roses® Parade. These parades are, obviously,major trips. See Major Band Trips for more information.

A Typical Parade Day Schedule

The typical schedule for a parade day is something like:

Arrive at school in time for the call.

Change into uniform (for local parades).

Load the equipment trucks and buses.

Take the bus from Prospect to the parade step off area.

Unload the instruments, flags and signage.

Mill around a bit getting instruments and such together.

Warm up.

Organize into ranks.

Step off.

March the parade route.

Meet the buses at the completion area.

On the march at the U of I Festival of Bands in 2003



Return to school to change out of uniform.

Band is dismissed.

Important Students should be well rested, eat a good breakfast and drinkplenty of water before the parade. Sips of water en route help but will notkeep fluid levels up. During summer parades, students should wearlightweight t-shirts and shorts under their uniforms.

Uniforms

Band Members are in complete uniforms (blue bibs) for all parades other than theHomecoming Parade and theWinter Festival Parade.

Homecoming Parade –The Band marches in jeansand Band theme t-shirt.Face painting is optional.

Winter Festival Parade –The Band “dresses up” inlights and package wrapand tinsel for the holidayseason.


Where should I stand onthe parade route?

The band plays for only a portion of the route. In most cases,standing at the half-way point will allow you to hear themplay. If there is a reviewing stand or judging stand this is alsoa great place to haunt because they will play at theselocations.

Do the MarchingKnights really wearuniforms for thesummer parades?

Yes.

Are there good photoopportunities atparades?

Yes, but keep this in mind. Know where your studentmarches (like on which side of the formation, before or afterthe second drum major and so on). You can also get somegreat shots at the step-off point during the mulling-about timebefore step-off. And remember, photo-ops are typically betterbefore a parade than after them.

The Knightsin the 2002

Homecoming Parade



Football Games

The Marching Knights play at all home football games. The Knightline (our drumline) also brings the team onto the field.

A Typical Football Game Day Schedule

The typical schedule for a football game is something like:

Arrive at school for the call (approximately 1 ½ hours before game time).

Change into uniform.

Get instruments.

Warm up outside (near door 22).

Line up to enter the field.

March onto the field.

Play pre-game (Star Spangled Banner and School song).

March off the field toward the south stands.

Either back to the band room for rehearsal or move into the south end-zone stands and play pep band style for about 1 ½ quarters.

Line up for warm-up.

Line up for half-time.

March onto the field.

Play the half time show.

March off the field.

Head back to the school and change out of uniforms.

Depending upon the weather,

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