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Weekly News

* Notes distributed Thursday night need to be returned, signed.  Notes regarding a vote for BOA were sent home Thursday night.  Please return your sheet to Mr. Chester or Mr. Shepherd as soon as possible.

* Action pictures from competition.  If you missed the competition, or would like to have a nice picture of your band member, pictures can be purchased from Black Burn Images (www.blackburnimages.com). Click "Columbia Invitation Marching Competition" and look for "Hillwood."  (Pictures were not available at the time of writing this email.  Check the website later to see the pictures.)

* Friday night away game against McGavock.  It is McGavock's Homecoming.  It is unlikely that we will be able to perform before the game. The directors are deciding what the best possible solution for that evening will be.

* Saturday competition at Overton.  Look for information in the weekly update for this event.

* Booster meeting coming up.  The next booster meeting will be Tuesday, October & at 6:30 PM in the rehearsal hall.  Information for the fruit sale will be distributed at this time.

From Mr. Chester and Mr. Shepherd:

The Hillwood High School Band does it again....

The Hillwood High School Band - Rating - Superior!

Results from last Saturday's (09-27-08) double header are in.  The first part of the day was the annual Middle Tennessee School Band and Orchestra Association's (MTSBOA) Marching Festival at Columbia High School.  Among the 23 bands who attended Saturday's festival only nine bands from across Middle Tennessee received superior ratings.  In addition, of the 23 bands in attendance, six were metro bands with only three ranked superior.  They were:

McGavock High School - I - Superior
John Overton High School - I -Superior
Hillwood High School - I - Superior
 
Antioch High School - II - Excellent
Hunters Lane High School - III - Good
Hillsboro High School - DNA - (did not attend)

Later that evening the band performed at the Columbia Invitational Marching Contest.  The results were as follows:

White Class: (7 bands)
First Place Field Commander - Hillwood High School First Place Color Guard - Hillwood High School Second Place Percussion - Hillwood High School Third Place Band - Hillwood High School
 
Small Division (White and Silver Class combined 13 bands) First Place Overall Field Commander - Hillwood High School Second Place Overall Color Guard - Hillwood High School

Field Commander Challenge Trophy: Hillwood High School (1st time that Hillwood has ever won a challenge trophy caption at this contest)

Guest Commentator:  Jody Gregory

Hello Band Parents.  Wow - what a busy weekend!

First of all, I'd like to thank the parents who were in the band room Thursday evening - painting the props for marching show.  We able to use two of the six background props and two of the four echelons (stairs) for the competitions in Columbia.  Each prop used added to the vision of the show.

Second, the color guard received their new uniforms and flags this past week.  What a visual impact this had to the show!  The uniforms and flags really complemented the music and marching.  Thanks to Catherine Kennedy, our guard instructor, for designing the uniforms.  Great job!

Your children are really working hard on their show, and parents are working hard behind the scenes as well.  It takes a lot of help to get all the musical instruments, staging equipment, uniforms, props, and water loaded onto the trailer, rental truck, bus, and parent cars to attend a show.  When the band arrives, all these items must be unloaded for use by the band, pit crew, and props crew.  Then it all gets packed back up again to go back to Hillwood, and then it gets unloaded and put away until the next performance.  Thanks to all parents who participated in this process last weekend!

I know a couple of our parent helpers from this past weekend will not be able to assist at this weekend's competition.  What a great way to get plugged in by volunteering.  Yes, some of the time you will be working hard.  But we also had some great camaraderie with the parents and kids.  We set up tents and chairs and tailgated between competitions.  With this weekend's competition being in Nashville, it would be a great time to get involved and see your children perform.  Let one of our officers know if you will be able to help out.  I look forward to working with you this weekend.

One of the best parts of this past weekend was the appreciation your children showed to the parent volunteers.  Each band member personally walked up and thanked each parent there for their assistance at the competitions.  Many, many hugs were given away as well.  All the parents were touched by this gesture.

Keep encouraging your children to work hard.  That work is paying off with many awards for the band.  Ask your child about the results from Columbia.  That's all for now.  --Jody

September Calendar:

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: TRI at Overton

October Calendar:

Oct 6 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 7 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

- Band Booster meeting - 6:30 PM

Oct 8 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 9 (Thu)

- Home Football vs. Hunters Lane (Homecoming)

Oct 10 (Fri)

- Teacher Planning Day (students do not report)

- Special Rehearsal 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Oct 11 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: Mid-TN Small Band at Forrest

Oct 13 (Mon)

- Parent/Teacher Conference Day (students do not report)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 14 (Tues)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 15 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Oct 16 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 17 (Fri)

- Football at Glencliffe

Oct 18 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: MCI at McGavock

Oct 20 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 21 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 22 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 23 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 24 (Fri)

- Football at Antioch

Oct 25 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: COC at MTSU

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Game & Competition Update

* Friday night away game against Hillsboro.  The gig sheet is attached.  It is Hillsboro's Homecoming, so we will perform after the game instead of during Half Time. 

* Competition in Columbia Saturday.  The gig sheet is attached.  Band members will need to bring BOTH their FIELD and CASUAL uniforms Saturday.  Students also need to remember to bring plenty of WATER and MONEY and/or SNACKS.  It has been suggested that folks may want to "tail gate" Saturday.  Due to the late notice, will not have a full "tailgate" party.  Instead, if you would like to have "picnic" with friends, please plan accordingly.

* Columbia competition information.  Parking will be $2 for the day, with proceeds going to the Knights of Columbus.  There are separate entry fees for the MTSBOA competition and the CIMC competition.  Each will run adults $10 and children under 6 years $5-6. YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY TWICE IF YOU WANT TO WATCH BOTH COMPETITIONS.  The concession stand will be open all day. 

The directors appreciate your help, but please give Mr. Chester time to get the band settled and catch a breath before asking him for a free pass to the contest.  He, and not parents, will distribute the passes.

For information visit the Columbia Central Band's website at http://columbiacentralband.com/ and click on "C.I.M.C."   
(Or read the attached gig sheet.)

From Mr. Chester and Mr. Shepherd:

-- Gig sheet for Friday's game is attached.

-- Gig sheet for Columbia competitions is attached.

Guest Commentator:  Andi DeJarnette

SUNSET
Friday night the band will travel to Hillsboro and perform after the game.  The students will report at 5:00 dressed and ready to go.  Trucks will be loaded with equipment and off to Hillsboro we go.

We will return to Hillwood after Hillsboro performs their show.  Lucky for us, we will NOT unload Friday night for our Saturday morning practice!  We'll leave the truck loaded and ready to go the next morning.

SUNRISE
After a brief check, we will load uniforms, members, and parents and off to Columbia we go.

Upon arrival, we will receive our squatting territory for the day.  You will make new friends. 

The first performance will take place @ 11:15 AM. CHEER

Upon completion, the band will go into their field uniforms (black shorts and white shirts) to rest for the second performance @ 5:22 PM.  CHEER

Then, the band will change into casual uniforms and the parents will load the truck.

We will then bond, laugh, share, cheer, relax, eat, and reminisce until ...

The tears of joy are shared over our accomplishments.

Travel home..grab any parent in the lot to help us unload so we can leave for home before 2 am.

Please join us for sunset, sunrise, cheers, and tears!

September Calendar:

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: TRI at Overton

October Calendar:

Oct 6 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 7 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

- Band Booster meeting - 6:30 PM

Oct 8 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 9 (Thu)

- Home Football vs. Hunters Lane (Homecoming)

Oct 10 (Fri)

- Teacher Planning Day (students do not report)

- Special Rehearsal 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Oct 11 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: Mid-TN Small Band at Forrest

Oct 13 (Mon)

- Parent/Teacher Conference Day (students do not report)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 14 (Tues)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 15 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Oct 16 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 17 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 18 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: MCI at McGavock or HRI at Westmoreland

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This Week's News

* Competition in Columbia Saturday.  Please look for the gig sheet later this week.  It will contain detailed information about what band members need to bring for the competition.

* Get a sneak peak at the competition information.  For information about our performance times and parking and entrance fees, you can visit the Columbia Central Band's website at http://columbiacentralband.com/ and click on "C.I.M.C."

* Calendar attached.  By popular demand, the calendar is back in "regular calendar format."  You can also download this from the Hillwood High School Band website.

* Central Parking fundraiser started.  If you want to participate in this fundraiser, please send an email to parking@hillwoodband.com identifying the email addresses that should be included in the list.  This fundraiser is an easy way to pay off band fees.

* Parent volunteers need to have green golf shirts when representing the Hillwood High School Band.  We still do not have enough pre-sales for the shirts.  We will be keeping a tab until we DO have enough parents needing shirts. 

* FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES:
     1) Kroger cards (ongoing)
     2) Central Parking (started)
     3) Fruit sales (2 sales for Thanksgiving and Christmas delivery)

From Mr. Chester and Mr. Shepherd:

-- If you did not respond to the email regarding the Bands of America (Indianapolis) trip, you will get a phone call soon for your family's opportunity to vote on the event.

-- Saturday's competition will be a long day.  Families have requested more time together.  In honor of this request, families can choose to have their band member(s) return home after the second competition Saturday.  If there are enough members who wish to go home early, we will send a bus home.  If not, parents will have to make arrangements to get their children home safely.  Please let us know by Wednesday what your family will do so that we can plan accordingly.

Hello!

We're right in the middle of marching season and it seems like the end will never come!  The kids are tired and the parents even MORE so.  Competition is just starting and it will go by quickly.  We live week-to-week during this time.  Before you know it, the season will be over and you'll be missing the constant interaction with other parents and the band members.  Hang in there - it'll be well worth it!

Have you seen the show lately?  It's coming along nicely!  The kids are working SO hard and it is really starting to show.  This comes with a price: the more tired folks get, the shorter the tempers get.  It becomes a challenge to maintain respect for one another.  We all have to work together to keep things running smoothly.  If not, it will be a VERY long year.

If you are considering doing the Central Parking fundraiser, you ought to know what is expected of you.  You will need to be available several hours before the event and will work different parking lots where you will sell tickets for parking.  It's that simple: no parking cars, no directing traffic.

Julie Lamb and I went Saturday to park cars at the TSU game at LP field.  We arrived at LP Field at 12:00 PM for the 5:00 PM game.  The Central Parking coordinator gave us orange vests to wear and tickets to sell.  We split up (several adults at each gate) and waited for the fans to arrive.  It was slow until about 3:00 and we had a steady stream of cars until about 5:45.  We were cashed out around 6:00 and made it back to Hillwood by 6:30. 

September Calendar:

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: TRI at Overton

October Calendar:

Oct 6 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 7 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

- Band Booster meeting - 6:30 PM

Oct 8 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 9 (Thu)

- Home Football vs. Hunters Lane (Homecoming)

Oct 10 (Fri)

- Teacher Planning Day (students do not report)

- Special Rehearsal 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Oct 11 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: Mid-TN Small Band at Forrest

Oct 13 (Mon)

- Parent/Teacher Conference Day (students do not report)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 14 (Tues)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 15 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Oct 16 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 17 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 18 (Sat)

- COMPETITION: MCI at McGavock or HRI at Westmoreland

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Weekly News Update

* NEXT INSTALLMENT OF BAND FEES DUE Sept 15.  Please get your payment in to Marcie Allen.

* Special rehearsal FRIDAY 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM.  Pizza will be available before rehearsal ($5 per pizza or $2 per slice).  See Mr. Gaulle to place your order.  The weather is supposed to be warm again, so make sure band members have water bottles.

* Special rehearsal SATURDAY 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM.  Please make sure band members are hydrated and have lunch before they arrive.  The weather is supposed to be warm again, so make sure they have water bottles with them.

* Car wash Sunday afternoon.  We will have a car wash at the Advance Auto Parts on Hwy 100 Sunday, September 21 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM.  Band members should eat lunch before arriving, but will be allowed to take breaks. 

* Band members should wear their shoes during rehearsals.  

* Saturday good day for parent volunteers to help finish props, etc.

* Central Parking fundraiser started.  An initial email with dates went out to volunteers from parking@hillwoodband.com.  If you want to participate in this fundraiser, and did not receive the initial email, please send an email to parking@hillwoodband.com identifying the email addresses that should be included in the list. 

* Parent volunteers need to have green golf shirts when representing the Hillwood High School Band.  We still do not have enough pre-sales for the shirts.  We will be keeping a tab until we DO have enough parents needing shirts. 

From Mr. Chester and Mr. Shepherd:

-- Band members: don't forget to drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest this week. 

-- The band will be working on the 3rd movement this week.

No commentary today . but look for guest commentators to pop in now and again!  (Don't forget to see the revamped band website!)

September Calendar:

Sep 15 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Sep 16 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 17 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Sep 18 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 19 (Fri)

- Football at Hendersonville (not attending)

- Special Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Sep 20 (Sat)

- Special Rehearsal 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia (competition)

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- TRI at Overton (competition)

October Calendar:

Oct 6 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 7 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

- Band Booster meeting - 6:30 PM

Oct 8 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 9 (Thu)

- Home Football vs. Hunters Lane (Homecoming)

Oct 10 (Fri)

- Teacher Planning Day (students do not report)

- Special Rehearsal 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Oct 11 (Sat)

- Mid-TN Small Band at Forrest (competition)

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This Week's News

* NEXT INSTALLMENT OF BAND FEES DUE TODAY.

* Articles beginning to appear in local papers.  Ten of our band members are in Wednesday's Westview.  This is available online at http://www.westviewonline.com/files/Sept_10.pdf.

* NO COMPETITION THIS WEEK.  Instead, the band will have a special rehearsal 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM.  Please make sure band members are hydrated and have lunch before they arrive.  The weather is supposed to be warm again, so make sure they have water bottles with them.

* Car wash highly likely Sunday afternoon.  If all goes well, the car wash will be held at the Advance Auto Parts on Hwy 100. Look for exact times for the car wash in this week's news update. 

* Band members should wear their shoes during rehearsals.  

* Saturday good day for parent volunteers to help finish props, etc.

* Central Parking fundraiser started.  An initial email with dates went out to volunteers from parking@hillwoodband.com.  If you want to participate in this fundraiser, and did not receive the initial email, please send an email to parking@hillwoodband.com identifying the email addresses that should be included in the list. 

* Parent volunteers need to have green golf shirts when representing the Hillwood High School Band.  We still do not have enough pre-sales for the shirts.  We will be keeping a tab until we DO have enough parents needing shirts. 

* FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES:
     1) Kroger cards (ongoing)
     2) Central Parking (starting)
     3) Fruit sales (2 sales for Thanksgiving and Christmas delivery)
     4) Car wash (possibly September 21)

From Mr. Chester and Mr. Shepherd:

Thank you to all the parents who helped to ensure our continued success on Saturday, September 13, 2008, as we once again dominated in our class D victory for the second consecutive year.  It was great to have so many parents involved.

Now that your child is an active member of the band, we hope you will take advantage of this outstanding positive family experience. It is the opportunity to join your child in the attainment of a mutual goal, something you do not want to miss.

At a time when young people are making crucial decisions concerning personal behavior, ethics, integrity, morals, and an array of vital life choices, wouldn't you like to be around to have some influence on their direction? Band parents enjoy this unusual vantage point, and all of the band members benefit from such a healthy relationship.

Band parents are also integrated into every phase of the program. They are not passive observers, or simply a polite sideline audience, but active contributors in the daily operation of the program. The ongoing success of our program is in direct proportion to the support of our parents. We need you.

I often think there is as much pride in our band parent organization as there is in the band itself. Many of our parent participants have found hidden social benefits for their own growth and development. Not only do our boosters work hand-in-hand with our band program, but they relish the exchange with other parents who share a common interest.

You may think there are not enough hours in the day to add one more responsibility to your schedule. This is a legitimate consideration; however, we are sensitive to the situation. You will find everyone is willing to make the necessary accommodations so all parents can be involved. It is a chance that will only come around once in life for you and your child.

Our next two performances are scheduled for September 26th as we travel to across town rival Hillsboro for football and again on September 27th as we participate in the MTSBOA Marching Festival and Columbia Invitational Marching Classic. Please mark this on your calendar and plan to be with us for an exciting action packed day. You will also enjoy the optimistic atmosphere of our band's number-one fan club, our band parents. You will quickly sense the caring and sharing attitude that has become the trademark of this group. I also urge you to attend our booster meetings, become an active member.

Thank you for all that you do!
Michael Chester and Michael Shepherd

Hello!

Our kids did GREAT this weekend!   In our class, we won Top Scoring Horn Line, Top Scoring Field Commander, Top Scoring Percussion, and First Place Band.  We also won Best of the Best Field Commander and Second Place Overall (in the small division).

Because of the size of the band, we are considered a "small band" and compete against band of similar size.  "Best of the Best" awards are given to the best (in a particular category) of all the bands participating, regardless of their size.

What is competition day like?  It is a full day for the kids and they need plenty of rest (and water) the evening before. But each day is a little different.  This is what Saturday was like:

7:30 - The band rehearsal hall opened.  Band members began arriving and gathered their things for a morning rehearsal.

8:00 - The wind ensemble was on the field; front ensemble and batter percussion made their way outside.  (It usually takes longer for them to be ready.)  It takes time to warm up.  After one lap around the track, stretching, breathing exercises, and warm-up, the band was finally ready to rehears. 
9:00 - The band began rehearsal.  Water breaks were taken when scheduled and as needed.
11:30 - The band went inside to cool down, change into "halves," and eat lunch.  Parents were busy running around loading the truck and cars, cooling kids down, and doing last-minute preparations.
12:45 - Buses were loaded with uniforms and a band member count was taken.
1:00 - The buses left the school.
1:45 - Arrival at Hendersonville High School.  The band unloaded the buses, drank water, and went inside the building to a bathroom break before warm-up.  Parents unloaded the truck and prepared items in the staging area.
2:30 - The band marched to the warm up area.  Parents followed with uniform repair kids, water, and spray bottles filled with water.
3:00 - The band took the field in competition, and then went in to the school to receive a critique of their performance.  The Booster Board of Directors was invited to the critique.  After the critique, the students returned to the staging area to put their instruments away and get uniform bags so they can change into their casual uniforms.
4:00 - The band returned to the building to change clothes and chat with Mr. Chester.
4:45 - The band put their uniforms away and were released to their assigned seating area in the stadium to watch the rest of the competition.  Students were allowed to walk around the stadium area freely, but were asked to restrict visits to the staging area.
7:30 - Band officers and section leaders returned to the staging area to put their formal uniforms back on for "retreat."  (Retreat is the time on the field during the awards presentation.)
8:15 - The awards ceremony began.
9:30 - The students returned to the buses with their awards, boarded the buses, and departed Hillsboro High School.
10:30 - The buses arrived at Hillwood.

September Calendar:

Sep 15 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Sep 16 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 17 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Sep 18 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 19 (Fri)

- Football at Hendersonville (not attending)

- Special Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Sep 20 (Sat)

- Special Rehearsal 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash possible(in the afternoon)

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia (competition)

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- TRI at Overton (competition)

October Calendar:

Oct 6 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Oct 7 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

- Band Booster meeting - 6:30 PM

Oct 8 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Oct 9 (Thu)

- Home Football vs. Hunters Lane (Homecoming)

Oct 10 (Fri)

- Teacher Planning Day (students do not report)

- Special Rehearsal 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Oct 11 (Sat)

- Mid-TN Small Band at Forrest (competition)

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This Week's News Update

* Pinning Ceremony Friday, September 12. The pinning ceremony will begin at 7:00 in the HHS auditorium, followed by a brief reception in the lobby. Weather permitting, the band have a full dress rehearsal beginning at 8:30 (location TBD). Students will need to have ALL uniform parts by this time. Failure to do so will result in failing inspection for the evening.

* Uniform update.  All students will need to purchase BLACK SPORT HEADBANDS by next Friday; these are considered part of your uniform. Students need to bring an extra pair of black socks available for emergency use. 

* Central Parking fundraiser is starting.  If you are interested in participating in this fundraiser, please let us know ASAP.  We will be putting together a separate email list for this fundraiser.

Currently there are adult volunteers (16 and over) needed for Tennessee State University. 

* ALL parent volunteers need to have green golf shirts when representing the Hillwood High School Band.  I misspoke earlier this week, we are not changing from Kelly green to Forrest Green, rather, we are making Forest Green available as an alternate color. 

* REMINDERS:
     1) BOA Grand National Championships vote by Tuesday, 9/9
     2) Purchase black sports headbands by Friday, 9/12
     3) Turn in an extra pair of black socks by Friday, 9/12

* FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES:
     1) Kroger cards (ongoing)
     2) Central Parking (starting)
     3) Fruit sales (2 sales for Thanksgiving and Christmas delivery)
     4) Car wash (possibly September 21)

From Mr. Chester:

-- The gig sheet for Hendersonville is attached.  Here is the summary:
     7:30 AM - Band rehearsal hall doors open
     8:00 AM - Call Time - Athletic Field for rehearsal
     11:00 AM - Students dress in "halves"
     11:45 AM - Departure Time
     1:00 PM -  Arrive at Hendersonville High School
     2:30 PM - Band warm-up time
     3:00 PM - Band Performance time
     8:00 PM - Awards begin
     9:30 PM - Contest end time (estimate)
     10:00 PM - Departure time (dependent on contest end time)
     11:15 PM - Arrival at Hillwood High School

PLEASE NOTE: There will be an admission fee for this contest of $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 12 and under.  All Band personnel will have their hand stamped and will not need to pay admission.  Field access passes will be distributed by Mr. Chester prior to warm-up.  Because there is a restriction to the number of field passes that can be given out we ask that you please bring extra money for admission.

Good Afternoon!

Saturday will be a VERY long day.  Make sure your band student has plenty of snacks and money.  If you are attending, make sure you have enough money to pay for your entry to the contest.

For our new parents, uniform "halves" consist of the black bib pants, the Hillwood High School Band issued black under armor shirt, black socks (at least mid-calf), and black band marching shoes.  Jackets are left in the uniform bags and carried separately.

There are usually vendor kiosks at competitions where band members can purchase memorabilia.  It is not required to purchase these items, but we want to make sure you child has enough money for food. 

Which reminds me . please, please, please send enough money for food and snacks, or send a lunch kit with your student.  We have has students in the past show up for all day events with nothing to eat or drink.  Of course we don't let them starve, but it does make other parents and band members uncomfortable.

Saturday will be full of activity.  If you are available to help, come on by.  Before and after we do have to load and unload the equipment truck, clean up after ourselves in the busses and school, and just put things away.  At the competition we'll have to unload and set out the equipment so that it is easy for the band members to get to their things. 

As there is "concert etiquette" for concert performances in the Spring time, there is "marching band etiquette" during marching season.  This time is pretty regimented.  When your child is in line in full uniform, you should not approach them unless you are assisting with official band business.  When the band members are walking in line, you should not expect to be allowed to "break ranks."  (This means passing through while they are walking by.) 

We have been working diligently on our Hillwood reputation over the past couple of years and parents AND students are expected to act appropriately when representing the Hillwood High School Band.

Hope you can come see the kids compete at Hendersonville Saturday!

September Calendar:

Sep 8 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 9 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 10 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 11 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 12 (Fri)

- No game; Special Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

-7:00 PM Pinning Ceremony & inductions to TRI-M (select students)

Sep 13 (Sat)

- HGI at Hendersonville (competition)

Sep 15 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Sep 16 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 17 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Sep 18 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 19 (Fri)

- Football at Hendersonville

Sep 20 (Sat)

- Special Rehearsal 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash possible(in the afternoon)

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia (competition)

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- TRI at Overton (competition)

H

This Week's News

* Congratulations to our band students!  TEN of our members auditioned for (and made!) the Nashville Youth Orchestra Program.  CURB YOUTH SYMPHONY (CYS) members: Rachel Smith, Scott Franco, Brent Ottarski, Reed Owens, Brian Allen, Justin Baker, and Blake Roan.  Also securing a spot on cello is Barrett Frederick, brother of Jordan Frederick.  NASHVILLE YOUTH REPERTORY ORCHESTRA (YRO) members: Shelby Rosenberg and Joe Dansby.  This is the largest Hillwood representation we've ever had.  Congratulations talented young people!

* Pinning Ceremony Friday, September 12. The pinning ceremony will begin at 7:00 in the HHS auditorium, followed by a brief reception in the lobby. Weather permitting, the band have a full dress rehearsal beginning at 8:30 (location TBD). Students will need to have ALL uniform parts by this time. Failure to do so will result in failing inspection for the evening.

* Smart Card sales are wrapping up.  All money and/or cards need to be returned to Cindy Smith by Tuesday, September 9th.

* Central Parking fundraiser is starting soon.  If you are interested in participating in this fundraiser, please let us know ASAP.  We're putting together a mailing list of interested volunteers.  Volunteers will need to check their email for last-minute date openings or changes. More information will be posted on the Hillwood High School Band website <http://www.hillwoodband.com> .

* Uniform update.  All students will need to purchase BLACK SPORT HEADBANDS by next Friday; these are considered part of your uniform. Students need to bring an extra pair of black socks available for emergency use.  Look for a handout attached to next week's email for more information.

* ALL parent volunteers need to have green golf shirts when representing the Hillwood High School Band.  This year we're going with Forest Green instead of the current Kelly Green shirts.  If you were unable to purchase your golf shirt earlier, or would like to purchase the darker green shirt, please let Cindy Franco know.  We need a minimum of 36 shirts before we can order them.  Please preorder your shirt as soon as possible.  There is a 2-week turn-around time, so the sooner your orders are placed, the sooner we can get the shirts in.

* REMINDERS:
     1) Under armor shirt money ($10) by Monday, 9/8
     2) Syllabus (page 4) signed and returned by Tuesday, 9/9
     3) Turn in Smart Card money by Tuesday, 9/8
     4) BOA Grand National Championships vote by Tuesday, 9/9
     5) Purchase black sports headbands by Friday, 9/12
     6) Turn in an extra pair of black socks by Friday, 9/12

* FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES:
     1) Kroger cards (ongoing)
     2) Central Parking (starting soon)
     3) Fruit sales (2 sales for Thanksgiving and Christmas delivery)
     4) Car wash (possibly September 21)

From Mr. Chester:

-- Don't forget to read the syllabus and turn in the last page signed by the band member and his/her parent/guardian by Tuesday, September 9. 

-- Please turn in your vote (for OR against) the Bands of America (BOA) Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, IN by Tuesday, September 9.  At the Band Booster meeting Tuesday night, parents requested that more information be made available so families can make informed decisions about attending the event.  The cost of the event is above and beyond the regular band fees, and the opportunities garnered from this event are incomparable. Every parent/guardian should consider this opportunity and respond (either for or against) the event.  Please remember that to make this event a positive one; if the majority is in favor, then we still need all students to attend the event.  Students are individuals, but individuals make up the band, and we the band to make the performance a success.  Votes can be submitted to Mr. Chester at michael.chester@mnps.org.

-- The gig sheet for Hendersonville will be sent out later this week.  We're looking at an afternoon call time, with a 2-hour rehearsal Saturday morning.  Specifics will be included in the gig sheet.

If you can make arrangements, you simply must attend the Pinning Ceremony.  It is a very special this moment for the kids, especially the first pinning.  We'll have plenty of cameras around if you miss it!  I'd say more about it, but I don't want to spoil it for you.  All I can say is that each person has a different experience and you'll need to create your own.

What can you expect at the Pinning Ceremony?  After a brief rehearsal, students will begin getting dressed around 6:15 while parents and family members gather in the HHS auditorium.  At 7:00, the directors will bring in the band in full uniform.  Each band member is called forward and parents/guardians will pin a silver star on their uniform.  After the pinning, everyone will gather in the lobby for a brief reception (nothing messy so the uniforms don't get dirty!), followed by a dress rehearsal around 8:30.  After the rehearsal, students will learn how to care for their uniforms - how to correctly hang them on hangers, where to put (or not to put) shoes and accessories, etc.

We'll have more on the Hendersonville event later this week when the gig sheet is ready.

Have a good week and hope to see you Friday!

September Calendar:

Sep 8 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 9 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 10 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 11 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 12 (Fri)

- No game; Special Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

-7:00 PM Pinning Ceremony & inductions to TRI-M (select students)

Sep 13 (Sat)

- HGI at Hendersonville (competition)

Sep 15 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

- Next Payment Due ($125 or $75 for the second student)

Sep 16 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 17 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Sep 18 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 19 (Fri)

- Football at Hendersonville

Sep 20 (Sat)

- Special Rehearsal 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Sep 21 (Sun)

- Car wash possible(in the afternoon)

Sep 22 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 23 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 24 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Brass)

Sep 25 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Sep 26 (Fri)

- Football at Hillsboro

Sep 27 (Sat)

- MTSBOA and CIMC at Columbia (competition)

Sep 29 (Mon)

- Color Guard Rehearsal 2:30 - 4:00

Sep 30 (Tue)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 1 (Wed)

- Rehearsal 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Percussion and Woodwinds)

Oct 2 (Thu)

- Rehearsal 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Oct 3 (Fri)

- Football at McGavock

Oct 4 (Sat)

- TRI at Overton (competition)