Frequently Asked Questions
Band parents often have questions about their child’s participation in the band. Here are some commonly asked questions and responses, given by parents of current and past band members. If you have more questions, please e-mail Bonnie Suffridge at bjsuffridge@gmail.com.
How can I get tickets to the football games?
How much does it cost to be in the band?
How much practice time will our kids have for the band?
I heard the band offers grants. How does that work?
Does the band go to every football game?
Is there a DVD of the band made for the whole marching season? What about a CD recording?
How can I get tickets to the football games?
Each student band member gets two free tickets to the game. They will receive information on when and where to pick up these tickets the week of the game. (There is no choice of seat selection, but band parents are usually seated together. After you attend a few games, you’ll recognize other parents; introduce yourself.)
How much does it cost to be in the band?
The only requirement is that students purchase a “Spirit Pack” on their first day of Band Camp ($75 for a gig bag, t-shirts, sunglasses, and a baseball cap). There is no fee for being in the band. Students are required to have comfortable black shoes for performances.
How much practice time will our kids have for the band?
The TMB practices every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, for about 2 hours. In addition, the majority of each Saturday, starting at 7 am, will be dominated by games — usually continuing for about 8-10 hours total. There is more than enough time to schedule classes, homework, and other extracurricular activities around the band schedule!
I heard the band offers grants. How does that work?
The band offers band grants based on instrument, attendance, and years with the band. Have your child contact the band office for more information.
Does the band go to every football game?
The TMB plays at all home games. At least some of the band goes to every away game. The entire band goes to the Notre Dame game in South Bend, Indiana (every other year) and the trip to Northern California for either the Stanford or Cal game each year. The seniors, juniors, and sophomores each represent the band at one of the away games.
Is there a DVD of the band made for the whole marching season? What about a CD recording?
At the end of each halftime performance, a YouTube link will be distributed to all band parents by email. CDs can be purchased through the band’s online store.