Will band fit into an aggressive academic schedule?
Yes! Extensive research states, band students produce the highest grades in all areas of academia, and when a student ceases to be a part of the band, their GPA goes down. From aerospace engineering to pre-med, from music education to psychology, band prepares students for the next step, whatever it may be! We have had Boettcher/National Merit finalists and our students are awarded $1000’s in scholarships each year. Many IB students and AP scholars are members of our program. The schedule at LHS allows students to pursue a full schedule and perform with our bands for 4 years. In addition, TSD’s offering of online classes expands flexibility for our students. Your schedule can accommodate band and the most challenging of academic schedules.
Can a student play sports while doing band?
Yes! Contrary to popular belief, members of the band program participate in sports at all levels at LHS. We have (or have had) students participate in football, wrestling, tennis, volleyball, basketball, swimming, cross-country, diving, track, baseball, softball, golf, cheerleading, gymnastics, rugby, lacrosse, and soccer. Communication is the key to participating in everything that interests you.
Do I have to audition for band as a freshman?
No! Just enroll! All interested students will be admitted into Marching Band and Concert Band first semester, no audition needed. Students who don’t play a band instrument can join our Colorguard or talk with Mr. Freesen about learning an instrument. If you play piano or strings we also have options for you, contact us! It’s never too late to begin.
What class period do I enroll in to start?
For 1st semester, you should be enrolled in Marching Band and Concert Band or Guard/Percussion. For 2nd semester, incoming freshmen should enroll in Concert Band, unless invited to Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble based on audition. You may also enroll in Jazz Ensemble III during both semesters if enrolled in another ensemble. If you are choosing to perform only in Concert Band, enroll in that course for both semesters. All students participate in placement auditions so things do move around based on your ability and ensemble needs. This initial enrollment helps counselors get a head start on creating a schedule for you!
Will there be any orientations?
Yes, there are many ways to learn about our program. Information is given at open houses and email communication. Our Annual Meeting and Show Reveal on April 28th at 6:30pm is an important night to learn more about the band program. Students and families will be connected to veteran members and parents for support. Dates will be regularly communicated.
Is it difficult to learn how to march?
No. New members are usually apprehensive about marching. Remember when you started playing your instrument? You took small steps and with trial and error, you became comfortable playing those first 5 notes! Learning to march is the same way. The band staff and Leadership Team will be there to help every step of the way.
How much time does marching band really take?
The marching season in Colorado is one of the shortest in the country. We rehearse during sectionals and band camps during the summer months. This in no way takes up your whole summer! Summer absences are allowed, just turn in the absence form. Once competitions begin, the marching season flies by in 5-6 weeks. We meet as a 9th period class 2 days a week and rehearse/compete on Saturdays. After the marching season, 9th period ends and frees up large blocks of time.
Will band and its time commitments negatively impact my grades?
It shouldn’t! Above all, you are at LHS to receive a high-quality, well-rounded education. Good grades are mostly dependent on a student’s time management skills. Most of our students get their best grades during the competition season. Many of LHS’ top scholars are in the band program. We do homework days and grade checks to keep on track.
Does the Loveland Band travel overnight?
Yes! Based on their high level of performance quality our bands travel yearly! Some honor bands for select students will also require overnight accommodations. The band travels with a high chaperone-to-student ratio and with medical personnel. We take performance-based trips for our students to experience places outside of Northern Colorado. All students will have the opportunity to travel to Disney during their four-year tenure in the program. Other destinations in-state or out-of-state, such as St. Louis, Chicago, New Orleans, Texas, Arizona, Seattle, California, and New Mexico will be offered as the opportunities arise.
Are there social events?
Yes! Many of the impactful moments in band are social. Our Leadership Team, Staff, and Band Boosters organize social events. Some highlights are section parties, band camp evening activities, pool parties, the family cookout, Drums Along the Rockies, Trunk or Treat, TRADITION Ceremony, End of the Year Banquet, and the Senior Barbeque.
What if I’m just not sure about joining?
My advice? “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” Some of the most amazing members in our program said they weren’t going to do band in high school. Register for the marching band class even if you’re unsure. If you attend the experience camp before turning in your agreement and decide that it is not for you, contact Mr. Freesen and change classes. It is much easier to drop something after trying it than to join late when everyone else has already started learning and having fun.
What are the costs?
Fees provide students with uniforms, food, travel, custom drill/music, and instruction. There are many fundraising opportunities to offset fees. The school has several large/specialty instruments available for yearly rental of $40 and Band Fees are usually $700. Contact Mr. Freesen for payment plans or aid. Financial need shall not keep any interested student from participating.
What if I have other questions?
We are here to answer any questions. Due to the busy nature of our program, it is sometimes difficult to contact us by phone. The best way for you to reach the directors is through email. This will allow us to respond to your question thoughtfully.
Thank you and we’re looking forward to seeing YOU and your friends as part of the Loveland High School Bands next school year as we work toward another award-winning year! Ready to sign up? Go to bit.ly/CRagreement26
Mr. Kyle Freesen, MM Mr. Michael Williams
Director of Bands Kyle.Freesen@tsd.org
Director of Percussion/Asst Dir. Mike.Williams@tsd.org
Ms. Katelyn Kellogg Director of Guards Katelyn.Kellogg@tsd.org