TOP PARENT QUESTIONS REGARDING BAND

What will the RMHS Band Program expect out of me as a parent? Support the band whenever and wherever you can by volunteering. It doesn't take much to help out for an hour before or after a home football game to check in uniforms, or on a competition day with feeding the Marching band donuts & juice before they leave or ticket sales at concert events.  Nothing too overwhelming but we do need each parent to help when and where they can. At home make sure your child rehearses everyday. Get involved in the Music Boosters and fundraisers. Get your child to all rehearsals and performances on time and adhere to simple dress code requirements.

What is the financial commitment for the parents? As with any club or activity there is always some out of pocket expenses. Shoes, shirt, Uniform rental etc. But overall they are not unreasonable. There is a Band Day overnight trip to U of I in Champaign, Illinois. The Marching Mustangs attend several competitions throughout the Marching season as well so you might have to give your child a few dollars to buy lunch or snacks.

Are private lessons necessary for my child? How do they fit lessons into the schedule? No, Private lessons are optional. But, they will help your child improve. Like anything the more you do something the better they will get. There is plenty of time throughout the week to get private lessons after school depending on your child’s schedule. If you would like a recommendation of a private instructor I’m sure you could ask for a reference from another student.

How do the students raise money for trips? There are a few fundraisers throughout the year. The Garage Sale in August and the Entertainment book sale at the beginning of the school year plus, various concert performances and CD Sales. The Music Boosters are always interested in hearing any new ideas for fundraisers that will increase the amount of money your child can raise to offset expenses.

How will I know what the Band Schedule will be? Band is a commitment. Mr. Buti is very organized and posts the band schedule well in advance so you can plan. There are mandatory rehearsal dates that your son or daughter must attend.

Do I have to buy an instrument or does the school have instruments that my child can use? Your child should have their own instrument. However, if you can’t afford one talk to Mr. Buti. The school has a loaner/rental program available.

How much will my child benefit musically at RMHS? Our son’s playing has improved greatly. In our case our son has grown passionate about playing. He’s excited and proud to be a part of a pretty special group of people. The Marching Mustangs are well respected among the students, athletes and staff. His confidence and self-esteem has exploded. As an incoming Freshman it was wonderful to see all of the friendships he developed quickly which made his first day of school that much easier because he knew so many other kids.

What kind of supervision do you provide on trips? Along with Mr. Buti and other music staff teachers there are always Music Booster volunteers/chaperones who help with the equipment, water and guidance on each trip.

Do band students get a grade since it is considered a class? How does the grading policy work? Yes students are graded on many areas and levels. Attendance, performance level, written tests, attitude and participation. There are a few outside activities your student has to attend that are part of the overall grade they receive. You can check out the Band’s website at http://rmhs.dist214.k12.il.us/activities/band/index.htm for a complete over view on how your child is graded.

What opportunities are there for parent involvement? The best way to help is to join the Music Boosters. If you don’t join there are still many opportunities throughout the year when Mr. Buti will ask for volunteers to help with equipment moving, bus trips as a chaperone and other parental help during Marching events.

WHAT OUR PARENTS SAY ABOUT BAND... Marching Band is not easy. We are so excited that our son joined Band and as we look back now it was absolutely the best thing our son has ever done. Band teaches responsibility, accountability and builds self-esteem. He’s part of a team. Our son is enthusiastic and proud of his accomplishments as a member of the RMHS Marching Mustangs. As a spectator you could see all of the hard work paying off. The improvements weekly were evident and simply amazing. The drills, routines and music these kids are able to perform while Marching will make you ask yourself “How do they do that?” Mr. Buti while demanding has such a great working relationship with the students. He makes it fun for the students while challenging them to be their best. We are so proud of our son and the Marching Mustangs for what they accomplished this year by winning First place at (2) competitions. We love coming to not only the games on Friday Nights when they perform their half time show and pep band songs, but all of the concerts throughout the year.