Marching Band (July–November): Competitive field shows, halftime football performances, pep rallies, parades, community events, and local/state competitions (UIL, BOA). Concert Band (December–May): Focused on classical and contemporary concert music, formal concerts, UIL Concert & Sightreading Contests, Solo & Ensemble performances, and possible spring trips.

Yes, we have volunteer requirements of ALL families and expect families and students to participate in all fundraising activities. While we do ask for a donation of your time and energy, there are MANY ways for you to help the Cav Band. Click here for more information regarding our Volunteer Requirements.

Band Directors and Assistant Directors manage instruction, musical performance, and student leadership. The Band Booster Club provides critical logistical and financial support through volunteer efforts, fundraising, and event management.

Annual Band Fee: Covers instruction, contest entries, music, and general expenses. Uniform Costs: Marching shoes, gloves, socks, and concert attire (often purchased separately). Instrument Fees: Rental or maintenance for school-owned instruments. Meal Costs: Includes meals during summer band, game days, and competition days. Fundraising Commitment: Most families are expected to participate in fundraisers by either providing time (flags, concessions) or through financial or community participation in the annual March-a-thon.

Weekly Newsletters (CBN): Distributed via SMS and email, contains essential weekly updates. Band App: Used for real-time reminders (STUDENTS ONLY). CutTime: Systems for tracking parent communications and program management. Used for real-time reminders and updates to both students and parents/guardians. Website & Calendar: Check regularly for schedules, maps, and event details. Booster Meetings: Held monthly; parents are encouraged to attend to stay engaged.

Chaperoning, concessions, equipment crew, uniform crew, meal service, flag delivery, fundraising committees, and event planning. Click here for more info.

Yes, all volunteers MUST COMPLETE the LTISD Background Check Authorization. This is a requirement to volunteer with the Band and Guard in ANY capacity.

As you can imagine, it takes a lot of volunteers to make our band successful. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit all different skills and interests. You will be asked to complete a Volunteer Skills & Interest Form over the summer and will have the opportunity to sign-up for your Flag Routes, Concession Stands, Super Squads and Sub-Committees on Registration Day (aka E-Day)!

Also known as band camp, this is an essential multi-week training period before school resumes, covering music, marching fundamentals, physical conditioning, and bonding.

Typically spans late July to mid-August. Exact schedules (including water/rest breaks and indoor blocks) are provided by directors before camp.

1/2-gallon water jug in their jug carrier (aka jugcuzzi) Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses Band/Guard practice shirt, athletic shorts, practice hat, supportive sneakers (no open-toed shoes) Instrument, extra reeds, valve oil, music binder, dot book, pencil Healthy snacks and a positive attitude!

Yes! Attendance ensures students learn drill spots, music assignments, and critical show material. Missing time can result in losing a competition spot.

Volunteer to serve meals and snacks. Assist with uniform fittings and equipment prep. Volunteer to support medical and safety stations.

Regular after-school practices specific to instrument section/guard, capped at 8 hours/week per UIL rules. The schedule will be updated on the band calendar and communicated via Cav Band News. Weekend sectionals or extra practices ahead of competitions. Full Saturday rehearsals before major contests.

Students perform in the stands, during halftime, and sometimes post-game. Call times are provided well in advance; students are fed before home and away games. Parents should expect late evening pick-up times after away games.

Typically held on Saturdays, ranging from local invitationals to BOA Super Regionals. Full-day events: morning departure, prelims, afternoon breaks, evening finals, late-night returns. Students must be prepared with uniforms, instruments, extra clothes, and meals.

Sign up for two or more volunteer slots per season (chaperone, pit crew, uniform team, meals). Ensure your child is punctual, properly dressed, and prepared. Attend parent meetings for updates on schedules, logistics, and travel details.

Label everything! Pack extra snacks and water. Bring a stadium seat or cushion for watching games and contests and an umbrella for shade on those HOT, sunny days. Get to know other band parents and join them at the competitions and events. Cheer loudly but respectfully.

Transition to concert ensembles: Wind Ensemble, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Jazz Band. Emphasis on advanced musicianship, concert literature, and technical skill.

During class periods, with additional sectionals and occasional after-school rehearsals. Extra rehearsals are scheduled before contests or major performances.

Formal concert black attire: long black dresses or tuxedos, black dress shoes, black socks or hose. These will be on loan to students during concert season and are returned at the end of the season. Boys will need to purchase a Tuxedo Shirt – WIDE PLEAT, Wing Tip collar. Click here for an example or see sample below.

Winter Concert (December) Pre-UIL Concert (March) UIL Concert & Sightreading Contest (March/April) Spring Concert and Awards Banquet (May) Optional mid-year, end-of-year trips or festivals

Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) auditions that challenge top players with advanced music. Open to all students, with highly competitive selection. Region qualifiers perform in a clinic and concert; Area qualifiers advance to All-State.

Begin practicing music packets over the summer. Participate in summer camps or workshops. Take private lessons or attend director-led help sessions.

Significant musical growth. Honors and accolades for resumes and college applications. Special performance opportunities with elite student musicians.

Students perform a solo or small ensemble piece for a judge at the UIL Solo & Ensemble Contest. Performance ratings determine eligibility for Texas State Solo & Ensemble (TSSEC).

Open to all students, from beginner to advanced. Strongly encouraged for musical development.

Rehearse independently and with director support. Private lessons are highly recommended for solos. Accompanists are often required for solo entries.

Organizes fundraising (concessions, sponsorships, flag programs). Coordinates logistics (chaperoning, feeding, moving equipment). Supports students and directors behind the scenes.

Attend monthly meetings to stay informed. During Registration Day/E-Day, sign up for a Super Squad: Uniforms (SUDS), Meals (MESS), Equipment (FEDS), Flag Fundraising (TFS). Help plan or support social events (banquet, senior celebrations).

Builds community and friendships. Keeps band fees lower by offsetting costs. Provides behind-the-scenes access to your student’s band journey.

CBN: Weekly Cav Band News email. BOA: Bands of America, a national marching competition series. UIL: University Interscholastic League, Texas governing body for fine arts and athletics. FEDS: Front Ensemble Deployment Squad, moves pit equipment. MESS: Meals for Everyone Service Squad, coordinates feeding students. SUDS: Uniform Care Squad, launders uniforms. TFS: The Flag Squad, delivers holiday flags for fundraising. Dot Book: Small notebook tracking drill spots and formations. Plumes: Decorative feathers attached to marching hats (shakos). Props Crew: Parent volunteers moving large set pieces during shows. Sectionals: Targeted small-group rehearsals by instrument or section.