Contest PR – On Saturday, The Pride of Lamar placed 1st in class and won best music, best visual, and best percussion in the U.S. Bands Burleson Showcase Marching Contest! In the Finals competition, Lamar ranked 4th overall in a contest with 18 bands! Please congratulate all band members on a fantastic achievement! The band performs at 7:45pm Tuesday at the UIL Region 5 contest at Vernon Newsom stadium.
Saturday – Wow. I could write a novel on our experience this past Saturday. In short, the Lamar Band was a class act from beginning to end. The achievement on the field is only matched by the behavior, sportsmanship, discipline and general attitude of the band members all day long. I cannot remember a contest where we were ahead of schedule most of the day. An unbelievable thanks to the many parents who helped feed students, move equipment, and help out in so many different ways. This is truly a special group of students. In so many ways, I am more proud of this year’s Pride of Lamar than any in my 15 years. The resilience coming out of a remote year, odds against them, you name it, our students overcome and excel. From a success standpoint, this is the best score and ranking in at least 5 years.
Tuesday UIL Contest – Region UIL Evaluation is the event that decides if we advance to UIL Area. We must receive a division 1 rating. This event is at Mansfield’s Vernon Newsom Stadium. We perform at 7:45pm.
Wednesday PSAT – This Wednesday, LHS is administering the PSAT. There will NOT be marching band in the morning. Students must show up at 7:30am and go to their assigned classrooms.
Friday – We will practice at 6:30am. There is a football game in Grand Prairie. See itinerary.
Weekend – This weekend we don’t have a contest but there is a great fundraiser for the band. Support us at Kendra Scott.
Private Lessons – We have a form available to sign up for private lessons. We strongly encourage students to take advantage of private lessons from our highly qualified instructors. The lessons are 30 mins long and cost $18. This is a great opportunity provided by AMEP (Arlington Music Enrichment Program). Turn in the form to be signed up for lessons.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here Quote of the Week – “From white socks, to 4th place!” – Alton
JH Night – Friday’s football game was a double win. The football team beat Bowie and the JH band students performed with the HS band students at halftime and in the stands. It was a great time and the students were all friendly and fun.
Midlothian Contest – What a great day! So many positives and so many to thank. The students performed great in prelims and even better in finals! However, as a director, the character, behavior, sportsmanship, and discipline are the biggest wins of the day. It means so much to be able to trust my students to do the correct thing even when I’m not looking. I can’t thank the many parents who helped Saturday enough! The students are still talking about the sandwich line dinner. I can’t wait to do this all again on Saturday.
This Week’s Practices – We have practice Tuesday and Thursday both at 6:30am and 4:30pm-7:30pm. Thursday is a special practice as we have Dave Carbone flying in from S.C. to work with us. He is our show designer and a great resource for us as we move into the final stretch of the season. These practices are critical as we prepare for USBands and UIL.
Friday Football Game – This week we will play Martin at Cravens field. Students will have the day off from school but call time will be similar to a normal Friday evening. See attached itinerary.
Saturday USBands Contest – We will be competing in the USBands Contest in Burleson, TX this Saturday. The itinerary is attached. Our prelims time is earlier than last week. This contest will be another long day with even more bands in competition. We hope to have a huge Lamar parent crowd again. If not, this competition will be streaming live on FloMarching.com
Monday Practice – While we don’t have classes on Monday, we do need to do a brief practice to make sure we are ready for UIL on Tuesday afternoon. We will go from 4:30-6:30.
Tuesday UIL Contest – Region UIL Evaluation is the event that decides if we advance to UIL Area. We must receive a division 1 rating. This event is at Mansfield’s Vernon Newsom Stadium. We perform at 7:45pm.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help! We have some important things coming up. We need parents to help wash the marching uniforms, help at marching contests, and at football games. Please sign up here
Uniforms – Students need to have long black socks to wear with their uniform. The show shirt or grey performance shirt will be worn under the uniform along with athletic shorts. The uniform is somewhat form fitting so no large or bulky shorts should be worn. Leggings/tights are acceptable. While in uniform, students will not wear jewelry or makeup. We work hard to be as uniform as possible. Long hair should be up and neat all day so it fits in the shako (band uniform hat). This is a good tutorial on how to fix your hair.
Private Lessons – We have a form available to sign up for private lessons. We strongly encourage students to take advantage of private lessons from our highly qualified instructors. The lessons are 30 mins long and cost $18. This is a great opportunity provided by AMEP (Arlington Music Enrichment Program). Turn in the form to be signed up for lessons.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Quote of the Week – “It’s not so important who starts the game but who finishes it.” – John Wooden
Communication
Email – Alan Lang, dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly, kkelly4@aisd.net
Busy Week – This is one of our busiest weeks of the fall semester. It is critical that students and parents plan ahead for the week. The band app will have a lot of information being communicated this week. If you do not yet have an account, please get one here.
Dean Corey Monday – Itinerary attached. Students, bring $2 for pizza dinner. We will be having a pizza party with the students from Shack and Nichols. They will be with us throughout the evening of Dean Corey. This year, the annual Dean Corey Marching Extravaganza will be held here at Cravens field. All AISD marching bands will be performing. All AISD JH bands will be in the audience or following their HS band around through warmup. Lamar performs at 7:45pm on Monday September 27th.
Football Friday – Itinerary attached. On Friday, we will be traveling to Wilemon field to participate in the Lamar v Bowie football game. Students will eat their Jason’s Deli box dinner or bring something. Do not have meals delivered. This is our JH band night so our friends from Shack and Nichols will once again be with us to enjoy the evening. They will also be performing “Feel It Still” at halftime with us. There will NOT be CiCi’s after the game as we have an early call time Saturday for contest.
Contest Saturday – Itinerary attached. We are competing in our first marching contest of the year on Saturday in Midlothian. The LBBC will be providing lunch and dinner for the students. We will need a lot of parent volunteers to assist us at contest.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here
Uniforms – Students need to have long black socks to wear with their uniform. The marching shoes are finally in and will be checked out Monday morning. The “show shirt” is being checked out and will be worn under the uniform along with athletic shorts. The uniform is somewhat form fitting so no large or bulky shorts should be worn. Leggings/tights are acceptable. While in uniform, students will not wear jewelry or makeup. We work hard to be as uniform as possible. Long hair should be up and neat all day so it fits in the shako (band uniform hat). This is a good tutorial on how to fix your hair.
Private Lessons – We have a form available to sign up for private lessons. We strongly encourage students to take advantage of private lessons from our highly qualified instructors. The lessons are 30 mins long and cost $18. This is a great opportunity provided by AMEP (Arlington Music Enrichment Program). Turn in the form to be signed up for lessons.
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. Parents/students must place the order by Thursday.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Quote of the Week – “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?” – John Wooden
Communication
Email – Alan Lang, dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly, kkelly4@aisd.net
Grades and Eligibility – The end of the six weeks is Friday! There are many opportunities to get help with your difficult classes. Tutoring link. Any student with a failing grade MUST get tutoring from either a teacher or a peer tutor.
Per UIL policy, any student with a failing grade in any class will not be eligible to perform. This includes football games, pep rallies, and marching contests. Now is the time to get tutoring and any other extra help to pass classes. Students and parents should check the self-serve system daily and contact teachers immediately if you have questions or concerns. The date the eligibility goes into effect is October 1st.
Dean Corey – This year, the annual Dean Corey Marching Extravaganza will be held here at Cravens field. All AISD marching band will be performing. All AISD JH bands will be in the audience or following their HS band around through warmup. This is a big event for Arlington and we are excited that it will be here. Lamar performs at 7:45pm on Monday September 27th. The students will report earlier. See the attached itinerary.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here
Vertical Raise – We still have a long way to go. Parents, if you haven’t, make sure we have 20 good emails added to the student accounts. It is not too late to add even more. I was able to cut and paste 50 emails at a time. You should also send texts and social media posts often. There is still time to hit our goal of $500 per student. Keep track of our band goal progress here.
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. Parents/students must place the order by Thursday.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Quote of the Week – “You get what you give.” – Jennifer Lopez
Communication
Email – Alan Lang, dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly, kkelly4@aisd.net
Homecoming Week – This week has a little extra excitement as it will be our homecoming game. The only real change to a normal football game is that we will perform pre-game instead of halftime. We would like to have a big audience. Let your friends and family know that we perform at 6:30pm this week. This is our first performance in the formal marching band uniform! Students, make sure you have long black socks.
Eligibility – The end of the 1st six weeks of school is quickly approaching. Per UIL policy, any student with a failing grade in any class will not be eligible to perform. This includes football games, pep rallies, and marching contests. Now is the time to get tutoring and any other extra help to pass classes. Students and parents should check the self-serve system daily and contact teachers immediately if you have questions or concerns.
Vertical Raise – We still have a long way to go. Parents, if you haven’t, make sure we have 20 good emails added to the student accounts. It is not too late to add even more. I was able to cut and paste 50 emails at a time. You should also send texts and social media posts often. There is still time to hit our goal of $500 per student. Keep track of our band goal progress here.
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. Parents/students must place the order by Thursday.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band google calendar has all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google. Quote of the Week – “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” – Zig Ziglar
Vertical Raise – We kicked it off today! Within a few hours, at the time I write this, we are over $1300! The biggest key to success are the 20 emails. Get those uploaded into the student profiles. After that, share the student profile link via text and social media! Encourage people to reshare and resend.
Parent Meeting – This Thursday at 7:30pm, join us in the band room for an important parent meeting. We will discuss the approaching marching contest season. We will go over the many different things happening in the Lamar Band and what we plan for the rest of the school year. Instead of joining us at open house, join us Thursday evening. Students will get a free 100 in the grade book for parent attendance.
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. Parents/students must place the order by Thursday. Make sure you pick Lamar Band!
Big thanks to Lamar Baptist Church for donating the dinner last week!
Football Games – Last week went smooth for a first home football game. The students performed well and represented LHS very well. This week we head north to Lewisville. Itinerary attached. Students must have all forms completed before they can participate. These include the Physical, Medical Release, Permission to Travel, UIL, Publicity, and the band handbook form. We will communicate what forms are missing over the next week. Forms can be found here.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here https://lamarmusic.org/volunteers/
Band Handbook – The Lamar Band Handbook is attached to this email. Students and Parents must read this and sign the agreement form.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google. See the attached handy pdfs to print and put on the fridge.Quote of the Week – “Optimism is the one quality more associated with success and happiness than any other.” – Brian Tracy
Vertical Raise – All students must have 20 emails by Friday. The attached document will help explain why. This is a very important fundraiser for the Lamar Band. Parents, we need 20 good emails of friends, family members, work associates, church members, and any other person you think might want to make a contribution to the Pride of Lamar!
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. Parents/students must place the order by Thursday. Make sure you pick Lamar Band!
Big thanks to Lamar Baptist Church for donating the dinner last week!
Football Games – Last week was possibly the craziest football game I can remember. The new trailer was late and then it broke. The school district is very upset that this happened. They are taking many steps this week to prevent this from happening again. The students made me very proud with their patience and understanding of the situation. They played great once at the game and we got back to school to a fixed trailer and unloaded the equipment.
This week is our first home game. The itinerary is attached. We look forward to performing our halftime show for the first time here on Cravens! Students must have all forms completed before they can participate. These include the Physical, Medical Release, Permission to Travel, UIL, Publicity, and the band handbook form. We will communicate what forms are missing over the next week. Forms can be found here.
Torchy’s Night – Monday, September 6th, 5:00pm-8:00pm, is Spirit Night at Torchy’s Tacos for the Lamar Band! 15% of all sales will go to the band program. Just tell them you are there to support the Lamar High School Band.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here https://lamarmusic.org/volunteers/
VikingFest – This Wednesday evening, come support the Lamar Band Booster Club! We will be selling our new spirit wear!
Band Handbook – The Lamar Band Handbook is attached to this email. Students and Parents must read this and sign the agreement form.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google. See the attached handy pdfs to print and put on the fridge. Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up.
Football Games – Download and print the attached itinerary for next Thursday August 26th. We will go to Pennington Field in HEB ISD to play Trinity HS. All students will perform at the game. Those who participated in Summer Band practices will perform at halftime. All others will perform in the stands. We will wear summer uniforms unless otherwise communicated from the band directors. Students must have all forms completed before they can participate. These include the Physical, Medical Release, Permission to Travel, UIL, Publicity, and the band handbook form. We will communicate what forms are missing over the next week. Forms can be found here.
Summer Uniform – For the first few games, we will wear our “summer uniform”. This is the same as the July 4th parade. We have a new shipment of the shirts in the band room. Students must purchase khaki shorts on their own. An example link is provided below. Athletic shoes need to be white or at least mostly white.
Important Clinic Saturday August 28th – We have a special guest consultant that will be helping us with our marching band competitive show on Saturday August 28th. This will be a critical rehearsal as we add important choreography and drill to our show. Attendance will be taken and credit given in the gradebook.
Volunteers – Parents, we need your help. There are many different opportunities to help our students. It takes a large number of helpers for marching season events. Chaperoning and helping with equipment are fairly simple and fun ways to be a part of The Pride of Lamar! Sign up here https://lamarmusic.org/volunteers/
Dinner Before Games – There is a short amount of time between the end of school and football games. Students have a quick rehearsal, dinner, load equipment, get into uniform and load buses. Our booster club has set up a deal with Jason’s Deli. More info here. This Thursday is a free dinner provided by Lamar Baptist Church.
Marching Band Class – All Lamar Band students will be in 7th period marching band class this fall. Class starts at 6:30am and we will practice outside until about 8:50am. That gives students 20 mins at the end of class to go to the locker rooms and take a shower or at least change clothes before 8th period classes. It is imperative that we start practice promptly at 6:30am. The band room will be open to get equipment and accomplish team jobs starting by 6:00am. Transportation must be arranged as attendance is taken at 6:31am.
Band Handbook – The Lamar Band Handbook is attached to this email. Students and Parents must read this and sign the agreement form.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google. See the attached handy pdfs to print and put on the fridge.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up. Quote of the Week – “Nobody ever drowned in his own sweat.” – Ann Landers
BAND CAMP – The hardest three weeks of practice are in the books! The next challenge is practicing with a sense of urgency to finish the show and prepare for all of the performances. The first football game is next Thursday! The staff is extremely proud of the members of The Pride of Lamar. After a year of remote learning, it is so refreshing to see all of these students working together and building friendships.
First Day of School – We have been practicing hard for 3+ weeks, however, the first day of school is always different. In band, we will just continue where we left off last week. We WILL play our instruments first thing in class all week including Monday (except 1st period, you have a special project).
Marching Band Class – All Lamar Band students will be in 7th period marching band class this fall. Class starts at 6:30am and we will practice outside until about 8:50am. That gives students 20 mins at the end of class to go to the locker rooms and take a shower or at least change clothes before 8th period classes. It is imperative that we start practice promptly at 6:30am. The band room will be open to get equipment and accomplish team jobs starting by 6:00am. Transportation must be arranged as attendance is taken at 6:31am.
Schedules – We are aware of students with incorrect band classes. The counselors miss some of our class assignments and we communicate the corrections as quickly as we can. The counselors are very busy this time of year, so be patient with them as they work through the long to do lists. The school policy is to go to whatever class is on your current schedule. You could be counted absent if you do not go to what is currently on your schedule. I believe you can look online at the student self serve website to see the latest changes. If not, we can print schedules for you. Please fill out this form ASAP if you need us to help you with a schedule change.
Important Clinic Saturday August 28th – We have a special guest consultant that will be helping us with our marching band competitive show on Saturday August 28th. This will be a critical rehearsal as we add important choreography and drill to our show. Attendance will be taken and credit given in the gradebook.
Football Games – Thursday August 26th will be our first football game. We will go to Pennington Field in HEB ISD to play Trinity HS. All students will perform at the game. Those who participated in Summer Band practices will perform at halftime. All others will perform in the stands. We will wear summer uniforms unless otherwise communicated from the band directors. Students must have all forms completed before they can participate. These include the Physical, Medical Release, Permission to Travel, UIL, Publicity, and the band handbook form. We will communicate what forms are missing over the next week. Forms can be found here.
Band Handbook – The Lamar Band Handbook is attached to this email. Students and Parents must read this and sign the agreement form.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google. See the attached handy pdfs to print and put on the fridge.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up. Quote of the Week – “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?” – John Wooden
BAND CAMP – We are now 2 weeks into the 2021 season! Our first football game is only 3 weeks away! The staff is extremely proud of the members of The Pride of Lamar. They have learned 28 pages of drill and choreography, all of the show music, 7 stand tunes, and how to play duck, duck, goose in the band room! After a year of remote learning, it is so refreshing to see all of these students working together and building friendships. If you missed the last two weeks, we will catch you up. ALL summer band practices are mandatory. Any absence must be requested using this form.
Week 3 Schedule – There are very important things happening every day this week.
Monday
Practice 4:30-7:30
Tuesday
Practice 6:30AM-9:00AM
Wednesday
Practice 6:30AM-9:00AM
Thursday
Practice 6:30AM-10:30AM
Call Time 6:30PM-8:45PM
Performance 8:00pm
Friday
No Practice
School Registration – School Registration There is a makeup day on August 12th. More details on the LHS website. Band students should NOT MISS PRACTICE to do registration. Parents can register without students.
Band Handbook – The Lamar Band Handbook is attached to this email. Students and Parents must read this and sign the agreement form.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band staff has worked hard on our schedules for the fall. We like to have everything set in stone by April, however, things beyond our control come up and we must make revisions. We have our new weekly practice schedule during the first two six weeks of the fall semester. Finally, I have the performance calendar for the marching band season. Typically, marching band is the 1st and 2nd six weeks of the school year. The football playoffs will go into the 3rd six weeks and we will adjust those practices and events as soon as we have been given information. The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar. The band app events calendar is synced with google.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up. Quote of the Week – “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?” – John Wooden
BAND CAMP – Week 1 is in the books! The Pride of Lamar made great progress in our first week of summer band camp. August is here and we are starting to learn the show drill Monday. We will learn a large part of our show over the next two weeks. If you missed last week, we will catch you up. ALL summer band practices are mandatory. Any absence must be requested using this form.
Week 2 Schedule – There are very important things happening every day this week. Thursday is now a half day due to teaching meetings. School lunches are only Mon-Wed due to the cafeteria staff having to get ready for school.
Monday
Practice 7:30-5:00
Sophomores get marching uniforms fit 11:30-1:00
Jr/Sr school registration 11:30-1:00
Tuesday
Practice 7:30-5:00
Section photo day – all students wear summer uniform shirt (grey performance shirt)
Seniors get marching uniforms fit 11:30-1:00
Sophomore school registration 11:30-1:00
Wednesday
Practice 7:30-5:00
Juniors get uniforms fit 11:30-1:00
Freshman registration 5:00pm-7:00pm
Thursday
Practice 7:30-11:30
Friday
Practice 7:30-5:00
Saturday
8:00am-11:00am Freshman Marching Uniform Fitting
School Registration – School Registration is happening this week in Gym A (east side entrance). Juniors and Seniors are on Monday. Sophomores on Tuesday, and Freshmen on Wednesday. There is a makeup day on August 12th. More details on the LHS website. Band students should NOT MISS PRACTICE to do registration. Parents can register without students. If needed, students can register during our break 11:30am-1:00pm, or after practice.
Forms and Fees – Saturday was our band registration day. If you missed it, don’t worry, you can still get everything in on time. It must all be done by the first week of school. The medical form MUST be signed in front of a notary. The pre-participation physical must be done with a doctor. The fees can be paid in person or online.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band staff has worked hard on our schedules for the fall. We like to have everything set in stone by April, however, things beyond our control come up and we must make revisions. I am sharing the summer band schedule with some adjustments Aug 9-13. We also have our new weekly practice schedule during the first two six weeks. Finally, I have the performance calendar for the marching band season. Typically, marching band is the 1st and 2nd six weeks of the school year. The football playoffs will go into the 3rd six weeks and we will adjust those practices and events as soon as we have been given information. The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up.
Summer Band Camp
Who – Every band student is expected at camp. This does include the incoming 9th graders. In the band world, when summer starts, students move up a grade immediately. That means all of last year’s 8th graders immediately became Lamar HS 9th graders this past June! Color guard will have an alternate practice schedule for much of camp but all of those students are expected at every practice as well.
When – Monday through Friday, 7:30am-5:00pm, free breakfast 7:00am-7:15am, free lunch 11:30-12:30. The third week has a more complicated schedule that will be on the attached form.
Where – We will typically meet in the band room to start the day. Otherwise, we will be on the parking lot grid, stadium, or the MAC. We will be inside during the hottest parts of the day.
What – We are marching, dancing, spinning, drumming, and learning all of our brass and woodwind music. Wear athletic clothing, running shoes are recommended, NO slides, sandals, crocs, etc. You must have a large water jug. We will be ordering new coleman jugs this week for all members. 32oz-½ gallon are acceptable sizes. Sunscreen is mandatory. Music should be in a 3-ring binder in sheet protectors. We have some extra binders and sheet protectors if you do not have time to go to office max. Mechanical pencils are required. We do not have pencil sharpeners on the practice field. Hats and sunglasses are strongly encouraged.
Why – Starting marching band 3 weeks before school starts is the standard for bands in Texas and around the country. It takes many hours to prepare these complex and exciting shows. Students will progress very rapidly. Bonds and friendships will develop. By the first day of school, band students are the most prepared, focused, and disciplined at LHS. Quote of the Week – “Happiness is not a matter of intensity, but of balance, order, rhythm, and harmony” – Thomas Merton
BAND CAMP – I am so excited! We kick off band camp Monday! We have a great marching band show to learn, stand tunes to work on, and fun games to get to know each other again. ALL summer band practices are mandatory. Any absence must be requested using this form.
Who – Every band student is expected at camp. This does include the incoming 9th graders. In the band world, when summer starts, students move up a grade immediately. That means all of last year’s 8th graders immediately became Lamar HS 9th graders this past June! Color guard will have an alternate practice schedule for much of camp but all of those students are expected at every practice as well.
When – Monday through Friday, 7:30am-5:00pm, free breakfast 7:00am-7:15am, free lunch 11:30-12:30. The third week has a more complicated schedule that will be on the attached form.
Where – We will typically meet in the band room to start the day. Otherwise, we will be on the parking lot grid, stadium, or the MAC. We will be inside during the hottest parts of the day.
What – We are marching, dancing, spinning, drumming, and learning all of our brass and woodwind music. Wear athletic clothing, running shoes are recommended, NO slides, sandals, crocs, etc. You must have a large water jug. We will be ordering new coleman jugs this week for all members. 32oz-½ gallon are acceptable sizes. Sunscreen is mandatory. Music should be in a 3-ring binder in sheet protectors. We have some extra binders and sheet protectors if you do not have time to go to office max. Mechanical pencils are required. We do not have pencil sharpeners on the practice field. Hats and sunglasses are strongly encouraged.
Why – Starting marching band 3 weeks before school starts is the standard for bands in Texas and around the country. It takes many hours to prepare these complex and exciting shows. Students will progress very rapidly. Bonds and friendships will develop. By the first day of school, band students are the most prepared, focused, and disciplined at LHS.
Scott Lang and Student Leadership – We had a tremendous past week. Starting it off with an inspirational afternoon with Scott Lang. The leadership team went through 21 hours of training over three days. These students worked very hard and are poised to do great things this year.
Forms and Fees – Every new school year there are plenty of forms to fill out and fees to pay. We try to make it easy and get it done early. I have attached all the forms needed. Most can be filled out and digitally signed if you desire. The medical form MUST be signed in front of a notary. The pre-participation physical must be done with a doctor. The fees can be paid early online or in person at our band registration day July 31.
Calendars Calendars Calendars – The band staff has worked hard on our schedules for the fall. We like to have everything set in stone by April, however, things beyond our control come up and we must make revisions. I am sharing the summer band schedule with some adjustments Aug 9-13. We also have our new weekly practice schedule during the first two six weeks. Finally, I have the performance calendar for the marching band season. Typically, marching band is the 1st and 2nd six weeks of the school year. The football playoffs will go into the 3rd six weeks and we will adjust those practices and events as soon as we have been given information. The band google calendar will have all the information. Use it to help you set reminders and blend it with your personal calendar.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use. Use this link to get signed up.
Forms and Fees – The band fees and forms are attached.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Quote of the Week – “Happiness is not a matter of intensity, but of balance, order, rhythm, and harmony” – Thomas Merton
Tuesday – Tomorrow is our music rehearsal in the band room from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Bring your music binder and all your marching band music & warm ups. We will dig into our show music! Band room doors will open at 5:00pm.
Monday July 19 – Our big marching season kickoff event is just one week away! We are flying in Scott Lang (Leadership University and international speaker) for a workshop from 1:30pm-4:30pm. ALL band members are expected to attend. The booster club will provide pizza for lunch starting at 12:30. Students must bring a pen/pencil and paper.
Mr. Lang, the guest, encouraged me to invite those adults that would like to be a part of the experience. All parents are cordially invited to join us in the band room at 1:15pm. Just let me know if you are going to be joining us.
Student Leadership – We will have our student leadership training camp Monday-Wednesday next week. All leaders will need to be at school 8:00am-4:00pm. We will take an hour lunch break every day.
Forms and Fees – Every new school year there are plenty of forms to fill out and fees to pay. We try to make it easy and get it done early. I have attached all the forms needed. Most can be filled out and digitally signed if you desire. The medical form MUST be signed in front of a notary. The pre-participation physical must be done with a doctor. The fees can be paid early online or in person at our band registration day July 31.
Summer Band Calendar – I have attached the final summer band practice schedule. All band events are listed on the band website. In fact, most of the events for the entire school year are on the band google calendar. In the near future, I will have the performance calendar for the fall. The weekly practice schedule will be separate. Hopefully this makes it easier to read. New members, don’t worry, everything slows down in November!
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use.
PARADE DAY INFO – On Monday July 5th, the Lamar Band will meet in the UTA parking lot at 7:45am. Students can be dropped off on Doug Russell Rd. You can park in the parking lot just south of Doug Russell. See map attached. We will be in the northwest corner of the large parking lot. For families that would like to watch the parade, there is a map of the parade route attached. We should be done sometime around 11:00-11:30. Rides must be on time to pick up students. The pick up zone is the same as the drop off zone. There will be very heavy traffic for drop off. Some roads will be closed for the parade. Arlington PD will be helping direct traffic.
Equipment – Students are responsible for bringing their instruments to the parade. It would be easiest if you could leave cases in your cars. We will provide water, however, it is critical that you eat breakfast and drink water before you arrive at the parade.
Uniform – We wear our summer uniform to perform in the summer heat. We will make sure all the students have the grey performance shirt. Students must provide the khaki shorts and shoes. The following links are just examples of the kinds of shorts that we would like students to wear. The shoes should be mostly white and athletic. We do not want one student sticking out with bright colorful shoes. If you have questions, let us know. Even though incoming freshmen are not required to perform in the parade, we will use those uniforms for the first few performances this fall.
Communication – Over the summer, it is critical that we can communicate with the students and parents. Please make sure you have the Band App. Here are all communication sources.
Parade Uniform – We wear our summer uniform to perform in the summer heat. We will make sure all the students have the grey performance shirt. Students must provide the khaki shorts and shoes. The following links are just examples of the kinds of shorts that we would like students to wear. The shoes should be mostly white and athletic. We do not want one student sticking out with bright colorful shoes. If you have questions, let us know. Even though incoming freshmen will not perform in the parade, we will use those uniforms for the first few performances this fall.
Arlington Independence Day Parade – The Lamar Band is entry number 108 this year. Students will be dropped off in the UTA parking lot at 7:45am. The parade starts at 9:00, but we will not get moving in the parade until about 10:00. The parade route is 2.1 miles long and it takes about 45 mins to march. It is important for students to start to get in shape physically and musically!
Parade Forms Due! This year, there is a district permission slip that all performers must complete and return to the directors. The form is attached to this email and can be signed digitally, scanned, and emailed back to a director. Along with the permission slip, students need to have their pre-participation physicals completed and on file with a director (also attached). Please contact us with any questions. The parade music has been uploaded to the Band App. Download it there and start memorizing it.
Freshmen – Students who will be freshmen at LHS next fall have upcoming practices with the Lamar Band. June 28-30 will be our marching camp. Freshmen will practice those three days from 1:00pm-5:00pm. The parade will only be for the 10-12 grade students.
Summer Band Calendar – I have made some modifications to the summer band practice schedule. These are adjusted in the attached new pdf. All band events are listed on the band website. In fact, most of the events for the entire school year are on the band google calendar.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use.
Attendance Policy – All band students are required to attend all practices and events. All practices outside of school hours are considered classwork, which is 35% of the overall grade in band. Band is a performance based, co-curricular activity that follows the instrumental music TEKS. Therefore, performances at marching band contests, football games, concerts, and other events are 40% of the overall grade in band. Approved absences are the decision of the band directors. Parents will fill out the absence request form.
For ALL absences, the following procedure must be followed by all students and parents:
For illness, a parent note or doctor’s excuse must be submitted.
Although cleared by the school office, absences from a band activity the same day must be cleared with the director as well – please call or email directors.
In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the band office answering machine, WITH a follow-up personal call or email. Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student/parent.
This attendance policy will be outlined in the band handbook.
Double Block Requirement – Band at Lamar is a year long, double blocked course. Students will enroll in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd period bands based on their ability level as a musician. All members of the band program will enroll in the 7th period marching band class. In the spring semester, the B day (7th period) will change to 8th period for woodwinds, and 10th period for percussionists. Students with scheduling issues must first discuss the matter with a band director. The directors often know of a solution to the issue. If needed, students and their parents/guardians will fill out a request to single block band form. It must be completed and submitted. If approved by the band director, it will be sent to the counseling office for the schedule adjustment.
The most common reasons that are typically approved are athletic, fine arts, and CTC class conflicts. Off periods will not be approved.
To help with GPA, juniors and seniors may GPA exempt one of their two band courses. Unique to AISD, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may earn the honors music credit for one of their band classes for a GPA boost like any AP class would award them. To do this, students enroll in the normal band courses while completing the advanced assignments required for honors music. For more detailed information, request a packet for Honors Music.
New Fall Rehearsal Schedule – This fall, the band staff is excited to announce our new marching season rehearsal schedule. Practice will begin at 6:30am and continue in 7th period band class. ALL students will be enrolled in 7th period band class. This applies to the B days only. Before school practices will only happen on the B days and not on Fridays. Because of the co-curricular nature of band class, this practice is an extension of the classroom requirements and mandatory. There will also be a practice on Tuesdays from 4:30pm-7:30pm. The details of this schedule will be more fully explained in the near future. This change will allow for students to have afternoons to attend tutoring, other school sports and extracurriculars, and time to study and complete homework. With more and more students in CTC and CVPA classes that do not end until late in the afternoon, this schedule will avoid those conflicts.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Quote of the Week – “Success happens when we consistently practice and work as a team towards the goal of a superior performance.” – anonymous
Arlington Independence Day Parade – Forms Due! This year, there is a district permission slip that all performers must complete and return to the directors. The form is attached to this email and can be signed digitally, scanned, and emailed back to a director. Otherwise, it can be turned in on June 22nd at our music rehearsal. Along with the permission slip, students need to have their pre-participation physicals completed and on file with a director (also attached). Please contact us with any questions.
The parade music has been uploaded to the Band App. Download it there and start memorizing it.
Freshmen – Students who will be freshmen at LHS next fall have upcoming practices with the Lamar Band. Tuesday June 22nd from 5:30pm to 8:30pm will be our first music practice. Meet in the Lamar Band room. If you need an instrument checked out to you, arrive early. The doors will be open at 5:00pm. June 28-30 will be our marching camp. Freshmen will practice those three days from 1:00pm-5:00pm. The parade will only be for the 10-12 grade students.
Summer Band Calendar – I have made some modifications to the summer band practice schedule. These are adjusted in the attached new pdf. All band events are listed on the band website. In fact, most of the events for the entire school year are on the band google calendar.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use.
Attendance Policy – All band students are required to attend all practices and events. All practices outside of school hours are considered classwork, which is 35% of the overall grade in band. Band is a performance based, co-curricular activity that follows the instrumental music TEKS. Therefore, performances at marching band contests, football games, concerts, and other events are 40% of the overall grade in band. Approved absences are the decision of the band directors. Parents will fill out the absence request form.
For ALL absences, the following procedure must be followed by all students and parents:
For illness, a parent note or doctor’s excuse must be submitted.
Although cleared by the school office, absences from a band activity the same day must be cleared with the director as well – please call or email directors.
In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the band office answering machine, WITH a follow-up personal call or email. Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student/parent.
This attendance policy will be outlined in the band handbook.
Double Block Requirement – Band at Lamar is a year long, double blocked course. Students will enroll in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd period bands based on their ability level as a musician. All members of the band program will enroll in the 7th period marching band class. In the spring semester, the B day (7th period) will change to 8th period for woodwinds, and 10th period for percussionists. Students with scheduling issues must first discuss the matter with a band director. The directors often know of a solution to the issue. If needed, students and their parents/guardians will fill out a request to single block band form. It must be completed and submitted. If approved by the band director, it will be sent to the counseling office for the schedule adjustment.
The most common reasons that are typically approved are athletic, fine arts, and CTC class conflicts. Off periods will not be approved.
To help with GPA, juniors and seniors may GPA exempt one of their two band courses. Unique to AISD, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may earn the honors music credit for one of their band classes for a GPA boost like any AP class would award them. To do this, students enroll in the normal band courses while completing the advanced assignments required for honors music. For more detailed information, request a packet for Honors Music.
New Fall Rehearsal Schedule – This fall, the band staff is excited to announce our new marching season rehearsal schedule. Practice will begin at 6:30am and continue in 7th period band class. ALL students will be enrolled in 7th period band class. This applies to the B days only. Before school practices will only happen on the B days and not on Fridays. Because of the co-curricular nature of band class, this practice is an extension of the classroom requirements and mandatory. There will also be a practice on Tuesdays from 4:30pm-7:30pm. The details of this schedule will be more fully explained in the near future. This change will allow for students to have afternoons to attend tutoring, other school sports and extracurriculars, and time to study and complete homework. With more and more students in CTC and CVPA classes that do not end until late in the afternoon, this schedule will avoid those conflicts.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Quote of the Week – “Music is the universal language of mankind” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Arlington Independence Day Parade – On July 5th, The Pride of Lamar will return to one of north Texas’s biggest independence day parades! All students who will be in 10-12 grade next fall, are expected to perform. The incoming freshmen will not be expected to perform. We have a short window of preparation and we do not to overextend our newest band members. We have a new piece of music that we will perform this year, “Grand Old Flag”, along with the classic, “September”, and the Lamar Fight Song.
This year, there is a district permission slip that all performers must complete and return to the directors. The form is attached to this email and can be signed digitally, scanned, and emailed back to a director. Otherwise, it can be turned in on June 22nd at our music rehearsal. Along with the permission slip, students need to have their pre-participation physicals completed and on file with a director (also attached). Please contact us with any questions.
Summer Band Calendar – I have made some modifications to the summer band practice schedule. These are adjusted in the attached new pdf. All band events are listed on the band website. In fact, most of the events for the entire school year are on the band google calendar.
Band App Communication – All band students are required to sign up for the Band App. Students must also keep notifications on and check the app frequently. This is our main communication source outside of email. We have uploaded music to the app, it has a calendar, and a way to reach out to the directors. We strongly encourage parents to download the app to their phones as well. The website version is also very easy to use.
Attendance Policy – All band students are required to attend all practices and events. All practices outside of school hours are considered classwork, which is 35% of the overall grade in band. Band is a performance based, co-curricular activity that follows the instrumental music TEKS. Therefore, performances at marching band contests, football games, concerts, and other events are 40% of the overall grade in band. Approved absences are the decision of the band directors. Parents will fill out the absence request form.
For ALL absences, the following procedure must be followed by all students and parents:
For illness, a parent note or doctor’s excuse must be submitted.
Although cleared by the school office, absences from a band activity the same day must be cleared with the director as well – please call or email directors.
In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the band office answering machine, WITH a follow-up personal call or email. Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student/parent.
This attendance policy will be outlined in the band handbook.
Double Block Requirement – Band at Lamar is a year long, double blocked course. Students will enroll in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd period bands based on their ability level as a musician. All members of the band program will enroll in the 7th period marching band class. In the spring semester, the B day (7th period) will change to 8th period for woodwinds, and 10th period for percussionists. Students with scheduling issues must first discuss the matter with a band director. The directors often know of a solution to the issue. If needed, students and their parents/guardians will fill out a request to single block band form. It must be completed and submitted. If approved by the band director, it will be sent to the counseling office for the schedule adjustment.
The most common reasons that are typically approved are athletic, fine arts, and CTC class conflicts. Off periods will not be approved.
To help with GPA, juniors and seniors may GPA exempt one of their two band courses. Unique to AISD, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may earn the honors music credit for one of their band classes for a GPA boost like any AP class would award them. To do this, students enroll in the normal band courses while completing the advanced assignments required for honors music. For more detailed information, request a packet for Honors Music.
New Fall Rehearsal Schedule – This fall, the band staff is excited to announce our new marching season rehearsal schedule. Practice will begin at 6:30am and continue in 7th period band class. ALL students will be enrolled in 7th period band class. This applies to the B days only. Before school practices will only happen on the B days and not on Fridays. Because of the co-curricular nature of band class, this practice is an extension of the classroom requirements and mandatory. There will also be a practice on Tuesdays from 4:30pm-7:30pm. The details of this schedule will be more fully explained in the near future. This change will allow for students to have afternoons to attend tutoring, other school sports and extracurriculars, and time to study and complete homework. With more and more students in CTC and CVPA classes that do not end until late in the afternoon, this schedule will avoid those conflicts.
Instrument and Uniform Check In – The band staff has compiled a list of instruments and uniforms that have not been returned or accounted for. It is critical that they are returned asap. This list will be submitted to administration and the process for filing police reports will happen later this summer. We understand issues with getting instruments checked into the band room this summer. However, the main office will be open 7:30am-5:00pm Monday – Thursday.
Fall Class Enrollment – Class schedules were emailed to student email addresses the last week of school. If you have questions or concerns, email myself and your counselor.
Summer Band Calendar – I have made some modifications to the summer band practice schedule. These are adjusted in the attached new pdf. All band events are listed on the band website. In fact, most of the events for the entire school year are on the band google calendar.
Attendance Policy – All band students are required to attend all practices and events. All practices outside of school hours are considered classwork, which is 35% of the overall grade in band. Band is a performance based, co-curricular activity that follows the instrumental music TEKS. Therefore, performances at marching band contests, football games, concerts, and other events are 40% of the overall grade in band. Approved absences are the decision of the band directors. Parents will fill out the absence request form.
For ALL absences, the following procedure must be followed by all students and parents:
For illness, a parent note or doctor’s excuse must be submitted.
Although cleared by the school office, absences from a band activity the same day must be cleared with the director as well – please call or email directors.
In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the band office answering machine, WITH a follow-up personal call or email. Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student/parent.
This attendance policy will be outlined in the band handbook.
Double Block Requirement – Band at Lamar is a year long, double blocked course. Students will enroll in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd period bands based on their ability level as a musician. All members of the band program will enroll in the 7th period marching band class. In the spring semester, the B day (7th period) will change to 8th period for woodwinds, and 10th period for percussionists. Students with scheduling issues must first discuss the matter with a band director. The directors often know of a solution to the issue. If needed, students and their parents/guardians will fill out a request to single block band form. It must be completed and submitted. If approved by the band director, it will be sent to the counseling office for the schedule adjustment.
The most common reasons that are typically approved are athletic, fine arts, and CTC class conflicts. Off periods will not be approved.
To help with GPA, juniors and seniors may GPA exempt one of their two band courses. Unique to AISD, sophomores, juniors, and seniors may earn the honors music credit for one of their band classes for a GPA boost like any AP class would award them. To do this, students enroll in the normal band courses while completing the advanced assignments required for honors music. For more detailed information, request a packet for Honors Music.
New Fall Rehearsal Schedule – This fall, the band staff is excited to announce our new marching season rehearsal schedule. Practice will begin at 6:30am and continue in 7th period band class. ALL students will be enrolled in 7th period band class. This applies to the B days only. Before school practices will only happen on the B days and not on Fridays. Because of the co-curricular nature of band class, this practice is an extension of the classroom requirements and mandatory. There will also be a practice on Tuesdays from 4:30pm-7:30pm. The details of this schedule will be more fully explained in the near future. This change will allow for students to have afternoons to attend tutoring, other school sports and extracurriculars, and time to study and complete homework. With more and more students in CTC and CVPA classes that do not end until late in the afternoon, this schedule will avoid those conflicts.
Band Placement for Fall – The auditions for fall band placement are complete and attached to this email. There will be another audition in November to place students for spring semester concert bands.
Instrument and Uniform Check In – The next available time frame to check in instruments and uniforms will be Tuesday June 1st from 9:00am to 2:00pm. If that time frame is difficult for you to make, the main office hours are listed below. Please leave it there with the student name on a sticky note or paper in the case. Any instrument not checked in will be considered missing AISD inventory and reported to the fine arts central office.
Fall Class Enrollment – While the deadline for students to make schedule changes is today at noon, the band directors can help make schedule changes year round. You can also contact your counselors directly. This deadline is to help them finish leveling the size of classes for the fall and complete the master schedule. Check your current enrolled classes now by looking in your student email.
Letter Award Form – Due Tuesday at 3:00pm. All band and colorguard students should fill out the letter award form for the school year. If you did the letter form in the fall, you will NOT be able to letter again. Only one letter per school year. We encourage all students to fill it out, even if you are not sure if you will earn enough points. Click here for the new letter award form.
Banquet – The banquet will be held May 22nd 6:00pm-8:00pm behind the Lamar MAC in the open grass field. Please fill out this form immediately so that we can get food reserved. The banquet will be the major awards ceremony for all band and orchestra students. We want all parents there to help us celebrate the hard work of all students in such a difficult school year.
Auditions – ALL band students must perform their audition etudes on May 18 & 19. This is the semester final exam grade. It will also be used for rankings for fall band placement.
Instrument Check In – This week ALL school instruments must be checked in. We will be able to check instruments back out immediately to all returning members. We will check for needed maintenance and send them for repair this Friday. You can bring the instruments to us during the school day or immediately before or after school. We could also check them in before practice on Thursday afternoon. Any instrument not checked in will be considered missing AISD inventory and reported to the fine arts central office.
Uniforms – If you still have a marching band uniform or tuxedo or dress, please return those by Thursday afternoon. They must be handed to a director so we know who to mark off of our list.
Torchy’s Tacos – The LBBC is hosting a restaurant night at Torchy’s Tacos on North Collins. Eat dinner there on May 19th from 4-9 and tell them you are supporting the Lamar Band.
Senior Day – May 17 is the Senior Parade and Senior Awards Ceremony. The band will perform in the north parking lot during the senior parade of cars. We will be standing still for this parade and playing the fight song and various other marching band music. We will also have marching band training later that evening.
Enrollment for Next School Year – The Lamar High School counselors will share a Google doc with your child next week with their course selections for the 2021-2022 school year. Please ask your child to check their AISD email for the link, then please review their selections with them. If you’d like to make changes, please email your child’s counselor (see below for email addresses).
It is not too late to sign up for BAND for next year! We are looking forward to having a more normalized school setting next year (fingers crossed!) and so please do not use this school year as an indication of your child’s ability to be successful in music education. Experience in band in high school is excellent preparation for college and career readiness. Please reach out to your LHS counselor if you have any questions. Also, here’s a link to information explaining the benefits of high school band courses and some of the types of band courses and events we have here at LHS.
As a reminder, the deadline to request changes to next year’s course selections is May 26, 2021.
LHS Counselors (divided by the last names of students):
Marching Band Spring Training – We have had a great start to our spring training practices. All band students from grades 8-11 are expected to participate in the marching band spring training on Monday and Thursdays, 5:00pm-6:30pm. We will be meeting at the MAC to work on basic marching fundamentals and learn some music for the parade and marching season. Students are REQUIRED to bring their own water jug to practice. Students without their own water will be sent home to retrieve it.
Solos – This semester, the performance of a solo was considered optional. Those students who have worked on a solo are encouraged to record a video of their performance of the solo. The directors would like to see the videos and reward those students who have worked so hard individually on a solo. Please message your director if you have a solo that you can record. The deadline will be May 21st.
Support The Band at No Extra Cost – These are easy ways to help raise money for the band.
Letter Award Form – All band and colorguard students should fill out the letter award form for the school year. If you did the letter form in the fall, you will NOT be able to letter again. Only one letter per school year. We encourage all students to fill it out, even if you are not sure if you will earn enough points. You might be surprised! Click here for the new letter award form.
Banquet – The LBBC and LOBC have been planning our spring band & orchestra banquet. It will be held May 22nd behind Lamar in the open grass field. They are in urgent need of a head count for the caterers. Please fill out this form immediately so that we can get food reserved. The banquet will be the major awards ceremony for all band and orchestra students. We want all parents there to help us celebrate the hard work of all students in such a difficult school year.
Torchy’s Tacos – The LBBC is hosting a restaurant night at Torchy’s Tacos on North Collins. Eat dinner there on May 19th from 4-9 and tell them you are supporting the Lamar Band.
Physicals Day – On May 13, Adolescent Sports Metrics will offer physicals at Lamar High School for the band students. The cost is $10. It will be between 3:30-5:30. We recommend that parents accompany their students for this procedure. If a parent can not be present, the PPE form must be completed before a physician can do the exam.
Band Forms – We are hoping to get a little ahead of the game by releasing our band forms for next school year. These must be updated every school year. They are not due until August, but if you would like to fill them out early, here they are. The physical form is urgent as it must be completed by a physician before the first performance this summer (parade). Many of the forms are fillable in adobe and can even be digitally signed, except for the medical form that must be notarized.
Senior Day – May 17 is the Senior Parade and Senior Awards Ceremony. The band will perform in the north parking lot during the senior parade of cars. We will be standing still for this parade and playing the fight song and various other marching band music. We will also have marching band training later that evening.
Enrollment for Next School Year – The Lamar High School counselors will share a Google doc with your child next week with their course selections for the 2021-2022 school year. Please ask your child to check their AISD email for the link, then please review their selections with them. If you’d like to make changes, please email your child’s counselor (see below for email addresses).
It is not too late to sign up for BAND for next year! We are looking forward to having a more normalized school setting next year (fingers crossed!) and so please do not use this school year as an indication of your child’s ability to be successful in music education. Experience in band in high school is excellent preparation for college and career readiness. Please reach out to your LHS counselor if you have any questions. Also, here’s a link to information explaining the benefits of high school band courses and some of the types of band courses and events we have here at LHS.
As a reminder, the deadline to request changes to next year’s course selections is May 26, 2021.
LHS Counselors (divided by the last names of students):
A-Br: Mr. Jensen, djensen1@aisd.net
Bu-Dia: Ms. Duncan, rduncan1@aisd.net
Dib-Go: Ms. Davis, tdavis14@aisd.net
Gr-Jh: Ms. Casey, acasey1@aisd.net
Ji-Mac: Ms. Simmons, gsimmon1@aisd.net
Mad-Ob: Mr. Hammon, jhammon1@aisd.net
Oc-Rod: Ms. Quintana, mquintan@aisd.net
Roe-Te: Ms. Savoy, csavoy@aisd.net
Th-Z: Ms. Boyd, wboyd1@aisd.net
Marching Band Spring Training – We have had a great start to our spring training practices. All band students from grades 8-11 are expected to participate in the marching band spring training on Monday and Thursdays, 5:00pm-6:30pm. We will be meeting at the MAC to work on basic marching fundamentals and learn some music for the parade and marching season. Students are REQUIRED to bring their own water jug to practice. Students without their own water will be sent home to retrieve it.
Solos – This semester, the performance of a solo was considered optional. Those students who have worked on a solo are encouraged to record a video of their performance of the solo. The directors would like to see the videos and reward those students who have worked so hard individually on a solo. Please message your director if you have a solo that you can record. The deadline will be May 21st.
Auditions – ALL band students must perform their audition etudes on May 18 & 19. This is the semester final exam grade. It will also be used for rankings for fall band placement.
Support The Band at No Extra Cost – These are easy ways to help raise money for the band.
3. Kroger will donate a percentage of each sale to the Lamar Band
Tom Thumb Rewards:
1. Stop by the Customer Service desk
2. Ask them about adding Lamar High School Band to your rewards card
Quote of the Week – “The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” – Steven Covey Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Last Week – I would argue that the last two weeks were the busiest of the year. I for one was exhausted. That must mean we are getting back to some sort of normal! The band directors are so proud of our student’s performance in the spring concert at the CVPA. Seeing all the students on stage, looking professional, playing music together, made me feel absolutely great. I hope the experience was worthwhile and something that can make a unusual year have a little bit of positivity here at the end of the semester.
Leadership – I would like to congratulate the 2021-2022 leadership team! Every candidate went above and beyond with their applications, essays, projects, and interviews. I want to highlight a couple of creative things the students did for projects and interviews. We have a couple of students making an instructional video for taping colorguard equipment. A student interviewed Mr. Hagman and another did a zoom video interview with Scott Lang (the leadership guy). One student made bags of food for the homeless and delivered them to them in person. Another is making mothers day gift baskets for women and children in the women’s shelter in Arlington. Those are just a few examples. I just wanted everyone to know how amazing our students are and the creativity and compassion they all have.
After School Practices – This week, we will NOT have concert band practices on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday. HOWEVER, WE WILL HAVE marching band spring training!
Marching Band Spring Training – Here we go! All band students from grades 8-11 will begin marching band spring training on Monday May 3rd, 5:00pm-6:30pm. We will be meeting at the MAC to work on basic marching fundamentals and getting back into marching band shape! Make sure to wear your comfortable athletic clothing, athletic shoes (or marching shoes), and BRING YOUR WATER JUG!
Physicals – On May 13th, Adolescent Sports Metrics will offer physicals at Lamar High School for the band students. The cost is $10. It will be between 3:30-5:30. We recommend parents accompanying their students for this procedure. If a parent can not be present, the PPE form must be completed before a physician can do the exam. More details will be coming soon. We are grateful that they are coming to Lamar to offer this for the marching band!
TICKETS – This form must be filled out to have the tickets reserved. Wednesday morning we will start offering extra tickets on a first come, first serve basis. Reserved tickets are available for pickup at the band office anytime during school or until 4:30 Wednesday. We will also be available until 3:00pm at LHS on Thursday before the directors go to the CVPA to prepare for the concert. The itinerary for students is attached.
Band Council Elections – Through this Wednesday at 3:00pm, we are accepting votes for the Lamar Band Council 2021-2022. Students, you must login with your school email address. Vote here!
Physicals – On May 13th, Adolescent Sports Metrics will offer physicals at Lamar High School for the band students. The cost is $10. It will be between 3:30-5:30. We recommend parents accompanying their students for this procedure. If a parent can not be present, the PPE form must be completed before a physician can do the exam. More details will be coming soon. We are grateful that they are coming to Lamar to offer this for the marching band!
Marching Band Spring Training – Here we go! All band students from grades 8-11 will begin marching band spring training on Monday May 3rd, 5:00pm-6:30pm. We will be meeting at the MAC to work on basic marching fundamentals and getting back into marching band shape! We are excited to get started! We plan on sharing the marching band show music at our rehearsal.
From Hagman – I found these to be critically important messages from Mr. Hagman and felt compelled to share in our newsletter / update.
If you are up to it, I would love to see you at Lamar attending classes daily. To put it bluntly, there is a lot of funding from the state on the line for AISD ($12 million in funding). All schools in Texas are tasked with increasing their in-person attendance this last six weeks, and if AISD doesn’t hit its target, we won’t receive the funding. It’s not a sliding scale, either; it’s all or nothing. So, if you can make it to campus, I would greatly appreciate it. If you have any questions or concerns about attending in-person, give me a holler (ahagman@aisd.net).
If you need to make up credits this summer or if you want to get ahead by taking accelerated classes, please check out the attached summer school flyer. It’s got info on registration dates, cost, available classes and more. If you have questions about summer school, please email your counselor to discuss options.
Quote of the Week – “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
UIL – This is it! Monday April 19th is the big day to record our UIL performance. The Varsity Band (10-12) will meet between 3:45-7:00 at the new CVPA. The itinerary is attached. Make sure you have your concert black clothes ready to go. Our spring concert and UIL performances are just around the corner. Our concert attire will be “concert black”. This is a common dress code for musicians. Please be prepared to wear the following. Black long sleeve shirt. This should be a full button up collared “dress shirt”. Black pants with black belt. NO jeans or cargo pants. Black socks and dress shoes. If you do not have dress shoes, you may wear your marching band shoes. The shoes should be polished and clean. Do not wear high heels if possible. If you are unsure of your outfit, just snap a picture of the outfit and send it to a director for approval.
Full Orchestra – Students in the Lamar Symphony Orchestra will have UIL on Tuesday. The exact same process so just use the itinerary from Monday for your Tuesday performance.
Spring Concert – Our spring concert is April 29th. ALL Lamar Band students are performing, including percussion ensemble, jazz band, freshman band, upperclassman band, and the symphony orchestra! More of the details are coming soon. There will be tickets for this event. It is limited to 2 tickets per student at this time. We are working on a recording and live stream.
Seniors – The LBBC scholarships are available. These need to be filled out by April 22nd!
Leadership Candidates – This Wednesday we will meet at 3:30pm-4:30pm to begin the audition process. Students will need to finalize their decisions on which positions they are auditioning for. Leadership University assignments should be up to date at this time. All students interested in 2021-2022 leadership will need to join this NEW Band App group. The Leadership University Course has been started and all links will be in this band app group only. This is a mandatory part of the leadership selection / training process. If you haven’t filled out the interest form or you want to change anything, use this link.
Audition – The sixth six weeks will be focused on preparing for summer and fall. Students will prepare an audition etude to be performed for a major test grade. Seniors will also be performing this etude as their final grade in band, ever! The results from the audition grades will be used to rank students for chair placement this fall. Students with advanced scores will be placed in the wind symphony. Those in symphonic band will be ranked in order. These results will also help the staff assign parts for the marching band. Currently, the etude is available in the files section of all students canvas pages. Printed copies are in the band room. Eventually they should all be uploaded to SmartMusic.
Calendar – The band staff has been busy at work with our planning of the summer schedule for the band. The attached pdf calendar takes us up to the first day of school. All of these dates including many of the fall dates are on the Lamar Band Google Calendar.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Quote of the Week – “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
Winterguard – Our talented winterguard had a wonderful performance last Thursday for a live audience! We have video recordings and we are working on editing them for us to share. The next phase of color guard is recruiting for next fall. We have set a goal of 25-30 members for the 2021-2022 color guard program. We need help from all band students to get the word out about auditions. Share the info graphics on your social media and talk to your friends.
Chipotle – This Wednesday from 4-8, eat at Chipotle on North Collins and tell them you are supporting the Lamar Band Booster Club! Chipotle is giving 33% to the Lamar Band! This is the biggest restaurant fundraiser of the spring! Tell your friends and share the
Pep Band Friday – This Friday we will have our next pep band event at Wimbish Elementary School! We would like to have even more of our Lamar Band members attend. Mr. Riley will be sending out the google sign up very soon.
UIL – This is it! Monday April 19th is the big day to record our UIL performance. The Varsity Band (10-12) will meet between 3:45-7:00 at the new CVPA. The itinerary is coming soon. Make sure you have your concert black clothes ready to go. Our spring concert and UIL performances are just around the corner. Our concert attire will be “concert black”. This is a common dress code for musicians. Please be prepared to wear the following. Black long sleeve shirt. This should be a full button up collared “dress shirt”. Black pants with black belt. NO jeans or cargo pants. Black socks and dress shoes. If you do not have dress shoes, you may wear your marching band shoes. The shoes should be polished and clean. Do not wear high heels if possible. If you are unsure of your outfit, just snap a picture of the outfit and send it to a director for approval.
Spring Concert – Our spring concert is just around the corner. More of the details are coming soon. There will be tickets for this event. It is limited to 2 tickets per student at this time. We are working on a recording and live stream.
Audition – The sixth six weeks will be focused on preparing for summer and fall. Students will prepare an audition etude to be performed for a major test grade. Seniors will also be performing this etude as their final grade in band, ever! The results from the audition grades will be used to rank students for chair placement this fall. Students with advanced scores will be placed in the wind symphony. Those in symphonic band will be ranked in order. These results will also help the staff assign parts for the marching band. Currently, the etude is available in the files section of all students canvas pages. Printed copies are in the band room. Eventually they should all be uploaded to SmartMusic.
Seniors – The LBBC scholarships are available. These need to be filled out by April 22nd!
Leadership Candidates – All students interested in 2021-2022 leadership will need to join this NEW Band App group. The Leadership University Course has been started and all links will be in this band app group only. This is a mandatory part of the leadership selection / training process. If you haven’t filled out the interest form or you want to change anything, use this link.
Calendar – The band staff has been busy at work with our planning of the summer schedule for the band. The attached pdf calendar takes us up to the first day of school. All of these dates including many of the fall dates are on the Lamar Band Google Calendar.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band Quote of the Week – Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it. -Julia Child
Winterguard Performance – The Lamar Color Guard will present their 2021 winterguard show next Thursday April 8th at 7:00pm. The event will take place in gym A (main competition gym at LHS). Due to district Covid policy, we must ticket the event. It is FREE! Masks will be mandatory and social distancing must be followed. Reserve your free ticket here. All family and friends are invited. Groups of audience members should be spaced out in family groups of 4. There should be plenty of room to spread out in the gym.
Seniors – The LBBC scholarships are available. These need to be filled out by April 22nd!
Leadership Candidates – All students interested in 2021-2022 leadership will need to join this NEW Band App group. The Leadership University Course has been started and all links will be in this band app group only. This is a mandatory part of the leadership selection / training process. If you haven’t filled out the interest form or you want to change anything, use this link.
Calendar – The band staff has been busy at work with our planning of the summer schedule for the band. The attached pdf calendar takes us up to the first day of school. All of these dates including many of the fall dates are on the Lamar Band Google Calendar.
Concert Dress Black – Our spring concert and UIL performances are just around the corner. Our concert attire will be “concert black”. This is a common dress code for musicians. Please be prepared to wear the following. Black long sleeve shirt. This should be a full button up collared “dress shirt”. Black pants with black belt. NO jeans or cargo pants. Black socks and dress shoes. If you do not have dress shoes, you may wear your marching band shoes. The shoes should be polished and clean. Do not wear high heels if possible. If you are unsure of your outfit, just snap a picture of the outfit and send it to a director for approval.
After School Practices – We have 2 rehearsals until our UIL recording! Freshmen, we only have 3 rehearsals until our spring concert on April 29th! We have been scheduled to record our UIL performance at the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts on April 19th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Success happens when we consistently practice and work as a team towards the goal of a superior performance. These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. Parents, please email a director or use this new form if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Pep Band Fridays – The Lamar cluster band directors have started a new event. We are taking high school band members to the elementary schools on Fridays to “pep” up the little kids. Our main goal is to get the 6th graders excited about joining the 7th grade beginning band. Students will have to provide their own transportation. We can get students excused from their last period if needed. We want The Pride of Lamar to wear their “Bad Show” shirts and jeans or shorts. Bring your marching season music. We will play the Fight Song, 7 Nation Army, Shout it Out, and Land of 1000. Be ready to dance to drum cadences and have a great time! Colorguard members are encouraged to join us to dance, spin, and generally entertain our elementary friends.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Quote of the Week – An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life.
“A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy.
“It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves.
One is evil—he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.”
He continued, “The other is good—his is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you—and inside every other person, too.”
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”
The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
Calendar – The band staff has been busy at work with our planning of the summer schedule for the band. The attached pdf calendar takes us up to the first day of school. All of these dates including many of the fall dates are on the Lamar Band Google Calendar.
Band App Notifications – This morning, I caught a spam bot that posted on our chat notifications. It has been reported to the Band App team. That being said, we often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
Concert Dress Black – Our spring concert and UIL performances are just around the corner. Our concert attire will be “concert black”. This is a common dress code for musicians. Please be prepared to wear the following. Black long sleeve shirt. This should be a full button up collared “dress shirt”. Black pants with black belt. NO jeans or cargo pants. Black socks and dress shoes. If you do not have dress shoes, you may wear your marching band shoes. The shoes should be polished and clean. Do not wear high heels if possible. If you are unsure of your outfit, just snap a picture of the outfit and send it to a director for approval.
Car Wash – We have been postponed for our spring car wash event. The district has not approved car washes for this school year. I hope that we can do one in May or June.
Pep Band Fridays – The Lamar cluster band directors have started a new event. We are taking high school band members to the elementary schools on Fridays to “pep” up the little kids. Our main goal is to get the 6th graders excited about joining the 7th grade beginning band. Students will have to provide their own transportation. We can get students excused from their last period if needed. We want The Pride of Lamar to wear their “Bad Show” shirts and jeans or shorts. Bring your marching season music. We will play the Fight Song, 7 Nation Army, Shout it Out, and Land of 1000. Be ready to dance to drum cadences and have a great time! Colorguard members are encouraged to join us to dance, spin, and generally entertain our elementary friends.
After School Practices – We have 3rehearsals until our UIL recording! We have been scheduled to record our UIL performance at the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts on April 19th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Success happens when we consistently practice and work as a team towards the goal of a superior performance. These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. Parents, please email a director or use this new form if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Leadership Interest 21-22 – If you missed our information meeting on the 11th, contact a friend for notes. We can also send you a link to the video of the meeting. To help us know who is interested in leadership, fill out this form. We encourage ALL students grades 9th-11th to consider a role on the leadership team. This includes band council, drum majors, section leaders, and team leaders such as water crew.
Enrollment Guide – Another cool thing to check out is the newest edition of the Lamar Band Enrollment guide. Special thanks to Mrs. Lang for the beautiful graphic layout.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Schedule Selection 21-22 – You may adjust your class request options for 2021-2022 until May. Be sure to let the counselors know that you are in The Pride of Lamar! We have planned events already! We will be going back to BOA Waco! We are considering other trips in the fall and spring. Maybe even a trip to see the big mouse. We are about to start a big recruiting campaign to get kids back in band. Our goal is to grow by 30%! If you have a friend who dropped out of band, we want them back. The staff will catch them up. Help us grow our band program. Let’s start with making sure you are signed up for band classes.
Contact Mr. Lang or your counselor if you have questions.
Need credit recovery for the 1st semester? – Sign up for a packet. You could complete this pack in about 4-6 hours. Doing a credit recovery class (Edgenuity) takes around 30 hours. This form is for students needing to redeem FALL 2020 Credit in
English 1, 2, 3, 4
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Math Models, Algebraic Reasoning
World Geography, World History, U.S. History, Government, Economics
Spanish 1, 2
Quote of the Week – “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.” – Aristotle Winterguard – Winterguard performance April 8th!
Dickey’s BBQ Night – We are excited about our next Fundraiser Night at Dickey’s BBQ on Ballpark Way! Wednesday March 24th from 4:00-8:00pm let them know you are supporting the Lamar Band. Place orders for Dine IN/DriveThru/Takeout. They are giving back 20% to the band. We are looking for band students to help with greeting people and helping us earn a little extra in tips. Invite friends and family to support us!
Pep Band Fridays – The Lamar cluster band directors have started a new event. We are taking high school band members to the elementary schools on Fridays to “pep” up the little kids. Our main goal is to get the 6th graders excited about joining the 7th grade beginning band. Our first performance at Butler Elementary was a great success! This Friday March 26th will be at Pope Elementary from 3:00pm-3:45pm. Sign up with this quick form. Students will have to provide their own transportation. We can get students excused from their last period if needed. We want The Pride of Lamar to wear their “Bad Show” shirts and jeans or shorts. Bring your marching season music. We will play the Fight Song, 7 Nation Army, Shout it Out, and Land of 1000. Be ready to dance to drum cadences and have a great time! Colorguard members are encouraged to join us to dance, spin, and generally entertain our elementary friends.
Concert Dress Black – Our spring concert and UIL performances are just around the corner. Our concert attire will be “concert black”. This is a common dress code for musicians. Please be prepared to wear the following. Black long sleeve shirt. This should be a full button up collared “dress shirt”. Black pants with black belt. NO jeans or cargo pants. Black socks and dress shoes. If you do not have dress shoes, you may wear your marching band shoes. The shoes should be polished and clean. Do not wear high heels if possible. If you are unsure of your outfit, just snap a picture of the outfit and send it to a director for approval.
Car Wash – We are going to have our traditional car wash on April 10th. All Lamar Band students will sign up for a shift. It is important that every student does their fair share of the work. The Lamar Band Car Wash has been a profitable fundraiser for decades. Let’s keep this north Arlington event going strong! Parents, we will need 10-20 adults to chaperone. More info coming from the booster club soon.
After School Practices – We have 4 rehearsals until our UIL recording! We have been scheduled to record our UIL performance at the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts on April 19th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Success happens when we consistently practice and work as a team towards the goal of a superior performance. These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. Parents, please email a director or use this new form if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Leadership Interest 21-22 – If you missed our information meeting on the 11th, contact a friend for notes. We can also send you a link to the video of the meeting. To help us know who is interested in leadership, fill out this form. We encourage ALL students grades 9th-11th to consider a role on the leadership team. This includes band council, drum majors, section leaders, and team leaders such as water crew.
Lamar Band Website – If you haven’t seen it lately, check out www.lamarmusic.org Mrs. Bankhead has made some new improvements.
Enrollment Guide – Another cool thing to check out is the newest edition of the Lamar Band Enrollment guide. Special thanks to Mrs. Lang for the beautiful graphic layout.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Schedule Selection 21-22 – You may adjust your class request options for 2021-2022 until May. Be sure to let the counselors know that you are in The Pride of Lamar! We have planned events already! We will be going back to BOA Waco! We are considering other trips in the fall and spring. Maybe even a trip to see the big mouse. We are about to start a big recruiting campaign to get kids back in band. Our goal is to grow by 30%! If you have a friend who dropped out of band, we want them back. The staff will catch them up. Help us grow our band program. Let’s start with making sure you are signed up for band classes.
Contact Mr. Lang or your counselor if you have questions.
Need credit recovery for the 1st semester? – Sign up for a packet. You could complete this pack in about 4-6 hours. Doing a credit recovery class (Edgenuity) takes around 30 hours. This form is for students needing to redeem FALL 2020 Credit in
English 1, 2, 3, 4
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Math Models, Algebraic Reasoning
World Geography, World History, U.S. History, Government, Economics
Spanish 1, 2
Quote of the Week – “Your life isn’t yours if you constantly care what others think.” – Unknown Winterguard – Coming soon…the winterguard friends and family performance!
Open House – Tonight, Monday at 6:30pm, Lamar will host the spring open house event on Zoom. Details for all teacher zoom links are listed here. The Lamar Band zoom for Mr. Lang is this zoom link.
LBBC Board Meeting – Tomorrow, Tuesday at 6:30pm, we will host our monthly LBBC meeting. Use this zoom link if you would like to attend.
After School Practices – We have 6 rehearsals until our UIL recording. We have been scheduled to record our UIL performance at the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts on April 19th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Success happens when we consistently practice and work as a team towards the goal of a superior performance. These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. Parents, please email a director or use this new form if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:00-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:15-6:30 9th grade band
Leadership Interest 21-22 – If you are interested in learning about the leadership team and the many different roles, attend our informational meeting on March 11th at 3:30 in the band room. To help us know who is interested in leadership, fill out this form. We encourage ALL students grades 9th-11th to consider a role on the leadership team. This includes band council, drum majors, section leaders, and team leaders such as water crew.
Lamar Band Website – If you haven’t seen it lately, check out www.lamarmusic.org Mrs. Bankhead has made some new improvements.
Enrollment Guide – Another cool thing to check out is the newest edition of the Lamar Band Enrollment guide. Special thanks to Mrs. Lang for the beautiful graphic layout.
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Schedule Selection 21-22 – You may adjust your class request options for 2021-2022 until May. Be sure to let the counselors know that you are in The Pride of Lamar! We have planned events already! We will be going back to BOA Waco! We are considering other trips in the fall and spring. Maybe even a trip to see the big mouse. We are about to start a big recruiting campaign to get kids back in band. Our goal is to grow by 30%! If you have a friend who dropped out of band, we want them back. The staff will catch them up. Help us grow our band program. Let’s start with making sure you are signed up for band classes.
Contact Mr. Lang or your counselor if you have questions.
Need credit recovery for the 1st semester? – Sign up for a packet. You could complete this pack in about 4-6 hours. Doing a credit recovery class (Edgenuity) takes around 30 hours. This form is for students needing to redeem FALL 2020 Credit in
English 1, 2, 3, 4
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Math Models, Algebraic Reasoning
After School Practices – We are back to our normal schedule! These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. These concert band practices are critical for our UIL and Spring Concert performances. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Leadership Interest 21-22 – If you are interested in learning about the leadership team and the many different roles, attend our informational meeting on March 11th at 3:30 in the band room. To help us know who is interested in leadership, fill out this form. We encourage ALL students grades 9th-11th to consider a role on the leadership team. This includes band council, drum majors, section leaders, and team leaders such as water crew.
Need credit recovery for the 1st semester? – Sign up for a packet. You could complete this pack in about 4-6 hours. Doing a credit recovery class (Edgenuity) takes around 30 hours. This form is for students needing to redeem FALL 2020 Credit in
English 1, 2, 3, 4
Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Math Models, Algebraic Reasoning
World Geography, World History, U.S. History, Government, Economics
Spanish 1, 2
Physicals – It is time to start renewing our physical forms for next fall. We understand that insurance allows for one medical physical per year. When you go, you should use the UIL form so that you are prepared for marching band and any other athletic team at Lamar. I have attached the form and provided this link for more info. https://www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band
Schedule Selection 21-22 – Signing up for band next fall is as easy as filling out a google form. We are good at that by now! Be sure to let the counselors know that you are in The Pride of Lamar! We have two marching contests already confirmed and registered. We will be going back to BOA Waco! We are considering other trips in the fall and spring. Maybe even a trip to see the big mouse. We are about to start a big recruiting campaign to get kids back in band. Our goal is to grow by 30%! If you have a friend who dropped out of band, we want them back. The staff will catch them up. Help us grow our band program. Let’s start with making sure you are signed up for band classes.
Contact Mr. Lang or your counselor if you have questions.
Quote of the Week – “Most of us are just about as happy as we make up our minds to be.” – Abraham Lincoln
Winterguard – Back on our normal schedule! Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS! Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
If your home or apartment was damaged last week from the weather, have a parent access this link to see if the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can provide assistance.
If you are struggling psychologically or emotionally, please reach out to your counselor (click here for a list of email addresses). We’ve all been under a tremendous amount of stress, and it’s a good thing to share your feelings when you are overwhelmed.
Wednesday, 2/24, is a remote, asynchronous learning day. Be sure to check each of your A day classes for assignments.
Thursday, 2/25 (B day), and Friday, 2/26 (A day), are remote learning days with both synchronous and asynchronous learning, so be sure to log in at the appropriate times for class. It will do you good to connect with your teachers and classmates.
Instrument Retrieval – Due to the uncertainty of the return to LHS, we are working out a process to get instruments that were left at the school. We need responses as soon as possible.
Update from Mr. Lang – Our number 1 concern as a band family is the health and safety of our students and families. We want to assist in whatever way possible. We just need communication from students and/or parents. The next focus is to adjust our plans for the work we have been doing since the beginning of the semester. We have lost critical rehearsals for all ensembles. If we are allowed back at Lamar next week, we will go back to our regular after school practice schedule. If we are not back yet, we are working out plans to practice at other sites. We do not want to fall further behind. I have been incredibly proud of the progress students made in January and early February. Getting in as much practice before spring break is paramount. Some good news is that the arrival of our new trailer is now scheduled for March 2nd. There will be a lot of PR so look for it on that date. We are also deep in plans for summer and fall. Marching band is right around the corner.
Need credit recovery for the 1st semester? – Sign up for a packet. You could complete this pack in about 4 hours. Doing a credit recovery class (Edgenuity) takes around 30 hours. Get it done now so it doesn’t mess up your summer and fall!
Offline credit recovery courses
English
ELA 1-4
Math
Algebra 1
Geometry
Algebra 2
Algebraic Reasoning
Math Models
Social Studies
World Geography
World History
US History
Government
Economics
Science
IPC Biology
Chemistry
A & P
Forensics
Astonomy
Physics
LOTE
Spanish 1
Spanish 2
They extended the deadline to fill out this form!
Signing up for band next fall is as easy as filling out a google form. We are good at that by now! Be sure to let the counselors know that you are in The Pride of Lamar! We have two marching contests already confirmed and registered. We will be going back to BOA Waco! We are considering other trips in the fall and spring. Maybe even a trip to see the big mouse. We are about to start a big recruiting campaign to get kids back in band. Our goal is to grow by 30%! If you have a friend who dropped out of band, we want them back. The staff will catch them up. Help us grow our band program. Let’s start with making sure you are signed up for band classes.
Contact Mr. Lang or your counselor if you have questions!
Spring Concert – On April 29th, we will have our premier concert at the new AISD Center for Visual and Performing Arts! There is an excellent chance we will have a limited in person audience. The concert will also be live streamed with the concert halls very fancy camera and audio system. Mark your calendars.
After School Practices (pending rehearsal space) – These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. These concert band practices are critical for our UIL and Spring Concert performances. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Quote of the Week – “Music is the effort we make to explain to ourselves how our brains work. We listen to Bach transfixed because this is listening to a human mind.” – Lewis Thomas
Winterguard – Until we find a new rehearsal space, we will not have practice. Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS! Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
General Update – Weather or not you like winter, this is too cold! (sorry about the word play) Due to AISD closing school today, we have no freshman band, jazz, or winterguard practice tonight. Since Monday looks like snow, we are moving the varsity band to Tuesday evening 5:30-7:30. Make sure you have your notifications on for Lamar Band on the Band App. I will always post urgent news there first.
After School Practices – We are quickly approaching our UIL recording time frame. We will be granted time in the CVPA concert hall to get a professional recording. We are also confirmed for our concert on April 29th. There is a lot of talk about having in-person as well as live streamed audience members. Practices are critical. All students are welcome, even if they have missed practices so far. The schedule is on the google calendar and band app. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. In-person and remote students are all welcome. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Semi Trailer – I actually have a date! Next Friday, the district will be receiving the 6 high schools band trailers. There will be a PR event at the CVPA. You will see it all over social media. Hopefully there will be a day when we can bring it to LHS and have tours of the inside. You will be blown away!
Winterguard – We are off to a good start. Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS!
Quote of the Week – “Students with band and orchestra experience attend college at a rate twice the national average.” – Bands Across the USA
Spring Concert – On April 29th, we will have our premier concert at the new AISD Center for Visual and Performing Arts! There is an excellent chance we will have a limited in person audience. The concert will also be live streamed with the concert halls very fancy camera and audio system. Mark your calendars.
After School Practices – These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. These concert band practices are critical for our UIL and Spring Concert performances. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Quote of the Week – “Music students out-perform non-music students on achievement tests in reading and math. Skills such as reading, anticipating, memory, listening, forecasting, recall, and concentration are developed in musical performance, and these skills are valuable to students in math, reading, and science.” – B. Friedman, “An Evaluation of the Achievement in Reading and Arithmetic of Pupils in Elementary School Instrumental Music Classes,” Dissertation Abstracts International.
Course Sign Up – The counselors have been working on the preliminary course selection with all students. If you have any questions, I can answer most of them in regards to band and other course schedule conflicts. Our goal is to grow the Lamar Band next fall. If any student is on the fence for band next year, they should speak with a director.
LBBC – The Lamar Band Booster Club will have a board meeting this Tuesday at 7:00pm. Look for an email from the LBBC president, Mrs. Howerton this week.
Winterguard – Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS!
Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group. Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
After School Practices – These practices are required of all in-person students and highly encouraged for remote students. If there are conflicts with these rehearsals, parents, please email me asap. The schedule is on the google calendar and band app. I have also attached it to this email. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:30 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Quote of the Week – “History has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” – Michelle Obama
Winterguard – Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS!
Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
After School Practices – Our first week of afternoon rehearsals went off very well. Our students were focused and worked very hard. We accomplished our goals and then some. We will have the 10-12 grade Varsity Band rehearsal Monday from 4:30pm-6:30pm. While this is a school holiday, we have very few rehearsals until we record in late March for UIL. If there are conflicts with these rehearsals, parents, please email me asap. Rescheduling during the week is very difficult due to the busy calendar of rehearsals in the band room every afternoon. The schedule is on the google calendar and band app. I have also attached it to this email. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. In-person and remote students are all welcome. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade Varsity band
Tuesday, 3:30-4:30 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:00 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Winterguard – The winterguard started practices this past week. We are off to a good start. Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS!
Marching Uniforms – Any student that still has a marching band uniform needs to make plans to return it to the band room. Most of them have been returned and cleaned. We must wrap up our uniforms for the year.
Objective Sheets – The grades for the report card come directly for the Objective Sheet assignments. Deadlines are important. Parents, please help your student musician stay on track to get assignments completed. If they practice 15-30 mins every day, they will be able to earn high marks.
Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
Quote of the Week – “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
After School Practices – Practices start this week! The schedule is on the google calendar and band app. I have also attached it to this email. Parents, please email a director if there is an excused absence. In-person and remote students are all welcome. Fill out this daily screening form before you come to LHS.
Monday, 4:30-6:30 10-12 grade band
Tuesday, 3:30-4:30 symphony orchestra
Wednesday, 3:30-6:00 percussion ensembles
Thursday, 4:30-6:30 9th grade band
Winterguard – The winterguard practices start this Tuesday. Students in winterguard must use the daily screening form and follow the AISD protocols for Covid. Performers must bring their own water jug and snacks with absolutely NO sharing. Masks, masks, MASKS!
Objective Sheets – The grades for the report card come directly for the Objective Sheet assignments. Deadlines are important. Parents, please help your student musician stay on track to get assignments completed. If they practice 15-30 mins every day, they will be able to earn high marks.
Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
Quote of the Week – “It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” – Vincent Van Gogh
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
Happy New Year! – I am sure we are all happy to put 2020 behind us. Many of our challenges are still with us, but there is hope that things will be better soon. I am excited to start fresh and attack our problems head on. I like what Mr. Hagman often says, “Challenges are opportunities for growth”. The Lamar Band will start with optimism and positivity in 2021!
LHS Calendar – I have attached the Lamar HS hybrid calendar for January and February. The sync / async times will be slightly different as well. That will be discussed during this first week back.
After School Practices – No practices this week as we adjust our spring after school practice schedule. If you haven’t done so, please fill out this survey regarding rehearsal times.
Marching Band – If you have not yet turned in your marching uniform, it must be done as soon as possible. If you have any marching instruments or accessories still checked out to you, please get those turned in to a director at your earliest convenience.
Notifications – We often send important updates via the Band App. If you have turned off notifications, please turn them back on for the Lamar Band group.
Quote of the Week – “A goal is a dream with a deadline.” -Napoleon Hill
Band Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS can be paid online here.
Communication & Social Media
Email – Alan Lang dlang@aisd.net | Kolby Kelly kkelly4@aisd.net | Zack Riley zriley1@aisd.net | Midori Eng midori.lwe@gmail.com
After School Practices – No practices due to exams. We will have a new after school schedule for the spring. Parents or students, please fill out this survey regarding rehearsal times.
Fall Concerts – The directors made the decision to postpone our fall concert. With only 3 hours of after school practice to put it together, we felt it was best to wait until we can have more rehearsals with more students involved. The Jazz Orchestra and Percussion Ensemble, however, recorded some great music to get you in the holiday mood!
Marching Band – Students should turn in their uniform and shako by Thursday this week. Sousaphones, baritones, and mellophones should also be checked in this week. Any time during the school day is fine. Message us if you want to meet us after school.
Band Room Organization – This Saturday, Dec 19th, from 9:00am-11:00am, we will be reorganizing our equipment. We always have this task as we finish marching season and move on to the wild and crazy spring semester. With a lot of parents and students, we will get this done in no time. We need some people with great vision for superior organization. Email lamarbandboosterclub@gmail.com if you are a parent that can help out.
Quote of the Week – “A goal is a dream with a deadline.” -Napoleon Hill
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due
After School Practices – This week only, next week no practices due to exams.
Jazz Orchestra – Monday 3:30pm-6:00pm
Percussion Ensemble – Tuesday 3:30pm-5:00pm
Freshman Band – Wednesday 5:00pm-6:00pm
Symphonic Band – Wednesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Wind Symphony – Wednesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Marching Band – Marching band season is over so its time to turn in the marching band uniforms. Wash them and bring them up to the band room during school or during after school practice. They should be turned in by Dec 17th at the latest. We are looking for some helpers to organize and store the marching season equipment. On Saturday Dec. 19th at 9:00am, meet outside the band hall. We could use parents and students. This could count towards service hours.
Letter Jackets – Our letter jacket company will be here on Thursday, Dec. 10th to allow students to try on letter jackets and place orders. I have attached the order form and some examples of optional patches. The basic jacket with letter is $65 and to add the little name on the front is $17. Everything else goes up from there. To see the exclusive Lamar Band logo patch, click here to browse their website.
Earning the Official Lamar Band Letterman Patch – Earning a varsity letter is a long tradition in American schools. Qualifications differ from organization to organization. To me it represents a student who puts in superior effort to make the team/organization better. With our pandemic affected school year, I have adjusted the qualifications and points for earning a letter. I am also offering the chance to earn that letter before the end of the first semester. Students must fill out this form to see if they can earn enough points to receive the letter. DUE Wednesday Dec. 9 at 9:15am!
Quote of the Week – “One of the beautiful things about our motto, Viking Fight Never Dies, is the certainty of the statement. There is no equivocation; we simply keep striving, no matter the circumstances or potential outcomes. In Lamar’s 50 years of existence, VFND may have never been more applicable and necessary than right now. Our success is the continuation of the Fight to the best of our abilities. Embrace it and believe in yourselves as I believe in you.” VFND – Andy Hagman
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due.
Thanksgiving Break – I hope that all of the Lamar Band members had a restful and healthy break. We are in the final stretch of the semester. It’s time for us to gear back up and work hard to finish this semester.
Monday, Nov. 30th (B) A-L in person, M-Z virtual
Concert Band – We will have after school rehearsal for the concert bands, jazz bands, and percussion ensemble. ALL students are invited. This will be our chance to get everyone together to practice music as a full ensemble. This will be critical for us as we prepare for a live stream virtual concert.
Jazz Orchestra – Monday 3:30pm-6:00pm
Percussion Ensemble – Tuesday 3:30pm-5:00pm
Freshman Band – Wednesday 5:00pm-6:00pm
Symphonic Band – Wednesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Wind Symphony – Wednesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Last Football Game – The last home football game was Friday Nov 20th. I was very disappointed that my personal health kept me from the game. I hate missing games and especially missed the seniors celebration. Hats off to Mr. Riley and Mr. Kelly for handling everything in my absence. VFND
Marching Band – There will be no marching band practice this Thursday.
Quote of the Week – “One of the beautiful things about our motto, Viking Fight Never Dies, is the certainty of the statement. There is no equivocation; we simply keep striving, no matter the circumstances or potential outcomes. In Lamar’s 50 years of existence, VFND may have never been more applicable and necessary than right now. Our success is the continuation of the Fight to the best of our abilities. Embrace it and believe in yourselves as I believe in you.” VFND – Andy Hagman
All-Region Auditions – On Saturday Dec 5th, the phase 2 and 9th grade auditions will begin. Wish our Lamar musicians luck as they record their auditions for the Region 5 Honor Bands.
Letter Jackets – Our letter jacket company will be here on Dec. 10th to allow students to try on letter jackets and place orders. To see the exclusive Lamar Band logo patch, click here to browse their website.
Earning the Official Lamar Band Letterman Patch – Earning a varsity letter is a long tradition in American schools. Qualifications differ from organization to organization. To me it represents a student who puts in superior effort to make the team/organization better. With our pandemic affected school year, I have adjusted the qualifications and points for earning a letter. I am also offering the chance to earn that letter before the end of the first semester. Students must fill out this form to see if they can earn enough points to receive the letter.
Rehearsal Schedule Change – For the remainder of marching band / football season, we will be practicing on Thursday from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Students should practice all of the stand tunes in their flip books during the week to keep them up to tempo with good sounds.
Concert Band – Starting next week, we will have after school rehearsal for the concert bands, jazz bands, and percussion ensemble. ALL students are invited. This will be our chance to get everyone together to practice music as a full ensemble. This will be critical for us as we prepare for a live stream virtual concert.
Freshman Band – Tuesday 5:00pm-6:00pm
Symphonic Band – Tuesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Wind Symphony – Tuesday 3:30pm-4:30pm
Jazz Orchestra – Monday 3:30pm-6:00pm
Percussion Ensemble – Wednesday 3:30pm-5:00pm
Last Football Game – The last home football game is next Friday Nov 20th. This is our senior night for band, drill team, football, and cheer. The band and drill team will celebrate and recognize our seniors (with parent escort) during our portion of halftime. ALL seniors will be announced and recognized, regardless of eligibility. Seniors, be on the lookout for a survey that must be completed for the script so your info can be announced as you are presented flowers on the field.
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due. Quote of the Week – “The only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible.” – Arthur C. Clarke
UIL – There have been many discussions for many months on the value of working towards and performing at the UIL Marching Evaluation Contest. It is no secret that eligibility hit us hard. It hit EVERYONE hard. We are only 70 members strong and that makes us the third biggest band in Arlington ISD. Therefore, with much consideration over this and other concerns, we are not performing at UIL this fall. The members of the marching band have been vigilant and tireless. From following protocols well, to dealing with crazy weather and schedule changes, this band has been the most disciplined I have ever taught. The sound produced and the speed with which they learn is second to none. This will go down as one of my proudest seasons as a marching band director. We have more games and more versions of “The Bad Show” to come. Monday night you will hear a new tune mixed in. For any questions regarding UIL, let me know.
Monday Night Football – Tomorrow, Monday the 9th, will be our homecoming football game at Lamar. The game kicks off an hour earlier than usual. Our halftime performance will be around 7:15pm. Itinerary is attached. Students must make sure their uniform is clean and wrinkle free.
Practice Schedule Change – With our odd two football games in one week, we are rehearsing on Thursday from 4:00-6:00. That will be the only rehearsal this week. With only having one practice this week, attendance is critical.
All-Region Auditions – The 10-12 grade band students will record their all-region auditions Tuesday and Wednesday this week. Best of luck to our students representing Lamar at our Region audition.
Football Nov 13 changed to Nov 14 – Because of the homecoming game being moved to a Monday, the following game had to be moved later per UIL rules. The Sam Houston game will be Nov 14th at 2:00pm at Wilemon Stadium. We will meet late morning for our quick practice before the trip across town.
Eligibility – The 2nd six weeks report card became official on Friday Nov. 6th at 3:00pm. Any student with a failing grade in a class becomes ineligible to perform with the band in public. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
LBBC Spirit Shop – The booster club has a band spirit wear store online. This is also where you can purchase the meals before the game. They have great deals on some of the many different Lamar band clothing items! The Lamar Band Booster Club Spirit Store!
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due. Quote of the Week – “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” – President Roosevelt
Football Nov 6 changed to Nov 9 – The varsity football game on Nov. 6th (homecoming) is now on Monday Nov. 9th at 6:00pm. Tickets are on sale now. They are purchased online with your student’s school ID number. Only parents have access to tickets until Monday afternoon. Get tickets early as homecoming usually has higher attendance. Due to the homecoming court event at halftime, the band and drill team will perform before the game @ 6:30pm.
Football Nov 13 changed to Nov 14 – Because of the homecoming game being moved to a Monday, the following game had to be moved later per UIL rules. The Sam Houston game will be Nov 14th at 2:00pm at Wilemon Stadium.
ALL-REGION Auditions – The phase 1 all-region auditions are next week. This year, the rankings from All-Region will be used for All-City placement. The recordings must be done Nov 7-11. Now, remember, this is for phase 1. The cuts will be a bit shorter than phase 2 or area. You must complete this entry form ASAP due next Wednesday Nov 2 at the latest. Those auditioning should practice at least 1 hour each day starting immediately. If you want to make it to AREA, plan on 3 hours per day.
Eligibility – The 2nd six weeks report card becomes official on Friday Nov. 6th at 3:00pm. Any student with a failing grade in a class becomes ineligible to perform with the band in public. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
LBBC Spirit Shop – The booster club has a band spirit wear store online. This is also where you can purchase the meals before the game. They have great deals on some of the many different Lamar band clothing items! The Lamar Band Booster Club Spirit Store!
Join The Pride of Lamar – Any student who has been remote only and not participating in marching band is welcome to join us for future events. If you would like to start attending our practices and football games, please let a director know so we can expect you. I know that it is a difficult decision to consider. I just want everyone to know that you are welcome to join us going forward.
Commitment and Accountability – As we head into our heavy stretch of football games, the directors are required to have accurate lists of students attending football games. For this to happen, we need students to attend all marching band practices the week of the game. Please read the handbook pages 6-9 regarding marching band. The only difference this year is the AISD policy that parents may opt out of marching band due to remote only instruction due to Covid-19 concerns. Fill out the marching band commitment form.
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due. Quote of the Week – “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” – President Roosevelt
Recording Tuesday in 50th shirts – This Tuesday we will record a performance of our Bad Show. This will be featured in the upcoming “Virtual Homecoming Pep Rally”! We would like all students to wear the new 50th anniversary shirt to practice. We will practice rain or shine this week!
Marching Band Full Uniform – This week we will be issuing the full marching band uniforms! Due to the pandemic, we will be doing things differently this year. Here are some of the important changes.
Once checked out, the students will take the uniforms home
Students and parents will be instructed on how to wash the uniforms safely at home
Students will bring the uniform with them on performance days and then take them home afterward
Marching band shoes (Vipers) will be worn. If you are a new member or an upperclassmen that needs to order new shoes, I need this form filled out by Monday at 5:30pm. Shoe order form
The uniforms are property of AISD and replacement costs are approximately $300
We will send home information regarding the care and maintenance of the uniform
Chipotle Wednesday – This Wednesday, the band booster club is hosting a restaurant night fundraiser. Make plans to eat Chipotle for dinner this Wednesday evening. See the attachment for how to place an online order. The promo code for the Lamar Band is NW3NW7M
Halloween Party – We are unable to host our annual Halloween per usual. The band council has come up with a halloween costume event at practice this Thursday. Sections are encouraged to develop a section theme. This should be a lot of fun!
Game Friday at Globe Life Park – This week, the football game is at Globe Life Park again. We must have transportation decisions from parents ASAP. The process will be the same as the first game this season. The Lamar Band Booster Club has a meal deal with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, our newest sponsor of the Lamar Band. Students must place their order ahead of time. Place your order using this link.
LBBC Spirit Shop – The booster club has a band spirit wear store online. This is also where you can purchase the meals before the game. They have great deals on some of the many different Lamar band clothing items! The Lamar Band Booster Club Spirit Store!
Nov 6 Homecoming Game – Due to the homecoming court event at halftime, the band and drill team will perform before the game @ 6:30pm.
Join The Pride of Lamar – Any student who has been remote only and not participating in marching band is welcome to join us for future events. If you would like to start attending our practices and football games, please let a director know so we can expect you. I know that it is a difficult decision to consider. I just want everyone to know that you are welcome to join us going forward.
Commitment and Accountability – As we head into our heavy stretch of football games, the directors are required to have accurate lists of students attending football games. For this to happen, we need students to attend all marching band practices the week of the game. Please read the handbook pages 6-9 regarding marching band. The only difference this year is the AISD policy that parents may opt out of marching band due to remote only instruction due to Covid-19 concerns. Fill out the marching band commitment form.
Vertical Raise – THANK YOU! I am very pleased with the hard work of all of our students and daily on our online fundraiser. I extended it just a little longer since we were doing so good in this last stretch. We have set a new record for this style of fundraiser!
Report Card – Friday October 30th is the last day of the 2nd six weeks grading period. This will affect eligibility for all students if they are failing any classes. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
School Day Band Classes – ALL band students are allowed to come to their in-person band class any and all days of the week! This is for fine arts and athletic classes only.
For instance, if you are remote only, you could come to band class, then go back home the rest of the day. If you are M-Z, and it is an A-L day, you could come to school for band, then go home the rest of the day. You are responsible for transportation. Students are not allowed to linger before or after class and all of these students must enter through the “promenade” entrance for temp check.
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due.
Band App – ALL students and parents should download the Band App It is important to allow notifications on your cell phone. Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Football Game Oct 23 – Our next football game is a home game at Cravens on October 23. Any student who has been remote only and not participating in marching band is welcome to join us for future events. If you would like to start attending our practices and football games, please let a director know so we can expect you. I know that it is a difficult decision to consider. I just want everyone to know that you are welcome to join us going forward. The Lamar Band Booster Club has a meal deal with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, our newest sponsor of the Lamar Band. Students must place their order ahead of time. Place your order using this link. (I had the veggie wrap last week and it was delicious!)
Commitment and Accountability – As we head into our heavy stretch of football games, the directors are required to have accurate lists of students attending football games. For this to happen, we need students to attend all marching band practices the week of the game. Please read the handbook pages 6-9 regarding marching band. The only difference this year is the AISD policy that parents may opt out of marching band due to remote only instruction due to Covid-19 concerns. Fill out the marching band commitment form.
From the band handbook section “Rehearsal and performance attendance”:
The band is dependent on ALL of its members. Unlike most other classes where individuals are
accountable only for their own success or failure, band students’ success is, in large part, dependent on
full participation of all those who have made the commitment. The following attendance policies will
affect the students’ grades and opportunity to participate:
1. All absences from rehearsal must be excused in advance by a parent or guardian, except in
extreme emergencies.
2. An unexcused absence from a rehearsal or performance will be marked in the gradebook under
weekly after school attendance.
3. ONE unexcused absence per week may result in loss of performance(s) that week. If you are not
allowed to perform, you will also not be allowed to attend football games or competitions. You
will not be allowed to travel with the band to either of these events.
Examples of excused absences:
● Students who arrive late to rehearsal from tutoring must have the teacher email the band staff.
● Students who are home sick must have an email from a parent/guardian.
● Religious events are excused with an email from a parent/guardian.
Examples of unexcused absences:
● Missing rehearsal for work is an unexcused absence.
● Non-school sponsored activities, teams, organizations, or jobs must not conflict in any way with
the practice/performance schedule of the band.
● Transportation issues of any kind are unexcused.
● Any absences due to medical issues must be accompanied with a doctors note.
● Birthday or birthday parties are unexcused.
Students in other school activities (athletics, fine arts, etc.) must plan ahead to avoid conflicts. However,
other group organizations that may change schedules or make demands of students on short notice will
not be allowed to interfere with long scheduled rehearsals or performances of the band. Students who find
themselves involved in such activities may have to make a choice to drop one or the other if such conflicts
arise.
Varsity marching band assignments are at the discretion of the directors. Excessive absences could result
in the loss of a varsity marching position. Excuses are accepted from a parent in writing, in advance, and
only in cases of illness or family emergency. It is highly encouraged that medical and dental
appointments are scheduled on afternoons that we do not practice.
Vertical Raise – We are in the final stretch of our online fundraiser. Students AND parents should share their link on facebook, twitter, instagram, EVERY DAY until our final day of this fundraiser.
Progress Reports – Monday Oct 19 is the last day of the 3 week grading period. This is important for all students, and extra important for those with a failing grade on the report card for the 1st six weeks. Ineligible students must be passing all classes to regain eligibility. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
AMEP Music Lessons – The Lamar Band will begin private lessons starting Oct 13th. We are working on our private lesson teacher staff currently. To do so, we need to know which students are signing up for private lessons. Students can access the AMEP private lesson request form from their Canvas band page. We encourage ALL of our students to take lessons from one of our outstanding private teachers. Our teachers are all HIGHLY qualified individuals with many years of experience.
School Day Band Classes – ALL band students are allowed to come to their in-person band class any and all days of the week! This is for fine arts and athletic classes only.
For instance, if you are remote only, you could come to band class, then go back home the rest of the day. If you are M-Z, and it is an A-L day, you could come to school for band, then go home the rest of the day. You are responsible for transportation. Students are not allowed to linger before or after class and all of these students must enter through the “promenade” entrance for temp check.
Sync Time Change – Last week, we adjusted our async and sync times. The band and orchestra classes are now switching to 25 minutes asynchronous, 50 synchronous, the 25 asynchronous. This allows students to pack up at the end of class, teachers more time to sanitize after playing, and plenty of time for the HVAC system to complete an air exchange.
After School Marching Band – It remains our policy to do the daily screening before rehearsals. Students should arrive 15 mins early to allow time for temp checks. At the end or practice, some students will need 10-15 mins to put away equipment.
Monday 5:30-7:30
Tuesday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Thursday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due.
Amazon Wish List for The Lamar Band – The following link has a variety of items that the band needs. It also lists some suggestions for students to purchase individually. Lamar HS Band Amazon Wish List
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – ALL students and parents should download the Band App It is important to allow notifications on your cell phone. Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Quote of the Week – “Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” – Aristotle
Football Game Oct 23 – Our next football game is a home game at Cravens on October 23. Any student who has been remote only and not participating in marching band is welcome to join us for future events. If you would like to start attending our practices and football games, please let a director know so we can expect you. I know that it is a difficult decision to consider. I just want everyone to know that you are welcome to join us going forward. The Lamar Band Booster Club has a meal deal with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, our newest sponsor of the Lamar Band. Students must place their order ahead of time. Place your order using this link. (I had the veggie wrap last week and it was delicious!)
Progress Reports – Friday Oct 19 is the last day of the 3 week grading period. This is important for all students, and extra important for those with a failing grade on the report card for the 1st six weeks. Ineligible students must be passing all classes to regain eligibility. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
AMEP Music Lessons – The Lamar Band will begin private lessons starting Oct 13th. We are working on our private lesson teacher staff currently. To do so, we need to know which students are signing up for private lessons. The attached document explains the Arlington ISD Music Enrichment Program. We encourage ALL of our students to take lessons from one of our outstanding private teachers. Our teachers are all HIGHLY qualified individuals with many years of experience.
Vertical Raise – We are in the final stretch of our online fundraiser. We are doing well, but we need to do everything we can to eclipse our goal! Besides the 20+ emails, students AND parents should share their link on facebook, twitter, instagram, email, and even carrier pigeon, on a regular basis.
School Day Band Classes – ALL band students are allowed to come to their in-person band class any and all days of the week! This is for fine arts and athletic classes only.
For instance, if you are remote only, you could come to band class, then go back home the rest of the day. If you are M-Z, and it is an A-L day, you could come to school for band, then go home the rest of the day. You are responsible for transportation. Students are not allowed to linger before or after class and all of these students must enter through the “promenade” entrance for temp check.
Sync Time Change – Last week, we adjusted our async and sync times. The band and orchestra classes are now switching to 25 minutes asynchronous, 50 synchronous, the 25 asynchronous. This allows students to pack up at the end of class, teachers more time to sanitize after playing, and plenty of time for the HVAC system to complete an air exchange.
After School Marching Band – It remains our policy to do the daily screening before rehearsals. Students should arrive 15 mins early to allow time for temp checks. At the end or practice, some students will need 10-15 mins to put away equipment.
Tuesday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Thursday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due.
Amazon Wish List for The Lamar Band – The following link has a variety of items that the band needs. It also lists some suggestions for students to purchase individually. Lamar HS Band Amazon Wish List
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – ALL students and parents should download the Band App It is important to allow notifications on your cell phone. Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
To get help or learn more about the Band App go here Quote of the Week – “The only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible.” – Arthur C. Clarke
School Day Band Classes – Change for next week during school. ALL band students are allowed to come to their in-person band class any and all days of the week! This is for fine arts and athletic classes only.
For instance, if you are remote only, you could come to band class, then go back home the rest of the day. If you are M-Z, and it is an A-L day, you could come to school for band, then go home the rest of the day. You are responsible for transportation. Students are not allowed to linger before or after class and all of these students must enter through the “promenade” entrance for temp check.
You get to come to school for the fun stuff and home for the less fun stuff! We hope to see many of you on Monday morning!
Sync Time Change – We are also adjusting our async and sync times. The band and orchestra classes are now switching to 25 minutes asynchronous, 50 synchronous, the 25 asynchronous. This allows students to pack up at the end of class, teachers more time to sanitize after playing, and plenty of time for the HVAC system to complete an air exchange. We are posting the new times on Canvas and Band App. It should be a very easy adjustment.
After School Marching Band – It remains our policy to do the daily screening before rehearsals. Students should arrive 15 mins early to allow time for temp checks. At the end or practice, some students will need 10-15 mins to put away equipment.
Monday 5:30-7:30 (no percussion)
Tuesday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Thursday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Football Game Next Friday – Our next football game is a home game at Cravens on October 9th. Our dinner before the game will not be free. Our boosters have a meal deal with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, our newest sponsor of the Lamar Band. Students must place their order ahead of time. Place your order this link to place your order. October 9th Game Day Meal – All Orders must be received by October 7th at 8:00 pm
2nd six weeks – Monday we begin the 2nd six weeks of school. This meaning the no-pass no-play Texas law prevents students with any failing grade from UIL participation. Students are still required to attend practices as this is part of our curriculum for band in AISD. There is a progress report that will allow students to regain eligibility if all classes are a passing grade. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
AMEP Music Lessons – The Lamar Band will begin private lessons starting Oct 13th. We are working on our private lesson teacher staff currently. To do so, we need to know which students are signing up for private lessons. The attached document explains the Arlington ISD Music Enrichment Program. We encourage ALL of our students to take lessons from one of our outstanding private teachers. Our teachers are all HIGHLY qualified individuals with many years of experience.
Forms and Fees – Band activity fees for Lamar HS are due. This can be paid online here. Band forms can be found here. These are past due.
Vertical Raise – After looking back to previous years, we average about $8,500 on fundraisers like our current Vertical Raise fundraiser. Our goal this year is to shatter that average and raise over $10,000! All students must have submitted their 20+ email addresses in their personal Vertical Raise accounts. We still have a lot of students who are not doing their fair share of the work. Beyond the 20+ emails, students AND parents should share their link on facebook, twitter, instagram, email, and even carrier pigeon, on a regular basis. We have until Oct. 12th to get to our goal.
Amazon Wish List for The Lamar Band – The following link has a variety of items that the band needs. It also lists some suggestions for students to purchase individually. Lamar HS Band Amazon Wish List
Band Registration Day – If you missed it, all forms will be collected by the band directors, all of these can be. The boosters had spirit wear available, booster club membership sign up, and much more. Email them at lamarbandboosterclub@gmail.com
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – ALL students and parents should download the Band App It is important to allow notifications on your cell phone. Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
First Marching Band Performance – So much was different about our first football game of this season. I am proud of the members of The Pride of Lamar for their excellent performance. In my absence, as I recovered from surgery, the Lamar band staff ran every aspect of the program. I want to publicly thank Mr. Riley and Mr. Kelly for their stellar job leading the Lamar Band. We also have the best extended marching band staff anywhere. Special thanks to Mr. Mike Nguyen, Mr. Willem Stewart, Ms. Midori Eng, and our new guard tech Ms. Marina Attaalla. Of course, we also couldn’t do it without our amazing booster club and last weeks chaperones Mr. and Mrs. Cotton, Amy Howerton, Connie Kelly, and Bruce Nickols. We can breathe a sigh of relief getting that first game out of the way. The next game is at Lamar, making logistics much easier. See the band instagram for photos from the game.
Vertical Raise – Each student will provide email addresses, phone numbers, and other information to the vertical raise team. It is an online event so students don’t have to walk around selling candy bars! We have done similar fundraisers in the past and raised over $10,000 for our program! All students must have submitted their 20+ email addresses in their personal Vertical Raise accounts. We still have a lot of students who are not doing their fair share of the work.
Marching Band – Our next football game is a home game at Cravens on October 9th. Our dinner before the game will not be free. Our boosters have a meal deal with Tropical Smoothie Cafe, our newest sponsor of the Lamar Band. Students must place their order ahead of time. Place your order this link to place your order. October 9th Game Day Meal – All Orders must be received by October 7th at 8:00 pm
2nd six weeks – Monday we begin the 2nd six weeks of school. On Friday, report card grades are official. This meaning the no-pass no-play Texas law prevents students with any failing grade from UIL participation. Students are still required to attend practices as this is part of our curriculum for band in AISD. There is a progress report that will allow students to regain eligibility if all classes are a passing grade. For more details on this policy, read the UIL / TEA guidelines here.
After School Schedule – This week we will continue with our evening practices. It remains our policy to do the daily screening before rehearsals. Students should arrive 15 mins early to allow time for temp checks. At the end or practice, some students will need 10-15 mins to put away equipment.
Monday 5:30-7:30 (no percussion)
Tuesday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Thursday 5:30-7:30 (percussion starts at 4:30)
Band Registration Day – If you missed it, all forms will be collected by the band directors, all of these can be found here. The boosters had spirit wear available, booster club membership sign up, and much more. Email them at lamarbandboosterclub@gmail.com
LHS Band Activity Fee – The band fee has been reduced to $200 dollars this school year. To pay online, go to this Lamar HS website. For those considering a payment plan, $100 now and the other $100 next semester is perfectly fine. For other financial assistance, please contact me at dlang@aisd.net
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – The Band App is a great tool for big organizations to communicate. It is similar in concept to Remind, but with more features and less headache. Parents should feel free and encouraged to join the Lamar Band group. Students will also join sub groups as well. It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Vertical Raise – Each student will provide email addresses, phone numbers, and other information to the vertical raise team. It is an online event so students don’t have to walk around selling candy bars! We have done similar fundraisers in the past and raised over $10,000 for our program! Collect these 20+ emails before Sept 22nd! All students will get set up with their Vertical Raise accounts on Tuesday at 7:00pm with our representative from the V.R. company. If students have the 20 email addresses in their phone notes it will be easy to cut and paste into their account.
Marching Band – Thursday is our first football game of the season! After many months, The Pride of Lamar will have a public performance! We are excited to represent LHS again! Parents should have received an important email last week regarding transportation and parent tickets to the game. I am attaching the itinerary for Thursday’s game. Students must have their forms turned in so that they may attend the game. I have also communicated that students need to wear black or navy blue shorts for the game. Here are the examples again.
Band Registration Day – If you missed it, all forms will be collected by the band directors, all of these can be found here. The boosters had spirit wear available, booster club membership sign up, and much more. Email them at lamarbandboosterclub@gmail.com
The band activity fee will also be due. I have reduced our band fee to $200 dollars this school year. To pay online, go to this Lamar HS website. For those considering a payment plan, $100 now and the other $100 next semester is perfectly fine. For other financial assistance, please contact me at dlang@aisd.net
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – The Band App is a great tool for big organizations to communicate. It is similar in concept to Remind, but with more features and less headache. Parents should feel free and encouraged to join the Lamar Band group. Students will also join sub groups as well. It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
Quote of the Week – “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” -Nelson Mandela
Marching Band Practice – Another great day of marching band! Beautiful weather, great attitudes, hard work, and Viking Pride resulted in us learning the drill to the first movement of our show! I am proud of the way the students stayed focused and followed instructions. The new practice grid and tower made it so much easier and quicker to learn drill!
Starting September 14th, we will switch to a more traditional practice schedule. Brass, woodwinds, and color guard will rehearse Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5:30pm-7:30pm. All percussion will practice Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30pm-7:30pm. This is posted on the Lamar Band google calendar.
In Person Survey – Mr. Hagman sent a survey out to parents to ask about in-person school on September 28th. It is critical that every parent submit the survey. If you have not done so, an AP or teacher will be contacting you between today and Monday afternoon. Here is the link
T-Shirts – I am in the process of designing and ordering the shirts for our first show. I just need your size. Fill out this form today! By the way, there is an opportunity for parents to purchase a shirt. Just fill out the form.
Band Registration Day – On Tuesday September 15th, 7:00pm – 8:30pm, the directors and LBBC will be hosting band registration day. We will have a notary available to stamp the medical forms. All forms will be collected by the band directors, all of these can be found here. The boosters will have spirit wear available, booster club membership sign up, and much more. The band activity fee will also be due. I have reduced our band fee to $200 dollars this school year. For those considering a payment plan, $100 now and the other $100 next semester is perfectly fine. For other financial assistance, please contact me at dlang@aisd.net.
Alternative Travel Guidelines – Very recently the district has approved an alternative transportation option for parents/students. There are many details to this plan that must be followed without any error. All of our football game performances will be in Arlington this school year. See the attached document for more information. The band will still be providing buses for students to and from games as usual. We will meet in the band room (or parking lot) with EVERY student before we leave. We will have meal options for students to eat before the game.
Vertical Raise – While the booster club parents are running the NTGD fundraiser, the students will participate in the school band fundraiser with Vertical Raise. Each student will provide email address, phone numbers, and other information to the vertical raise team. It is an online event and students don’t have to walk around selling candy bars! We have done similar fundraisers to this company in the past and raised over $10,000 for our program! Collect these 20+ emails before Sept 22nd!
North Texas Giving Day – The Lamar Band Booster Club will be participating in the North Texas Giving Day again this year. More info here
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Band App – The Band App is a great tool for big organizations to communicate. It is similar in concept to Remind, but with more features and less headache. Parents should feel free and encouraged to join the Lamar Band group. Students will also join sub groups as well. It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
SmartMusic – Our wonderful booster club has purchased a license for the Lamar Band to use SmartMusic this year! This is an incredible tool for web based music learning. There are many great features and we look forward to setting it up for all band students.
Quote of the Week – “Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the by-product of other activities.” – Aldous Huxley
Marching Band Practice – Another great day of marching band! Starting September 14th, we will switch to a more traditional practice schedule. Brass, woodwinds, and color guard will rehearse Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5:30pm-7:30pm. All percussion will practice Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30pm-7:30pm. This is posted on the Lamar Band google calendar.
North Texas Giving Day – The Lamar Band Booster Club will be participating in the North Texas Giving Day again this year. More info here
Vertical Raise – While the booster club parents are running the NTGD fundraiser, the students will participate in the school band fundraiser with Vertical Raise. Each student will provide email address, phone numbers, and other information to the vertical raise team. It is an online event and students don’t have to walk around selling candy bars! We have done similar fundraisers to this company in the past and raised over $10,000 for our program! Please see the attached file and start preparing today!
Band Forms – The band has many forms that must be signed and returned. We find it best to get them all done and over with at once. All of these can be found here. Some forms can be filled out on computer and digitally signed. The medical authorization form must be signed in ink in front of a notary.
Band Supplies List – Due to the pandemic, teachers are not able to help students with some of the supplies that we might have in the past. I am using links I found that are fairly affordable. That being said, just let me know if you have questions about any supply needs.
Flip Folder Lyres (this is often best purchased at a music store so the employees there can match the right size/brand for your instrument…so bring your instrument to the store for sizing)
Music – We have copies of music printed and ready for students. We will hand them out on Saturday. We will also upload PDF’s online for students to print at home. For students not participating in marching band, we will have music packets available for pick up. The easiest way to do this would be at the end of marching practice on Saturday. We can have the music ready in packets.
Band App – The Band App is a great tool for big organizations to communicate. It is similar in concept to Remind, but with more features and less headache. Parents should feel free and encouraged to join the Lamar Band group. Students will also join sub groups as well. It is a great phone app and also works fantastic online at band.us.
To download the band app, go to the app store on your smartphone
Use this link to find all the different Band App groups for The Pride of Lamar!
SmartMusic – Our wonderful booster club has purchased a license for the Lamar Band to use SmartMusic this year! This is an incredible tool for web based music learning. There are many great features and we look forward to setting it up for all band students.
Quote of the Week – “Doubt whom you will, but never yourself.” -Christian Nestell Bovee
