Marching Band & Color Guard FAQ

Mission Viejo High School Instrumental Music Boosters Association. MVHSIMBA is the parent-run organization that supports the Instrumental Music program.

I see lots of initials, what do they all stand for?

We abbreviate a lot to help keep emails/communications shorter. MB=Marching Band, JB=Jazz Band, CG=Color Guard, CE=Concert Ensembles (Orchestra/Wind Ensemble), DL=Winter Drumline, HC=Home Comp (our internal nickname for the Marching Band Field Show Tournament that we host each October), BB=Black Beauty (the semitruck used to transport our Marching Band and Winter Drumline equipment), JUTS=Jazz Under the Stars.

How long is Marching Band season?

Marching Band season starts with the summer camp program usually one week prior to school and goes until the Monday before Thanksgiving.

How many students are in Marching Band and Color Guard?

This number fluctuates every year, but usually in the 100-150 range. The size of the ensemble determines what Class they are placed in the Western Band Association (WBA), and MVHS currently competes in Class 3A.

What is a Field Show?

A field show is the show performed by the Marching Band and Color Guard and is different each year. The field show is performed during select home football games at halftime, as well as at each field show tournament, or competition.

What is Home Comp?

“Home Comp” is another name for the WBA Field Show Tournament that is held at MVHS each October. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year and benefits the entire music program. We need every parent to help in some way with Home Comp.

Can I watch my child practice on Tuesday nights and where can I sit to do so?

We encourage parents to come watch the last hour of Tuesday night practice (8-9 pm). However, our Marching Band coaches need to concentrate on our field show. Therefore, we ask that parents sit in the stands on the far right or far left of the announcer’s box. The coaches and director will sit directly under the announcer’s box. Please do not disturb them during practice.

I live farther away and need to leave my child at school on Tuesdays between school and rehearsal. What will/can they do between 3 and 5pm and what about dinner for my child?

Students may have a sectional practice after school, do homework and grab dinner someplace local with their friends. They are welcome to bring a bagged dinner too. They will be instructed to return to campus before 5pm ready for practice.

Where do I pick up my student from practices?

You may drop off and pick up your student at the main gates by the gym off Diablo Drive.

Where do I park for Marching Band events ie. Football games or concerts?

In the evenings and on the weekends–football games, concerts— you may park in any of the lots unless they are marked off for a special event. For our home competition Field Show Tournament, there will be designated parking.

Do I have to pay for the uniform for Marching Band?

No, those are owned by the school and loaned out to the students for the season.

When do the Marching Band students get their uniform?

Students are fitted during Band Camp. Marching Band will change in and out of their uniforms at the competitions so there is no need to ever bring them home.

Do I have to pay for the costume for Color Guard?

Yes, because Color Guard costumes change each year to fit the Field Show theme, and are custom-made for each student. At the end of the season, the costume is yours to keep.

We have black shoes from Jr. High, can my child wear these for Marching Band?

Sorry, no. You will either have to purchase black marching band shoes through the MVHSIMBA or borrow and return a pair for each event. All students wear the same style of shoe specially made for marching. We have a small handful of various sizes available to borrow that prior students donated upon graduating from MVHS.

Is there any other clothing we will need for Marching Band?

The students need to wear black or navy compression shorts (think cycling shorts without the padding) under their uniforms so they can change in and out of uniforms immediately before and after events. These you purchase on your own at any sporting goods store. They may wear black leggings too, but they WILL get hot. Students will also need 2 pair black-only socks. MVHS Band dry-fit shirts, t-shirts, hoodies and band bags are available for purchase during summer camp. There will also be Dickies and Letterman’s jackets available for optional purchase that will be announced once school begins.

Can I go on the field during football games to take pictures of my child?

Sorry, only band members including Color Guard and those assigned to help push pit instruments are allowed on the field. This rule is strictly enforced by the school security.

How late do home football games go?

The games can last until 10-10:30pm. Students need to return to the band room to put their instruments away and change out of their uniforms before they can leave. It would be best to have them call/text you once they are dismissed from the field.

Will students get a chance to eat dinner and what will they wear to away football games?

Students will eat dinner provided by the boosters before loading buses for away games. Parent volunteers and food donations will be requested each week. They wear dark jeans and their Band T-shirt to away games. Bring a MVHS Hoodie too.

What is P.A.T.?

P.A.T. is the Performing Arts Theatre attached to the band room.

What is Black Beauty?

Black Beauty is our semi-truck we use to transport the student’s instruments and equipment to each of the competitions. (Students will be on buses.)

Who/what is a Pit Pusher?

“Pit” is another term for the Front Ensemble, or the section that is located at the front of the field and is stationary during the field show. It is made up of various instruments and equipment, including marimba, gong, timpani, chimes, and speakers. Pit Pushers (or MVPs, Mission Viejo Pit Crew) help push out the Front Ensemble items and show props on and off the field.

I have a little bit of time at home, how can I help?

Donating waters, soda, chips and healthy snacks, Frozen Otter pops…
Making phone calls and finding donations to fill 20-30 Director’s goodie bags for our Home Competition.
Baking desserts for competitions, concerts and events.

I am available to help at the football games, what can I do?

Chaperone for the away football games.
Serve dinner to the kids before away games.
Put plumes in the Shakos (hats) before home games.
Pit pushers are always needed—about 18-20 each time we perform.
Be a floater…just someone to help out wherever needed in a pinch.

I am available in October for our Home Comp, where can I help?

There will be a sign up form via Sign-Up Genius coming out in September for Volunteers as well as Food Donations. We will have spots for everyone!

I can come to the other competitions, is there anything I can help with there?

Pit pushing is ALWAYS needed at away competitions! Then you get to watch the performance from the field level!!
Hospitality; set up, serve, take down
Baking dessert for the students
Be a floater…help out wherever needed in a pinch.

Once Marching Band season is over, what does my student do during 6th period?

Students are still required to report to the band room, as a study/practice hall. Freshmen return to P.E. classes at the beginning of the next semester unless they are in Winter Drumline or a spring sport. Note: Even though they don’t have a regular P.E. class, Freshmen will test for state P.E. requirements during the year.

Who should I contact if I have more questions?

Any further questions can be directed to the Marching Band Manager at marchingband@mvhsmusic.com.