​5 Ways to Prepare for Band Camp 2016

This year's band camp will be held July 31st through August 6th at The Amigo Centre in Sturgis, Michigan. You'll find details on this page, and suggestions on how to prepare for the week in the list below. 

1) Marching band - and preparing for a marching season at band camp - can be physically demanding. If you're not active already, start walking, running or working out in other ways. You'll be running at camp, so get used to it as early as possible.

2) When you're in a play, it's important to know your lines before the first rehearsal. That allows you to focus on the work that takes place on stage with the rest of the company. The same is true with band camp. Download, print and practice your music now so you can focus on working as a team at camp. You'll find your music at this link.  
3) If you have medical needs, talk with your parents or doctor well in advance about how to handle them while at camp. 

4) Band camp may be a student's first time away from home for an extended period. So parents, please talk with your camper about appropriate forms of affection and other family rules and expectations that your child should be held accountable for while away.

5) Parents, have a conversation with your camper about how to deal with stress. We rehearse 12 to 14 hours a day at camp, so your child is likely to be exhausted. When people are tired and stressed they often act differently. This may be the first time your child experiences that. Be advised that they may be a little grumpy. 

Marching band is a bonding experience and can be a source of lifelong memories. With a little preparation, you'll make the week even better for yourself and your fellow marching Maples.