The call that brings us together during the first days of summer band camp and is recited before the last football game in the fall reminds us to keep focused, stay vigilant.
Eyes? Forward, with pride.
We are the Pride of Niwot. The Niwot High School Cougar Marching Band.
Band camp for the Niwot High School Cougar Marching Band is a 5-day summer camp that typically occurs the first week of August. Attending band camp is required for members and constitutes the main preparation the marching band makes prior to marching season. During band camp members will learn how to march, learn drill, and rehearse/memorize show songs.
The Marching Band, Drumline and Color Guard come together as one unit to begin piecing together the football season’s half-time field show. A lot of mental/physical preparation and focus is required to assure a productive week for the individual members and for the ensemble as a whole. The finale of band camp week is a BBQ meal/party and informal awards ceremony (plus the infamous water balloon fight!) — a time to celebrate our efforts and continue to deepen bonds with your new band family.
The Band Camp Experience
MORNING (Outside):
Everyone reports to the football field at NHS (early is on time, on time is late)
Warm-up/Stretching/Get-To-Know-You
Students learn/review basic marching technique and drill commands on the first day of band camp
Continue to learn marching without instruments; progress towards adding instruments while playing
Each day has a themed “dress code” for fun and team spirit
AFTERNOON (Inside):
Rehearse show music with the full ensemble
Rehearse show music as a section (aka sectionals)
Rehearse pep-tunes as an ensemble
Color Guard continues to rehearse separately
Team-building activities/games
Preparing for Band Camp
Make sure your instrument is in good working order before band camp
Purchase a flip folder and lyre (more information will be provided)
Athletic shoes and socks are required. Wear appropriate clothing for hot August mornings (no jeans or hoodies), avoid black. Please wear sunscreen - it is advised to wear a hat and sunglasses.
Bring a water bottle. There will be regular water breaks and a 1-hour lunch break for students to rest and recharge.
Please visit the Forms & Fees page and review the Band Handbook for more detailed information about being a member of the NHS Cougar Marching Band.
“Band is not proud because it performs well; it performs well because it is proud.”