Announcements: 12/14/2009

1. Schedule -
   12/14 - Concerto Auditions
   12/14 - Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea Pick-up, 6-8pm.
   
2. Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea Pick-up - Please come anytime between 6 and 8 pm to pick up fundraising items. Enter through door P, and proceed to the band room. You MUST pick up your items on this date. We do not have a place to store extra items

Enjoy your holiday break!

Revised Collage Schedule

As you have likely heard already, all after school activities were canceled today due to the weather. To make up for the lost time, students will be excused from a portion of class tomorrow to rehearse. The schedule is as follows:

Period 4A - ALL students eat lunch
Period 4B - All student report to the band room; rehearsal begins
Period 5 - Rehearsal (Students will be excused from period 5 unless they have a test, in which case they should talk to a director and attend that class.)

After school: Call time is 6pm as originally scheduled.

If you would, please pass this information on to your student(s) so they are aware of what is occurring tomorrow.

Happy shoveling!

Toys for Tots at the Collage Concert

This winter the PSHS Bands will be participating in the annual Marine Toys for Tots Foundation toy drive. Please consider donating a new, unwrapped toy to this great cause. All donations can be brought to the PSHS Band office or dropped off at one of the Collage Concert performances on the 10th and 11th. Happy Holidays!

Announcements: 12/9/2009

1. Schedule -
   12/9 - Collage Rehearsal, 3:30
   12/10-11 - Collage Concerts, 7pm
   12/14 - Concerto Competition Auditions
   12/14 - Cheesecake pick-up, 6-8pm
2. Collage Concerts - Call time for students is 6pm. We could still use more room monitors to sit in rooms from 6pm until the end of the concert. This low pressure job is for the security and safety of the students and their belongings. Please consider helping. E-mail Mr. Dortwegt if you can help on one of the evenings. We also need help with distributing uniforms.
   
3. Toys for Tots - We will collect donations for the Toys For Tots program at the collage concerts. Drop off gifts at the entrance to the auditorium.
   
4. Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea Pick-up - Pick up for fundraiser items will be Monday, 11/14. Enter through door P (next to the Band Room). All items MUST be picked up that evening.
   

IMEA District Festival at Hampshire H.S.

Congrats to Aileen Hamilton and Zach Simmering for a great performance at the IMEA District 9 Band Festival! Aileen and Zach had the opportunity to perform with other outstanding musicians from the Chicagoland area and work with Dennis Glocke, Director of Bands at Penn State University. Great job!

Announcements for week of 11/30

1. Schedule -
   11/30-12/4 - Second Semester Auditions after school
   12/1 - Pep Band, call time 6pm
   12/4 - Barnes and Noble Book Fair
   12/4 - Pep Band, call time 6pm
   12/8-9 - Collage Dress Rehearsals, 3:30-???
   12/10-11 - Collage Concerts, 7pm
   12/14 - Concerto Competition Auditions
   12/14 - Cheesecake pick-up between 6 and 8pm
2. Barnes & Noble Book Fair - We still need parent volunteers for the book fair this Friday. Please view the sign up sheet here and e-mail Mrs. Hayes if you can fill a time slot. One other note: Barnes & Noble has told us that we can no longer receive credit for online purchases.
   
3. Collage Concert Help - We need parents to supervise rooms during the collage concerts. In the past, some parents have supervised on one evening and watched the concert on the other evening. We need a total of 8 parents per night to help monitor the facilities. Please e-mail Mr. Dortwegt if you can help.
   
   

Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea orders Due 11/30

Hope everyone is enjoying the last day of Thanksgiving Break! Just a quick reminder that cheesecake/coffee/tea orders are due tomorrow - Monday, 11/30. Orders must be submitted to the blue box by 3:30pm.

Barnes & Noble Book Fair

The Scoop: On Friday, December 4, the South High Band will host a book fair with Barnes & Noble at the Rt. 30/Plainfield Rd. store in Joliet.

Here's how it works: Present our voucher (available by clicking here) when making a purchase, and up to 25% will be donated to the Band Program. This includes the cafe, as well. On that date, you can also present our ID number (10068872) at any Barnes & Noble location OR online and earn the same profit for the Bands. This allows family members from out of state to help us, too!

What happens at B&N: Our students will be involved in the evening by reading books, performing in small ensembles, and wrapping gifts. The cafe will also be selling a specialty hot chocolate that will be named by our band students.

We will need some help: Click to view the STUDENT and PARENT sign-up sheets. Please consider helping if you are available. To reserve a time slot, please e-mail our coordinator, Mrs. Hayes, at cl.hayes@comcast.net

Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea Fundraiser

The cheesecake/coffee/tea sale is here! This promises to be a very profitable fundraiser for the bands, and we are asking for your help. Students will be selling a wide variety of cheesecakes, as well as packages of coffee and tea. Both options are hard to pass up and make great holiday gifts!

Selling Dates:

• Start Date: Friday, 11/13
• End Date: Monday, 11/30 (no orders accepted after 3:30pm)

Profit:

• We are asking everyone to sell $40 worth of PROFIT.
• Anything beyond $40 profit will go into student accounts and can be used to pay for band expenses.
• Cheesecakes earn $5 profit each. Coffee/tea packages earn $4 profit each.
• A few examples of how to earn $40 profit include:
  Sell 8 cheesecakes; OR Sell 10 bags of coffee/tea; OR Sell 4 cheesecakes and 5 bags of coffee/tea; etc.
• Buyout is $40

Pick-up:

• Date: Monday, 12/14
  
• Time: 6-8pm
• Location: Band Room

Order Forms:

• Cheesecake Order Form
• Coffee/Tea Order Form
• Each student received a paper copy of the order forms. Extra copies are available in the band room.
• Make checks payable to "PSHS Band Boosters"
  

Announcements for week of 11/16

1. Schedule -
   11/18 - Instrument Step-up Night, Band Room, 6-8pm
   11/19 - Collage Small Ensemble Auditions, 3:30pm
   11/21 - IMEA District Festival at Hampshire H.S.
   11/30 - Cheesecake Sale Ends
   11/30 - Second Semester Auditions begin
   12/4 - Barnes & Noble Book Fair
   12/7 - No Symphonic Band Rehearsal
   12/8-9 - Collage Dress Rehearsals 3:30-?? (Required for all Band students)
   12/10-11 - Collage Concerts
   12/14 - Concerto Competition Auditions
2. Second Semester Auditions - All students are required to reaudition for second semester. Auditions materials were passed out this week. Students should plan to audition after school on the following days:
   11/30 - Flute
   12/1 - Clarinet, Oboe, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon
   12/2 - Saxophone, Trombone, Euphonium
   12/3 - Trumpet, Horn
   12/4 - Percussion, Tuba
   
   

Band Booster Newsletter

Each month the Band Boosters publish a Band Newsletter which is distributed to all booster members. The first issue this year is going out to all parents. Please click here (or the booster logo above) to read the newsletter.

If you like the newsletter and are not currently a band booster member, please consider joining so you continue to receive newsletters in the future. The membership cost is $15, and that money goes directly back to the band program. Being a member does not obligate you to attend meetings, but you are always welcome to join us on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm.

Membership forms are available at http://www.pshsbandboosters.org.

Announcements for week of 11/9/2009

1. Schedule -
   11/12 - Fall Band Concert, 7pm, PSHS Auditorium
   11/13 - Cheesecake Sale begins (see below)
   11/14 - Pep Band Trip to ISU - Call time 12:15
   11/18 - Instrument Step-up Night, 6-8pm
   11/21 - IMEA District Festival at Hampshire H.S.
   11/30 - Cheesecake Sale Ends
   11/30-12/4 - Auditions for 2nd Semester
2. Fall Band Concert - Call times are as follows:
   Concert Band A - 5:15
   Concert Band B - 5:30
   Symphonic Band - 5:45
3. Cheesecake/Coffee/Tea Sale - Our 2nd fundraiser of the year begins on Friday! We are selling cheesecakes, coffee, and tea. Orders are due on Monday, 11/30, giving you the Thanksgiving holiday to sell. Pick-up is scheduled for the evening of Monday, 12/14.
4. Instrument Step-up Night - Once students reach the high school level, many have outgrown their beginning-level instrument. Students are encouraged to look into "step-up" instruments when they reach high school, as high quality instruments allow students to develop better tone quality, achieve better technique, and play with better intonation. It truly gives them a competitive edge!
   If a step up instrument is a possibility for your student in the future, please consider attending the step-up night on 11/18 from 6-8 in the band room. A representative from the Music and Arts Center will be here with many high quality instrument models to try out. All instruments will be represented with the exception of bass clarinet, bassoon, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. (If you play one of those instruments, the school-owned equipment you currently use is already of professional quality!)
   

Announcements for week of 11/2/2009

1. Schedule -
   11/2 - Symphonic Band Rehearsal, 6-9; Concert Uniform Fitting for ALL members yet to be fitted, 6-7:30
   11/3 - Pep Band Rehearsal (ISU trip students only), 4-5:45
   11/4 - Jazz Band Rehearsal, 6:30-8pm (note time change)
   11/5 - Pep Band Rehearsal (ISU trip students only), 4-5:45
   11/9 - Symphonic Band Rehearsal, 6-9
   11/12 - Fall Concert, 7pm; Cheesecake Sale Begins
   11/14 - Pep Band Performance at ISU (IHSA State Girls Volleyball Game)
2. Concert Uniform Fitting - All students who have not yet been fitted for their concert uniforms MUST attend tonight's final fitting session from 6-7:30pm. Enter through Door R (right next to the band room door on the other side of the trailer) and go to the back entrance of the uniform room. Girls: Please bring your black shoes.
3. 11/12 Fall Concert - Please come out to see the first concert and symphonic band performance of the year. Admission is free and the concert will begin at 7pm in the auditorium. Free cheesecake samples will be available after the concert! If you are available to help serve cheesecake, please contact Mrs. Wilczek.
4. Scrip - We will have scrip cards available for purchase at the Fall Concert. These are essentially gift cards sold at face value (no extra cost to you), and the band receives a donation from the retailer. Cards that will be available include: Jewel, Dominick's, Walmart, Speedway, Panera, Barnes and Noble, and more. You can purchase these at any time throughout the year, but be sure to check them out at the concert! Want to learn more about how Scrip works? Click here!
5. Tux Shirt payment - For male students ordering a tuxedo shirt (this includes ALL male students NEW to the program), the $12 cost is due next Monday, November 9. You must submit payment before we distribute your shirt.
   
   

Announcements for week of 10/26

1. Schedule -
   10/28 - Wendy's Fundraiser for Color Guard (see below)
   10/30 - PSHS Talent Show, 7pm
   11/2 - Symphonic Band Rehearsal; Uniform fitting for ALL students who have not yet been fitted
2. Wendy's Fundraiser - Please come out and support the South High color guard in their Wendy's Fundraiser tonight (10/28). The event runs from 5-8pm at the Wendy's on Rt. 59 and Black Rd. by Dominick's. A portion of the night's profits will go to the color guard!
3. Talent Show - Please come out to see the 6th annual cougar talent show on Friday at 7pm in the auditorium. Tickets are $2 for students and $3 for adults. Proceeds go to support the music department.
4. Concert Uniform Fitting - Any student who has not yet been fitted for their concert band uniform MUST come next Monday, 11/2, at 6pm. This is the last time parents will be here to fit students.
5. Tuxedo Shirts - All new male members to the program need to purchase a tuxedo shirt. The cost is $12. Please bring payment by November 9, 2009.
   

Craft Show Update

This is a message sent from the Craft Show Reps (Caryl Hayes & Cristine DeRose):

Hello South Band Parents-

Many Volunteers are still needed for this weekend's Craft Show.

• We need 3-4 Dads to work the Parking Lot Saturday morning between 5:30 a.m.-10 a.m.
• Set-Up help is needed from 5:45 a.m. until 9 a.m. on Saturday morning. Crafters will only have this time to unload & set-up their craft space due to a Home Football game Friday evening.
• Bake Sale Helpers are still needed Saturday from 2-4 p.m.
• On Sunday- Bake Sale Set-Up is needed from 8-9:30 a.m.
• Additional Cafeteria/Bake Sale help is needed Sunday between 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• Tear Down Help on Sunday is needed from 2:45 p.m. through at least 5:30 p.m.
  

Other important info:

• Bake Sale Donations of any & all types of bakery goodies are still needed and can be dropped off at PHS-CC Friday evening in the Field House between 5:30 and 7 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m.- 3 p.m. or Sunday from 8 a.m.- 10 a.m. Bake Sale drop-offs can be done on the East side at the Cafeteria doors.
  
• Volunteers are asked to dress in their School's Colors and identify yourself as a volunteer so that you can sign-in on our Schools Volunteer list in the Cafeteria.
  
• Volunteers are asked to park where possible, leaving closer parking spots for our Craft Customers.
• Volunteer admission is free. Admittance is on the North side next to the Field House and opposite the Freshman Center.
  

Any and all help is very much appreciated. Please contact Caryl Hayes directly to give your volunteer availability or for questions. 815.263.9584 or email cl.hayes@comcast.net.

Booster Craft Show - October 23-25 at PHS-CC

It is that time of year for our annual fall craft show and we need your help. The craft show is the only fundraiser where all four Plainfield High School band booster organizations work together to raise money. The profits from the event are split evenly as long as we contribute our fair share of volunteers for the event. This is a big fundraiser in the budget for the PSHS band boosters so we would really appreciate your help.

We need student AND parent help. Student sign ups are posted in the band room. Parent sign up time slots can be viewed here.

If you are available to help, please reply to Tara Turner with the times that you are available according to the sign-up sheet (see the link above). Her e-mail is: pshs.band.boosters@gmail.com

If you are not available to sign up as a volunteer, there are other ways to help:

• Donate bakery items to the bake sale. Drop off your favorite goodie at the Plainfield Central HS cafeteria during the event.
• Shop at the craft show. You will find cute decorations for those upcoming fall & winter holidays as well as unique gifts for friends and family.
  

If you have questions, please e-mail pshs.band.boosters@gmail.com. Just remember that this is one of the few fundraisers where we are only asking for your time and not asking for money. So, if you have been looking at an opportunity like this, please consider getting involved.

Thanks for your help!

Announcements for week of 10/14

1. Schedule -
   10/15 - Rehearsal CANCELED
   10/16 - Homecoming Game, Senior Night, call time 4pm
   10/19-20 - Talent Show Auditions
   10/22-23 - Jazz Band Auditions
   10/23-25 - Booster Craft Show at PHS-CC
2. Lincoln Way Competition - Congrats to the band on a great show at Lincoln Way East High School! There was significant improvement in the two weeks since Wheaton. If anyone has any photos to share from the competition, please e-mail Mr. Dortwegt.
3. IMEA Audition Results - A BIG congratulations to Aileen Hamilton and Zach Simmering. Both were selected to the IMEA District 9 Honor Band, and will have the opportunity to perform with other outstanding students from the Chicagoland area in November.
   
4. Concert Season - We will begin Concert Season on Monday, 10/19. Please make sure your students have the necessary materials or instrument on that date.
5. Fall Craft Show, 10/23-10/25 - One of our biggest fundraisers each year is the Fall Craft Show. Crafters converge on Plainfield Central each year, bringing large crowds and generating income for the Band Boosters of each Plainfield High School. We will need volunteers. A separate e-mail will be sent out regarding the craft show soon.
6. Concert Uniform Fitting - We will begin the process of fitting concert uniforms on Monday, 10/19 for Symphonic Band students. Concert Band students will be asked to come in to be fitted on a Monday evening for a short period at some time in the next few weeks. We will announce specific dates next week.
7. Notes about Concert Uniforms - Please make sure you have your black dress shoes (closed toe for women) when you are fitted. Also, men will need a tuxedo shirt. This will be ordered for all new members. Returning men should check to be sure they still have a tuxedo shirt that fits from last year. We need to know asap if you need another shirt ordered.
   

Announcements for week of 10/5/2009

Congratulations to the band on a great performance at the Plainfield Homecoming Parade! Great job everyone! Here are some announcements...

1. Schedule -
   10/5 - Rehearsal, 6-9pm
   10/6 - Band Booster Meeting, 7:30pm
   10/6 - IMEA Auditions
   10/8 - Rehearsal, 3:45-4:45
   10/10 - Lincoln Way Competition (see info below)
   10/12 - NO REHEARSAL (Columbus Day)
   
2. Lincoln Way Competition - It's hard to believe we are approaching our final competition already! Please click here to view the schedule. Call time is 3pm!
3. IMEA Auditions - Student participating in IMEA Auditions will be released from 7th period at 3pm on 10/6. We will not arrive back at PSHS until late, so students should bring homework to do on the bus.
   

Plainfield Homecoming Parade

1. Schedule -
   10/3 - Homecoming parade, call time 7am. See below for details.
   10/5 - Rehearsal, 6-9pm
   10/6 - IMEA Auditions
   10/6 - Band Booster Meeting
   10/8 - Rehearsal, 3:45-4:45
   10/10 - Lincoln Way Competition
2. Homecoming Parade - Call time on Saturday is 7am. Please read the trip information here.
3. Congrats to the entire band for a great first competition performance at Wheaton North High School! You can look at/order photos online at www.hispix.smugmug.com. Proceeds support the Wheaton North Band Organization.
   

Announcements for week of 9/21

Happy Autumn, everyone!

1. Schedule -
   Thursday, 9/24 - Rehearsal 3:45-4:45
   Friday, 9/25 - Football Game, call 4pm
   Saturday, 9/26 - Competition (see below)
2. 9/25 Football Game - 8th grade students from Aux Sable and Drauden Point will be at PSHS on Friday! Pizza and drinks will be provided for all students. Remember to bring black socks!
3. 9/26 Competition - Click here to view the schedule for Saturday. If you are planning to come see the performance, here is more detailed information regarding the festival, including directions.
4. Alternate Transportation Forms - Anyone who is not riding the bus to or from the competition must complete an Alternate Transportation Form and submit it by Thursday, 9/24. Late forms will not be accepted. Forms are available here.
   
   

Announcements for week of 9/8

1. Schedule -
   Thursday, 9/10 - Rehearsal 3:45-4:45
   Friday, 9/11 - Game, call time 4pm
   Saturday, 9/12 - Pizza assembly, call time 9:30am
2. Football Game - Students: Remember black socks for the performance on Friday.
   
3. Forms - Trip consent and Rules/Regulations Book Forms are due Friday, 9/11.
4. Please encourage your students to be practicing! You should hear them at least 3-4 times per week. They should listen to and play along with recordings for the marching band show, which are available online here.
5. Memorization quizzes over our first show tune occurred last week. Students are allowed to retake the quiz if they would like a better grade. Please ask your student about how they did and encourage them to keep practicing!

Announcements for week of 8/31/2009

1. Schedule -
   No Rehearsal on Monday, 9/7 (Labor Day)
   9/8 - Curriculum Night
   9/9 - Band Booster Meeting, 7:30pm
   9/10 - Rehearsal 3:45-4:45
   9/11 - Football Game, call time 4pm
2. Pizza Sale - The deadline is this week! Please keep selling, and turn in order forms/money by Friday, 9/4.
3. The hospitality committee would like to know if anyone has a turkey fryer that could be used to cook hot dogs for the marching competitions. Please e-mail a director if you have one...
   

Announcements for week of 8/25

Welcome back to school! Here are announcements for this week:

1. Schedule -
   Thursday, 8/27 - Rehearsal 3:45-4:45
   Thursday, 8/27 - Color Guard Rehearsal, time TBD
   Friday, 8/28 - Football Game, call time 4pm
2. Pizza Sale - Our pizza fundraiser is still ongoing! The sale ends September 4!
3. Events Calendar - Each year the PSHS Band sponsors a PSHS Events Calendar which includes the school calendar, test dates, music events, and athletic events. Each student will receive a copy today in their first hour class. It is a fundraiser for us and helpful for everyone, so you are encouraged to check them out.
4. Fees - The due date for all band related fees is the end of this week (8/25).
5. Forms - If you have not turned in a handbook and trip consent form (passed out at the parent meeting), those are due at the end of this week (8/25).
   

Schedule: Tuesday, August 18

Today's rehearsal schedule is 2-8pm.

When we announced this last night on the bus ride home from Monticello, we mistakenly changed it from the printed schedule of 5-8pm. At this point, it will be easier to run with the 2-8 schedule as announced. Thank you for your understanding; please contact a director if there is an issue. Please spread the word!

Monticello - We're Going!

I'm sure the word has made it home, but we ARE going to Monticello! Here are some reminders.

Please remember:

1. Final payments are due tomorrow (August 14)!
2. Luggage drop-off is from 4-7 tomorrow (August 14).
   
3. Click here for camp Reminders and Rules.
4. Click here for directions (for those dropping off/picking-up students)
   

Monticello Update (again!)

We are currently up to 93 students! We need more! Parents, please encourage your students to try the camp if they are hesitant. If you have doubts, please read the e-mail I received from a parent this week:

"Band Camp was the best thing that ever happened to my son. In middle
school he was picked on and had experienced bullying. I believe that
negatively affected his self esteem. When he joined band as a Freshman he
wasn't sure if he was going to enjoy the marching, especially when the
temperatures were in the 80's and 90's and practice was on the asphalt
parking lot! But after he returned from band camp, he was 100% committed
to the band. The other band members treated him like family and some of
the upperclassmen took him under their wing. I think his confidence
improved and he looked forward to High School for the first time. After HS
started he had a really good group of friends that he would see in the
halls and at lunch. During practice breaks, some of the kids would drive
him up to Westfield for a burger. I was very happy to see him as a part
of a really great group. I credit Mr. Cook and Mr. D for encouraging team
spirit and a positive atmosphere in the band! I'm glad he made the
decision to stick with band and I think he will continue to play in
college!" ---Band Parent

Monticello Update

Dear all -

As of Friday, we have 87 deposits for our Monticello trip. We need AT LEAST 110 out of 141 students for the trip to take place. Right now we are not close.

We need to make a final decision regarding the camp by Tuesday, August 11. For that reason, please turn in deposits ASAP. If we have to cancel, we will make that announcement no later than Wednesday, August 12.

Final payments will be accepted until August 14, provided the trip is still on.

Band Camp Starts this Week!

Just a reminder that band camp starts this week! Here is this week's schedule:

Monday 8/3 - Drumline/Color Guard 6-9pm
Tuesday 8/4 - Drumline/Color Guard 6-9pm
Wednesday 8/5 - Drumline/Color Guard 6-9pm
Thursday 8/6 - Band Leadership Team 2-5pm
Thursday 8/6 - MANDATORY PARENT/STUDENT MEETING FOR EVERYONE at 7pm in the Auditorium
Friday 8/7 - Band Leadership Team 9-12, 1-4
Friday 8/7 - FIRST REHEARSAL FOR NEW MEMBERS 1-4pm
Monday 8/10 - FIRST REHEARSAL FOR ALL STUDENTS 2-8pm

Full schedules and rehearsal details were sent home in July. View the July mailing and full schedule here.

End of the Year Picnic - Date 6/4

Forgot to mention the date for the picnic is this Thursday, 6/4. See you then!

End of the Year Picnic!

Come join us for the end of the year band picnic! We will meet at the Eaton Preserve from 11am to 3pm. The Eaton Preserve is located on 135th street just east of Rt. 59 (behind the Meyer).

If you plan to attend, please bring some food to share! These are some suggestions:
Flutes/Clarinets/Oboes - Drinks and/or dessert
High Brass - Buns, plates, napkins, cups
Low Brass - Hot dogs, burgers, brats, etc.
Others - Condiments, drinks, chips, snacks, etc.

If you want to play any sports, bring the necessary equipment! See you then!

Announcements for week of 5/26 - CORRECTION

CORRECTION - There will NOT be color guard rehearsal tonight from 6-8. Drum Line Auditions will continue as planned.

Announcements for week of 5/26

1. Schedule:
   5/29 - Drum Line Auditions & Color Guard Practice, 6-8pm
   5/30 - Graduation, Call time 11am
   6/1 - Final Exam - Scale Test
   6/2 - Final Exam - Written Test
2. Graduation - ALL non-senior band members are required to participate in graduation. Call time is 11am. Please arrive early, as rehearsal will begin promtly at 11. The ceremony begins at 1, and we anticipate it concluding no later than 3pm. Please arrange to have rides for your students so that everyone can leave at the conclusion of the ceremony.
3. Instrument Check-In - If you have a school-owned instrument, you MUST check it in with a band director after the graduation ceremony concludes. We will do this in the band room. If you know that your instrument has damage, it is best to have a parent present to discuss repairs.
4. Summer Instrument Check-out - We will check out instruments for the summer after the graduation ceremony concludes. If you wish to check out an instrument for the summer, it is best to have a parent available on Saturday to sign the necessary forms.
5. Final Exam - The Concert and Symphonic Band Final Exam will consist of a written test and scale test covering the entire IMEA scale sheet. The IMEA scale test will occur in class on Monday, 6/1. The written exam will occur on Tuesday, 6/2. Please make sure your student is practicing/studying for this exam!
6. Senior parents - we will be taking your e-mail off of the announcement list this summer. If you wish to remain on the list, please e-mail Mr. Dortwegt

2009 Marching Band Leadership Team Announced

Congratulations to the 2009 PSHS Marching Band Leadership Team. Click here to view the results of auditions.

We had many qualified applicants but only a limited number of openings. Thank you to all who auditioned.

Clef Notes

The PSHS Band Boosters are offering ads in the program for the Spring Pops Concert on May 14, 2009. This is an opportunity to recognize your student individually for his/her accomplishments this year, to congratulate seniors as they near graduation, or acknowledge the hard work put forth by all the PSHS Band students during the 2008-2009 school year. Click here to find out more and print an order form!

Announcements for week of 4/27

It's almost May and we're in the home stretch! Lots of announcments this week:

1. Schedule:
   4/29-30 - Talent Show Auditions
   5/1 - Leadership Team Workshop
   5/4 - Drum Major Workshop
   5/5 - Section Leader Auditions
   5/8 - Talent Show
   5/11-12 - Drum Major Auditions
   5/14 - Pops Concert
   5/16 - Band Banquet
   5/18 - Auditions Begin
   5/30 - Graduation performance
2. Congratulations to the Concert Band for a great performance at PICBF and also to the Symphonic Band for a great performance at ISU!
3. Information regarding Leadership Team (Drum Major and Section Leaders) auditions for the 2009 marching season has been passed out. Dates are on the schedule above.
4. Band Banquet RSVP forms are due no later than Monday, May 4.
5. Auditions for next year will begin the week of 5/18. They will occur after school and are requried for all non-graduating students. Auditions will be a graded assignment.

PSHS Band Grad Returns to Perform for the Bands

Former PSHS student and band member Caitlyn Smith returned to South on Wednesday to perform for the band classes. Caitlyn, a two-time All-State musician at PSHS, recently graduated from the University of Miami with a double degree in Biology and Horn performance. She performed a piece for solo horn and answered many questions about life as a college music major. Thanks to Caitlyn for joining us and sharing some of her experiences in college band!

Pre-Spring Break Announcements, 4/2/2009

1. Schedule -
   4/2 - Final Disney rehearsal, 6-8pm
   4/25 - PICBF (Concert Band Only)
   4/25 - ISU (Symphonic Band Only)
   5/14 - May Pops Concert
   5/16 - Band Banquet
2. PICBF - Concert band will travel to Plainfield Central for the PICBF concert on 4/25. A trip consent form and schedule will be distributed today in class. Forms are to be returned by Wednesday, 4/15.
3. ISU - Symphonic Band will travel to Illinois State for the ISU Band Festival on 4/25. A trip consent form and schedule will be distributed today in class. Forms and money for dinner are to be returned by Friday, 4/17.
4. Disney Trip Reminders -
   -Read the trip book again tonight to be sure you have everything
   -Luggage to go under the bus MUST be brought to rehearsal tonight
   -Carry-on bags should include your swimsuit and towel
   -Students will receive a list of chaperone cell phone numbers tonight. These are intended to be left at home with parents for emergency situations.

McDonald's Fundraiser 3/25

The PSHS Bands will be holding a fundraiser at the McDonalds at Caton Farm and Essington Rd. today (3/25) from 4:30-6:30pm. 20% of the profits will go to the PSHS Bands!

Patrons must present a coupon (available online here) when they purchase a meal. Please come out to support the band program!

Money raised will go towards a future purchase of new marching band uniforms. Each new uniform can cost upwards of $400, so an order of 200+ uniforms gets expensive. Every little bit helps, so please come out to McDonalds tonight!

Announcements for week of 3/23/2009

1. Schedule -
   3/25 - McDonald's Fundraiser (Essington)
   3/26 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   3/31 - Spring Band Concert
   4/2 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   4/3 - Disney trip!
   4/25 - ISU Band Festival (SB) and PICBF (CB)
2. Updated Calendar - An updated version of the band calendar has been placed on the website. Please notice the confirmed dates for the ISU Band Festival, PICBF, and Band Banquet.
3. Spring Band Concert - Student call time is 6pm on 3/31. The concert will feature the curricular bands, as well as the Disney Band. Symphonic Band students should bring 1 dozen cookies to share after the concert.
4. Band Banquet Video - Photos and videos from band events this year are needed for the band banquet video. Seniors also need to submit a few photos for the banquet video. A baby picture and a few current photos is prefered. Please send these to Mrs. Dunning.
5. Disney Trip - Medical and Trip Consent forms are due Thursday, 3/26. Photo forms will still be accepted until Tuesday, 3/31.
6. Booster Officers - Anyone interested in running for Booster President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer should contact a director. Nominations will be taken at the April booster meeting, and Elections will occur at the May Meeting. This is a GREAT way to get involved and support your student(s). The success of the band program is dependant on more than just the directors and students. Parents play a huge role in increasing the quality and success of the PSHS Band. If you cannot take on one of the positions listed above, please consider helping out a concerts, football games, and with hospitality or fundraising. We will never turn down help! Contact a director if you are interested!

Announcements for week of 3/2/2009

1. Schedule:
   3/5 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   3/5 - Disney Parent Meeting 8pm
   3/7 - Metamora CANCELED
   3/20-22 - Spring Musical
   3/24 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   3/26 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   3/31 - Spring Concert
   4/2 - Disney Rehearsal 6-8pm
   4/3 - Disney Trip
2. Disney Trip Rehearsals: Our next rehearsal is this Thursday (3/5). These are NOT optional rehearsals. Dates were published in the fall, so it is expected that you have arranged your schedule accordingly.
3. Disney Trip Parent/Student Meeting: There will be a MANDATORY Parent/Student Meeting on 3/5 at 8pm in the band room. This was announced last week at our first rehearsal. Each student must have a parent attend. You must contact a director if you have a conflict.
4. Disney Payments: We are still in need of final payments from those who have yet to cover the balance. This is long overdue.
5. Candy Sale: The candy sale has been extended until this Friday, 3/5. Keep selling!

District 202 Solo & Ensemble Festival CONFIRMED

The District 202 High School Solo & Ensemble Festival will proceed today as planned. Students, parents, and judges may arrive at Plainfield South beginning at 7:00am. Good luck to all participants!

Mid-Winter Concert

Congratulations to the bands for a terrific performance last week at the Mid-Winter Concert! Click here to view images from the concert courtesy of Mrs. Melka.

Announcements for week of 2/9/2009

1. Schedule:
   2/11 - Pep Band, 5:45pm call
   2/12 - Mid-Winter Concert, 7pm
   2/13 - Disney Final Payment due; Pep Band, 6pm call
   2/17 - SPC Festival at PNHS
   2/21 - Solo & Ensemble Festival
   2/26 - Disney Rehearsal, 6-8pm
   3/5 - Disney Rehearsal, 6-8pm
   3/7 - Metamora Music Festival: CANCELED
2. Mid-Winter Concert - Student call time is 6pm. Be sure to remember socks, shoes, etc. Concert Band students are asked to bring a dozen cookies for the reception afterward.
3. Disney Trip - Final payments MUST be paid by Friday, 2/13. The first rehearsal is coming up on 2/26.
4. SPC Festival - Congratulations to the 21 students from PSHS selected to perform in the Southwest Prarie Conference (SPC) Honor Band Festival held at Plainfield North on 2/17! If your student was selected, make sure they return their information packet forms by Friday, 2/13.
5. Solo & Ensemble - On 2/21, students from all Plainfield High Schools will be at PSHS to participate in the Solo & Ensemble Festival. We need parent help to monitor rooms, work concessions, and help in the office. Please contact a director if you are interested in helping any time between 8am and 1pm.
6. Candy Sale - Students will be given the opportunity to sell candy from 2/12-2/27. Students are asked to sell two boxes of candy (52 bars per box). Profit beyond these sales will go directly to student accounts.

Plainfield Winter Guard

The Plainfield Winter Guard season is in full swing! For the first year ever, students from all four Plainfield High Schools are working together to put on a winter guard show. Recently, the group competed at Naperville North High School and won 3rd place in class! The group will perform again on February 15 at Conant High School. If you would like to see the show, contact a director to learn more!

More photos from Naperville North are available online here.

Announcements for week of 2/2/2009

1. Schedule:
   2/6 - Pep Band, call time 6pm
   2/7 - Jazz Ensemble performance at Naperville North HS, 10:40am
   2/10 - Band Booster Meeting, 7:30pm in the band room
   2/11 - Pep Band for SCORE basketball game, call time 5:45pm
   2/12 - Midwinter Band Concert, 7pm in the auditorium
   2/13 - Disney final payments due
2. Midwinter Concert - Our midwinter concert is Thursday, 2/12, at 7pm. Student call time is 6pm. Concert band students should bring one dozen cookies (store-bought or homemade) to share at the post-concert reception.
   
3. Disney Trip - Final payments are due Friday, 2/13. You MUST have the entire $920 cost covered by then. The first Disney rehearsal will be Thursday, 2/26.
   
   
   

Southside Band News

The PSHS Band Boosters are once again publishing a monthly newsletter - The Southside Band News. Click here or on the image above to view it in pdf format. For the first issue this year, we are making it available to all band parents via this e-mail. It's a great way to keep up to date with everything that's going on in the band world! Also, we will begin to feature a "senior corner" in which seniors may write a bit about their band experiences. (Seniors - if you're interested, talk to a band director!)

From this point forward, only booster members will receive the newsletter. Remember that being a member of the boosters helps support your student and the band. Should you chose to join, we encourage you to visit us at our next meeting on February 10; although, there is no requirement that you do so. Visit the Band Booster website for more info!

Announcements for week of 1/12/2009

Welcome back to school! Here are some updates from the Band Program:

1. Upcoming Schedule:
   1/9 - Pep Band, 5:45pm
   1/13 - Band Booster Meeting, 7:30pm
   1/23 - Pep Band (with middle school students), 4:15pm
   1/28-31 - IMEA All-State
   1/31 - Pizza Fundraiser pick-up (see below)
   
2. We are offering the Pizza Fundraiser again in January. This is a completely optional fundraiser, and all profits from sales will go into student accounts. It is a fantastic way to raise money for the Florida Trip or pay off student debt (of which there is still $4,000 outstanding!!!) The dates of the fundraiser are 1/9-1/20. The pizzas will be made and picked up on Saturday, 1/31. Sell lots, as this is Superbowl weekend and pizzas make great party food! Order forms are available in the band room.
   
3. The Band Final Exam consists of a performance test on scales and a written exam. Scale testing has begun already, so please make sure your students are practicing. The written portion will be given on 1/14. Students have received a study guide and should review it before taking the test.