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FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
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What is Marching Band?Marching Band is an activity where music and movement come together. Musicians that play—brass, woodwinds, drum and auxiliary percussion— instruments perform together, while on the move or standing still. It’s not just about playing music; it’s about telling a story through movement, sound, and visual flair. It has evolved into a competitive art form, with athletes showcasing creativity, skill, and showmanship in circuits like WGI and DCI. Marching band fosters teamwork, discipline, and personal growth, providing a platform for musical expression and emotional connection with audiences. It continues to push boundaries, captivating worldwide with its innovative performances.
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What is the commitment?The group participates in five weekend competitions during February and March, fostering camaraderie and artistic expression. Marching Band (Ages 12 - 21): Rehearsals: Mondays, 6:15 pm - 9:15 pm Additional Commitment: Added Saturday rehearsal days (if needed), multiple overnight camps that run form Friday night to Sunday afternoon Location: The Orange Hub Events/Competitions: Competitions will take place in February and March, 2025 Summer Tour to California (TBD)
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How much are the fees and what are the additional expenses?Inclusions: Each group's fees cover all programming expenses, including rehearsal space, instruction, and equipment rentals. They also encompass camp fees, costume expenses, and travel costs for the Red Deer and Calgary competitions and tour. This comprehensive package includes meals, transportation, and accommodations, ensuring members have a complete, fun, and enriching experience. We offer the flexibility of either full payment at the time of registration or a convenient payment plan. Program Fees: Fall/Winter Segment (October - March 2nd): $1,000 Spring/Summer Segment (March - July): $1,100 (Includes all transportation costs for the international trip to California.) *Those who register in both segments will receive a $200 discount on their fees. Additional Costs: Performance footwear, Performance Accessories Part of the team uniform for performances is a Northern Empire member jacket. Members have the opportunity to purchase one or one can be borrowed.
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Is there any additional fundraising?Yes. The fees charged for each group do not cover all the expenses incurred by the budget. To maximize programming and bridge the gap, the organization also relies on Bingos and a Casino every two years. Each bingo worked will result in $100 of fees to be paid off. By involving participants in work bingos, the organization can generate additional funds to supplement the budget and ensure that all necessary expenses, including those beyond the regular fees, are covered. Bingos typically involve members and/or their families volunteering their time and effort to contribute to the organization's fundraising efforts and support its programming initiatives.
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Is there additional volunteering?Northern Empire would like to recognize the value of that support while also recognizing that each family is different in their available time and talents. Volunteer Options Day Trip Chaperone(s) Overnight Chaperone(s) Truck Driver/Maintenance: assigned per fix *all material expenses will be reimbursed Costume alterations: assigned per alteration Props: assigned per prop Bingo and Casino Workers
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