Blue Devil Color Guard
Welcome back, students! We hope that all our Gull Lake families are staying safe and healthy! We can't wait to hold classes in person in October!
Hastings Marching Band Invitational news
Join us in Hastings for the second competition of the year on Saturday, October 3!
The Blue Devils premiere The Dream of Flight at Otsego High School on Saturday, September 26.
Competitions? Wasn’t MCBA cancelled this year?
While MCBA has cancelled their competitive season, a few area high schools are hosting scholastic competitions. We are currently registered for Otsego on Saturday, September 26; Hastings on Saturday, October 3; and Vicksburg on Saturday, October 17. We are waiting to hear if MSBOA will hold Marching Festival at Vicksburg on Wednesday, October 14.
What will competitions look like?
Great question! We simply do not have all the details yet, and each hosting site has their own rules that they are still figuring out as well. Students should plan for a full day of events, including mandatory morning rehearsals at GLHS prior to each competition, but what time we perform; whether spectators will be allowed; whether performances will be live streamed; whether we can hold Feed the Band – these are all details to be determined by the host schools in the coming few weeks. We will keep you updated as we receive updates ourselves.
What about transportation?
We will have bus transportation to and from competitions this year. Sign-up sheets will be available prior to each competition. Students will be required to wear a mask at all times on the bus. Parents who wish to transport their student should email Mrs. Stark prior to the competition. Students may not drive themselves or other students. More information to come!
What will the students wear for performances?
As COVID has made it impossible to safely fit everyone with their standard uniforms, many area band directors have agreed that their bands will wear secondary uniforms for competitions. What will GL wear?
Hot weather: blue GL performance shirt, gray performance shorts, black socks, athletic shoes, GL cap, hair up in ponytail (men and women), face masks required unless actively playing wind instrument. GL caps will be provided to each student.
Cold weather: blue GL performance shirt, gray warm up pants, black socks, athletic shoes, band jacket, GL cap, hair up in ponytail (men and women), face masks required unless actively playing wind instrument. GL caps and gray warm up pants will be provided to each student.
Watch for updates on BAND to know which version to wear. Just like a non-COVID year, uniforms are required. Students who arrive to competitions without proper uniform will not be allowed to perform with the band.
We are also unable to help students with competition day hair-dos this year. Please make sure that hair is up in a tight ponytail prior to arrival at school. We will NOT be ordering marching shoes until just prior to the Disney trip. Students will wear athletic shoes with black socks.
Rehearsal Schedule - August 31 - October 2 (during virtual class schedule)
Please note: our rehearsal schedule may be adjusted at any time due to COVID-19 restrictions, weather, or other situations out of our control. Please watch for updates to locations and times on the BAND app and Google Classroom.
All participants must complete the daily Health Screening Questionnaire and undergo a temperature check upon arrival. Temperature checks begin 30 minutes prior to rehearsal start - be sure to arrive early to complete your screening and still arrive to rehearsal on time!
Remember to bring plenty of water and wear your mask!
Color Guard: Mondays, 4:00 - 5:30 at GLHS Auditorium field
Full Band: Mondays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS Stadium
Frontline: Mondays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS Auditorium field or Stadium - will be announced prior to rehearsal
Hornline: Tuesdays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS practice field
Percussion: Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:30 at GLHS Auditorium field
Rehearsal Schedule - week of August 24
Color Guard: Monday, August 24, 4:00 - 6:00 at GLHS practice field
Hornline: Monday, August 24, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS practice field
Full Band: Tuesday, August 25, 6:00 - 9:00 at Stadium
Percussion: Wednesday, August 26, 6:30 - 8:30 at GLHS
Please note: All participants must complete the daily Health Screening Questionnaire and undergo a temperature check upon arrival.
Remember to bring plenty of water - it's supposed to be a hot week!
New Pre-Camp and Band Camp schedules below!
The schedules for Pre-Camp and Band Camp have been modified to comply with the latest COVID-19 restrictions. Please see the letter below for the complete schedules, locations and rules. The schedules will be adjusted as necessary, should additional COVID-19 restrictions be announced or if weather conditions warrant a change. Please watch for updates on the BAND student and parent groups.
Please note:
Hastings Marching Band Invitational news
Join us in Hastings for the second competition of the year on Saturday, October 3!
- Mandatory morning rehearsal at the Stadium; temperature checks begin at 8:00, rehearsal 8:30 – 11:30. Don’t forget the health screening questionnaire!
- Students should arrive wearing the designated secondary uniform, with long hair up in a tight, high ponytail (men and women!) Hairspray may be necessary; Uniform Room parents will not be able to help with hair.
- Students may purchase gloves on Saturday morning for $4.
- Students should bring plenty of water and a packed lunch to eat at school before we depart. With parent permission, students may leave for lunch. Due to COVID restrictions, we are unable to provide a “Feed the Band” meal on competition days.
- Bus sign-ups are required this year. Parents may drive their own child(ren) but students may not drive themselves or other students. We have ordered buses based on your responses to the Google Form. We are looking for bus chaperones if you can help!
- Will spectators be allowed? YES! Two spectators per student will be allowed to purchase an entry ticket. Entry is $3/individual spectator, $5/two spectators. Please have exact change - Hastings Band Boosters will not be able to provide change.
- The Hastings High School Stadium will open for Gull Lake spectators at 3:45; please stay in your cars until 3:45. Spectator parking in front of school; use Market Street to enter.
- Departure time 1:30. Performance time 4:00. Field crew needs TBA. Return time approximately 6:00. The full itinerary is posted on BAND and was distributed with your tickets.
- Meeting us at Hastings High School? Students must arrive to HHS by 2:15 in secondary uniform. Look for our trailers and buses. Spectator parking in front of school; use Market Street to enter.
- Don't forget to complete the Transportation Request Google form to let us know if your student will be riding a GLHS bus or driving with you. If you give your student permission to ride home after the competition with another family, Mrs. Stark must have your emailed permission no later than noon on Friday, October 2.
- Please remember to sign out with Mrs. Stark following the competition! In order to ensure that no student is left behind, parents and students must check out together. Mrs. Stark can be found at the buses at approximately 4:30.
The Blue Devils premiere The Dream of Flight at Otsego High School on Saturday, September 26.
- Mandatory morning rehearsal at the Stadium; temperature checks begin at 8:00, rehearsal 8:30 – 10:30. Don’t forget the health screening questionnaire!
- Students should arrive wearing the designated secondary uniform, with long hair up in a tight, high ponytail (men and women!) Hairspray may be necessary.
- Students should bring plenty of water and a packed lunch to eat at school before we depart. With parent permission, students may leave for lunch. Due to COVID restrictions, we are unable to provide a “Feed the Band” meal on competition days.
- Bus sign-ups are required this year. Parents may drive their own child(ren) but students may not drive themselves or other students. We have ordered buses based on your responses to the Google Form. We are looking for bus chaperones if you can help!
- Will spectators be allowed? TBA. If not, we will livestream the performance from the stands the best that we can from staff phones.
- Departure time 11:50. Performance time 2:00. Field crew needs TBA. Return time approximately 3:30. The full itinerary is posted on BAND.
- Meeting us at Otsego? Students must arrive to OHS by 12:30. Look for our trailers and buses.
Competitions? Wasn’t MCBA cancelled this year?
While MCBA has cancelled their competitive season, a few area high schools are hosting scholastic competitions. We are currently registered for Otsego on Saturday, September 26; Hastings on Saturday, October 3; and Vicksburg on Saturday, October 17. We are waiting to hear if MSBOA will hold Marching Festival at Vicksburg on Wednesday, October 14.
What will competitions look like?
Great question! We simply do not have all the details yet, and each hosting site has their own rules that they are still figuring out as well. Students should plan for a full day of events, including mandatory morning rehearsals at GLHS prior to each competition, but what time we perform; whether spectators will be allowed; whether performances will be live streamed; whether we can hold Feed the Band – these are all details to be determined by the host schools in the coming few weeks. We will keep you updated as we receive updates ourselves.
What about transportation?
We will have bus transportation to and from competitions this year. Sign-up sheets will be available prior to each competition. Students will be required to wear a mask at all times on the bus. Parents who wish to transport their student should email Mrs. Stark prior to the competition. Students may not drive themselves or other students. More information to come!
What will the students wear for performances?
As COVID has made it impossible to safely fit everyone with their standard uniforms, many area band directors have agreed that their bands will wear secondary uniforms for competitions. What will GL wear?
Hot weather: blue GL performance shirt, gray performance shorts, black socks, athletic shoes, GL cap, hair up in ponytail (men and women), face masks required unless actively playing wind instrument. GL caps will be provided to each student.
Cold weather: blue GL performance shirt, gray warm up pants, black socks, athletic shoes, band jacket, GL cap, hair up in ponytail (men and women), face masks required unless actively playing wind instrument. GL caps and gray warm up pants will be provided to each student.
Watch for updates on BAND to know which version to wear. Just like a non-COVID year, uniforms are required. Students who arrive to competitions without proper uniform will not be allowed to perform with the band.
We are also unable to help students with competition day hair-dos this year. Please make sure that hair is up in a tight ponytail prior to arrival at school. We will NOT be ordering marching shoes until just prior to the Disney trip. Students will wear athletic shoes with black socks.
Rehearsal Schedule - August 31 - October 2 (during virtual class schedule)
Please note: our rehearsal schedule may be adjusted at any time due to COVID-19 restrictions, weather, or other situations out of our control. Please watch for updates to locations and times on the BAND app and Google Classroom.
All participants must complete the daily Health Screening Questionnaire and undergo a temperature check upon arrival. Temperature checks begin 30 minutes prior to rehearsal start - be sure to arrive early to complete your screening and still arrive to rehearsal on time!
Remember to bring plenty of water and wear your mask!
Color Guard: Mondays, 4:00 - 5:30 at GLHS Auditorium field
Full Band: Mondays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS Stadium
Frontline: Mondays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS Auditorium field or Stadium - will be announced prior to rehearsal
Hornline: Tuesdays, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS practice field
Percussion: Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:30 at GLHS Auditorium field
Rehearsal Schedule - week of August 24
Color Guard: Monday, August 24, 4:00 - 6:00 at GLHS practice field
Hornline: Monday, August 24, 6:00 - 9:00 at GLHS practice field
Full Band: Tuesday, August 25, 6:00 - 9:00 at Stadium
Percussion: Wednesday, August 26, 6:30 - 8:30 at GLHS
Please note: All participants must complete the daily Health Screening Questionnaire and undergo a temperature check upon arrival.
Remember to bring plenty of water - it's supposed to be a hot week!
New Pre-Camp and Band Camp schedules below!
The schedules for Pre-Camp and Band Camp have been modified to comply with the latest COVID-19 restrictions. Please see the letter below for the complete schedules, locations and rules. The schedules will be adjusted as necessary, should additional COVID-19 restrictions be announced or if weather conditions warrant a change. Please watch for updates on the BAND student and parent groups.
Please note:
- Masks are required for all students, parent volunteers and staff, and will be worn at all times unless a student is actively playing a wind instrument.
- Communal water will not be provided; all students should bring plenty of water in a named jug each day. There will be no sharing.
- All students, parent volunteers and staff are required to complete the Health Screening prior to arrival each day, and will be temperature checked onsite with a touchless thermometer. If possible, please also take your temperature before arrival at school. Anyone who exhibits COVID-19 symptoms or has a temperature of 100.4 or higher will not be allowed to participate in that day's activities.
- All rehearsals will be held outdoors; students should be dressed appropriately and bring extra clothes as needed for Michigan's unpredictable summer weather.
- We will not be fitting for school issued uniforms yet; more information regarding purchase of secondary uniforms will be forthcoming.
- If you have not yet submitted your Marching Band paperwork packet, please bring with you to your first rehearsal.
- Full payment is due by Monday, August 3, the first day of Band Camp. Students who have not completed payment may not be allowed to participate in Camp.
| parent_letter_band_camp__17_.pdf |
July update - Virtual Rehearsals begin! Pre-Camp last week of July!
Virtual rehearsals have begun! Students - please check the notice on the BAND app for the schedule. Participating in the weekly rehearsals and completing any assignments from staff members will be critical for our success this fall!
Not on the BAND app? Please email Mr. Burris for a code to join (bburris@gulllakecs.org)
Parents - please be sure to join the BAND app - it is a free notification, chat and remind service that we use extensively throughout the year. There is a group for parents; another for students; and a third dedicated to the Percussion section (in addition to the student group). Please email Mr. Burris for a code to join any of the groups so that you can stay updated!
(bburris@gulllakecs.org)
We remain hopeful that Pre-Camp will be held the last week of July as originally planned. Keep an eye on BAND for any updates to the daily schedule. As of this update, Band Camp is still on the schedule for the first week of August. We are working on a plan for uniform fittings and ordering personal uniform items.
***Pre-Camp and Band Camp schedules will be adjusted as necessary due to COVID restrictions and requirements.***
Masks are REQUIRED for all students and staff.
June 9 update - Richland July 4th Parade cancelled
Due to the continuing COVID-19 situation, Richland Area Business Association (RABA) has cancelled this year's July 4th parade. Please see their website or Facebook page for information regarding a "Virtual Parade" and plans for a socially distant local celebration.
June 9 update - Disney trip information
Our plans to reschedule the 2020 Disney trip remain on hold while the Disney Corporation begins to re-open following the COVID-19 shutdown. Work continues behind the scenes to secure refunds for our graduating seniors. We appreciate your patience while we work through the process; we will keep you updated as soon as more details are available!
May 26 update - Mini Camp cancelled - uniform fittings during Pre Camp
With the continuing COVID-19 situation, Mini Camp scheduled for June 15 - 17 has been cancelled. The uniform fittings that we were planning for that week have been rescheduled for Pre Camp week, July 27 - 31. Exact schedule to be announced - watch this
space!
Blue Devil Color Guard - registration continues through June 1!
Is your student registered for Fall? Follow the steps below to secure their spot in the 2020 Marching Band Color Guard!
Already registered? Continue reading for more details about the 2020 program!
Unsure if you're registered? Email Mrs. Stark to double check that your student has completed all the steps and is fully registered: cstark@gulllakecs.org
The May 1 deadline has passed - can I still register my student?
YES! Due to the extenuating circumstances of the COVID-19 shutdown, we have extended our registration deadline until June 1.
ALL registration must be complete by 3:00 PM, June 1 in order to secure a spot in the 2020 competitive show:
I have the paperwork packet that was distributed at the March Kick Off Meeting. What's the next step?
I do not have the paperwork packet from the March Kick Off Meeting. What should I do?
I'm not sure if my student is registered. What should I do?
How do I make a payment?
Due to the COVID-19 shutdown, I am unable to make my first payment. Can we still join the Band?
Virtual rehearsals have begun! Students - please check the notice on the BAND app for the schedule. Participating in the weekly rehearsals and completing any assignments from staff members will be critical for our success this fall!
Not on the BAND app? Please email Mr. Burris for a code to join (bburris@gulllakecs.org)
Parents - please be sure to join the BAND app - it is a free notification, chat and remind service that we use extensively throughout the year. There is a group for parents; another for students; and a third dedicated to the Percussion section (in addition to the student group). Please email Mr. Burris for a code to join any of the groups so that you can stay updated!
(bburris@gulllakecs.org)
We remain hopeful that Pre-Camp will be held the last week of July as originally planned. Keep an eye on BAND for any updates to the daily schedule. As of this update, Band Camp is still on the schedule for the first week of August. We are working on a plan for uniform fittings and ordering personal uniform items.
***Pre-Camp and Band Camp schedules will be adjusted as necessary due to COVID restrictions and requirements.***
Masks are REQUIRED for all students and staff.
June 9 update - Richland July 4th Parade cancelled
Due to the continuing COVID-19 situation, Richland Area Business Association (RABA) has cancelled this year's July 4th parade. Please see their website or Facebook page for information regarding a "Virtual Parade" and plans for a socially distant local celebration.
June 9 update - Disney trip information
Our plans to reschedule the 2020 Disney trip remain on hold while the Disney Corporation begins to re-open following the COVID-19 shutdown. Work continues behind the scenes to secure refunds for our graduating seniors. We appreciate your patience while we work through the process; we will keep you updated as soon as more details are available!
May 26 update - Mini Camp cancelled - uniform fittings during Pre Camp
With the continuing COVID-19 situation, Mini Camp scheduled for June 15 - 17 has been cancelled. The uniform fittings that we were planning for that week have been rescheduled for Pre Camp week, July 27 - 31. Exact schedule to be announced - watch this
space!
Blue Devil Color Guard - registration continues through June 1!
Is your student registered for Fall? Follow the steps below to secure their spot in the 2020 Marching Band Color Guard!
Already registered? Continue reading for more details about the 2020 program!
Unsure if you're registered? Email Mrs. Stark to double check that your student has completed all the steps and is fully registered: cstark@gulllakecs.org
The May 1 deadline has passed - can I still register my student?
YES! Due to the extenuating circumstances of the COVID-19 shutdown, we have extended our registration deadline until June 1.
ALL registration must be complete by 3:00 PM, June 1 in order to secure a spot in the 2020 competitive show:
- Paperwork packet completed and submitted by email
- Online registration completed
- Payment of deposit through PaySchools
I have the paperwork packet that was distributed at the March Kick Off Meeting. What's the next step?
- Read through the packet with your student to be certain that you understand the contents
- Complete the necessary forms, including parent and student signatures where indicated
- New forms are required each year
- If your student takes prescription medication during Band Camp hours or performance hours, you will need the signature of the prescribing physician on the GLHS Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form (included in your packet)
- Download, print and complete the new 2020 Ford Field Release Form (our packet includes the 2019 forms) - buttons #4 and #5 below
- Scan and email the completed forms to Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
- Don't have a scanner? Many smart phones allow you to scan and email right from your phone
- Smart phone scanner not working? Keep your packet for now and email Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
- Keep your hard copies; we will collect them at a later date
- Complete the 2020 Marching Band Online Registration - button #7 below
- Make your deposit payment through PaySchools - button #8 below
I do not have the paperwork packet from the March Kick Off Meeting. What should I do?
- To print your registration packet from home, please note that you need to download the main packet from button #1 and ALSO:
- Download, print, complete and return the GLCS Trip Medical Form - button #2
- Download, print, complete and return the GLHS Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form (if your student takes any prescription medication during Band Camp or performance hours; this requires a physician signature) - button #3
- Download, print, complete and return the 2020 Ford Field Release form - Minor (for your student) - button #4
- Download, print, complete and return the 2020 Ford Field Release form - Adult (if your student will be 18 by the MCBA state championships or if a parent would like to volunteer at Ford Field; this is a different form than the Request for Authorization to Volunteer form) - button #5
- Download, print, complete and return the 2020 Request for Authorization to Volunteer (if you are an adult who wishes to volunteer throughout the season; this is a different form than the Ford Field Adult Participant Release form) - button #6
- Scan and email your completed forms to Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
- Don't have a scanner? Many smart phones allow you to scan and email right from your phone
- Smart phone scanner not working? Keep your packet for now and email Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
- Keep your hard copies; we will collect them at a later date
- Read through the packet with your student to be certain that you understand the contents
- New forms are required each year
- Complete the 2020 Marching Band Online Registration - button #7 below
- Make your deposit payment through PaySchools - button #8 below
I'm not sure if my student is registered. What should I do?
- Email Mrs. Stark to double check: cstark@gulllakecs.org
How do I make a payment?
- Make payments through PaySchools - button #8 below
- You may pay the full amount in one payment
- You may pay in three installments, due May 1, June 1 and August 3
- No extra fees; immediate receipt; payment notification automatically emailed to Mrs. Stark
- You may apply credits earned through the GLBPA Trip Account program; email Mrs. Stark for details: cstark@gulllakecs.org
- If you would prefer to mail a check, please email Mrs. Stark for details: cstark@gulllakecs.org
Due to the COVID-19 shutdown, I am unable to make my first payment. Can we still join the Band?
- Yes! Please email Mr. Burris or Mrs. Stark to let us know. We will help arrange a payment plan.
- Mr. Burris: bburris@gulllakecs.org
- Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
Who can join the Blue Devil Marching Band Color Guard?
The Blue Devil Marching Band is composed of instrumental and Color Guard performers, and is open to students of all proficiency levels who have successfully completed a Middle School band program (grades 6 - 7 - 8) or, at the discretion of the Band Director and Color Guard coach, have successfully auditioned for a part. Students work throughout the summer, preparing music and drill in required sectionals, full band rehearsals, mini camp days, pre-camp and the annual week-long Band Camp held at GLHS, all leading up to the fall marching season. Color Guard members are part of the Marching Band graded class, meeting daily during the first trimester, as well as required after school, evening and weekend rehearsals; Friday home varsity football games; and weekend competitions. Student athletes who wish to participate on both a fall sports team and with the Color Guard should see Mr. Burris.
Color Guard members are selected based on audition results during the prior Spring. Both girls and boys are eligible to participate.
Postponed - Auditions for Color Guard: Thursday, April 23, 5:00 - 7:00 PM in the Band Room
Postponed - Auditions for Percussion: Friday, March 20, 3:00 - 6:00 in the Band Room
Friday, March 27, 3:00 - 6:00 in the Band Room
When does the Band and Color Guard rehearse? When do they perform?
Students work throughout the summer, preparing music and drill in required sectionals, full band rehearsals, Mini camp, Pre-camp and the annual week-long Band Camp held at GLHS, all leading up to the fall marching season. Color Guard members are part of the Marching Band, which is a graded class, meeting daily during the first trimester, as well as required after school, evening and weekend rehearsals; Friday home varsity football games; and weekend competitions. Many student athletes participate on both a fall sports team and with the Marching Band; students should see Mr. Burris for more information.
The tentative 2020 rehearsal schedule, competition schedule and home varsity football game schedule is posted below. Call times will be confirmed prior to each performance. Events marked as Optional are highly recommended if students are available. Additional required evening and weekend rehearsals may be added at the Band Director's discretion. Individual sectional rehearsals may be scheduled by the student leaders and may not be included or updated here. Please note that the rehearsal and performance schedule is subject to change at any time.
Participation in competitions and football games is mandatory; unexcused absences will affect the student's grade. Attendance expectations will be discussed at the March 20 meeting; parents and students must sign and follow an Attendance Agreement form.
How do I register? When is the deadline?
New forms are required annually for all students participating in Marching Band, including instrumental students and Color Guard members, as well as for parents who wish to volunteer with the Band program. Online registration (required for all students) and the required paperwork packet links are posted below if you were unable to attend the Kick Off meeting or would like to print your own copies.
*Please note that the Ford Field "Agreement and Release of All Claims" forms included in the required paperwork packet are the 2019 editions. They are for your information only. The 2020 forms were released by MCBA after the Kick Off meeting and can be found be clicking on the buttons below.
How much does it cost? How do I make payments?
NEW 04/24/20 update:
New this year - Marching Band fees may be paid in three installments or paid in full in one payment to Gull Lake Community Schools
Marching Band personal uniform/apparel orders and payments are due by Wednesday, June 17 to the GLBPA. Students will be fitted for uniforms and personal uniforms/apparel during Mini Camp, June 15 - 17.
Unless prior arrangements have been made with Gull Lake Community Schools, the Band Director or the GLBPA Treasurer, full payment of Marching Band fees and personal uniform/apparel fees are due by 8:00 AM, Monday, August 3, 2020, the first day of Band Camp. Students with an outstanding balance will not be allowed to participate in Band Camp.
New this year - all Marching Band fees - excluding personal uniforms/apparel - will be collected by Gull Lake Community Schools. Apparel orders (secondary uniforms, shoes, gloves, Color Guard items, etc) will be collected by the GLBPA. Personal uniform/apparel items are in addition to the $325 per student Marching Band fee. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets in the Marching Band paperwork packet for full details. The online order form on the GLBPA website will be available soon.
For your convenience, you will be able to pay the Marching Band fees online through PaySchools using credit/debit card or electronic check from your bank account. The link for payment is posted below. At this time, please do not mail payments to the High School.
Payments for required personal uniforms/apparel - secondary uniforms, shoes, band jacket, gloves, Color Guard items, etc - may be paid by check made out to GLBPA along with a copy of your order and mailed to:
GLBPA
P.O. Box 374
Richland Michigan, 49083
At this time, online payment through the GLBPA website is not available. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please email Mrs. Stark if you need to make your apparel payment with a credit card and we will get you in touch with a GLBPA board member who can help process that payment.
Personal uniform/apparel orders and payments are due Wednesday, June 17, 2020 to the GLBPA. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets in the Marching Band paperwork packet for full details.
What does my fee cover?
The Marching Band fee covers expenses for seasonal instructional staff; music; drill; equipment transportation; show shirt; uniform cleaning; and operating costs. Please note that there are additional expenses for freshman and new members for required personal uniform requirements, including secondary uniform performance shirt and shorts, marching shoes, band jacket, gloves or Color Guard items. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets included in the paperwork packet for full details.
I heard that the Marching Band performs at Disney?
The Blue Devil Marching Band has traditionally traveled to Orlando, Florida every four years to perform in a Disney World parade and student workshop over Spring Break. Due to the COVID-19 shutdown, the 2020 trip has been rescheduled for Spring Break 2021. All incoming freshman students and their families are invited to join the 2021 trip. Please see the Spring Break Disney trip page above for full information. The Disney trip is an optional event, and Marching Band fees do not cover the cost of participation. Students and parents may earn credits toward their trip account by volunteering in the GLBPA-run fall sports concession stand and participating in designated GLBPA fundraisers. Students wishing to participate in the 2021 Disney trip are required to meet additional proficiency and behavior expectations, including enrollment in all three trimesters in the 2020-2021 Gull Lake band program.
I would like to chaperone Band Camp and volunteer during the season. How do I apply?
Thank you! We are always looking for parent volunteers to help during Band Camp and the Marching Band season! Please click on the button "2020 Request for Authorization to Volunteer" and complete a volunteer form. The form is relayed to the Administration Office, where they conduct a background check to clear you to volunteer. One form, renewed yearly, allows a parent to volunteer across the Gull Lake Community Schools district. Mr. Burris will form a Band Camp chaperone team and volunteer team from approved adults. We will publish a Sign Up Genius to sign up for Band Camp shifts and hold a chaperone meeting closer to the start of Camp.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
We are here to help! Please send an email to:
Based on interest, Winter Guard is an optional extra-curricular team that competes during the second trimester. Participation fees vary from year to year and are not included in the Marching Band registration fee. Winter Guard will be cancelled if there is insufficient interest.
Uniforms, performance equipment and flags are supplied by the school. Members are expected to purchase their own shoes, gloves, leotard/unitard and other personal supplies as determined by the coaching staff. Color Guard members submit the same paperwork and fees as instrumental Marching Band students, and attend first trimester Marching Band class.
The Blue Devil Marching Band is composed of instrumental and Color Guard performers, and is open to students of all proficiency levels who have successfully completed a Middle School band program (grades 6 - 7 - 8) or, at the discretion of the Band Director and Color Guard coach, have successfully auditioned for a part. Students work throughout the summer, preparing music and drill in required sectionals, full band rehearsals, mini camp days, pre-camp and the annual week-long Band Camp held at GLHS, all leading up to the fall marching season. Color Guard members are part of the Marching Band graded class, meeting daily during the first trimester, as well as required after school, evening and weekend rehearsals; Friday home varsity football games; and weekend competitions. Student athletes who wish to participate on both a fall sports team and with the Color Guard should see Mr. Burris.
Color Guard members are selected based on audition results during the prior Spring. Both girls and boys are eligible to participate.
Postponed - Auditions for Color Guard: Thursday, April 23, 5:00 - 7:00 PM in the Band Room
Postponed - Auditions for Percussion: Friday, March 20, 3:00 - 6:00 in the Band Room
Friday, March 27, 3:00 - 6:00 in the Band Room
When does the Band and Color Guard rehearse? When do they perform?
Students work throughout the summer, preparing music and drill in required sectionals, full band rehearsals, Mini camp, Pre-camp and the annual week-long Band Camp held at GLHS, all leading up to the fall marching season. Color Guard members are part of the Marching Band, which is a graded class, meeting daily during the first trimester, as well as required after school, evening and weekend rehearsals; Friday home varsity football games; and weekend competitions. Many student athletes participate on both a fall sports team and with the Marching Band; students should see Mr. Burris for more information.
The tentative 2020 rehearsal schedule, competition schedule and home varsity football game schedule is posted below. Call times will be confirmed prior to each performance. Events marked as Optional are highly recommended if students are available. Additional required evening and weekend rehearsals may be added at the Band Director's discretion. Individual sectional rehearsals may be scheduled by the student leaders and may not be included or updated here. Please note that the rehearsal and performance schedule is subject to change at any time.
Participation in competitions and football games is mandatory; unexcused absences will affect the student's grade. Attendance expectations will be discussed at the March 20 meeting; parents and students must sign and follow an Attendance Agreement form.
How do I register? When is the deadline?
- Registration packets are available to download and print from home by clicking on the buttons below. They were also distributed at the Marching Band Kick Off meeting on Friday, March 20 and were available from the Band Office while school was in session.
- Completed packets should be scanned and emailed to Mrs. Stark (cstark@gulllakecs.org) by May 1. If you have already mailed your paperwork to the High School, please email Mrs. Stark to let her know; we will collect paperwork from the school once the building opens and it is safe to do so.
- Online registration must be completed by May 1 to ensure a spot for your student in the competition show. Please click on the button below.
- Payments are made via Payschools using the payment schedule below.
New forms are required annually for all students participating in Marching Band, including instrumental students and Color Guard members, as well as for parents who wish to volunteer with the Band program. Online registration (required for all students) and the required paperwork packet links are posted below if you were unable to attend the Kick Off meeting or would like to print your own copies.
*Please note that the Ford Field "Agreement and Release of All Claims" forms included in the required paperwork packet are the 2019 editions. They are for your information only. The 2020 forms were released by MCBA after the Kick Off meeting and can be found be clicking on the buttons below.
How much does it cost? How do I make payments?
NEW 04/24/20 update:
- Payschools is working to make payments online. You can pay by credit/debit card or electronic check right from your bank account. The Payschools system records all payments and automatically sends an email notification to Mrs. Stark in the Band Office. We monitor and track all student accounts. Please email Mrs. Stark if you are unsure if your payment was successfully placed. Please do not mail your payment to the high school at this time; online through Payschools is the best option.
- If you are experiencing financial difficulty due to the COVID-19 situation, and are unable to make your first payment by the May 1 deadline, PLEASE send either Mr. Burris or Mrs. Stark an email!
- All requests for scholarships must be emailed to Mr. Burris by May 1.
- It is important to register online by clicking on the button at the bottom of the Marching Band page so that your student has a confirmed place in the Band. Deadline to register is May 1.
- During the school district closure, we ask that you scan and email your completed paperwork packet to Mrs. Stark and not mail it to the High School. If you have already mailed your packet, we will pick it up once able to do so. Please let us know by email if you have already mailed your paperwork so that we have accurate records.
- How can you reach us? Mr. Burris: bburris@gulllakecs.org Mrs. Stark: cstark@gulllakecs.org
New this year - Marching Band fees may be paid in three installments or paid in full in one payment to Gull Lake Community Schools
- Payment #1 - $125 non-refundable initial deposit *OR* $325 payment in full - due Friday, May 1, 2020
- Payment #2 - $100 - due Monday, June 1, 2020
- Payment #3 - $100 balance - due Monday, August 3, 2020
Marching Band personal uniform/apparel orders and payments are due by Wednesday, June 17 to the GLBPA. Students will be fitted for uniforms and personal uniforms/apparel during Mini Camp, June 15 - 17.
Unless prior arrangements have been made with Gull Lake Community Schools, the Band Director or the GLBPA Treasurer, full payment of Marching Band fees and personal uniform/apparel fees are due by 8:00 AM, Monday, August 3, 2020, the first day of Band Camp. Students with an outstanding balance will not be allowed to participate in Band Camp.
New this year - all Marching Band fees - excluding personal uniforms/apparel - will be collected by Gull Lake Community Schools. Apparel orders (secondary uniforms, shoes, gloves, Color Guard items, etc) will be collected by the GLBPA. Personal uniform/apparel items are in addition to the $325 per student Marching Band fee. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets in the Marching Band paperwork packet for full details. The online order form on the GLBPA website will be available soon.
For your convenience, you will be able to pay the Marching Band fees online through PaySchools using credit/debit card or electronic check from your bank account. The link for payment is posted below. At this time, please do not mail payments to the High School.
Payments for required personal uniforms/apparel - secondary uniforms, shoes, band jacket, gloves, Color Guard items, etc - may be paid by check made out to GLBPA along with a copy of your order and mailed to:
GLBPA
P.O. Box 374
Richland Michigan, 49083
At this time, online payment through the GLBPA website is not available. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please email Mrs. Stark if you need to make your apparel payment with a credit card and we will get you in touch with a GLBPA board member who can help process that payment.
Personal uniform/apparel orders and payments are due Wednesday, June 17, 2020 to the GLBPA. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets in the Marching Band paperwork packet for full details.
What does my fee cover?
The Marching Band fee covers expenses for seasonal instructional staff; music; drill; equipment transportation; show shirt; uniform cleaning; and operating costs. Please note that there are additional expenses for freshman and new members for required personal uniform requirements, including secondary uniform performance shirt and shorts, marching shoes, band jacket, gloves or Color Guard items. Please refer to the Personal Uniform Costs worksheets included in the paperwork packet for full details.
I heard that the Marching Band performs at Disney?
The Blue Devil Marching Band has traditionally traveled to Orlando, Florida every four years to perform in a Disney World parade and student workshop over Spring Break. Due to the COVID-19 shutdown, the 2020 trip has been rescheduled for Spring Break 2021. All incoming freshman students and their families are invited to join the 2021 trip. Please see the Spring Break Disney trip page above for full information. The Disney trip is an optional event, and Marching Band fees do not cover the cost of participation. Students and parents may earn credits toward their trip account by volunteering in the GLBPA-run fall sports concession stand and participating in designated GLBPA fundraisers. Students wishing to participate in the 2021 Disney trip are required to meet additional proficiency and behavior expectations, including enrollment in all three trimesters in the 2020-2021 Gull Lake band program.
I would like to chaperone Band Camp and volunteer during the season. How do I apply?
Thank you! We are always looking for parent volunteers to help during Band Camp and the Marching Band season! Please click on the button "2020 Request for Authorization to Volunteer" and complete a volunteer form. The form is relayed to the Administration Office, where they conduct a background check to clear you to volunteer. One form, renewed yearly, allows a parent to volunteer across the Gull Lake Community Schools district. Mr. Burris will form a Band Camp chaperone team and volunteer team from approved adults. We will publish a Sign Up Genius to sign up for Band Camp shifts and hold a chaperone meeting closer to the start of Camp.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
We are here to help! Please send an email to:
- Mr. Burris, the Director of Bands, bburris@gulllakecs.org
- Mrs. Stark, Band Assistant, cstark@gulllakecs.org
Based on interest, Winter Guard is an optional extra-curricular team that competes during the second trimester. Participation fees vary from year to year and are not included in the Marching Band registration fee. Winter Guard will be cancelled if there is insufficient interest.
Uniforms, performance equipment and flags are supplied by the school. Members are expected to purchase their own shoes, gloves, leotard/unitard and other personal supplies as determined by the coaching staff. Color Guard members submit the same paperwork and fees as instrumental Marching Band students, and attend first trimester Marching Band class.
