BAND CAMP

Band Camp is a mandatory "pre-season" program for all Marching Band and Color Guard students. This intensive session is designed to introduce, develop, and solidify core marching, music, and field show fundamentals. Beyond the rigorous rehearsals, camp is a fantastic community-building experience where incoming freshmen meet the ensemble and returning members reconnect before the school year begins.

Dates & Locations

• When: Early August (the week before the school year officially begins). Please check the official Music Calendar for this year’s exact dates and daily schedules.

• Where: Mt. Carmel High School Band Room and Sundevil Stadium

• Drop-Off & Parking: Parents can drop students off directly by the Band Room, or students who drive may park in the main MCHS student parking lot.

Food & Hydration

• Breakfast: Rehearsing in the sun requires excellent focus and stamina. Please ensure your student eats a healthy, hearty breakfast before checking in each morning.

• Lunch: A complimentary lunch is generously provided to all students by the Mt. Carmel Music Foundation during all six days of camp.

• Hydration: Bring a large, insulated thermos of water or sports drinks. The Music Foundation provides high-capacity water coolers on the field for quick refills throughout the day.

Camp Dress Code & Sun Protection

Because students spend the majority of the day active and on their feet in Sundevil Stadium, proper gear is essential:

• Daily Attire: Light, breathable athletic clothing (shorts, t-shirts, or performance wear). Bring a sweatshirt or light jacket in case it cools off or for indoor rehearsals.

• Footwear: Supportive athletic running or training shoes with socks are mandatory. Ensure shoes are broken in and comfortable enough to last through a heavy week of movement.

• Sun Safety (Critical): Pack a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Students must reapply sunscreen regularly during outdoor stadium blocks.

What to Bring

Double-check your gear bag every morning before leaving the house:

• Your instrument and mouthpiece (if not already securely stored at school)

• Your music binder and a pencil for taking field notes

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

• A large water jug

Information for Parents & Volunteer Opportunities

Band Camp serves as a high-energy "music boot camp" that lays the absolute foundation for our entire award-winning competitive season. It is a defining cornerstone of our program. Parents are always welcome to pull up a seat in the Sundevil Stadium stands and quietly observe our outdoor practices—if you watch regularly, you will be amazed at the rapid progress the ensemble makes from day one to day six!

This camp relies entirely on the dedication of our parent community to keep things running smoothly. We need volunteers daily to help set up pop-up shade tents, assemble dining tables, serve lunches, and support our students.

👉 Click Here to Join Our Marching Band Volunteer Crew!