Documents:

25-26 Sports Physicals and Forms: CLICK HERE

25-26 Band Handbook : CLICK HERE

25-26 Scholarship Application: CLICK HERE

24-25 Booster Bylaws: CLICK HERE

A Parent’s Guide

We're thrilled to welcome both you and your student to the Mighty Marching Pirate family! Whether you're brand new or returning, this guide is designed to answer your most common questions and help make the transition to high school marching band smooth and successful, for both students and parents. 

What Marching Band Means

For students, marching band is one of the most rewarding parts of high school. It's where lifelong friendships are made, leadership is developed, and musical skills are challenged and celebrated. Yes, it's hard work—but it’s also a ton of fun!

To stay in the loop, follow us on:

• BAND App (our #1 communication tool)
• Facebook: FBHS Mighty Marching Pirates
• Instagram: @fbhspirateband
• BoosterHub

Learn the Lingo

Shako - The hat worn during performances

Plume - Feather attached to the shako

Bibbers - the overalls worn under the uniform jacket

Call Time: The time the student is expected to arrive, ready to go

Mellophone - The marching version of a French horn

Sousaphone - A wrap-around marching tuba

Front Ensemble: Also called "The Pit"; non-marching percussion like marimbas, vibes, synth, etc.

Drumline - Marching percussion instruments

Color Guard - Visual performers using flags, props, and dance

Adjudicators - Judges at competitions

Field Show - Halftime/competition performance on the field

Drum Major - Student conductor of the band

Section Leader - Student in charge of their instrument section

Drill: The precise movements and formations students perform during a field show

Set: A specific position/form in the drill; each show has multiple sets

Hash Marks: Field markings used to help align drill formations (college hashes are often used instead of high school hashes)

Step-off: The moment the band begins moving or playing

Visuals: Choreographed movements or poses added for effect (e.g. horn flashes, body moves)

Warm-Up: Pre-show practice, typically including music and marching technique

Uniform Crew: Parents who assist with sizing, issuing, and maintaining uniforms

Pit Crew: Parents who assist with loading, unloading, and moving equipment (especially for front ensemble and props)

Trailer Crew: Students responsible for loading /unloading the trailer

Cadence: A rhythmic marching beat played by the drumline to help keep time when the band is moving

Tech: A specialized instructor (often part-time) who helps with a specific section like percussion, brass, or color guard

Run-Through: A full rehearsal or practice of the entire show

Staging: The process of arranging the visual look and movement on the field for dramatic effect

Retreat: The awards ceremony at the end of a competition, often with a student representative on the field in uniform

Post-Show: The meeting or wrap-up with the band after a performance (often includes feedback from the director)

What to Expect…

Band Camp (August):

Band Camp is a mental and physical challenge but your student will come away with confidence, new friends, and a deep sense of accomplishment. At camp, students learn:

• Marching basics
• Show music
• Drill positions (via “Dot Sheets”)

Pro Tip: The first few days can be overwhelming, especially for freshmen. Encourage your student and remind them it gets easier quickly. Please encourage your student to learn and memorize the music as quickly as they can.

Things to bring daily:

• Instrument & music
• Dot sheet
• Water bottle & water
• Sack lunch
• Hat & sunscreen
• Comfortable athletic shoes

At Competitions:

Marching competitions are like “game day” for band. Bands are judged and ranked on their performance. Families are encouraged to:

• Sit toward the center/top of the stands for the best view
• Wear school colors or Booster shirts
• Cheer respectfully

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Chaperoning
• Filed Staff 
• Hospitality: Water & snacks 

Expect a small spectator admission fee. Information and itineraries are sent via the BAND app before each event. Performances happen rain or shine!

At Football Games:

Sept–Oct

Band students:

• Dress in uniform 
• March into the stadium together
• Sit in the designated band section (no outside guests)

The band performs stand tunes, cheers, and often a halftime show.

Reminders:

• Focus also on pep band music (not just show music)
• Volunteers are needed for water, plumes, uniforms, etc.