Clothes/Uniforms

Your student’s public image is one the most important things  for them to preserve. They have only one chance to make a first impression. At all performances, they will be judged not only on musical and visual performance, but also on appearance. They are constantly being viewed by community members, judges and bands from other schools.

Marching Band – All units except ColorGuard

The Winds and Drumline wear uniforms and jackets. You will need to purchase black socks (we recommend buying 2 pairs…one to stay in the garment bag as a backup), shoes (the specific brand and style is selected by the Director), and lightweight shorts, like gym shorts, to wear under the uniform. Students are also provided a t-shirt with the show’s theme. Students are required to wear the t-shirt under their uniform. Periodically, the Uniform Chairperson will put out a call for assistance in cleaning the uniforms.

A note to Marching Band parents: Have plenty of BLACK SOCKS !

Uniform requirements for the students:

  • Uniform may never be taken home. Always hang the uniform properly after each use to avoid wrinkles and odd crease
  • Never wear partial uniforms – unless designated by a staff member
  • Uniforms should be fully zipped or not worn in any unprofessional way
  • Do not wear shakos backwards or carry  shako like a bucket
  • Always carry the shako in your left hand with the silver emblem facing forward
  • Be sure to have black socks at every performance!
  • Always wear the designated under the uniform t-shirt and pair of light shorts or tights that you can change in
  • If we have to show up late to a competition to circumstances beyond our control (ex: traffic, bus breakdown, etc.) you will need to wear something that you will be able to change in.
  • Hair should never past the collar of your band uniform. All long hair (male and female) must be tucked into the shako
  • Before every performance remember to have clean shoes so that they are free from scuffs and dirt.
  • Jewelry or make up is not permitted while in full uniform
  • Never eat or drink anything other than water while in full uniform

Marching Band and Drumline students must wear Black Patent Leather Marching Band shoes for performances and competitions, which are purchased individually. Historically, students have purchased the “Dinkles Formal” brand/model.  Online prices are generally less than $25 + shipping/taxes.

Sources include:

Accessories for Band www.accessoriesforband.com
Peacock’s Marching World www.marchingworld.com

Please check with the Director of Bands if you have any questions about shoe requirements.

ColorGuard
The Guard wears custom costumes similar to outfits used in dance theater (that is, leotard based). Each year, a new costume is designed to match the show’s theme. The Guard needs their own uniform and (dance) shoes. Specific details on costume purchases are provided by the Director at the beginning of Fall and Spring season. Depending on the year, there may be a different costume used for Winter Guard (from Fall Marching Band season). Similar to the other units in Marching Band, students are provided a t-shirt with the show’s theme and jackets.

A note to ColorGuard parents: Do not purchase Dinkles Marching Shoes. They are Marching Band shoes for non-ColorGuard participants.

Uniform requirements for the students:

  • Guard is always dressed in costume before departure.
  • Guard is allowed to wear designated performance make-up
  • Jewelry is not permitted while in full uniform
  • Never eat or drink anything other than water while in full uniform

DrumLine
During the Spring Season, a different uniform may be used (from the Marching Band) depending on the theme for that year’s DrumLine show.

Concert Band
The concert band appearance is formal attire. The men in wind ensemble, symphonic band and concert band are required to wear black suits, white tuxedo shirts, bow ties, black socks, dress shoes and a belt. The ladies in wind ensemble, symphonic band and concert band are required to wear full length black dress or a black suit.

Jazz Band
The men in Jazz Band are required to wear long sleeve white shirts, solid dark tie, black socks, dress shoes and a belt. The ladies in Jazz Bank are required to wear a full length black dress or a black suit.