What are band competitions?

Just like any sport, marching band participates in scored contests. These contests usually take place on Saturdays beginning at the end of September and continuing through October. Competitions are divided into Preliminary Performances and Final Performances. Please consult the band calendar for the dates of contests.

What is a typical schedule for competition days?

Report times will differ for each contest, and will be sent out ahead of time.

A typical competition day schedule would look like:

  • report to the band hall in the morning

  • rehearsal

  • gathering uniforms and supplies/loading equipment trucks

  • load buses

  • arrive at competition site

  • unload equipment

  • rehearse

  • perform in the Preliminary round

  • regroup (and take a break if able)

  • gather for the announcement of awards

    FINALS (if the band advances)

  • rehearse

  • perform

  • load trucks/watch other bands if time allows

  • watch final awards

  • return to McKinney North

Will meals be provided on competition days?

Yes, meals are provided on competition days for all students regardless of being on the optional game day meal plan. Number of meals provided and meal times will vary based on the competition schedule. Information will be included on the schedule for parents and students to know exactly which meals will be included.

Can I take my student home during long breaks?

No, the entire band will stay together until the competition is over.

Should I send money with my student?

Yes! If time allows, the students may be able to purchase competition t-shirts/sweatshirts, patches, etc.

Can I video record performances?

You may record performances at regular contests and UIL contests. You are NOT allowed to record performances at BOA competitions.

Are spectators allowed to clap and cheer at competitions?

YES!! In fact, we encourage you to make some noise for our band!

Please see our Competition Etiquette Guidelines.

Do I need a ticket to attend the competitions?

Yes, all competitions are paid ticketed events. Prices vary based on competitions. How to purchase tickets will be communicated for each event.

What criteria is used to judge competitions?

Music Performance

  • How well does the band play?

  • Are they in tune?

  • Are they together?

  • Do they have an ‘ensemble sound’?

Visual Performance

  • How well do they march?

  • Are they in step?

  • How clean (together) is the color guard work?

  • How is their body carriage?

  • How are the horn angles?

  • How is the spacing?

General Effect

  • Is the music conveying a mood or message to the audience?

  • Is the entire visual program conveying a mood or message to the audience?

  • Are the forms and movements readable?

  • How well do both music and visuals integrate into a total package that represents the theme?

Percussion

  • How clean (together) is the percussion section?

  • Are they playing musically?

  • Is the front ensemble playing with the rest of the ensemble?

  • How well do they balance with the wind section?

Auxiliary

  • How clean (together) is the color guard?

  • Is their choreography properly reflecting the music?

  • Is the difficulty of the work appropriate for the performers?