It’s the most wonderful time of the year… band camp! With our 2021-2022 season approaching rapidly, here are some fundamental tips and a checklist for how to properly prepare for our Band Camp.
The MVs are cheering on their Hokies at the game against Rhode Island (a throwback to the 2019-2020 season); Source: Katrina Newby.
“Now that I’ve registered for band camp and submitted my audition video, what else can I do while waiting for it to start?”
Great question! For our new members, be sure to read over our New MV FAQ and the MV Handbook, guides designed just for you! These guides are packed with valuable information that can guide you as you march with us.
For all of our MVs, make sure to reread our Marching Style Guide and vocal commands. Since our last field show was performed in 2019, why not be ahead of the game and dust off those MV skills? We will be having so much fun with our shows this year, and even if we don’t quite know what they will look like yet, we are currently preparing for a more normal season.
Along with marching, music is an extremely fundamental part of our community. If you have access to an instrument, then have some fun and pull up our stand tunes while you wait for our season to begin. This will make it easier for you when we start to memorize them. Not only does it get you excited, but all of the music will be played in the stands at our prime football games!
Mindset
Winnie the Pooh during Spirit Week rehearsal! Source; Facebook.
“Okay, so now that I’m ready to jam out in the stands, how else can I be ready for band camp to start?”
GET EXCITED! This season will be a blast, and we are so excited to have you back at the Marching Virginians Center and march together.
Start planning out your time! As college students, we have to utilize our planners in order to complete assignments and balance extracurricular activities. Look into how many credits you are taking, and block out time for classes and assignments. If you have any class conflicts with the Marching Virginians, be sure to take note of any conflicts and communicate them to your rank captain.
And lastly, be flexible! This season might have some special circumstances, especially as we work to keep you and our community safe and healthy. We did this absolutely fantastic last year, so let’s continue to make this another great one!
Have more questions pertaining to the season or about being an MV? Reach out to leadership or members of your section. Fellow MVs can be found on social media or by their Virginia Tech email address. We are happy to help you in any capacity we can!
Do you have any more concerns about being able to juggle being an MV and a student? If so, then be sure to check out Callie Ayala’s post, as it still holds information that rings true today.
If you have any questions that are unique to your situation, feel free to send an email to Polly or Chad. They are just as excited as us (if not more) to see all of your faces and perform at the games.
Items checklist
Essentials:
Water
Sunscreen
Mouthpieces and reeds
Music Stand (for music rehearsals, or you may use a lyre and phone)
Instrument
Clothing:
Clothing/shoes for outdoor rehearsals (think about August weather)
Solid black Marching Band shoes*
Rain gear for field rehearsals
For MVs with long hair, a hair tie if you would like!
Special:
Saxophones: neck strap
Percussionists: sticks and a practice pad
Color Guard: comfortable, sturdy tennis shoes
*Important: Please note that you are required to bring your own solid black marching shoes in good condition. Popular brands include Drillmasters, Pinnacle, Dinkles, Vanguard, Director’s Showcase, etcetera. More information is included here and in our General Information page.
Have a great rest of your summer and let’s go Hokies! Let’s make this year a wonderful one.
The fantastic MV Color Guard at the 2020 Senior Recognition Night. Source; Facebook.