NORTH PENN MUSIC AIDES

Welcome to Marching Band! If you’re new, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

  1. Why should I join the Marching Knights?
  2. When does practice start for the season?
  3. What is the time commitment?
  4. Do we practice all summer long?
  5. What do I need to bring to practices, football games and competitions?
  6. Where is student drop-off and pick-up for band rehearsals and events?
  7. What are “Dinkles” and “Duck shoes”?
  8. What is the “Blue Box” and where is it?
  9. What is “Hospitality Knight”?
  10. What is “Knights in Need”?
  11. How much does Marching Band cost, and when are payments due?
  12. What is “CHARMS”?
  13. What is RaiseRight (Scrip)?

  1. Why should I join the Marching Knights?
    Read this letter from a former band member about everything the Marching Knights has to offer!
  2. When does practice start for the season?
    We usually have a few practices in early June before the school year ends.
  3. What is the time commitment?
    From September through mid-November, practice is typically every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30-9pm. On Friday, practice is at 3:30pm. Band members have dinner at the school and then perform in the stands and at half-time during the football game. Saturday practice times vary based on the competition schedule. Dinner is usually provided. Example: Practice 2 hours in AM, break for lunch, and 2 hours in PM. Leave for band competition in the late afternoon/early evening and return around 11pm.
  4. Do we practice all summer long?
    Practices in the summer are every Tuesday from 6pm-9pm. We recognize that families have summer travel plans, so attend when you’re in town. There are Mini-Camps in June and early August. Attendance is STRONGLY encouraged. Band Camp takes place the last 2 weeks before school begins. These rehearsals are REQUIRED and are critical to building our show for the season.
  5. What do I need to bring to practices, football games and competitions?
    Download this list of Supplies Needed for Marching Band to get the lowdown.
  6. Where is student drop-off and pick-up for band rehearsals and events?
    Students may be dropped off and picked up in the C lot. For student safety and to avoid congestion, please adhere to the following guidelines:

    • Drive in a counter-clockwise direction
    • Park in a parking spot to load and unload. Do not drive up and dump.
    • Do NOT park along the driveway outside of C lot.
    • Alternatively, park in F lot in front of the school.
  7. What are “Dinkles” and “Duck shoes”?
    Dinkles are special shoes for marching and performing. Duck shoes are special tan shoes worn by the color guard. These will be ordered as a group before the start of school. Performance shoes will need to be cleaned and polished regularly.
  8. What is the “Blue Box” and where is it?
    Notes, forms, checks, fundraisers, etc. regarding NPMA business can be deposited in the secure “Blue Box” located on a table to the left just inside the door of the band room. The NPMA President and Asst. Treasurer check this box regularly.
  9. What is “Hospitality Knight”?
    On Thursday evenings at 8pm, families and friends of the Marching Knights come out to observe the final practice of the week. It usually takes place on the turf field or on the practice field adjacent to the tennis courts. Besides observing the band’s progress, this is a good chance to meet other parents, buy tickets to competitions, or purchase items such as spirit wear, Wawa hoagie coupons, and GLScrip cards.
  10. How much does Marching Band cost, and when are payments due?
    Members can pay fees in one lump sum or spread out over four monthly installments. There are many fundraising opportunities through which you can earn Student Credit. Student Credit balances can be applied toward membership fees, trips, and other expenses. Financial assistance is also available through “Knights in Need” (see below). Visit the Registration Page for more information.
  11. What is “Knights in Need”?
    Knights in Need is a fund designated for the purpose of helping to pay student expenses for families in need. A Knights in Need form must be completed and approved by the NPMA President and Director of Bands to qualify for use of these funds (confidentiality is strictly protected). The  fund is supported by special fundraisers, donations, and proceeds from alumni participating in fundraisers. Contact the NPMA President at npma.president@gmail.com for more information.
  12. What is “CHARMS”?
    CHARMS is a database used to track financial information for students involved in the North Penn music programs (otherwise known as “Student Financials”). Each student has an account which will allow you to view your payment history and Student Credit balance.
  13. What is RaiseRight (Scrip)?
    RaiseRight (formerly known as Script) is a great way to earn Student Credit. You purchase gift cards at face value while also earning a percentage of the value for your Student Credit account. Physical gift cards are delivered the following week, while ScripNow eCards can be used online or printed immediately. Example: Old Navy offers a 14% rebate. If you purchase a $50 gift card, you will earn $7 for your Student Credit account at no additional cost. Visit the Fundraising page for more information on how to get started!

Still have questions, send us an email and we’ll be happy to help.

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