Introduction

This section addresses various topics related to Winterguard and the Winterguard season.

Schedules

Students are given a practice and performance schedule at the beginning of each month, containing a great deal of information for both parent and student. Students tend to "forget" to share this important item with parents. If your band student has not volunteered to show you the band practice schedule by the third or fourth day of the month, ask to see it.

Practice Times

The practice times listed in the schedule are "start" and "finish". There is preparation before practice starts and clean-up after practice is over. Please plan with your student so you aren’t waiting an excessive amount of time.

Watching Practice

The Guard practices in the Commons -- the cafeteria at LCHS. Parents are always welcome to watch practice.

Uniforms

Winterguard has a different uniform that that used during the Marching season. As in Marching season, the uniforms are developed each year as part of the visual effect of the show. The uniform components are professionally designed; parents are asked to assist in fabricating the uniform.

Contests

Winterguard participates in a variety of contests during the season. Most contests are in the area. Travel out of the greater Houston area to a contest is possible. Regardless of the location, parents and fans are encouraged to attend all competitions and to show their support for the band.

All students participating in a contest are expected to leave with the guard and return with the guard. If a special circumstance requires that your student join the guard at the event or leave the event directly after the performance, you need to make the appropriate arrangements with the band director in advance.

Contest Scoring

Scoring at Winterguard Contests is an inexact science. Just like figure skating at the Olympics, the individual preferences of the judges do play a part. Our Directors strive to develop a show that will be appropriately challenging yet enjoyable for the students to learn and perform while having the presentation that will enable the guard to score well at contests. It’s a real juggling act!

Parent Help

Winterguard contests require a lot of help. The floor and floor props must be set – and cleared – in a very short time. Typically, parents and band students team up to set the floor at contests. Please volunteer to help whenever you can.

Marching Band

Concert Band