Things you should do at a band competition.
Support all bands. Regardless of which band is on the field you should applaud or even cheer when they do a good job. All these students work very hard and deserve our support.
Watch the whole show. Observe different sections of the bands performance. Your interest may be percussion but, you might be surprised with the work the colorguard is doing. Often, several things are going on at once in a show. If you watch a show several times you may see something new on each time.
Show up early. This is especially true for supporters of larger class bands. Many smaller class bands have great shows. Arrive early at the next show and see what you have been missing.
When attending a performance outdoors, be prepared for inclement weather with a poncho or raincoat. Umbrellas block the view of those behind you and may even be dangerous to others in the close quarters of stadium seating.
Things that you should avoid.
Talking during performances.
It is important to realize that although it is fun to visit with family and friends during a contest, it is unfair to distract other spectators from enjoying the show. Save conversations for the times between performances. Others want to hear the music.
Walking Around During
A performance.The performance time for each band is fifteen minutes. Each show lasts around 7 to 9 minutes so that gives you plenty of time between bands to leave the seating area for concessions or to enter the stadium.
Phone Calls
Do not talk on your cell phone. Turn off your cell phone or set it to vibrate.
Allowing Children To Run Around
Do not allow children to play in the stands and distract other spectators.For their safety and as a courtesy to others they should not be allowed to run up and down steps and play in the aisles so others may enjoy the show.
Criticizing Other Bands
Be careful what you say about the performance of other bands while you are at a competition. Being appreciative of the performance of other bands will leave a lasting positive impression of the Jenison Marching Band.
And under no circumstances, should you do the following:
Participate in the performance by bringing your own instrument
Take bets/gamble on which bands will take the caption awards (unless it is under the guise of a fundraiser)
While not expressly prohibited, avoid the use of umbrellas, wearing Ten Gallon hats and or Easter Bonnets lest they block other’s view of the competition.