Big Blue Marching Band Handbook

🎵 Welcome to the Big Blue Marching Band!

Congratulations on joining the North Stafford High School Big Blue Marching Band! As a 27-time Virginia Honor Band and recipient of the 2023 VMEA Blue Ribbon Award, we pride ourselves on excellence and tradition. This guide will help you navigate the marching season and make the most of your experience.

We understand that starting something new can be overwhelming. Our community is here to support you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to reach out to any board member or volunteer for guidance.

Standard Fees:
All Members: $255

New Members Additional Fees
Marching Shoes: $45

Marching Band Jacket: $65 (presented upon completion of the first season)

Payment Deadlines:
May 23: $100 non-refundable deposit (reserves your spot)

August 8: Remaining balance due

New Members: $265

Returning Members: $155

Financial Assistance:

We offer financial assistance to ensure all students can participate. Please contact Mr. Mallory at mallorycc@staffordschools.net to discuss options.

Note: Unpaid fees by February 27, 2026, without a financial assistance request, will be added to the student's school debt, which must be cleared to participate in graduation.

All band parents and guardians are members of the North Stafford Band Boosters (NSBB). The NSBB supports the band through organizing volunteers, fundraising, and providing scholarships.

2024-2025 NSBB Board:

Volunteer Roles:

  • Pit Crew: Assist with equipment setup and transportation during performances.

  • Hospitality: Provide meals and snacks during events.

  • Concessions: Manage concession stands during home games.

  • Uniforms: Help with fitting and maintaining uniforms.

Volunteering is a great way to support your student and the band community.

Dates: July 28 - August 8, 2025

  • Week 1: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Week 2: 3:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Attendance is mandatory for all members.

Band Camp Checklist:

  • Physical form signed by physician  *due to Mr. Mallory on the 1st day of Band Camp

  • Instrument, music, drill charts (received on the 1st day)

  • LARGE refillable water jug (½ gallon or larger is ideal, we work hard!)

  • Healthy lunch & snacks

  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

  • Towel (to set your instrument down on the pavement during breaks)

  • Sneakers with socks (no flips or Crocs)

  • Enthusiasm, Energy, & Teamwork - LET’S GO BIG BLUE!!

Stay updated with schedules, announcements, and resources through our communication platforms.

CutTime:  Our Band’s online platform that simplifies and streamlines our communication, events calendar,  and student financial accounts.  Communication from the Boosters is mostly through text/email via an individual MagicLink to your student’s account. 

Parent/Guardian Links

Student Links

Calendar events will be listed in your CutTime account, and can be synced to most calendar programs (Google Calendar, etc.)    Sync instructions

You can also find our Calendar here, and an overview of important events here.

Every band student needs to be aware of what is expected of them at all times.  There are often announcements made at the end of practices and during wrap-up after games and competitions.  Mr. Mallory also posts important reminders and announcements on the band room door.   Students are responsible for these announcements.