Robinson Secondary School Band

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Robinson B-Mail

June 20, 2010
Attention all Robinson Band & Orchestra Students and Families
Do you love the convenience of on-line shopping?
Introducing an exciting new concept in fund-raising that will benefit our band & orchestra programs every time you shop!
No registration, no hassle, no crowds!
Want to learn more? Visit either of our web sites at:
www.robinsonband.org or www.robinsonorchestra.org
and click on the link for Let’s Save The Arts. It’s that simple!
Together, we CAN make a difference! Let’s save the arts!

June 16, 2010
Registration for the 2010-2011 band & orchestra school year is now available on-line!
Please visit the registration page and click on the link to register your student today!
FOR ALL HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND STUDENTS:
1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your marching band and concert uniform fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Complete, print, sign, and snail mail the medical & travel permission forms.
4. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Deposit is due July 1st; balance is due August 9th. All forms and payments must be on file prior to rookie camp. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!
FOR ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL BAND & ORCHESTRA NON-MARCHING STUDENTS:
1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your concert uniform/program fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Fees are due prior to concert uniform distribution and no later than October 5th. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!
Happy summer! We look forward to welcoming you to the new school year!
RBOPO and the Robinson Band & Orchestra Staff.

June 7, 2010
A reminder to everyone, students and parents, that a Marine recruiter will be in attendance in the HS Band room on Wednesday, June 9, during RAISE, to talk to interested Robinson Band students about military careers in music. Students interested should sign up for RAISE on accutrak.

June 2, 2010
Attention All Robinson Band & Orchestra Parents
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization
Final meeting of the 2009-10 school year
Tuesday, June 8th at 6 pm in the high school band room
Election of officers
2010-11 early planning
Volunteer needs
Please join us as we say farewell to some, welcome others, and wrap up a terrific year!
Hope to see you there!

May 24, 2010
Help Wanted:
Volunteers are needed to assist with uniform collection on the following nights:
Tuesday, May 25 - MS Orchestra Spring Concert 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 27 - HS Orchestra Spring Concert 7 p.m.
Uniforms will be collected after each ensemble performs. The turn in process takes place in the hallway behind the music wing. Students need to turn in uniforms and garment bags. Boys keep their tuxedo shirts. Students need to remember to bring a change of clothes!
Volunteer shifts are available between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org, if you're able to help out on either night. Please indicate your student's ensemble, so we can ensure that volunteers are not scheduled during their student's performances.

May 19, 2010
HIGH SCHOOL BAND AWARDS BANQUET 2010
All Students and Families are invited to the celebration! Come honor Robinson Musicians for a very successful year. Tuesday, June 1, 2010 6:30 PM In the Robinson Gold Cafeteria Each family please bring: ONE MAIN DISH TO SHARE and A SALAD (LAST NAMES A – L) or A DESSERT (LAST NAMES M –Z) Drinks will be provided.
Volunteers are needed to help with the Band Banquet on June 1. Come join the fun at 3 PM to help set up and decorate the Gold Cafeteria. We are usually finished by 5 PM. Also volunteers are needed from 6 to 7 PM to help at the food tables. If you are available, e-mail bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.

May 18, 2010
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra students and parents,
Greetings from the Robinson Orchestra and Band! Since High School course selection verification sheets were recently sent out, we thought we’d send out a quick note that might answer a few questions people often have. As you review your course selections, please keep in mind the following:
1. Your Orchestra/Band class might be listed as “Beginning Band” or “Beginning Orchestra.” Don’t worry about what it says right now (and no need to contact your counselor). All students are put in the same class when they first register and then are placed in the correct class through audition. This will all happen over the next couple of weeks. When course placements are complete lists will be posted in the music hallway. No need to panic or to call your counselor about this.
2. It is not too late to ADD the Robinson Band/Orchestra to your schedule! All you need to do is contact your counselor (the sooner the better).
3. We will be talking to students about the Robinson Marching Rams over the next couple of weeks. Information about the Marching Rams, including the 2010 schedule and “fact sheet” are posted on our website at www.robinsonband.org.
4. It has been GREAT to listen to the students audition over the past couple of weeks. We are already looking forward to a great 2010-11 school year with the Robinson Band and Orchestra!
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your student’s Director. Go Rams!!!
Mr. Cook, Mrs. Rupert, Mr. Vitale – High School Directors
James W. Robinson Jr. Secondary School
5035 Sideburn Road
Fairfax, VA 22032

May 13, 2010
Help Wanted:
Volunteers are needed to assist with uniform collection on the following nights:
Tuesday, May 18
HS Band Spring Concert 7 p.m. - Concert Bands 3-Blue, 3-Gold and 4
Wednesday, May 19
HS Band Spring Concert 7 p.m. - Concert Band 2 & HS Symphonic Band
Uniforms will be collected after each ensemble performs. The turn in process takes place in the hallway behind the music wing. Students need to turn in uniforms and garment bags. Boys keep their tuxedo shirts. Students need to remember to bring a change of clothes!
Volunteer shifts are available between: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Please email Sue Fisk: fiskfamily5(at)aol.com if you're able to help out on either night. Please indicate your student's ensemble, so we can ensure that volunteers are not scheduled during their student's performances.Thank you!

May 12, 2010
ROBINSON HIGH SCHOOL BANDS IMPORTANT DATES / DEADLINES
MAY 14: Deadline - Ensemble Night Intent
MAY 17: Lunsford / Behrend Applications Due
MAY 18: Concert (3Blue, 3Gold, C4) 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 19: Concert (C2, Symphonic) 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 21: Drum Major/Sect. Leader/Guard Essays are due
MAY 21: Point Sheets Due - points sheets form
MAY 24: Stokes Scholarship Applications Due
MAY 24: Ensemble Night 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 26: First Colorguard Clinic 2:30 pm
JUNE 1: HS Jazz & Guitar Concert 7:00 pm, Russell Theatre
JUNE 2: HS Band Banquet 6:30 pm, Gold Cafeteria

May 2, 2010
The Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble will perform at Woodson High School, the evening of May 13, at 7: 30 p.m. Admission is free.
The program includes:
Mother Earth (Maslanka)
Dusk (Bryant)
Angels in the Architecture (Ticheli)
Looking At the Stars (Cross)
Bugler's Holiday (Anderson)
Lincolnshire Posy (Grainger)
Bugler's Holiday will feature trumpet players: Staff Sergeants Brandon Eubank, Amy McCabe, and Jeffrey Strong, all of "The President's Own" United States Marine Corps Band.

April 29, 2010
To all Robinson Band students and families. Preliminary facts and schedule information regarding the 2010 Marching Rams has been posted on the Band website. Go Rams!

April 22, 2010
Myrtle Beach Trip Photos

April 17, 2010
Myrtle Beach final itinerary and trip instructions!
Students print and bring both documents to class this week (Tuesday/Wednesday) for review with directors.
Students bring itinerary on the trip.
Let's go to Myrtle Beach!

April 12, 2010
DISTRICT XI SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
Frost Middle School
April 16 (Orchestra) - 17 (Band), 2010
PERFORMER NOTES
All performance information can be found online at www.solofestival.com.
PLEASE READ ALL OF THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY!!
Students should dress appropriately for the performance; please refrain from wearing T-shirts, jeans, sneakers, etc.
Students should arrive thirty minutes prior to performance.
Students who miss their performance will not receive a refund.Participants should use Door #1 for entry and exit.
Students do not need to check in at the information table. Proceed directly to the warm-up room.
Students should remain in the warm-up areas (by their performance room number) to ensure that runners can locate and escort them easily to their performance room. Runners will not seek out performers.
It is the student’s responsibility to agree on a meeting time and place (warm-up area or performance room) with their accompanist before the festival day. Runners will not seek out accompanists.
Students must have an original copy of their selection for the adjudicator. The original copy must have the measures numbered. Judges must be given an original copy of the music. VMEA, VBODA, and Event Chairpersons will not be held responsible for copyright violations.
All high school and middle school students are required to have piano or pre-recorded accompaniment (with appropriate playback device provided by the student) if it is required for their selection. The accompaniment is one half of the performance, and the solo the other.
Family and guests are welcome to listen to the performances at the judge’s discretion but should refrain from talking and taking pictures during the performance.
Ratings will be posted in the cafeteria. Individual rating sheets will be sent directly to directors; students should not ask the judge or runner for their rating sheet.
Parking at Frost will be very limited due to the construction of a new building on our school grounds.
Parents should drop their child off at the front of school and continue on to find a parking space. FC Police will ticket any car parking along the yellow curb in front of the school!!
PLAY WELL AND HAVE FUN!

April 10, 2010
Myrtle Beach Trip Meeting, Tuesday, April 13th!
Chaperones at 6 p.m. in the middle school band room.
Interested parents of traveling students at 7 p.m. in the high school band room.
Please join us!

April 7, 2010
Please join us!
Enjoy all our Robinson Middle & High School Jazz Bands with guest soloist, Yamaha Artist Rex Richardson, VCU trumpet teacher and Robinson alum!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
7 p.m.
Russell Theatre
Free & open to the public.
Report time for all High School jazz students is 6 p.m.

April 4, 2010
Hi everyone, As you know the budget process is continuing for next school year and this week the FFX County Board of Supervisors will be listening to public input about how to appropriate monies for the schools and set final tax rates. The bottom line is... the end is near and we need a strong final push to advocate for funding so programs like music can continue to exist and thrive in our great school.

There is a rally on Tuesday starting at 4:30 - FFX County Government Center near Fairfax Corner. It would be great to get as many music students there as possible wearing FACE t-shirts, Robinson Band/Orchestra wear, etc. April 6 rally information

This is a busy time for everyone and certainly as we approach the end of the quarter, spring trips, musical rehearsals and such all of our plates are full. Please consider making that trip over to help make a strong statement. Many of you helped in several ways already - but as we all have learned there is no quick or easy solution to this dilemma. In many ways this is a good learning experience to be involved in this process first hand. We all believe this is important and the people making these decisions need to know as well.

Please pass the word along to your family and friends!
Michael K. Cook, Band Director

March 31, 2010
Please join RBOPO in supporting Elementary Band and Strings at the upcoming Board of Supervisors hearing: April 6 rally information.

March 23, 2010
Our re-scheduled performance for Sweets 'n Swing is this Thursday, March 25, at 7 p.m. in Robinson's Gold Cafeteria. This wonderful night of jazz is free with donations gladly accepted!
If your student is participating in one of the jazz ensembles, please remember to bring along your batch of sweets or treats!
Volunteers are still needed to help:
- decorate between 1:30 and 4 p.m., Thursday
- work a food or drink table for a half hour shift during the evening (not while your student performs!)
- CLEAN UP CREW! :-)
If you can help, please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org!
Looking forward to a great night of Robinson Jazz!

March 11, 2010
Myrtle Beach Spring Trip - important updates. Payment & forms deadlines, bus sign ups, chaperone phone calls, updated itinerary, upcoming parent trip meeting and more!

March 10, 2010
Last minute reminders:
Concert 4 – RAISE rehearsal on Friday in BAND ROOM.
Symphonic Band – Bring your instruments HOME on Friday. No Saturday access to the building.
Everyone - If you USE IT, PLAY IT, WEAR IT…you are responsible for it. Arrive at Westfield FULLY DRESSED, please.
Gentlemen – BLACK SOCKS!
Ladies - real shoes, no flip flops!
Festival Schedule
Driving Directions to Westfield HS

March 2, 2010
Greetings friends.
At the risk of being redundant, I would like to mention that this weekend is the "mark-up session" for the Fairfax County tariff. Once the tariff is set (March 9) the board will not be able to exceed it in determining a final real property tax rate, and the revenue it would generate.
WHAT: If you support increased revenue as a solution to the budget shortfall, and it's impact on schools, now would be the time to contact your Board of Supervisor and Board Chair, Sharon Bulova.
WHEN: Now, this week, NLT Friday. An email, short or long, expressing your desires in this issue will matter more this week than at any point thus far in this effort, and should be our main focus for the next few days.
HOW: you can access your board member and contact info here: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
WHY: The members of the board must decide, as elected officials, if the center of gravity on this issues lies with those who want lower taxes at any cost, and those who are willing to pay the cost of the nation's best public school system. They will essentially do so this weekend.
WHO: All of us.
All the best.
Denny Stokes
Please forward this email to parents of elementary school students who are not on our band and orchestra distribution lists.

February 27, 2010
Greetings friends.
Have tried to avoid "email overload." In that context, here are some thoughts as of today, February 27:
There is much justifiable concern regarding current developments in the county budget process. However, none of this should come as a surprise. Early in this year-long campaign, I noted that the Board of Supervisors would face exquisite pressure to restrain school funding, county spending and revenue enhancement. We are now entering that phase of the debate. From the news and from the email traffic, I am sure you are aware of the current numbers being discussed.
So, what are we to do?

Convert concern into action
Understand the process
Know your audience
Pony up
Mark you calendars

1. The numbers, taken at face value, are truly frightening, representing the potential demise of music education as we know it in FCPS . Now is the time to write your BoS member and Chairperson Bulova, before March 6, expressing your support for full funding of the School Board budget request, and for the needed revenue to enable this (please copy to faceadvocacy@gmail.com). If you have already done so, do so again. If you have not yet contacted anyone to express your opinions on this matter, this is a critical time for your participation.
2. It is common for the County Executive to make recommendations of extreme austerity at this point in the process. Doing so provides each BoS member, their financial leanings notwithstanding, the opportunity to "come to the rescue" of constituents, if they are under intense pressure to do so (see item #1).
3. Remember, the BoS does not "cut" any school program or line item in the school board budget. They can only determine the amount of funding for the entire school system. So, in contacting them it is right to be holistic, and to resist advocating the saving of one particular item. Never forget that each of the two Boards are, to a certain extent, leveraging the other via the views as expressed by the community (again, see item #1...).
4. The report commissioned by FACE and presented by parents is a powerful statement on our behalf. However, the funding for this report is still incomplete, with the burden being shouldered by several school pyramids, and some individuals. Frankly, that is not fair. To all schools and pyramids that have contributed, THANKS. For those who still have the opportunity before them, sooner is better than later. It's hard to think of a need that will ever be more pressing than this.
5. The Board of Supervisors hearings are scheduled for April 6, 7, and 8, 3:00 pm. We have many speakers who will advocate for music. We need enormous numbers of people at each of these meetings. Check the FACE website periodically for updated information regarding times and locations.
So, where are we in this? As dire as the numbers being discussed are, all is not lost. However, at this point, nothing is won. As our bands and orchestras prepare for concerts, festivals and contests, their directors always stress that students can never be too prepared, that no detail or effort is too small to matter. As we work to preserve music education in Fairfax, we must have and hold that same attitude. Through this long process, we must each strive as though our own individual action, our letter, our email, our attendance might be the tipping point for success.
It may well be.
Denny Stokes
For information from FACE, visit: www.faceadvocacy.org

FACE has joined forces with FLAGS, CPES and FDK to present a united front to the Board of Supervisors.
LCI unfreeze has not yet passed the Senate.
FCPS student population has risen by 9,000.

Feb 23, County Executive Anthony Griffin presented his proposed budget for FY2011: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dmb/fy2011/advertised/cex_slide_presentation_fy2011_advertised.pdf

Recommended 1% overall cut to school budget, amounting to $16.3 million dollars less than last year's budget. (Dr. Dale requested $81 million more than last year's budget.)
Proposed $0.05 or $0.06 tax rate increase, and has recommended an advertised rate of $0.08 (from which the BoS may reduce, but not increase). Even at the $0.08 rate, it would not cover our programs.
Car decal... proposed bringing back at $33 each.

February 24, 2010
ATTENTION ALL MYRTLE BEACH TRIP STUDENTS!
Room sign ups have begun and will continue until Monday, March 1st. THAT IS A HARD DEADLINE! Please sign up in groups of 4 and turn your form in to your director. If you can't find a 4th, do the best you can and turn it in anyway. Meet the deadline! Here's the link to the sign up form.
Please make sure you've turned in your required forms for travel. Here's the link to the travel forms.
http://www.robinsonband.org/myrtlebeach2010/springtrip_forms.pdf
Reminder: Final payments are due by Friday, March 5th.
Any questions regarding forms or payments? Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974.
LET'S GET IT DONE SO WE CAN GO TO MYRTLE BEACH!!!

February 20, 2010
High School Band Festival Schedule

February 18, 2010
A reminder to ALL Robinson Band and Orchestra students and their parents: Please TRY ON your concert uniform to be sure that it still fits. If you have a uniform issue please bring the ENTIRE uniform (in the blue garment bag) to Mr. Cook, Mrs. Rupert, or Mr. Vitale so that arrangements can be made to help you. PLEASE DO THIS RIGHT AWAY!! Go Rams!!

February 17, 2010
Our recently canceled Sweets ‘n Swing jazz concert has been rescheduled for Thursday March 25th at 7 pm in the Gold Cafeteria. The middle school jazz band, the high school jazz bands, and the high school jazz combo will all be performing.

February 15, 2010
Both high school jazz ensembles WILL rehearse tomorrow, February 16th, after school at their regularly scheduled time.

February 14, 2010
All Myrtle Beach students & parents:
Due to all the recent school closures, we've gotten a little behind on spring trip business! Here are a few reminders...
1. Required forms for travel are now due! If you haven't done so already, please complete all 4 pages, print, sign, and turn in to your director asap. Follow this link to the forms: http://www.robinsonband.org/myrtlebeach2010/springtrip_forms.pdf.
2. At this point, student accounts should reflect no more than a $225 balance due. Statements will be sent home this week. Please check your statement and make a payment if appropriate. For those of you who are either current or fully paid, thank you!
3. The final deadline for trip payments has been extended to Friday, March 5th. At that time, all student accounts should be paid in full. The big bills are starting to roll in! Please be timely with your payments so that we are able to meet our trip obligations.
4. Remember to check the trip page for updated information, coming soon! The trip page is linked from the opening page of both the band and orchestra web sites, or follow this link.
5. Next stop ~ room sign ups!
As always, if you have questions regarding the trip or your student's account, please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974. Thanks, and here's hoping for a full week of school and plenty of sunshine!

February 11, 2010
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra Family,
This purpose of this email is to clarify the Blue/Gold schedule for the coming week. As you know, Monday, February 15, is now a full day of school to make up for one of the snow days. That day will be a GOLD DAY. Tuesday, February 16, will ALSO BE A GOLD DAY. Two in a row!! Please think ahead to ALL of your Gold Day Classes and bring books, instruments, and materials you will need. To recap:
Monday 2/15 – GOLD DAY
Tuesday 2/16 – GOLD DAY
Wednesday 2/17 – BLUE DAY
Thursday 2/18 – GOLD DAY
Friday 2/19 – BLUE DAY
As posted on the Robinson Blue/Gold Calendar http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?crd=bluegoldcalender&op=cal&month=2&year=2010
Have a great weekend and PRACTICE!!

February 8, 2010
Congratulations to the Robinson Band Students listed below who are eligible to audition for the 2010 All-Virginia Band/Orchestra! These students are eligible through their placement in District Band and/or Senior Regional Orchestra. Auditions will be held at James Madison University on Saturday February 27, 2010.
TO ALL-VIRGINIA ELIGIBLE STUDENTS: Mr. Cook has sent you an email through blackboard that contains VERY IMPORTANT information about the audition including links to the audition etudes. If you did not receive this email please email Mr. Cook IMMEDIATELY so that you can receive the information. Congratulations to these students!!
TRUMPET ADB - Brese, Robert
Eb CLARINET ADB - Doyle, Meghan
TROMBONE ADB - Emmons, Alexander
TROMBONE ADB - Esch, Andrew
BASS TROMBONE ADB - Fisk, Michael
BARTIONE SAXOPHONE ADB - Ha, Jae Won
ALTO SAXOPHONE ADB - Kilgo, Ainsley
TUBA ADB - Kropaczek, Brian
TROMBONE SENIOR REGIONAL - Kropaczek, Stacey
FRENCH HORN ADB - McMahon, Megan
TENOR SAXOPHONE ADB - Reinsel, Samuel
BASS CLARINET ADB - Speed, Taylor
STRING BASS ADB - Taube, William
BASSOON ADB - Trumbo, Matthew

February 4, 2010
District XI All-District Band event will go on tonight as scheduled!
Thursday 2/4/10
All district band members are expected to attend.
6:00 p.m. Arrival
6:15 p.m. Seating
6:30 p.m. Rehearsal
8:30 p.m. Performance (no uniforms)
Parents are welcome to attend. Admission is free.
Friday's rehearsal is CANCELED.

February 3, 2010
ALL-DISTRICT BAND PARTICIPANTS: An update has been posted on www.robinsonband.org in the "Member's Area" (username: robinsonband password: gorams). PLEASE READ THE UPDATE, THE CHANGES ARE SIGNIFICANT. Items of note are: 1. Rehearsal on Thursday will be a little bit later than on the original schedule 2. On Friday students should report to WT Woodson IN THEIR CONCERT UNIFORM 3. They will not be serving lunch on Friday. Might want to bring some snacks. Thank you all for your flexibility!!

TO: Robinson Band students in DISTRICT BAND (this weekend)
FROM: Robinson Band Directors
RE: DISTRICT BAND INFORMATION AND SCHEDULE
This message is intended for students accepted by audition into the 2010 All-District Band to be held at W.T. Woodson HS Feb 4-6. All other students and families may disregard. All information you need regarding All-District Band has been posted on www.robinsonband.org in the “Members Only Area”. Information posted includes: Schedule Information about purchasing lunch Uniform information A parking permit for Friday (please try to carpool)
IMPORTANT NOTES:

Please read this information carefully…it will answer most of your questions
An email has been sent to the Robinson Faculty regarding attendance on Friday.
You will need your Robinson Concert Uniform for Saturday
Please be at Woodson before 6:00 pm on Thursday and meet with Mr. Cook and Mr. Vitale. DON’T BE LATE. Students who are late risk losing their spot and alternates will be called.
It is possible that the concert could be moved to FRIDAY because of weather. We do not have specifics about this right now…stay tuned.
If you have questions please email Mr. Cook at mkcook@fcps.edu or stop in Thursday morning before school. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE FOLKS AT WOODSON HS WITH QUESTIONS!!

Looking forward to a great district band event!!

January 31, 2010
Greetings Friends:
Many thanks to those who attended, and especially those who presented at the school board hearings last week. There were many wonderful thoughts shared, from the pragmatic to the emotionally compelling. Well done.
The reality is, our hardest work lies before us. In the coming week, the school board will take action on the budget; at that point, the focus of attention will turn to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. While I think we did a good job last week, I believe we can, and will have to do better in the upcoming discussions with the BoS. I believe our audience participation will need to be larger, and our message more emphatic than it has thus been. Unless I'm missing something, I don't see a lot of "second chances" in this process.
What's next:

Now would be a great time to send a follow up email to school board members, thanking them for their remarkable patience last week, and encouraging them to request all that is needed for FCPS to be fully operational.
Familiarize yourself with the Local Composite Index (LCI) issue. If you are so inclined, contact your state representatives and the Governor's office regarding the proposed one year "freeze" of the index (see: Washington Post, today, C5, "Insult from Richmond" Here’s the link: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/local-opinions/2010/01/insult_from_richmond.html ).
Per the information below, prepare to testify on behalf of elementary instrumental music education at BoS hearings.

As you know, the Board of Supervisors will make the budget decisions critical to our success, and they will be subjected to enormous pressure to restrain any growth in tax revenue. There will be some intense discussions that go to the very heart of the relationship between the supervisors and the school board. In this complicated environment, as regards band and strings, our mission and our message needs to be kept simple, on point, and relentless: FIND A WAY. As for ourselves, there must be no faltering in our efforts; or tepidness in our response.
So, on we go. And, on this email goes, with important information below regarding the next step in the process.
Let the music continue!
Denny Stokes
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The speakers docket for the Board of Supervisor's Budget Hearings is now open.  The School Board will give its presentation on Tuesday, April 6 at 6:00 p.m. We need speakers to sign-up to speak that night in favor of the Superintendent's proposed budget for the school system. If you are not inclined to speak, please mark your calendar and consider attending the board meeting to "stand in support" for the school budget (more info to follow on this opportunity).
The hearings are held over three days. The Tuesday hearing starts at 7:00.  Wednesday and Thursday, the hearings begin at 3:00 p.m. It would be best to get on the docket for Tuesday the 6th to reflect support for the school budget in particular.
Our general message should be that we (residents) are willing to support a tax increase to pay for the budget submitted for FCPS schools. That includes the requested additional transfer of $57.8 million to cover the programs outlined by the Superintendent as "in jeopardy"  if the additional funds are not provided.
You can sign up by calling 703-324 3151 or by going to:  http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
In the middle of the center window and under "Meetings and Agendas" - click the link "Register to Speak".
WHO: Board of Supervisors
WHEN: Tuesday, April 6, 7:00 (following School Board presentation at 6:00 p.m.)
   Wednesday, April 7, 3:00 p.m -??
      Thursday, April 8, 3:00 -??
WHAT: speakers needed - sign up NOW
WHERE: Fairfax County Govt. Center
WHY: The BOS must be willing to approve Dr. Dale's budget to support school programs, including an increase transfer of $57.8 million
HOW: Call 703-324-3151 or
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
Click on Board of Supervisors. Under Meetings and Agendas - click on register to speak. Try to get on the Tuesday night docket, if possible.

January 13, 2010
Attention all Myrtle Beach Trip Students and Parents:
Spring trip payments #1 were deposited on January 8th.
Student account statements have been processed, reflecting unpaid program fees, trip fees, fundraising credits, and trip payments. These statements are being handed out in band and orchestra classes this week.
Spring trip payment #2 is now due, and may be made via check (turn in to director) or PayPal. Regardless of payment form, please include your student's name and/or student ID# to ensure proper application by the treasurers.
Required forms for travel (4 pages) are now available to complete, print, sign & date, and turn in to your director. Please submit these forms by the end of January.
Trip updates, PayPal button, and trip forms may be found at (link).
Thanks so much! Questions? Pat McMahon at 703-426-2974 or rbopovp(at)aol.com.

January 12, 2010
As a reminder, the RBOPO meeting originally scheduled for this evening has been rescheduled to next Tuesday, January 19, at 7 p.m. in the high school band room. We hope to see you at the FACE Rally to support Elementary Band & Strings at GMU Center for the Arts tonight at 7 p.m. (http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RallyFlyer.pdf).

January 10, 2010
Greetings Friends.
As you know, the FACE rally takes place this Tuesday, 7:00 pm, at the Center for the Arts, George Mason University. I am sending this last email, asking each of you to personally consider the thoughts below, and to share this communication with everyone who would join us in helping to preserve the elementary instrumental music program in Fairfax County.
Ours is a remarkable county, made so by remarkable people who are "doers," in the community, the nation and beyond. It is also a community of very busy people. I write this reminder tonight, knowing that many want to help in our efforts, while still tending to the myriad responsibilities of careers, families...and booster groups! In this setting, a most understandable sentiment could well be: "I'd be happy to help in any concrete way possible, I understand the needs, and I don't really need to be 'rallied'."
Nothing could be further from the truth.
The reality of our dilemma is that there really are no "bad guys" in this process. I am sure, that under different circumstances, our superintendent, our school board, and our county board of supervisors would have no interest in taking on the thorny, difficult, heart-wrenching decisions such as (but not limited to) cutting elementary instrumental music. And yet, here we are.
If I, like they, had to answer to the electorate every few years, I would be paying close attention to these issues, hoping to sort out that which is a "want" from that which is truly visceral in the hearts of the community. I would be impressed by a cogent, thoughtful articulation of the value of music education. But I would be compelled to action by the presence of throngs of people, each one of whom represent the wishes of many more voters. As I see it, it is our job to help make it easier for our leaders to do their job, to find the ways and the means to continue the current music instruction, even in these difficult times.
Do you matter in this process? I have performed many times at the GMU Center for the Arts. It is a lovely facility. It is also BIG. A thousand people will not fill it. Two thousand will make GREAT video! Yes, you matter. The car-load of people you bring with you matters. A room full FACE tee shirts, uniforms and school colors matter. There will be decision-makers at the rally, specifically to gauge the "level of energy," as I was told today. What will they find?
The rally itself will be most informative, and will help equip everyone with the rationale and facts needed as we move into the upcoming decision-making process. Everyone who attends will hear words of hope, while also making the powerful statement of a determined electorate.
I hope you will find a way, to find the time, to find yourselves in Lot K, George Mason University next Tuesday, in time for our 7:00 pm rally. Need directions? Here you go: http://faceadvocacy.org/GMU_Map.pdf. Need more information? Please visit www.faceadvocacy.org.
Remember, we can have whatever we want, if we're willing to work for it, and sometimes, fight for it. As we work to save elementary (and in reality, ALL) music in Fairfax County, the time for planning has ended. The time for action is upon us.
See you Tuesday! Denny Stokes

January 7, 2010
Happy New Year and Thanks to everyone for your continued support of RBOPO and, in particular, the efforts of FACE www.faceadvocacy.com to support
elementary music education in Fairfax County. This is a reminder about several important upcoming events.
1. Please consider signing up to speak in support of elementary instrumental music education at the FCPS School Board public hearing scheduled for January 25 & 26, 2010. Sign-ups begin Friday January 8 (tomorrow) at 6 a.m. via the web and 8 a.m. via telephone. The link is on the FACE homepage listed above or at http://www.fcps.edu/schlbd/requestspeak.htm
2. At 7 p.m. on Tuesday January 12, FACE is holding a supporters RALLY at the GMU Center for the Performing Arts. If you can make it, please show your
support by attending. Details are at http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RallyFlyer.pdf
3. As a result of the FACE RALLY, the RBOPO meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday January 12 has been rescheduled to Tuesday January 19 at 7 p.m. in the High School Band Room. See you there, RBOPO

January 6, 2010
Parents, We are almost ready for District Band Auditions at Robinson on Saturday, January 9. We are still in need of some volunteers to help out to make this a successful event! If you can volunteer between 7:30 a.m. and noon or between 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.

January 2 & 3, 2010
District Band Auditions for Middle School and High School students are coming up next Saturday, January 9th, at Robinson Secondary School. RBOPO assists our Band Directors in running this event. To help us with the Snack Bar(a fund raiser for RBOPO) we are asking for beverage donations of bottled water and soft drinks (12 packs).
Students, by last name, are asked to contribute:
A-C: Coke/Pepsi
D-F: Diet Coke/Pepsi
G-Q: Sprite or Mt. Dew or Diet Sprite/7Up or Dr. Pepper
R-Z: Bottled Water
Please bring beverage donations to the band room by Friday, January 8th. Thanks for your support of RBOPO.
If you can volunteer for an hour or two on Saturday, January 9, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org. Check B-Mail for more specific information.

December 22, 2009
A Holiday Message from the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education (“FACE”) and the chair of Face Boosters, Denny Stokes.

Greetings friends, and thanks for your continued interest in the protection of elementary instrumental music in Fairfax County. Our efforts in this matter, and our biggest opportunities lie before us. Having said that, the holidays come at the right time, allowing us to pay attention to family and home, while we collect our thoughts and consider the best "next steps" in this process. Toward that end, I have one reminder, and one request for all "FACE Parents."

Please mark your calendars for our FACE Rally on January 12. This will be held at the George Mason University "Center for the Arts", with the time to be confirmed soon. This will be our most important organizational gathering, in preparation for the upcoming meetings and hearings by both the school board and the board of supervisors. Our special guest at this meeting will be John Benham, an expert in the advocacy of school music programs, and the person who is coordinating all of our data and information. At this rally, John will present a remarkably well researched study of our situation, which will equip us with the facts, figures and best rationale to present our case. I know you will find his presentation to be both compelling and encouraging. This rally is for parents, students, teachers, indeed, anyone who is passionate about preserving and expanding the musical opportunities our students enjoy.

Second, I am asking you to write a letter during this holiday season. As a younger band director (and therefore, a LONG time ago!) I learned that in improving student performance, it was helpful to praise what I wanted to hear as much as what I actually did hear. In that context, I believe now is the right time to write our superintendent, Dr. Jack Dale (http://www.fcps.edu/supt/index.htm), essentially "thanking him in advance" for his support of a fully funded school budget, and for his recent indications of support for retaining elementary music. I believe that letters sent during this season should be completely positive in nature (superintendents are people too!), which will still inform him and the leadership team of our presence, our passion, and our willingness to be and stay involved. These letters, written in your own words, would be a great opportunity to tell the truth about the impact of music on your/our students and their success in life. It would be particularly helpful for Dr. Dale to hear from parents of the approximately 16,000 music students who are currently in 4th and 5th grade, students who would have their instruction taken away by the proposed cuts.

This would be a good time to reinforce another important message; that Dr. Dale and the school leadership can count on us, and our continued involvement, in their efforts to secure full funding for the school system. I hope you will consider this one task during the holidays as a way of keeping our concerns on "the front burner." Dr. Dale will present his budget proposal to the school board almost immediately after the holidays; this is clearly the best time to contact him directly (did I mention being positive?!).

In a season marked by gift giving, let us give ourselves and our students the gift of music in 2010, and beyond. With apologies for the length of this note, and the promise to stay "off the air" for the next few days, I want to say thanks for all your efforts, and a wish for HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all!

Deny Stokes
FACE Boosters
Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education
www.faceadvocacy.org

December 21, 2009
Happy Holidays to all Robinson Band and Orchestra students! We hope you are enjoying your unexpected extra time off...well deserved! For any students who need access to the instrument rooms before break, the music wing will be open Tuesday, December 22 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Be careful walking to the building, sidewalks have not been cleared yet. This is the only time the music wing will be opened for students before the new year. District Band Auditions are coming up! Extra treats for those who can find Mr. Cook or Mr. Vitale to wish them a Happy Holiday!! Wishing a peaceful and relaxing holiday to all of our Robinson Music Families.

December 15, 2009
FACE t-shirts are available for purchase at $10 each (or $7 each for 10 or more), and are highly recommended if you plan to speak or attend the January public hearing. To purchase, please visit:
Music and Arts (all locations)
Foxes
Gary Frisch Violins
Contemporary Music Centers
Chantilly Music, Lorton Music, Reston Music, & Twinbrooke Music
PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT EVENTS.
1. January 8, 2010 Register to speak at public hearings scheduled for 1/25 & 1/26. Speaker sign up begins at 6:00 a.m. Friday, January 8, 2010 http://www.fcps.edu/schlbd/requestspeak.htm. To register to speak by phone call (571) 423-1075 at 8:00 a.m. Friday, January 8, 2010. All parents, students and community members are encouraged to speak. 2. January 12, 2010 Plan to attend rally at George Mason University. http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RallyFlyer.pdf
3. January 25 & 26, 2010 School Board Public Hearings, 6:00 p.m., Luther Jackson Middle School

December 8, 2009
Myrtle Beach is a GO! Spring trip checks will be deposited on or about (but not before) Friday, December 18th. Please note: Second trip installment of $225 is due January 15th, along with all required trip forms. These forms will be available on the trip page shortly, (link below), along with an activated PayPal button. Student account statements, reflecting unpaid program fees, trip fees, and fundraising credits will be distributed either immediately prior to the winter break (hopefully) or immediately after. Chaperones will be notified some time in January. Please be patient as we work our way through this process. We have 50 interested parents, and only about 25 slots. Watch the web sites and b-mail / o-mail for trip information and updates. Questions may be directed to our trip coordinator, Pat McMahon at: rbopovp@aol.com.

December 7, 2009
Fruit will be available for pick up this Wednesday, December 9th from 5 - 8 p.m .in the middle school band room, and, if needed, again on Thursday same time / same place. We would LOVE to clear it out on Wednesday if possible! Students looking for service hours are welcome!

November 30, 2009
GREENS ALERT!
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1ST!!!
Greens will be available for pick up on Tuesday, December 1st from 6 - 8:30 p.m. and again on Wednesday, December 2nd from 5 - 9 p.m. (before and after the high school band concert) in the middle school band room.
FRUIT HEADS UP!
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9TH!!!
Fruit will be available for pick up on Wednesday, December 9th from 5 - 8 p.m. and again on Thursday, December 10th from 5 - 8 p.m. if needed. PLEASE make every effort to collect your fruit order on Wednesday so that we can clear the middle school band room as quickly as possible and return it to the directors!

November 29, 2009
Dear Robinson Orchestra and Band Students and Parents,
Music in Fairfax County Public Schools needs your help.
On Wednesday December 2nd, Band students in Concert 3 Blue, Concert 3 Gold, and Concert 4 will be presenting their Winter Concert in Russell Theatre at 7:00 p.m.
For all Orchestra and Band students who are not performing that night and their parents, Fairfax County is holding a "Community Budget Dialogue" meeting at Lake Braddock Secondary School. The Fairfax County Band/Orchestra boosters and supporters are urging students and parents to help create a visual presence at those meetings.
What you can do:
1) Meet OUTSIDE Lake Braddock Secondary at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2nd @ Door 14
2) Dress warmly, but over your warm clothes wear clothing that identifies you as a member of the Band or Orchestra.
3) Bring an appropriate poster or sign. A suggestion for signs:
         "It begins with me!" (If elementary student.)
         "Save Strings and Band!"
         "Save the music!"
         "Don't let the music be silenced!"
         "Face the music... don't cut band and strings!"
         "I started Orchestra/Band at __________ (insert local elementary school) in ___ grade. Look at me now!"
         "I Heart (actual heart) band or strings!"
         "Product of: [Elementary School Name]
We want to be a respectful crowd. The event outside the school should be over by 7:15. Thanks for all you to support music and the arts; may our voices be heard on December 2nd.
Thanks for your support of Elementary Band and Strings.
RBOPO

November 25, 2009
As our Marching Band football season has officially drawn to a close, and in keeping with the spirit of being thankful…THANK YOU to everyone for their part in this terrific marching band, football, and playoff season. From the water breaks that started on August 19th, through band week, first aid, uniforms, shoes, rehearsals, meals, checks, videotaping, pit schlepping, RAIN, games, contests, water bottles, scissor lift, overnight, bus lists, senior night, 8th grade night, MORE RAIN, chaperones, swine flu, seat covers, photographs, to the final playoff game against Lake Braddock on November 20th; we are so grateful for the part you play in helping to create, foster, and sustain this Robinson Band family.
Our sincere best wishes to you for a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgiving holiday with your families and loved ones!
Go Rams!!
Michael K. Cook, Band Director

November 23, 2009
REMINDER! Pies pick up is this evening, Monday November 23rd, from 5 - 8 pm in the middle school band room.

November 19, 2009
A message from Denny Stokes, FACE Boosters Chair:
Greetings, and thanks for your generous offer to participate in the FACE campaign to preserve music education in our elementary schools. As the parents, participants and benefactors of this outstanding program, your voice is the most important in what will become a "sea of sound" during the coming budget process. The collective will of parents and families, properly articulated and overwhelmingly presented, cannot be thwarted in the long run. Having said that, I would be less than honest if I did not characterize the issue we face as the most serious challenge to music education in Fairfax county in the last 33+ years
Some general thoughts:

Check in often at the FACE Website: http://faceadvocacy.org/
Expect a certain amount of mixed information, even confusion, as the organization of this effort develops. LOTS of talented people are bringing assets to the process, all with the best intentions.
If you, and/or students attended any of the board meetings at libraries on Saturday, thanks for your positive support. We have received feedback that your presence has impact. There are several such meetings scheduled for December 2, listed on the County website. WE HAVE BEEN ADVISED THAT LARGE NUMBERS OF STUDENTS IN UNIFORM, WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT.
Familiarize yourself with the names of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and the Fairfax County School Board.
Familiarize yourself with the process, as outlined on the FCPS website, for signing up as a speaker. This information can also be found on the FACE site.
Tell your kids to go practice (well, of course!).

It's time for us to get together. You are invited to join us on December 7 at KING KINGS LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4025 Kings Way - Fairfax, VA 22033 (very near the intersection of US Rt. 50 and Fairfax County Parkway), 7:30 pm. At this meeting, we will:

conduct a general overview of the process, history, and anticipated flow of events in the coming weeks and months
review some common goals, understandings and "talking points"
identify "to do" items for parent organizations at the school level
establish a "steering committee" to facilitate future gatherings
Seek specific volunteers for selected tasks

One of my most common instructions to students during my tenure in FCPS was "You can have whatever you want, if you are willing to work for it, and sometimes, fight for it." So it is with us. This will require our best efforts and unyielding tenacity...not a project for the faint of heart! So, let's roll up our sleeves and take charge of this issue!
Looking forward to seeing you on the 7th.

November 17, 2009
PIES DELIVERY!!!
Those scrumptious PIES will be available for pick up in the middle school band room on Monday, November 23rd between 5 and 8 p.m. Product is frozen ~ please deliver promptly to your customers! Thanks for your terrific support of this fundraiser. Our pie sales are up more than $3000 over last year! Students ~ great job!
FRUIT
Heads up! The fruit truck is tentatively scheduled to arrive on Wednesday, December 9th. We will be able to confirm that by Thanksgiving, but it should be a good date, so mark your calendars! We'll send out a reminder when we get closer.
GREENS
Greens are likely to arrive the first week in December. We will not have a firm date until we are notified that the truck is en route. We will publish that information as soon as we have it. Listen for class announcements, watch the web sites, and check for b-mail and o-mail. Stand by ~ more soon!
WHITE HOUSE ORNAMENTS
WHO will be available for pick up at several different times over the coming weeks, beginning with our pies distribution on Monday, November 23rd from 5 - 8 p.m. in the middle school band room.

November 16, 2009
Robinson High School Band:
Spring trip forms and deposits are now due. The Directors will be making decisions about Spring Trip participation this week. Please submit your forms and deposits before Wednesday, November 18.

November 13, 2009
Robinson Marching Rams – Playoff update
THE ROBINSON/CHANTILLY PLAYOFF GAME HAS BEEN MOVED AGAIN.
The Game will be played AT ROBINSON on Saturday November 14. The schedule for the Marching Rams is as follows:
6:00 pm – the band room will be open
6:30 pm – warm up / attendance
7:00 pm – Line up and march to field
7:30 pm – game starts
UNIFORM – Jeans, Band t-shirt and sweatshirt, warm layers underneath. Dress for the second hour of the game. Wear a hat!!
Many thanks to the families of the Robinson Marching Rams for their patience and flexibility as we support the Rams in their playoff endeavors.
Go Rams!!!

November 12, 2009
Robinson Marching Rams - Friday 11/13 playoff update: The Robinson vs. Chantilly playoff game has been moved to Marshall HS because that school has a turf field. Game time is still 7:30 pm.
Here's what that means for the Marching Rams:
1. Meet at Robinson (band sweatshirt, jeans, warm clothes) at 6:15pm
2. We will board buses for Marshall HS and perform at the game (as will the Chantilly HS Band!)
3. If weather keeps the Marching Rams from participating - an announcement will be made through bmail and on www.robinsonband.org
4. To the best of our ability we will make a decision on weather by the end of the school day on Friday. If no announcement is released, we will still plan to perform at the game.
5. Approximate return time to Robinson will be 10:45 pm
6. Additional Chaperone's may be needed for this event. Please email Mr. Cook at mkcook@fcps.edu if you think you may be able to chip in!
5. Go Rams! Beat the Chargers!!

November 12, 2009
For those interested in participating in this Saturday's budget dialogs, but who were not able to register, here is a way you can respectfully participate to show your support of elementary music education in Fairfax County at the following locations:
Kings Park Library / 9000 Burke Lake Road / Burke / 22015
Sherwood Regional Library / 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane / Alexandria / 22306
George Mason Regional Library / 7001 Little River Turnpike / Annandale / 22003
PLEASE NOTE: You must be in place by 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 14th.
You may wish to consider bringing your elementary, middle, and/or high school band or orchestra student with:
1. Instrument case (empty).
2. Sign: "It Starts With Me" "Music Matters" (Others ~ be creative and respectful!)
3. Band/Orchestra T-shirts. Wear your school's band/orchestra spirit wear, if you have it.
Line the sidewalks, shoulder to shoulder, but do not block passageways or entryways.
Remain silent. Let you presence be your voice!

November 8, 2009
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS: Short wrap-up meeting - Monday, November 9 at 2:30 p.m. in Room 403. Bring some food/snacks to share! We'll chat about the season, watch the VBODA DVD. Seniors....special gift for you!

November 7, 2009
RBOPO meeting Tuesday, November 10 at 7 p.m. in the high school band room. Please join us!
Please visit the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education at http://www.faceadvocacy.org to stay up-to-date and current about the budget process and its implications on Elementary music education in Fairfax County.
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RBOPO_2009-10_BudgetNotice.pdf
Three more budget meetings have been added on December 2 from 7 - 9 p.m. at HAYFIELD SS, HERNDON HS, and LAKE BRADDOCK SS. To register to attend: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/budget. While there is a Robinson Band concert on December 2, please consider attending one of these meetings if your student is not performing that night.

November 6, 2009
FINAL CALLfor White House Ornament and Fruit sales is Wednesday, November 11th. Please turn in your orders & payments to your director.

November 5, 2009
This is the 14th year that the Robinson Symphonic Band will perform the Tiny Tots Holiday Concert geared toward Preschoolers thru Second Graders.
The Concert's goal is:
- a terrific and fun Holiday Concert that always includes appearances by our students as Toy Soldiers, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolf, Santa's Elves and even Santa himself
- a small introduction to what and how instruments make up a band
- a hope to spark the desire to learn and play music in our young audience
It is a very special and fun day for everyone!
The Concert is Tuesday, December 15, 2009.
Performances are at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Tiny Tots information flier.
We are sharing this with you in case you have a special youngster that you might wish to bring to the Tiny Tots Concert this year ... or perhaps might even suggest attendance to a preschool or K-2 class of someone in your family. If so, please contact Joyce Gaul at RBTinyTots@att.net or 703-978-6967 for reservations. And of course if you would like to join in the fun as a volunteer ... there is nothing more precious than assisting and watching the kids during a Tiny Tots Concert ... Joyce will be delighted to hear from you!

November 2, 2009
Music Program Needs YOUR Help! Please read!

November 2, 2009
Reminder: Due to the long weekend, the deadline for fruit orders has been extended until Friday, November 6th.
Please turn in orders with payments to your director.

October 28, 2009
Class of 2010 Senior Night Information

October 26, 2009
VBODA State Marching Festival, Saturday, October 31, 2009
West Springfield High School
Schedule

October 25, 2009
Reminder: Deadline for Greens and Pies fundraisers is this Wednesday, October 28th! Please give orders and payments to your band or orchestra director. Thank you!

October 23, 2009
Updated Towson USSBA Competition Itinerary! Please read and re-print the updated Towson USSBA Marching Competition itinerary. Times have been adjusted! IMPORTANT: Marchers, bring your marching sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers in case we need them as an alternate uniform! Bring your black socks and shoes! Parents, if you plan to see the performance, get there ahead of time. Performance times may be adjusted around the weather.

October 19, 2009
Medications drop-off / pick-up instructions for this coming weekend's overnight trip to the USSBA competition in Towson are now available. Please click on the link for details, and follow the instructions. Questions may be directed to Miriam Hunter. Contact information is included with the instructions.
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/USSBA_MedsInstructions.pdf

October 16, 2009
The following is an update of the schedule for the Marching Rams:
1. Tonight’s (Friday) game against Westfield has been postponed until MONDAY, OCTOBER 19 at 7:00 p.m.
2. Saturday’s schedule for the Oakton Classis as posted on www.robinsonband.org is still in effect.
3. Wear warm clothes for Saturday’s rehearsal. Prepare for the weather. Bring warm clothes you can wear under your marching uniform (no jeans).
4. Monday, October 19, we will have our regular rehearsal from 3-5 p.m. / dinner will be provided at 5 / we will perform at the game, and 8th Grade Night will still happen.
5. Tuesday, October 20 – Sectional rehearsals for the entire band from 2:45 to 4:15 p.m.
6. Please see www.robinsonband.org for details about the contest and overnight at Towson October 24-25.
7. GO RAMS!!

October 15, 2009
The Towson/Baltimore itinerary for the USSBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Marching Competition and overnight has been posted on the band website. Direct link: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/towson2009.pdf.
Families may also purchase advanced tickets. Order form and information: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/2009_USSBA_Ticket_Form.pdf
Advance orders will only being taken until Wednesday, October 21 at 5:00 p.m. Click on the form for details.

October 14, 2009
Friday, October 16, home game performance: marchers, be prepared with jeans, this year’s show t-shirt, band sweatshirt, tennis shoes, and another warm layer in case weather prohibits performing in uniform at the football game.
Parents, important Oakton Competition parking information: http://oaktonbands.com/classicparking.cfm
Oakton Competition Schedule of Events: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/oakton_classic2009.pdf

October 10, 2009
Oakton Classic Marching Competition, Saturday, October 17, schedule of events & driving directions: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/oakton_classic2009.pdf

RBOPO (Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization) monthly meeting: Tuesday, October 13, 7 p.m., High School Band Room. Parents, please join us!

Upcoming marching competition planning note:
The Towson USSBA Competition on October 24, will be an over-night trip for the Marching Rams. Plan on all day Saturday (rehearsal at Robinson, travel to competition venue, evening performance), over-night stay in an area hotel, Sunday morning sight-seeing in Baltimore Inner Harbor, return to Robinson Sunday afternoon. More details to follow!

October 7, 2009
Pep Band to Chantilly High School, Friday, October 9:
5:45 p.m. – Meet at Band Room wearing jeans, sneakers, Marching Band T-Shirt and Sweatshirt
Short warm-up and rehearsal.
6:15 p.m. – load buses and depart for Chantilly
10:30 p.m. – estimated return to Robinson
Dress in layers. Dress for the third hour of the game, not the first.

October 1, 2009
Robinson Marching Rams Homecoming Schedule
Please note: the homecoming game performance will be pre-game, not at half-time!
Go Rams!

September 30, 2009
Hello Symphonic Band and Concert 4 Students:
The sign-up sheet for Philharmonic Wind/Brass/Percussion players is posted outside the Orchestra Room door. Please sign up for an audition time for the auditions that will take place on Wednesday, October 7th from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Please come in to see Mrs. Rupert if you have any questions. Remember, you’ll need to play your chromatic scale (just as you do for District Band) and the ETUDE only from the Senior Regional Orchestra audition requirements. Symphonic Band members will receive top priority, though we may have some Concert 4 players to supplement in areas of need.
Our needs for Philharmonic Orchestra:
2 flutes
Piccolo
2 oboes
2 clarinets
1 bass clarinet –as needed
2 bassoons
4 French horns
3 trumpets
2 trombones
1 bass trombone
1 tuba
5 percussion
1 keyboard?? –as needed
Saxophone –as needed
I am not opposed to doubling parts if I have qualified musicians, so please take this audition to let me know of your abilities!
See you soon – can’t wait to hear you!
Musically yours,
Mrs. Rupert

September 21, 2009
North Stafford Marching Band Competition Schedule

September 15, 2009
Senior Regional Orchestra Auditions are on Monday, October 5th, 2009 at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Scheduling of audition times will be different this year, in that you will be assigned a specific time to go to Lake Braddock to register and then audition, rather than the “first come, first serve” style of year past. This should eliminate some unnecessary waiting on your part!
Please bring your $6.00 to Mrs. Rupert by Friday this week, September 18th, if you plan to take this audition – all names need to be submitted Friday night. If you are a wind player planning to audition on 2 instruments (both flute and piccolo for example), you must pay 2 separate fees.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Rupert at amrupert@fcps.edu or come to see me in room 401. My office is inside my classroom.
I hope that lots of you will plan to take this audition.
If you need audition materials, they can be found on the orchestra website at: www.robinsonorchestra.org
Finally, wind players, don’t forget that Robinson Philharmonic auditions are right after the SRO audition on Wednesday, October 7. Mrs. Rupert will post a signup sheet for you to select your audition time from 6-8 p.m. You only need to prepare the SRO etude and your chromatic scale for me.

September 10, 2009
Band and Orchestra parents! This is a FINAL CALL FOR PARENT DRIVERS for Tag Day 2009. We currently have 220+ students ready to go door-to-door in 61 Robinson neighborhoods to ask for contributions in support of the band and orchestra programs. WE STILL NEED AT LEAST 15 MORE PARENT DRIVERS to provide transportation, snacks, encouragement, water, humor, air conditioning, guidance and supervision for our student fundraisers as they hit the streets. If you are available from 8 am until 1 or 2 pm on this Saturday, September 12, consider this worthwhile opportunity. The reward is priceless. PLEASE VOLUNTEER IF AT ALL POSSIBLE! To join up, please contact Mary Lou Bare by email at mlbare(at)gmail.com.

September 4, 2009
All Robinson high school band and orchestra families: Tag Day is just around the corner!
Thank you to those students and parents who have already volunteered to help. We still have plenty of opportunities for band and orchestra families to assist with the biggest fundraising day of the year. If you are available to support Robinson Bands and Orchestras on Saturday, September 12, please reply ASAP to the appropriate person below.
If you would like to drive students on a Robinson neighborhood route so they may request donations, please contact Mary Lou Bare at mlbare(at)gmail.com.
To donate food or help serve our students food before they leave the school to begin fundraising and when they return, please contact Tammy Karas at tammy(at)karas.us.
The treasurers need parents to sort and count money collected. To volunteer in this capacity, please contact Sandi Shirts at virginiacanuck(at)cox.net.
Many marching band students have already signed up for Tag Day during band week. If your student has not yet signed up to participate, he or she will be given the opportunity to do so the first day of school in band or orchestra class. Please encourage your child to participate. This year there will be a random drawing for gift card prizes for all student Tag Day participants. Student and parent volunteers will enjoy a breakfast feast before setting out on the neighborhood routes with plenty of food remaining for when the fundraisers return to Robinson.
Together parents and students can make Tag Day 2009 a huge success!

August 31, 2009
Marching Rams Picture Day - Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Uniform Room open: 2 p.m.
Individual Photos: 3 p.m.
Official Group Photo: approximately 4:30 - 5 p.m. (attendance required)
Uniform reminders:
1. black socks (crew/trouser length, no logos, no ankle/low styles, not navy, not dark gray)
2. show t-shirt must be worn under the marching uniform (shirt from a past show is okay)
3. black marching shoes
4. black socks

August 28, 2009
Congratulations to our Marching Rams directors, staff, parent volunteers, veteran and rookie marchers for a high energy, productive Band Week!
Attention Freshmen (9th Grade) Marchers: There will be no uniform fittings on Monday, August 31 or Tuesday, September 1! All freshmen marchers have been fitted! :-)
Monday, August 31: Marching Band rehearsal 6 to 9 p.m.
Tuesday, September 1: Marching Band rehearsal 6 p.m., parent performance 8 p.m.
Wednesday, September 2: Picture Day - more information to follow
Thursday, September 3: Home football opener, first half-time performance - more information to follow
Have a great weekend and if you are back-to-school shopping, all marchers must have black crew length socks (no logos, no low ankle styles) for Wednesday's picture day and Thursday's home football opener!
Go Rams!

Photos from today's Band Week Senior Day have been posted on the Robinson Band Photo webpage: http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html
Check back later as more rehearsal photos are posted.
Congratulations Class of 2010!

August 27, 2009
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS 2009 – FIRST PERFORMANCE
All Parents, relatives, and friends of the Robinson Marching Rams are invited to an advance viewing of “Rhapsody in Blue and Gold,” the 2009 Marching Band program featuring the music of the great George Gershwin. This will be a short performance and will include short demonstrations of how the Marching Rams learn to do what they do.
WHERE: Robinson Secondary School, Coffey Stadium
WHEN: Tuesday September 1, 8:00 PM
COST: Are you kidding? Just come!
WEATHER: Event may be cancelled if it is raining.
Hope to see you there. GO RAMS!!

August 23, 2009
To All Parents of Marching Rams:
Just a reminder for the parent meeting this Tuesday, August 25, at 7 p.m. in the High School Band Room.
During the meeting, Mr. Cook and our marching band staff will review this season's marching band activities and cover the highlights of this year’s show, "Rhapsody in Blue & Gold". Also, members of the Robinson Band and Orchestra Parents Organization (RBOPO) will be on hand to discuss parent activities and our many volunteer opportunities.
We hope to see you there!

August 13, 2009
An Invitation to RBOPO’s 2009 Marching Rams Rookie Parents’ Welcome Coffee has been posted at http://www.robinsonband.org/rookie_parent_welcome.html.

August 10,2009
Summer Marching Band Rehearsal # 3
Tuesday, August 11
7 - 9 p.m. in the HS Band Room
Parent Volunteers: Extra hands are needed to sort and label concert uniforms during this reherasal. No prior experience necessary! Meet Sue Fisk outside the high school band room at 7 p.m.

August 3, 2009
Marchers who have not already done so, may bring marching fees payment and completed medical/permission forms to this week's indoor rehearsal, Wednesday, August 5, 7 - 9 p.m., in the high school band room. Registration information: http://www.robinsonband.org/registration-09-10.html

July 14, 2009
To All Parents of Robinson Marching Band Students: It’s time for the kickoff of the 2009 season of the Robinson Marching Rams. The first summer music rehearsal is this Thursday, July 16, at from 7-9 pm in the High School Band Room. With the melodies of Gershwin drifting through the summer air, I would like to welcome our new parents and remind all of our Marching Band Parents that it is not too early to raise your hand to volunteer and help and to support this year’s Marching Rams. Rookie Practice starts August 19 and Band Week kicks off on August 24, so now is the time to plan your calendar to join other parents in supporting the Marching Band’s pre-season practices. Pre-season leads up to the Band’s first home game performance at Robinson on September 3.
If you haven’t done so already, please consider volunteering your time and efforts during the waning days of the summer break. It’s a great way to see first hand (from the sidelines of course) the development and progress of the marching show. We need lots of skills and energy—from first aid and water station support to lunch service, uniform fitting and percussion pit logistics—just to name a few. If you have already signed up, thanks! If you are ready to sign-up or would like to help but aren’t sure where you’ll fit best, please contact the RBOPO Volunteer Coordinator Sandi Shirts at virginiacanuck@cox.net or leave her a message at 703-261-6599. Enjoy the rest of your summer and thanks for your continued support of the Robinson Marching Rams
Barry Sharp
RBOPO President

July 8, 2009
Marchers who have not already done so, may bring marching fees payment and completed medical/permission forms to next week's indoor rehearsal, Thursday, July 16, 7 - 9 p.m., high school band room. Registration information: http://www.robinsonband.org/registration-09-10.html

July 5, 2009
More updates from Mr. Cook and our students in Europe: http://www.robinsonband.org/highlights/ama_2009.html Reminder to all Marching Rams: Marching band registration is ongoing and fees deposit is now due. Click on the link for details and to register today! http://www.robinsonband.org/registration-09-10.html

July 2, 2009
Mr. Cook will be sending periodic updates from the American Music Abroad (AMA) Europe trip. The updates will be posted on the band website from here on out, so check there regularly: http://www.robinsonband.org/highlights/ama_2009.html (also linked from the homepage). Today's message: July 2, 2009, from Mr. Cook: "All is well on the 2009 AMA Liberty Tour! Since our departure the students have enjoyed the culture of Vienna, Austria, the city of musicians. Their visit included time in the city center, a tour of the Vienna Opera, and an outdoor performance at Shönbrunn Palace Gardens. Since then the tour has traveled to Dinkelsbuhl, Germany where they will give their second performance this evening (July 2)."

June 18, 2009
Best wishes to all for a delightful summer, followed by new adventures in music, at Robinson and beyond. The Stokes family will be watching, with pride, as the Robinson band family continues to thrive and inspire.
All the best.
Denny Stokes
Director of Bands
Robinson Secondary School

June 16, 2009
Registration for the 2009-2010 band & orchestra school year is now available on-line!

Please visit http://www.robinsonband.org OR http://www.robinsonorchestra.org and click on the link to register your student today!

FOR ALL HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND STUDENTS:

1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your marching band and concert uniform fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Complete, print, sign, and snail mail the medical & travel permission forms.
4. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Deposit is due July 1st; balance is due August 9th. All forms and payments must be on file prior to rookie camp. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!

FOR ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL BAND & ORCHESTRA NON-MARCHING STUDENTS:

1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your concert uniform/program fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Fees are due prior to concert uniform distribution and no later than October 5th. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!

Happy summer! We look forward to welcoming you to the new school year!

RBOPO and the Robinson Band & Orchestra Staff.

May 20, 2009
HS Band Banquet ~ Monday, June 1, 6:30 p.m., Gold Cafeteria
All students & families are invited to the celebration!
Come honor our Robinson Musicians for a very successful year.
Families, please bring:
Last name A - Z: one main dish to share and a dessert
Last name M - Z: one main dish to share and a salad
Drinks will be provided.
Volunteers are needed to help set up and decorate for the High School Band Banquet. Set-up will begin at 3 p.m. on Monday, June 1. If you can help, please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.

May 15, 2009
After school rehearsals:
May 18 - Symphonic Band DRESS REHEARSAL, Russell Theatre, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
May 19 - Concert 4 DRESS REHEARSAL, Russell Theatre, 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Both high school concerts, May 19 and 20, start at 7 p.m., in Russell Theatre.

May 13, 2009
Hard to believe, but it's that time of year again! Time to collect those lovely tuxes and dresses for cleaning! Extra bow ties and cummerbunds issued mid-year also need to be returned. Guys: remember to keep your tux shirts. (You paid for them and they are yours to keep!) Garment Bags must also be returned.
Concert uniforms for all high school band students will be collected Wednesday, May 20th from 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Concert uniforms for high school orchestra students will be collected Thursday, May 28th 6:30 - 9 p.m.
NOTE: Symphonic Band Uniforms will not be collected after Tuesday's concert, due to Mr. Stokes retirement reception. Students will need to turn them in the following evening or on the Orchestra turn in night.
HELP NEEDED!!!
******Volunteers are desperately needed to assist with the uniform collection process o n these nights! ******
Wednesday, May 20th
Thursday, May 28th
*Students in need of service hours are welcome to help! Would especially love help with carrying bagged uniforms at the end of the night! They're really heavy! (Dads welcome too!)
Please consider helping as many hands make light work and we have fun too! If you can help on one or more of those dates, please contact Sue Fisk: fiskfamily5(at)aol.com
Please indicate what performing ensemble your student is in, so you aren't scheduled for a shift during your child's performance.

April 30, 2009
Final meeting of the year ~ Tuesday, May 5th at 7 p.m. in the high school band room. All band & orchestra parents are invited and encouraged to attend.
If you have been an event coordinator or a committee chair this year, please join us as we discuss plans for the coming year, to include budget considerations, volunteers and volunteer needs.

April 25, 2009
Congratulations Robinson Bands and Orchestras! Photos from days 1 and 2: http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html Today, the hike to Clingmon's Dome and Dollywood!

April 17, 2009
In addition to the concert/performance dates listed on the band calendar, here are important dates in the coming weeks.
April 28 - HS band auditions begin
May 8 - All “Leader Essays” due (section leader, drum major, guard captain)
May 11- Drum Major Candidate Meeting
May 15 - Awards “Point Sheets” deadline
May 18 - MS band auditions (for HS band) begin
May 18 - Symphonic Band DRESS REHEARSAL, Russell Theatre, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
May 19 - Concert 4 DRESS REHEARSAL, Russell Theatre, 2:30-3:45 p.m.
June 3 - Drum Major Auditions (in class AND after school)

April 14, 2009
ROBINSON JAZZ SPRING CONCERT!!! Thursday April 16, 2009 7:30 p.m. Robinson's Russell Theatre Please join us for an evening of America's music as our four Robinson Middle and High School Jazz ensembles perform the music of Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Stan Getz,....and even a bit from Tower of Power and The Police. Enjoy the styles of swing, blues, bossa nova, and Dixieland; and celebrate the terrific accomplishments of these Robinson musicians! The concert is free and open to the public.

April 7 & 14, 2009
Gatlinburg Trip Meeting - Tuesday, April 14, 2009.
6 P.M. Chaperone meeting in the middle school band room.
7 P.M. Parent meeting in the high school band room.
All parents of traveling students are invited to attend. Hope to see you there!

March 28, 2009
FINAL PAYMENTS ARE NOW DUE. Student accounts must be cleared to zero balance prior to spring break.
If you have a question regarding your student's trip balance, please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp(at)aol.com or 703-426-2974.

March 23, 2009
ROBINSON HS JAZZ COMBO TO PERFORM AT CHANTILLY JAZZ INVITATIONAL
When:   Friday March 27
Time:    6:50 PM
Place:   Chantilly High School
Featuring:
Megan Cockrell, Trumpet
Ian Dandridge, Guitar
Connor Dietz, Guitar
Andrew Fisk, Piano
Dan Hill, Tuba
Stacey Kropaczek, Trombone
Christophe Lejeune, Trumpet
Stephen Lieske, Drums
Greg Ryan, Saxophones
Stephen Wilder, Bass
Come support our Robinson Jazz students at this performance! For more details and a list of other ensembles performing go to: http://www.chantillyband.org/CIJF/2009/CIJF%20Schedule%202009.pdf

March 12, 2009
Final Festival Reminders:
* ALL members, C3 Blue AND Gold: bring uniforms, shoes, accessories to school on Friday morning. Bring all belongings in your blue garment bag; racks available in HS band room.
* ALL members C3 Blue AND Gold: dismissal from class at 1:00 pm Friday. Report to Band Room for dressing and to collect instruments and music.
* Students will depart to cars and Westfield directly from band room (exit 8): students will not need to go to sub-schools.
* C3 Gold: Must depart Robinson NLT 1:30 pm, for Westfield HS
* C3 Blue: Must depart Robinson NLT 3:00 pm, unless helping Gold members with transportation
* All Students responsible for instrument, music, clothing, accessories
For directions to Westfield HS: http://commweb.fcps.edu/directory/map_base.cfm?locid=2018
Allow 40 minutes to reach Westfield. C4: allow extra time due to rush hour.
Festival Schedule: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/district_band2009.pdf

March 10, 2009
Bus sign ups will begin the week of March 23rd. All trip payment balances are now due. Any questions may be directed to Pat McMahon at rbopovp(at)aol.com or 703-426-2974.

February 25, 2009
Greetings to all high school band families. Attached, please find 2 documents that contain important information for your students regarding the upcoming District Band Festival at Westfield HS on March 13 & 14. As these performances are the most significant events in the “band year,”all students and families will want to have full information regarding the timing and logistics associated with our four performances at Festival.
Students are responsible for their transportation to and from Festival. Of particular importance are the details relating to the students in Concert Band 3 Gold and Concert Band 3 Blue, as their performances are in the early afternoon of Friday, March 13. Please note the arrival times for your student’s band, as the most significant time on their schedule.
Please plan now to join us for a Pre-Festival Concert on Tuesday, March 10, 2009, beginning at 7:00 pm in Russell Theatre. In addition to hearing the music of these four fine ensembles, we will review all details of Festival Weekend in detail, with students and audience.
Thanks for your help with this complicated and important endeavor. Go Rams!

To all band & orchestra students traveling to Gatlinburg: All required forms are past due! All room sign-ups are now due! Next trip installment is now due! All trip related items should be turned into your director or placed in the crate in Mr. Stokes' office. Gatlinburg Trip webpage: http://www.robinsonband.org/gatlinburg09/springtrip09.html Questions about your trip account? Pat McMahon rbopovp(at)aol.com

February 22, 2009
George Mason Music Department is offering complimentary tickets (usually $15 adults, $10 students) to Robinson Music students and families for its Wind Symphony and Wind Chamber Groups Concert, directed by Mark Camphouse. The concert is this Tuesday night, February 24 at 8 p.m., and the flyer below gives guest soloist and program information. For tickets, please email RBOPO parent, bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org and with your name and the number of tickets you would like. We will arrange for your tickets to be available at the Will Call booth at the GMU Concert Hall on Tuesday evening before the concert. Please email by Tuesday morning so we can draft the Will Call list. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy community arts and to hear what's happening with Mason music in our own backyard...all for the low price of....free. Event flyer: http://www.gmu.edu/departments/music/perfarts/archives/spring09/2009.02.24%20WS.jpg

February 17, 2009
Gatlinburg Band & Orchestra Spring Trip hotel room sign-ups are due Wednesday, February 25! Instructions and room sign-up form: http://www.robinsonband.org/gatlinburg09/room_sign-up.pdf

February 10, 2009
All high school band and orchestra members who are traveling must complete travel paperwork by this Friday, February 13.
Please be sure to turn in a permission slip, medical form, luggage search and water safety form. All forms are included in this pdf packet: http://www.robinsonband.org/gatlinburg09/gatlinburg09_forms.pdf.
Paperwork can be dropped off in the collection basket in Mr. Stokes' office.
Room sign-ups will begin next week - students must have completed paperwork on file for room assignment requests to be processed.
Continue to check the Gatlinburg Trip webpage for all updates and information: http://www.robinsonband.org/gatlinburg09/springtrip09.html
Thanks, and GO RAMS!

February 9, 2009
Sweets 'n Swing volunteers needed! Volunteers are needed to help decorate the Gold Cafeteria from 2 - 4 p.m. on Thursday afternoon, February 12. If you are available, please join us!

February 8, 2009
The Music Department of Robinson Secondary School will present its annual “Sweets ‘n Swing” concert on Thursday, February 12 at 7:00 pm in Robinson’s Gold Cafeteria. The audience is invited to enjoy a variety of refreshments while listening to the music of Duke Ellington, Clifford Brown, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and more performed by our Robinson Jazz Students.
Featured ensembles will be the Robinson High School Stage Band, the High School Jazz Band, the High School Jazz Combo, and the Middle School Jazz Band. Admission is free with donations accepted. Make plans now to attend this exciting event on the evening of February 12 at 7:00 p.m.

February 2, 2009
Please join us for the monthly Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization meeting, Tuesday, February 3, 7 p.m., in the high school band room.
Upcoming Events
Sweets 'n Swing, Robinson's Jazz Bands ~ Thursday, February 12, 7 p.m., Gold Cafeteria
Middle School Pre-Festival Band Concert ~ Tuesday, March 3, 7:30 p.m., Russell Theatre
High School Pre-Festival Band Concert ~ Tuesday, March 10, 7:00 p.m., Russell Theatre
High School Pre-Festival Orchestra Concert - Tuesday, March 17, 7:30 p.m., Russell Theatre
Save the Date ~ Denny Stokes Retirement Concert & Reception ~ Tuesday, May 19, 7 p.m.

January 26, 2009
All band and orchestra students traveling to Gatlinburg for the spring trip:
The second trip installment of $200 is now due. Please submit a check to your band or orchestra director, or visit our trip page via our web sites at http://www.robinsonband.org/gatlinburg09/springtrip09.htmlto submit payment via PayPal. Questions regarding the spring trip may be directed to Pat McMahon at rbopovp(at)aol.com. Thank you!

The United States Army Band Tuba-Euphonium Conference begins this Wednesday. ALL concerts and events are free and open to the public. Follow this link to view the full schedule, and note that the Boston Brass are performing Thursday night at 7:30 p.m.!
http://www.usarmyband.com/tuba/tubaeuphonium_conference.html

*** Come and see The Boston Brass in concert! ***
The concert will be at West Potomac High School on Friday, January 30th at 7:30 p.m.
Seats are just $10.00.
Email Penelope.Bauer@fcps.edu for ticket requests.
www.bostonbrass.com

January 19, 2009
Those who live near Robinson may have heard the sounds of "Rocky Top" in the cold air this morning. The University of Tennessee "Pride of the Southland" Marching Band rehearsed for several hours today in preparation for tomorrow's Inauguration Parade. Members of the UT band include Robinson and Lake Braddock band alumni and our own director, Denny Stokes, marched in the UT Band for the Carter Inauguration.
Photos: http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html

January 7, 2008
We are still in need of 12 parent volunteers!! Can you spare approximately 4 hours this Saturday, January 10, 2009, and assist with the District Band
Auditions, held at Robinson Secondary? Are you available 7:30am-12:00pm to help out in the Snack Bar? Or how about 7:45am-12:00pm as a Hall Monitor?
Not a morning person? No problem. Are you available 11:30am-3:30pm to work Registration? Or 12:pm-4:30pm to work as a Room or Hall Monitor?
If you haven't responded to Deb Tolson's email request OR if you haven't receive an email from Deb and you wish to help out--please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.
Lastly, just a friendly reminder to send your beverage donation in with your Band student. To help us with the Snack Bar we are asking for beverage
donations of bottled water and soft drinks (12 packs).
Students with last names starting with:
A and B should bring Coke/Pepsi
C and D: Diet Coke/Pepsi
H - J: Sprite/7Up
K - M: Mt. Dew
E - G: Diet Sprite/7Up
N - R: Dr. Pepper
S - Z: Water
Bring beverage donations to the band room by Friday, January 9th.

January 6, 2008
For those students who submitted a $100 deposit towards the upcoming Spring Band & Orchestra Trip to Gatlinburg, those checks will be deposited in the next week.

January 4, 2009
District Band Auditions are this Saturday, January 10th at Robinson Secondary School. RBOPO assists our Band Directors in running this event.
To help us with the Snack Bar we are asking for beverage donations of bottled water and soft drinks (12 packs).
Students with last names starting with:
A and B should bring Coke/Pepsi
C and D: Diet Coke/Pepsi
H - J: Sprite/7Up
K - M: Mt. Dew
E - G: Diet Sprite/7Up
N - R: Dr. Pepper
S - Z: Water
Bring beverage donations to the band room by Friday, January 9th.

December 3, 2008
Families who ordered fruit and holiday greens: Pick up is this Friday, December 5, 2 - 7 p.m. in the Middle School Band Room. Please help our wonderful parent volunteers and pick up your orders during this time!

December 1, 2008
Fruit pick up will be Tuesday, December 2 from 5 - 8 p.m., and again Friday, December 5 from 2 - 5 p.m.. in the Middle School Band Room. We will not be distributing fruit on the evenings of the high school band concerts.
White House Ornaments orders will be available for pick up during fruit pick up and at band concerts December 3 and 4.
Upcoming Events
All performances in Robinson's Russell Theatre.
Wednesday, December 3, 7:30 p.m. ~ High School Concert 3 Gold and Symphonic Band
Thursday, December 4, 7:30 p.m. ~ High School Concert 2, Concert 3 Blue, and Concert 4
Tuesday, December 9, 7:30 p.m. ~ Middle School Band Concert
*Tuesday, December 16, 9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. - Tiny Tots Concert, High School Symphonic Band*
*Ticketed event, contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org for information.

November 28, 2008
Robinson Philharmonic Orchestra will rehearse on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2008 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. in the Band Room. Our rehearsal the following week will remain the same on Wednesday, December 10 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. with the concert on Thursday, December 11 beginning at 7:00 p.m.

November 25, 2008
Band and Orchestra families still needing to pick up their pies may do so, Tuesday, November 25th from 5 to 7 p.m. in the middle school band room.
Fruit delivery is scheduled for the afternoon of Tuesday, December 2nd. Fruit pick up will be Tuesday, December 2nd from 5 - 8 pm, and again Friday, December 5th from 2 - 5 pm, MS Band Room. We will not be distributing fruit on the evenings of the high school band concerts.

November 21, 2008
Pie pick-up is Monday, November 24th from 5 to 8 p.m. in the middle school band room.
Please plan to pick up your pie orders during that timeframe. Product is frozen and must be picked up and either delivered promptly or stored in your freezer. Thanks to all of our great pie sellers ~ see you Monday!
(Please check B-mail and web site for any possible update regarding pies delivery and pick-up times.)

Woody's Farm Market will be selling Christmas Trees for the benefit of the Robinson Bands & Orchestras!
Woody's is located at 5640 Ox Road (123) at the intersection of Burke Center Parkway. Map and details.
Hours: Sat.,, November 29 through Sun.,, December 21, Monday - Friday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. / Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Small, medium, and large trees! Buy your tree and support your music program!
Proceeds benefit the Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization!
Service hours available for students who volunteer with a parent! More info? bandwebmaster (at) robinsonband.org

November 13, 2008
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parents: Volunteer opportunities are abundant and we need your help over the next few months!
Follow this link to review upcoming events and volunteer your time for pies / fruits / greens distribution, Tiny Tots Concerts, District Band Auditions, and Sweets 'n Swing. Thanks so much ~ your help is greatly needed and hugely appreciated!

November 9, 2008
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization Meeting: Tuesday, November 11, 2008, 7 p.m., High School Band Room. Please join us!

November 4, 2008
Attention Band and Orchestra Students!
Fruit sales are a smashing success ~ up $5000 over last year!
The fruit sales deadline has been extended to Monday, November 10th at 2:30 PM.
All orders submitted to directors by the above deadline will be added to our sales and credited to student accounts.
Additional forms available here: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/rbopo_fruit_2008.pdf
Last chance!

October 30, 2008
Greetings Robinson band family. I’m writing to confirm what your students might be sharing with you. I will retire from Fairfax County Public Schools at the end of this school year, completing thirty two consecutive years of service as a high school band director.

I am sure you can understand the importance of my sharing this news with students first: at Robinson, that takes some time! I appreciate the support and patience of the band families during this process.

As I told students today, I am not leaving Robinson, or teaching because I am tired of the job, or even tired, but due to the details of what is a very good retirement system. From a financial point of view, this is a great problem to have; nevertheless, I make this move with the greatest reluctance, having delayed action for some time.

So, what’s next? First and foremost, for the Robinson bands, we will continue to enjoy a year of remarkable accomplishments. The talent and work ethic that has resulted in spectacular success by the “Marching Rams” is also taking place in concert rehearsals on a daily basis. Mark your calendars now for upcoming concerts! And looking forward, one of my reasons for sharing this news with students now is to insure that we will set ourselves and our students up for continued growth and success in the coming years.

What’s next for me? At my age, “retirement” is a term of art (especially with Mrs. Stokes soldiering on in FCPS!). I know that I am headed for some new, great adventure; what that adventure is has not yet been revealed to me, but I am faithful about the future. Like seniors, I look to the coming chapter in my life with anticipation, and a bit of stage-jitters…but only a bit.

Finally, I will repeat something I have been telling students. In my professional life, I have enjoyed two great blessings: a passion for a particular endeavor, and the opportunity to realize that passion. That combination is one I would wish for all our children, and all who are a part of Robinson Bands. Together, it will always be our job to make it so.

All the best.
Denny Stokes
Director of Bands
Robinson Secondary School

October 28, 2008
High School Band students: It's time to register for All District Band. Bring $6.00, cash or check to RBOPO, to your director.

October 27, 2008
Just a reminder that fruit, greens, and pie orders are all due no later than this Wednesday, October 29th.

October 23, 2008
The Marching Rams and Color Guard Senior Class will wear corsages Friday night. Parents, however, do not need to come to the school early to help pin on the flowers. Senior Band Parents are invited to participate in the half-time Senior Recognition. Seniors and their parents will gather on the stadium track late in the 2nd quarter.
After the show, the seniors will be free to leave the stadium. Refreshments will be served outside door 8 for all seniors after the show (during 3rd quarter), and then for the rest of the band and guard after the game. We hope all students will stop by for hot cocoa, cider and goodies. The baked goods are being provided by generous parents of juniors.
Congratulations Class of 2009 and Go Rams!

October 19, 2008
VBODA State Marching Championship Schedule, October 25, 2008, Battlefield High School

October 14, 2008
Parents: There are a limited number of motor coach seats available for this weekend's marching band competition. Reservations will be taken on a "first come ~ first serve" basis. The price per seat is $25. If you would like to travel with the marching band and leave your vehicle at Robinson, please respond to rbopovp(at)aol.com to have your name placed on the list. You will receive an e-mail response either confirming your reservation or announcing that reservations are closed. For those who are confirmed, please report to Robinson no later than 4:30 pm this Saturday to check in and pay for your seat. Checks are payable to RBOPO; cash is also acceptable. If you change your mind and will not be traveling via motor coach, please notify rbopovp(at)aol.com so that another parent may be accommodated.

October 9, 2008
James Madison University Parade of Champions
Saturday, October 18 Rehearsal / Performance Schedule:
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/jmu_competition2008.pdf
Next week's Marching Band Rehearsal Schedule:
Monday, 10/13 - No school
Tuesday, 10/14 - Full practice, 3 - 5 p.m.
Wednesday, 1015 - PSAT testing/no practice after school
Thursday, 10/16 - Full practice, 3 - 5 p.m.
Friday, 10/17 - Full practice, 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, 10/17 - Pep Band to Oakton, 6:15 p.m.
SATURDAY, 10/18 - JMU Parade of Champions - See schedule above!

October 8, 2008
Marching Rams - Friday, October 10, Home Game Performance:
5:00 pm percussion/guard (uniforms open)
5:30 pm full band rehearsal
Reminders:
1. Seniors, turn in your Senior Night forms!
2. Black socks, black socks, black socks!

Fund-raising packets have been distributed to all band & orchestra students, and are in a back-pack near you! Check it out ~ student account credits are hugely increased this year!

October 7, 2008
Marching Band Schedule for the Week of October 13
Monday, 10/13 - No school
Tuesday, 10/14 - Full practice, 3 - 5 p.m.
Wednesday, 1015 - PSAT testing/no (real) school
Thursday, 10/16 - Full practice, 3 - 5 p.m.
Friday, 10/17 - Full practice, 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, 10/17 - Pep Band to Oakton, 6:15 p.m.
SATURDAY, 10/18 - JMU Parade of Champions - schedule to follow

October 6, 2008
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization Meeting: Tuesday, October 7, 2008, 7 p.m., High School Band Room. Please join us!

October 1, 2008
The performance time for Saturday's marching band competition in Winchester has moved from 8:00 PM to 7:45 PM. This does not effect the rehearsal schedule for Saturday, but may be important to parents planning to drive to the competition.
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/jameswoodcomp08.pdf
Driving directions are available on the band homepage: http://www.robinsonband.org/

September 28, 2008
Schedule for the October 4, 2008 Marching Band competition at James Wood High School, Winchester, VA:
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/jameswoodcomp08.pdf
Driving directions are available on the Robinson Band homepage:
http://www.robinsonband.org/

September 26, 2008
Tonight’s pep band to Westfield is cancelled. Tomorrow’s schedule is unchanged.
Marchers, for Saturday: black socks, black socks, black socks!

September 22, 2008
Volunteers needed to assist with concert uniform fittings:
*Wednesday, 9/24: Concert 2 fittings during school: 12:40 - 2:00 p.m.
*Wednesday, 9/24: After school fittings for Concert 3 Non-Marching Girls: 2 - 4 p.m.
*Thursday, 9/25: After school fittings for Concert 3 Non Marching Guys: 2 - 4 p.m
If you can help during any of the above times, regardless of what ensemble your student is in, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.

September 20, 2008
Marching Band schedule for the North Stafford Competition, Saturday, September 27:
http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/northstafford_2008.pdf

Photos from the Homecoming Parade & home game performance:
http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html

September 17, 2008
Marching Band Homecoming schedule for Friday, September 19: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/homecoming_schedule.pdf The link is also available from the homepage of the band website: http://www.robinsonband.org/ Parents: the marching band performs BEFORE the game on Friday at approximately 7:10 p.m., not at half-time.

Wind, Brass and Percussion players who are planning to audition for Senior Regional Orchestra this year need to turn in the $6.00 audition fee to Mrs. Rupert by Tuesday, September 23, 2008. The audition will take place on Monday, October 6th at JEB Stuart High School. Winds sign-in is from 3:30 - 5:30 and auditions will begin at 4:00 p.m. Any further questions should be directed to Mrs. Rupert at anne.rupert@fcps.edu or 703-426-2143.

September 11, 2008
Marching Rams time line for Friday, September 12:
4:30 p.m. - drums & guard-practice field
5:00 p.m. - pick up uniforms from marching uniform room - you must have BLACK socks and BLACK shoes to pick up your uniform
5:30 p.m. - full band-practice field, wearing black socks, black shoes & marching uniform hat
6:30 p.m. - (or after) final dressing
7:00 p.m. - stadium line-up
Show t-shirts must be worn under the marching uniform. Wear lightweight shorts under the uniform (no cargo shorts w/pockets, long pants or jeans).
All hair must be off the collar (boys & girls) - if you need clips/hair bands bring them!
No jewelry. Earrings must be out or covered with small bandaids.
Black socks.........black socks.......not navy blue.......black socks.....crew style......black socks......and don't forget, black socks! Have a great first performance! Go Rams!

September 9, 2008
Tag Day is this coming Saturday, September 13! We still need 10 more drivers to cover all our routes. If you can help (it's a fun couple hours with our great kids!), please contact Dianne Thomas at dthomas96@cox.net.
Plenty of food is also needed for our hundreds of students and parents who will hit the streets in support of our band and orchestra programs! We need breakfast items, such as donuts, bagels, cream cheese, pastries, fresh fruit, etc., and lunch items, such as sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, baked goods, etc. Parents, please contact Donna DeSoto at desotomailbox@cox.net for more information and to sign up for food service on our biggest fundraising day of the year.
RBOPO is in search of a coordinator for this Fall's fruit fundraiser. Sales materials have already arrived, but we need a volunteer to put it together! This fundraiser is for student account credit, and is a long standing tried & true success! Please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974 to volunteer or for more information.

September 2, 2008
All band and orchestra families: Tag Day is just around the corner! A huge thank you to those who have already volunteered! Plenty of food is needed for our hundreds of students and parents who will hit the streets on Saturday, September 13th in support of our band and orchestra programs!
We need breakfast items, such as donuts, bagels, cream cheese, pastries, fresh fruit, etc., and lunch items, such as sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, baked goods, etc. Parents, please contact Donna DeSoto for more information and to sign up for food service on our biggest fundraising day of the year.
RBOPO is in search of a coordinator for this fall's fruit fundraiser. Sales materials have already arrived, but we need a volunteer to put it together! This fundraiser is for student account credit, and is a long standing tried & true success! Please contact Pat McMahon to volunteer or for more information.
Thank you!
~ Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization

Announcing The Great Harvest Bread Company "Baker for a Day" Contest! Calling All Band & Orchestra Families!!
Please visit the Great Harvest Bread Store in the WalMart Shopping Center to cast your vote for RBOPO to be this year's "Baker for a Day!" Voting begins September 2nd and runs through September 13th. One vote per visit ~ more votes = better chances for RBOPO! "Baker for a Day" is scheduled for Sunday, October 13th from 11 am to 4 pm. All proceeds from the day's bread sales will be donated to the contest winner. Be sure to come out and purchase a loaf of freshly baked bread to support the efforts of the winning organization! Thank you Great Harvest Bread Company and the Verster Family for supporting our community!

August 28, 2008
Welcome to the new Robinson Band email system!
Congratulations to all the students, directors, staff, and parent volunteers! The Marching Rams are off to a fantastic start. The show, "Celebrating 50 Years of West Side Story" promises to be exciting musically and visually!
Go Rams!

June 30, 2008
The Paypal link for marching band on the 2008 - 2009 registration web page is now working correctly. Thank you to all the band and orchestra families who are enthusiastically using our new registration process!

June 30, 2008
A reminder... Band and orchestra registration for 2008 - 2009 is now open. This includes middle school, high school, band, orchestra and marching band! Take a few minutes to work through 4 easy steps to complete required paperwork and fees. In addition to reducing paperwork next August, you will have important information in your hands now! http://www.robinsonband.org/registration_08_09.html This is also a good time to update your FCPS Keep in Touch subscription to ensure you will continue to receive all the latest news from Robinson Band & Orchestra! *MARCHING BAND* STUDENTS: initial deposit, $175, due July 1, 2008! UPDATE: Marching band summer indoor "music only" rehearsals have been changed: Rehearsal will take place on Wed., July 9, 7 - 9 p.m., HS Band Room Rehearsals on July 16 and 23 are canceled.

June 12, 2008
UPDATE: Summer indoor "music only" rehearsals for Marching Band have been changed:
Rehearsal will take place on Wed., July 9, 7 - 9 p.m., HS Band Room Rehearsals on July 16 and 23 are canceled.

June 6, 2008
Parents, Do you dread all the back to school paperwork in August?

Take care of some of it now, before summer starts! Band and orchestra registration for 2008 - 2009 is now open. This includes middle school, high school, band, orchestra and marching band!

Take a few minutes to work through 4 easy steps to complete required paperwork and fees. In addition to reducing paperwork next August, you will have important information in your hands now! http://www.robinsonband.org/registration_08_09.html This is also a good time to update your FCPS Keep in Touch subscription to ensure you will continue to receive all the latest news from Robinson Band & Orchestra! Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

May 28, 2008
Any senior who has not yet given a "senior card" to Mr. Stokes MUST do so by this Friday, May 30, regardless of class attendance. See Mr. Stokes directly with questions.

May 19, 2008
Band Awards Banquet 2008 ~ Monday, June 2, 2008
6:30 p.m., Robinson Gold Cafeteria
Each family please bring one main dish to share and
Salad - last names A - L
Dessert - last names M - Z
Drinks will be provided.
All students and families are invited to the celebration, including
Symphonic Band, Concert Bands, Jazz Bands, Color Guard, and Marching Band!
Please join us as we honor Robinson musicians for a very successful year!

Please join us for our Spring High School Band Concerts!
Tuesday, May 20 ~ Concert Band 3G & Symphonic Band
Wednesday, May 21 ~ Concert Bands 2, 3B & 4
Russell Theatre ~ 7:30 p.m. ~ Concerts are free and open to the public.
Concert uniforms will be collected following each performance.
Congratulations to our seniors, Class of 2008!

May 14, 2008
Hey Band Seniors! Please bring in your $15 for the senior gift by Friday! Give it to Rachel or John. Thanks!

**** ****

All band members should turn in their "point sheets" ASAP, and no later than Friday, May 23, to the blue box in the HS band room. Point sheets can be found on the back of the "blue book", on Blackboard, and on the Robinson band website. Band Banquet: Monday, June 2 - get your point sheets in now!

***** *****

Music Students and Parents - With the final concerts of the season for band and orchestra approaching, this message is sent to share information on the concert uniform returns process. The end of the year concert schedule is as follows: High School Bands Spring Concert ~ Tuesday, May 20 ~ 3G & Symphonic High School Bands Spring Concert ~ Wednesday, May 21 ~ 2, 3B & 4 Orchestra Spring Concert, June 5th

Following each ensemble's performance, students will return to the music wing to change into street clothes. Three uniform return areas will be set up where your uniform will be checked back in.

• Seniors (male and female) will return uniforms in the guitar classroom.

• Female underclassmen will return their dress, (sash) and uniform garment bag (still with name on it) to the area outside the gym and Oasis Snack Bar.

• Male underclassmen will return their tuxedo jacket, trousers, cummerbund/tie and uniform garment bag (still with name on it) in the hallway outside the loading dock/marching band uniform room end of the hallway. If you borrowed second ties or cummerbunds return them in addition to the first set you were issued.

This information is recorded on your fitting form. Tuxedo shirts were purchased by male students at the beginning of the year and should not be turned in with uniforms. Only students who out grew their purchased shirt and borrowed a stock shirt, will return those stock shirts. To expedite the return process, students should do the following:

• Check all pockets for personal item (or tie/cummerbunds) in the uniform and garment bag and remove them before getting in line

• Unzip and fold garment bags with your name card facing up before turning it in. Place your garment bag in the appropriately labeled (2008, 2009, or 2010) graduation year container at the return area. If a garment bag is torn or the zipper does not work notify the volunteer and do not put it into the "by year" garment bag containers. This way we will have a count for re-ordering. If your name is not presently on the garment bag (little window on the front) make up a card and place your name, graduation year and current ensemble on the card before coming to school.

• Each garment has numbers (size and article #) written on it. The numbers on all garments will be verified against the issue roster. Help the process by finding these numbers on your uniform pieces while you wait in line.

• If you have lost or damaged an item or there is a question regarding your uniform, the volunteers will make note of it and followed up later rather than delay your departure. It is hoped that this process will be relatively painless and move swiftly in order to allow you to attend the rest of the performances of the night. Thank you for your cooperation and help in this massive project.

***** *****

Concert uniforms for all high school band and orchestra students will be collected after each of the upcoming Spring concerts.
Volunteers are needed to assist with uniform collection on the following nights:
Tuesday, May 20
Wednesday, May 21
Thursday, June 5
If you can help on one or more of those dates, please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.

May 12, 2008
Please join us for the last RBOPO meeting of the 2007 - 2008 academic year.
All high school/middle school band & orchestra parents are welcome.
Tuesday, May 13, 7 p.m., in the high school band room.

April 16, 20008
Jazz Night Concert
Robinson Jazz Bands & special guests, Norton's Hot 8
April 17 at 7:30 p.m. ~ Russell Theatre
Admission Free - please join us!

Robinson Bands will be hosting a guest jazz band from Kent, England, Norton’s Hot 8 under the direction of John Hall. The Norton Hot 8 will be visiting Robinson all the way from The Norton Knatchbull School in Ashford, Kent, UK. They are an American style Dixieland Band (played with an English accent, of course) that have successfully toured England and Europe and have been repeatedly featured on the BBC as winner of the London “Proms”, England’s pre-eminent performance competition for school groups. Their visit to Robinson will mark their second appearance in the United States and Robinson is thrilled and honored to host their week here in the U.S.

April 10, 2008
Photos from the Band & Orchestra Spring Trip "Day 1" have been posted on the band website. :-) http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html Check back as we hope to continue to add photos late each evening.

April 8, 2008
Final Orlando Trip Itinerary: http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando08itineraryfinal.pdf
Students: print a copy of the itinerary to bring on the trip.
Meal change: lunch *will* be provided for the students at the competition venue on Saturday.
Last minute questions? Contact your student's chaperone or our trip coordinator at rbopovp@aol.com.
Let's go to Orlando!

April 5, 2008
Robinson Band & Orchestra 2008 Spring Trip – Orlando!
Departing Wednesday, April 9th at 7 p.m. & returning Monday, April 14th at approx 11 a.m.

Final Instructions for Parents & Students

1. On Wednesday, go home after school, grab a quick shower and some dinner, and pack carefully! (More below.)

2. Show time for all students is 5:30 p.m. Please be on time!

3. Please use the access road when dropping off students; buses will need access to the back parking lot and plenty of room to maneuver. Please do not enter the parking lot with your vehicle.

4. Students should leave all luggage, including carry-on items, on the sidewalk closest to the school. Uniform bags should be taken directly to the hanging racks, where volunteers will be available to help. Do not load any luggage or personal items either on or under the bus at this time. You will be instructed when it is time to begin the loading process.

5. Uniform check! Please double check that your student has all concert uniform items, to include: jacket / pants / cummerbund / bow tie / tuxedo shirt / black socks / black shoes for the boys, and dress / hose / black shoes for the girls. Important: Please pack shoes in luggage; NOT in or hanging from the uniform bag!

6. Medications may be dropped off on Tuesday evening from 6 – 7:30 pm in the staff lunch room, (preferred), or on Wednesday from 5 – 6 pm in front of Entrance 8. Please see complete instructions for meds drop-off at http://robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/med_dropoff.pdf. There will be plenty of people milling around who can point you in the right direction if you're not sure where to go.

7. Backpacks or small carry-ons should be used to hold all required personal items for the overnight drive and the Thursday visit to Wet n' Wild. Students will not have access to the belly of the buses until hotel check-in on Thursday evening. Recommended carry-on items may include: toothbrush / toothpaste / cosmetics / contact lenses & supplies / sunscreen / sunglasses / hat / cameras / flashlight / earplugs / pillow / blanket / DVDs rated PG-13 or cleaner / park clothing including a bathing suit & towel / pocket money for Thursday lunch, park items, & souvenirs / did I say sunscreen??! Students are encouraged to bring a small drink cooler to be shared between “bus buddies,” and a sack of snacks.

8. The weather in Orlando this time of year is typically mid-80s during the day and low-60s overnight. Spring thunder showers are common. Please be sure to include a lightweight jacket, etc with your personal belongings.

9. All students who possess a fold-able metal music stand are asked to identify all pieces with masking tape and include it with their personal belongings. There will be rotating ensemble rehearsals on Thursday evening.

10. Students will need cash for the following: Thursday lunch, Friday dinner & Downtown Disney, Saturday lunch at the Colonial HS concession stand, Sunday lunch, souvenirs, incidentals, change for vending machines, etc. All other meals & admissions are included in the trip fee.

11. If you have questions regarding any of the above, please feel free to call the trip coordinator, Pat McMahon at 703-426-2974 or e-mail at rbopovp@aol.com. All messages will be promptly returned.

12. Let’s go to Orlando!

April 1, 2008

*Parents*, please print and bring a copy of the draft itinerary to the Parent Meeting on Tuesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m., High School band room. *Students*, please print and bring a copy of the draft itinerary to school on Tuesday or Wednesday (whichever day you have band/orchestra).

If you need to drop off medication for your student, here are the instructions: http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/med_dropoff.pdf

March 30, 2008

PARENT MEETING for Band/Orchestra Spring Trip to Orlando! Come and have all your questions answered and learn more about what you can do to help make your child's experience more successful. You will meet your child's chaperone and the band/orchestra directors. Tuesday, April 1, 2008, High school band room, 7:30 p.m.

**Questions? Please reply to bandwebmaster@robinsonband.org**

March 27, 2008

RBOPO offers the following slate of Executive Board nominees for the 2008-09 school year. Additional nominations may be made via e-mail to rbopo@robinsonband.org. Nominations remain open until the slate is presented and approved at the general membership meeting on Tuesday, April 1st at 7:30 pm in the high school band room. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. This action item will immediately precede the parent information meeting for the high school spring trip to Orlando. President: Barry Sharp

Vice President: Pat McMahon
Secretary: Linda Brese
Treasurer: Pam Johnson
Treasurer: Mary Lou Bare
Treasurer: Patty Licari

March 14, 2008
Please add the following date to your calendar! A parent and chaperone meeting for the Band & Orchestra Spring Trip to Orlando will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 in the HS Band Room. The trip chaperones will meet at 6:45 p.m. followed by the parent meeting at 7:30 p.m. As a reminder, final trip payments are past due if you have not yet submitted them. A draft itinerary has been posted – please continue to check the trip web page for updated information. http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando2008.html If you have questions, please reply to rbopovp@aol.com.

February 27. 2008
Deadline for Medical Forms are due NOW. NO forms will be accepted day of the trip. If we do not receive completed and signed forms, your child will NOT be allowed to go on the trip. This is a matter of safety for your child.
The forms are: Emergency Care Forms (2 pages one copy only), Permission Slip and Luggage Search Form. You can find these forms on the Spring Trip web page: http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando2008.html
Have your child return the completed forms to his/her music Director. Please ask you child (children) if they have turned in their room sign-up forms for the trip. The deadline has passed and they will be assigned a room if they do not sign up by Monday, March 3rd. Also, if they signed up with only 3 in the room, they should know they might be completely reassigned in order for us to make as many quad rooms as possible.

February 26, 2008
ORLANDO TRIP STUDENTS - LAST CHANCE TO SIGN UP FOR FRIDAY EVENING ACTIVITY OF CHOICE! Deadline has been extended to this Friday, February 29th. After Friday, all uncommitted students will be assigned to option #4, "hotel downtime." Please submit an optional activities form to your band or orchestra director asap, and let us know what you'd like to do. Form link below. Thanks! http://robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando08_optiona_lactivities_signup.pdf

February 15, 2008
ll spring trip balances, forms, room sign-ups, and optional activities sign-ups are now due! It's time to make the final arrangements for our trek to Orlando. Have you...
1. Paid your student account balance? Students can confirm their balance due with their director if the invoice sent home has been misplaced.
2. Turned in all required trip forms: Emergency Care Forms (2 pages – one copy only), Permission Slip, Luggage Search?
3. Checked with your students to confirm them have turned in their Room Sign-up sheets in groups of 4 so we can submit our rooming list to the hotel?
4. Turned in an Optional Activities sign-up for Friday evening so that we can assign buses and chaperones for each group of students?
All forms can be found on the Robinson band website: http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando2008.html

February 12, 2008
The High School Band Festival schedule for Thursday, Friday & Saturday, Feb 28, 29, and March 1, 2008, is now available on the band website: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/festival_schedule2008.pdf The printable file is also linked from the band homepage.

February 11, 2008

The Music Department of Robinson Secondary School will present its annual "Sweets 'n Swing" concert on Thursday, February 14 at 7:00 p.m. in Robinson's Gold Cafeteria. The audience is invited to enjoy a variety of refreshments while listening to the music of George Gershwin, Sonny Rollins, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and more performed by our Robinson Jazz Students. Featured ensembles will be the Robinson High School Stage Band, the High School Jazz Band, the High School Jazz Combo, and the Middle School Jazz Band. Admission is free with donations accepted. Make plans now to attend this exciting event on the evening of February 14, 2008.

Greetings Robinson. This April, Robinson Bands will be hosting a guest jazz band from Kent, England: “Norton’s Hot Eight,” under the direction of John Hall. They will arrive on Wednesday afternoon, April 16, and depart for England on Monday, April 21, 2008.

The Norton Knatchbull School is located in Ashford, Kent, about one hour southeast of London, not far from Dover. An “American style Dixieland Band,” Norton’s Hot Eight has successfully toured England and Europe, and have been repeatedly featured on the BBC as winner of the London “Proms,” England’s preeminent performance competition for school groups. Their visit to Robinson will mark their second appearance in the United States.

Robinson bands will be hosting the group during their visit, where they will share the concert stage with ensembles from our school. If your family would be interested in being a part of this event by hosting one, or a pair of our guests, please contact Denny Stokes by email at denny.stokes(at)fcps.edu, or by phone at 703-426-2147. Information will be collected and placements made as soon as possible.

A draft itinerary of their visit is as follows, subject to updates and additions:

DAY	DATE/TIME	EVENT
Wednesday	16-Apr	Arrive-Dulles
		Arrive-Robinson, meet families
		Home with host families
Thursday	17-Apr	Visit Robinson
		Attend music classes
		Rehearsal
		Evening Concert
		Reception
Friday	18-Apr	DC tour
		US Capital Tour
Saturday	19-Apr	Tour activities, TBA
		Afternoon Cookout
Sunday	20-Apr	Day with host families
Monday	21-Apr	Visit Robinson
		Farewell Activity
	6:00 PM	Dulles Airport
	9:55 PM	Departure

Host families would provide lodging and some meals for the student(s), some transportation to and from Robinson, and events close at hand. At this writing, most of the finer points regarding transportation, logistics and potential conflicts (such as solo & ensemble participation) are under development. What is certain is that this visit provides host families the opportunity to serve as a “window on America,” opening their home and their daily lives to student musicians much like our own (but with a different accent!). For families who can not host a student but would be interested in helping with arrangements for our guests, there will be opportunities to be involved and contribute. Please contact Mr. Stokes with comments and suggestions.

Thanks for your support in extending a big Robinson Rams Welcome to the USA to these students. It will be a delightful, memorable experience for all, and a time of musical friendship for students and adults alike.

February 5, 2008

Mandatory medical forms for the Orlando Spring Trip are due NOW.

Links for these forms are on the trip web page:
http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando2008.html

FCPS Emergency Care Information
Permission Slip and Health Form
FCPS Field Trip Luggage Search

WE DO NOT NEED 2 COPIES. Be sure to sign all the forms.

Your child will not be able to go on the trip without the medical forms.

Please download, complete, and have your student return all applicable forms to their band/orchestra director. Well in advance of the trip, you will be contacted by your student's chaperone for a personal introduction and to verify and discuss any student-specific needs.

Thank you for your cooperation.

February 3, 2008

Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization
Monthly meeting - all parents welcome to attend!
Tuesday, February 5, 7 PM, High School Band Room

January 18, 2008

The Music Department of Robinson Secondary School will present its annual “Sweets ‘n Swing” concert on Thursday, February 14 at 7:00 p.m. in Robinson’s Gold Cafeteria. The audience is invited to enjoy a variety of refreshments while listening to the music of George Gershwin, Sonny Rollins, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and more performed by our Robinson Jazz Students. Featured ensembles will be the Robinson High School Stage Band, the High School Jazz Band, the High School Jazz Combo, and the Middle School Jazz Band. Admission is free with donations accepted. Make plans now to attend this exciting event on the evening of February 14, 2008.

January 15, 2008

All Florida trip participants,

Use the link below to sign up for optional activities being offered for the evening of Friday, April 11th. Please indicate ranked choice preference #1, #2, #3, and #4. (Please note that all options are subject to cancellation due to lack of interest.) Return this form to a band or orchestra director no later than Friday, February 22nd. If your first preference is option #1 or #2, be sure to include a check made payable to RBOPO for the indicated amount. http://tinyurl.com/3524sp

January 13, 2008

To assist our Spring trip chaperones with form collection, medication information, and parent contact, please *FORWARD* this email to our trip chaperone coordinator to verify we have your current email address: chaperone@robinonband.org

Please include: Student's first and last name
Instrumental Group (Concert Band IV, Orchestra, etc.)
Parent(s) first and last name
Phone number

Payment deadline reminder!

High School Band & Orchestra Spring Trip payment deadline #2!

Check a backpack near you for your student's current invoice of balance due plus fund raising credits. The invoices are bright yellow and coming home this week! Once you have your hands on the invoice:

1. $200 trip payment is due January 15

2. full payment of your student's trip balance

Your choice between the two, but please make a payment by January 15 via check or our online secure credit card option. Final trip payment will be due in mid-February. All trip information, required forms, payment due dates, Paypal access and tentative itineraries can be found on the new Orlando Spring Trip web page: http://www.robinsonband.org/springtrip2008/orlando2008.html

Questions? rbopovp(at)aol.com

January 8, 2008
High School Band & Orchestra Spring Trip payment deadline #2!

1. $200 trip payment is due January 15

2. full payment of your student's trip balance

Questions? rbopovp(at)aol.com

January 3, 2008
Plans for the spring trip to Orlando are moving forward, and all trip deposit checks will be taken to the bank on Friday, January 4th. Check frequently for trip details and updates, along with trip payment information: http://www.robinsonband.org. Let's go to Orlando!

January 1, 2008
RBOPO is asking for beverage donations to support our District Band Audition Snack Bar. Please bring bottled water and soft drinks to the band room no later than January 4th. Soft drinks and water should be in 12 packs. Please send the following (by last name):
A and B: Coke
C and D: Diet Coke
H - J: Sprite
K - M: Mt. Dew
E - G: Diet Sprite
N - R: Dr. Pepper
S - Z: Water
A few parent volunteers are still needed to assist with this Saturday's District Band Auditions, January 5, 2008. Email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org if you can help.

December 5, 2007
Tonight's High School Band Concert has been re-scheduled to Thursday, December 6.
*All* High School Bands will perform on Thursday evening. Please Note: Concert will begin at 7 p.m., Russell Theatre BAND------------WARM-UP Time/Location-----------PERFORM*
Concert 2-------6:30 p.m. Stage-----------------7:00 p.m.
Concert 3 Gold--6:30 p.m. Orchestra room--------7:15 p.m.
Concert 3 Blue--6:30 p.m. MS Band room----------7:35 p.m.
Concert 4-------7:00 p.m. HS band room----------7:55 p.m.
Symphonic-------7:15 p.m. MS/HS band room-------8:20 p.m.
*Approximate!

December 3, 2007
White House Ornaments will be on sale at this week's concerts in the lobby outside of Russell Theatre. Be sure to stop by and take advantage of this great opportunity to knock out a couple more holiday gifts! District Band Auditions are just around the corner! Many volunteers are still needed. Auditions will be held at Robinson on Saturday, January 5th. Morning and afternoon shifts (running approximately 4 hours) are available ~ you choose! Sign-up sheets will be available at this week's concerts at the White House Ornament table. Please take a moment to volunteer for this important event. Thanks!

December 2, 2007
RBOPO Volunteers needed for Tiny Tots Concerts! Shift 1: Set up Monday, December 10th from 2:15 until 3:45 p.m. Shift 2: First performance, Tuesday, December 11th from 8:45 until 11 a.m. Shift 3: Second performance, Tuesday, December 11th from 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help with this heart-warming holiday event, please contact Donna DeSoto.

Extra fruit is available, first come, first served. Please contact Leigh Ann, if you would like to purchase from the list below: 2 - 40# naval oranges 1 - 20# mixed 1 - 20# tangelos 4 - 10# mixed 1 - 10# grapefruit 2 - 10# naval oranges 2 - 10# tangelos

November 28, 2007
Fruit orders will be available for pick-up: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday, November 29 & 30, Middle School Band Room White House Ornaments: White House ornaments can be picked up at the same time as greens and/or fruit. Also, we have extras and can still take additional orders.

November 27, 2007
Our holiday greens have arrived! Students may pick up their orders between 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday (November 28-30) in the Middle School Band Room. Extra items may be purchased on a first come first served basis for as long as they last.

November 14, 2007
Last chance Holiday Pie pick-up TODAY! Thursday, November 15, 5 - 7 p.m.
Middle School Band Room Mmmmmm.......pie! If you ordered pies, please pick them up tonight - last chance!

November 13, 2007
Robinson Band & Orchestra Spring Trip to Orlando, Florida, April 2008! Preliminary information, itinerary and interest forms are in a back pack near you! Please ask your student for the trip information! Students, please give your parents the trip information!

November 8, 2007
Pep band to Chantilly cancelled due to weather. Go Rams!

November 8, 2007
Playoff Football Game Pep Band, Friday, November 9, away at Chantilly
Pep Band report time: 6 PM
Dress warm!

November 6, 2007
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization Monthly Meeting
*Next* Tuesday, November 13, 2007 ~ High School Band Room ~ 7 p.m.
All high school and middle school band and orchestra parents are invited to attend!

November 1, 2007
Robinson Marching Rams *Senior Night* ~ Friday, November 2, 2007
5:00 p.m. - Uniform room open
5:15 p.m. - Percussion outside
5:45 p.m. - exercise circle (in uniform)
6:15 p.m. - Seniors inside for pinning (it takes a while)
6:30 p.m. - inside for all
7:00 p.m. - line up
REMINDER: Friday is MARCHING BAND LOCKER CLEAN OUT DAY!
Congratulations Class of 2008! Go Rams!

October 28, 2007
RBOPO Fall Fund Raiser Deadlines
Holiday Greens: Wednesday, October 31
Pie and Fruit orders *extended* deadline: Thursday, November 1
White House Ornaments: November 16
Please support the Robinson Band & Orchestra Program through these vital fund raisers!

October 26, 2007 - UPDATE
In case of rain in the morning, students should *not* rehearse in show t-shirts.
BRING:
Show t-shirt
Black socks
Hair stuff
Lunch
Black socks

VBODA State Marching Festival
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Battlefield HS

SCHEDULE
11:00 a.m.                   BAND ROOM OPEN
11:30 a.m.                   PERCUSSION/GUARD REHEARSAL
12:30 p.m.                   REHEARSAL- FIELD HOUSE OR BLACKTOP
1:45 p.m.                     LUNCH (bring)
2:30 p.m.                     LOAD EQUIPMENT/PICK UP UNIFORMS
3:00 p.m.                     DEPART
4:00 p.m.                     ARRIVE/UNLOAD/PLUME (tba)
4:45 p.m.                     WARM-UP
5:45 p.m.                     PERFORMANCE: BLACKTOP OR FIELD HOUSE
6:45 p.m.                     ANNOUNCEMENT OF RATINGS
7:45 p.m.                     RETURN TO ROBINSON (APPROXIMATE)
Traveling in uniforms, 6 school buses
Directions to Battlefield HS: http://tinyurl.com/2c26ul
15000 Graduation Drive, Haymarket, VA

October 22, 2007
VBODA State Marching Festival
October 27, 2007
Battlefield High School (Prince William County)
SCHEDULE
11:00 a.m. BAND ROOM OPEN
11:30 a.m. PERCUSSION/GUARD REHEARSAL
12:30 p.m. REHEARSAL - PRACTICE OR MAIN FIELD
2:00 p.m. LUNCH (bring)
2:30 p.m. LOAD EQUIPMENT/PICK UP UNIFORMS
3:15 p.m. DEPART
4:00 p.m. ARRIVE/UNLOAD/PLUME
4:45 p.m. WARM-UP
5:45 p.m. PERFORMANCE
6:45 p.m. ANNOUNCEMENT OF RATINGS
7:45 p.m. RETURN TO ROBINSON (APPROXIMATE)
Traveling in uniforms, 6 school buses
Directions to Battlefield HS: http://tinyurl.com/36ru5a
15000 Graduation Drive
Haymarket, VA

Robinson Band & Orchestra,
Pie and fruit orders are DUE Tuesday, October 23!
Holiday Greens - due October 31
White House Ornaments - due November 16
Please support the Robinson Band & Orchestra Program through these vital fund raisers!

October 19, 2007
MARCHING RAMS HOMECOMING DAY SCHEDULE-FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 10/20 REVISED TODAY
12:10 PM DISMISSED FROM CLASS
12:20 PM PEP RALLY
3:00 PM PARADE**CANCELLE
4-6 PM TASTE OF ROBINSON inside in MAIN HALL/FIELD HOUSE
TOMORROW
9:30 AM BAND ROOM OPEN
10:30 AM PRACTICE BACK LOT
11:20 AM UNIFORM***
11:50 PM LINE UP ON FIELD LINE UP
11:55 PM TO THE FIELD
12:00 PM PERFORMANCE
12:30 PM GAME**
** STUDENTS WITH SCHEDULE CONFLICTS DISMISSED
*** UNIFORM DECISION TBA

October 9, 2007
DATE - October 13, 2007
EVENT - Hanover Hawk Marching Invitational
SCHEDULE
8:00 a.m. BAND ROOM OPEN
8:30 a.m. Percussion/Guard rehearsal
9:30 a.m. REHEARSAL-PRACTICE FIELD/MAIN FIELD
11:00 a.m. LUNCH (bring your own)
12:00 p.m. LOAD EQUIPMENT on truck and buses
12:30 p.m. DEPART FOR HANOVER (coaches)
2:30 p.m. ARRIVE/DRESS (at buses)
3:30 p.m. WARM-UP
4:15 p.m. STAGING
4:30 p.m. PERFORMANCE
5:30 p.m. AWARDS
6:30 p.m. DEPARTURE (bring non-perishable snacks for return trip)
8:00 P.M. RETURN TO ROBINSON (APPROXIMATE)

* students bring bag lunch & drink for pre-departure lunch

+ We will travel in jumpers, jackets on hangers, hats in boxes. Plumes upon arrival.
Instruments travel in cases. Percussion battery will travel under buses.

Driving directions to Hanover High School:
10307 Chamberlayne Road
Mechanicsville, VA
http://tinyurl.com/269uc6

September 27, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007 Robinson Home Football Game Marching Band Schedule
Drumline/Color Guard: 4 p.m.
Field Prop Parents: 4 p.m.
Field Prop Students: 5 p.m.
Full Band Rehearsal: 5 p.m.
Students may march in a past year's show t-shirt to keep the current show shirt clean for Saturday's competition. Rookies may wear a similar white t-shirt.
Black socks, BLACK socks, black SOCKS! Go Rams!

September 26, 2007
Marching Band Competition Schedule - September 29, 2007
EVENT: N. Stafford Marching Band Invitational
SCHEDULE
8:30 a.m. BAND ROOM OPEN
9:00 a.m.Percussion/Guard rehearsal
10:00 a.m. REHEARSAL-PRACTICE FIELD/MAIN FIELD
12:00 noon LUNCH (bring your own)
1:00 p.m. LOAD EQUIPMENT on truck and buses
1:30 p.m. DEPART FOR N. STAFFORD (school buses)
3:00 p.m. ARRIVE/DRESS (at buses)
3:45 p.m. WARM-UP
4:30 p.m. STAGING
4:45 p.m. PERFORMANCE - Cavalcade
5:30 p.m. AWARDS
6:30 p.m. DEPARTURE
7:30 p.m.. RETURN TO ROBINSON (APPROXIMATE)
*students bring bag lunch & drink for pre-departure lunch+We will travel in uniforms, carrying jackets and hats. Plumes upon arrival. NO food on buses.
Driving directions to North Stafford: http://www.nshs.net/main_pages/directions.htm

September 21, 2007
"ADOPT-A-PROP!"

ATTENTION, MARCHING PARENTS: SHOW PROPS HELP DESPERATELY NEEDED! We've all seen them -- they're big, they're beautiful, and they're vitally important to the success of our show. We've designed them, we've funded them, we've built them. Now if we could just get some help with them...
We desperately need a dedicated team of 12 parent volunteers, (2 per station), to assist with assembly, movement to and from the field, and disassembly. There are parts of the process that require parents as a safety measure; the student "sentries" are awesome, but they can't do it by themselves. The process is not difficult or complicated, but it does take some time and muscle. We have 4 or 5 parents to lead and guide; we need 7 or 8 more.
We have 3 remaining home games on Sep 28th, Oct 19th, and Nov 2nd. Assembly begins at approx 4 pm so that the kids can use them during their pre-game rehearsal. We don't really need all 12 for the assembly process -- we can get by with 6 or 8 -- but we do need 12 as we move to the field, as we prepare to march, and as we move off the field.
We have 3 competitions this season on Sep 29th (North Stafford), Oct 13th (Hanover / Richmond area), and Oct 27th (Battlefield / VBODA state contest). Assembly takes place at the competition sites. Volunteers are needed to be on-site as the Interstate trailer arrives. The exact timing of this will vary from date to date, but for Sep 29th, the truck will depart Robinson some time between 12 and 1 pm. Props crew would leave in tandem with the truck.
We've worked really hard on this and it has the potential to be spectacular! We simply need more hands. We have lots of pit crew, tons of chaperones, plenty of help with all the other show components -- we need help with show props.
Please, please, please help make this year's show a smashing success. The Robinson Marching Rams need your support. Don't delay! Call or e-mail today to "Adopt-A-Prop."
Pat McMahon / 703-426-2974 / rbopovp(at)aol.com. A HUGE THANK YOU to all who have contributed so far, and most especially to: Doug Hatfield, Richard Koucheravy, Paul McMahon, Rodney Meyer, Pam Sutey, Duncan Thomas

September 18, 2007
Robinson Marching Rams - Thursday, September 20, 2007
Drumline and Color Guard: 4 p.m.
Field Props Adult Crew: 4 p.m. (We need your help - rbopovp@aol.com to volunteer!)
Field Props Student Crew: 5 p.m.
Full Band Rehearsal: 5 p.m.
Do not wear show t-shirt. Bring it to change into after rehearsal.
Dress in uniforms: 6:30 p.m.
March to stadium: 7:00 p.m.
Game: 7:30 p.m.
Black socks, black socks, black socks.
Black shoes, black shoes, black shoes.
Hair clips, no jewelry. Black socks.
Go Rams!

September 12, 2007
ROBINSON BAND AND ORCHESTRA TAG DAY REMINDER!!

This message is for the following groups:
Robinson Marching Band
Robinson Symphonic Orchestra
Other HS Band and Orchestra students who have volunteered to help
Other HS Band and Orchestra students who STILL WANT to help!

DATE: Saturday September 15th
TIME: 8:00 a.m. to approx. 2:00 p.m.
PLACE: Meet in High School Band Room (403) at Robinson

WEAR: Comfortable walking shoes. Marching Band members wear your new Marching Band show t-shirts. Orchestra and non-marching band students wear Robinson clothing as directed by your teacher.

FOOD?: YES!! Food will be provided at the beginning and ending of Tag Day.

ASK: Your relatives who live outside the Robinson area to help make our Tag Day a success. They can make an online donation right from the Robinson Band homepage! Send the link to anyone you know and tell them we need their support.
http://www.robinsonband.org/

The link to make a donation is about half-way down on the homepage via the button "Support Robinson Band & Orchestra".

Go Rams!

September 11, 2007
Robinson Band and Orchestra Parent Organization Meeting
(open to all band and orchestra parents!)
High School Band Room, 7:00 PM
September 11 ~ TONIGHT! Please join us!

September 9, 2007
If you have not volunteered to drive on RBOPO Tag Day, remember how important this fund raising effort is to the Robinson Orchestra and Band program. $$$ raised on Tag Day fund concert/marching band uniforms, instruments and more.

You can help by driving students to and from local neighborhoods where they ask for contributions. Your commitment is just a few hours, from 8 a.m. until 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, September 15.

We are in need of more drivers!

To volunteer your time, please (by Wednesday, September 12) call Dianne Thomas at (703)966-4298 or email dthomas96(at)cox.net. A list of confirmed drivers went out via KIT. If you did not receive the KIT email, please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org so we can troubleshoot your KIT subscription.

September 6, 2007
Robinson Marching Rams - Friday, September 7
4:30 p.m. Drumline and Color Guard Rehearsal
5:00 p.m. Uniform room open (black socks and black shoes required to pick up uniform)
5:30 p.m. Full band rehearsal - do not wear your show t-shirt to rehearsal. Bring it to change into after rehearsal.
Black socks, black shoes, show t-shirt!
Go Rams!

September 4, 2007
While today is officially the first day of school, for members of the Robinson Marching
Band and their parents, it all began over three weeks ago with Drumline and Rookie Camp.

Thanks are owed to the students, directors, staff and parent volunteers for the hours and
hours already contributed and many more yet to come.

Band Week is a finely tuned (no pun intended) event, and one of the critical components is
food. Robinson Band is well fed during Band Week and we would like to thank Anne Sharp and
the parent volunteers who kept everyone fed with quantity and style during Band Week and
the much enjoyed Picture Day Dinner.

Marching band, concert band and orchestra volunteer opportunities are still open in many
areas. Please join us as we support music at Robinson!

To volunteer, please reply to this email or:
Rich Kurz, RBOPO President
rbopo(at)robinsonband.org

Pat McMahon, RBOPO VP
rbopovp(at)aol.com

September 4, 2007
To Parents of ORCHESTRA and BAND Students from RBOPO,

(To reply, please phone Dianne Thomas at 703-966-4298 or email dthomas96@cox.net.)

We still need drivers for Tag Day on Saturday, September 15, 2007. Can you drive students around while they collect contributions? It's a short but productive day -- we meet in the band room at 8 a.m. and work until 1 p.m.

Each driver will be assigned:

(1) Robinson orchestra and band members

(2) a specific neighborhood where students in your car will solicit contributions for RBOPO.

You will be given the following materials:

(1) a map defining that neighborhood

(2) brochures about the band to give to contributors or to place on unanswered front doors

(3) an envelope for storing contributions as the students bring them to you.

By Saturday, September 8th, we need the following information:

(1) how many family members will drive

(2) In even numbers, how many passengers fit in each car.

EACH STUDENT MUST HAVE HIS / HER OWN SEAT WITH A WORKING SEAT BELT!

TAG Day is the single biggest fund raising event for Band and Orchestra each year, providing funds critical to the program we provide our students.

Thanks so much for your participation. Your help is an essential part of the day's success!

August 29, 2007
Marching Rams - Reminders for Thursday's home game performance!

3:00 pm Band room open
4:00 pm Percussion/color guard rehearsal 5:00 pm Full practice-parking lot - in black socks, black shoes, show t-shirts
6:15 pm Pick up uniforms and dress
6:45 pm Line up for uniform/hair check & stadium entrance 7:30 pm Game beginsBLACK SOCKS -required for rehearsal!BLACK SHOES - required for rehearsal!HAIR OFF THE COLLAR - when in uniform!NO JEWELRY - when in uniform!Please bring whatever you need to put your hair up.
Please bring your black socks (we gave out all our loaner socks for Picture Day!).
Earrings that can not come out, must be covered with band-aids! Bring some and keep them in your locker.And finally...Go Rams!

August 28, 2007
We are experiencing a high number of bounced messages due to full inboxes, out-dated email addresses, etc.
The Keep in Touch system does not like bounces. Depending on the reason for the bounce the system will automatically unsubscribe or refuse to send email to an address.
We have "re-set" all the email addresses recently bouncing RBOPO email, forcing Keep in Touch to re-subscribe problem addresses subscribed to receive RBOPO Band email.
Please help us get important band email to you throughout the academic year by keeping your Inbox available and updating Keep in Touch should your address change.
The information below was sent in a "Band KIT" late Tuesday evening.
Robinson Marching Rams will NOT participate in a band contest on Saturday, October 20, 2007 due to homecoming activities.
Contest dates for Fall 2007 are:
9/29
10/13
10/27 (VBODA)
Go Rams!

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written permission. 5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax, VA 22032