Welcome to the 2011 Indoor Percussion Season. For those of you new to this part of the program or need a refresher, there are a few things that you should know.

• There are weekly rehearsals that take place from 6:00 to 9:00pm. Every member must show up to rehearsal 30 minutes prior to the start time for weekday rehearsals. Additional rehearsals are added according to the school schedule and as required to finish or refine the show. While our staff does try to end rehearsals on time, they do often run longer than scheduled due to a variety of factors. Please be patient as it does take time.
• A detailed calendar has been completed and can be found at www.andrewpercussion.org. Please make every effort to plan around this schedule now. Shows are mandatory as each student plays a very important role in our production. Please contact Alan, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Mike, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it immediately with any schedule conflicts. Also, notification of an absence at least 24 hours in advance will be required.
• Students are transported by bus to all competition sites. While chaperones aren't always needed, our success relies heavily on parent involvement. Much like marching band, it takes a very coordinated effort between students, staff, and parents to ensure that our show goes on without a hitch. Emails will be sent out throughout the season requesting parent volunteers.
• Some meals are provided and others are the responsibility of each student on the day of the competition and generally cost around $8.00. Please be sure your student has money for these meals. You may wish to provide them with a little additional money at your discretion as there are t-shirts and other items available for purchase at the show site. A detailed packet will be passed out prior to every contest to provide further information.
• Finals competition is in Dayton, Ohio. Each year we have the privilege of attending WGI World Championships. This is the highest level of competition and is a great experience for the students. This year’s contest takes place in April on the 14th, 15th and 16th. We will be leaving on Wednesday April 13th after school and returning back to VJA on Sunday the 17th in the early afternoon. More information to come.
• Uniforms are custom made each season. The cost of our uniform will be $100 and is due in full at the conclusion of the November 29th Parent Meeting. This $100 is not refundable for any reason. Students will get to keep their uniform when the season is over. This fee includes the student’s shoes.
• This season’s student fee will be $500. After the uniform fee of $100 is taken on November 29th, the $500 season fees will be paid in two $250 installments. The first installment will be due on February 1st and the second on March 1st. Invoices will be sent to each child’s home about 10 days prior to them being due. All fees must be paid in full prior to our departure for WGI World Championships.
• Other expenses may include the purchase of a Member Jacket for $58 and / or a Show Shirt for $15. These purchases aren’t mandatory but are nice to have. Orders can be placed anytime for a Member Jacket (See Alan if you are interested). More info to come in regards to the show shirt.