Glossary

Band APP: Texting app used by directors and staff to communicate quick messages about practices, locations, cancellations. When the info goes out to sign up for Band App notifications, make sure you sign up so you don’t miss anything.

Band Camp: This is generally two weeks of intense band related activities held in mid-late July. Band students arrive early AM and practice music and movement throughout the day culminating in the evening. Students are introduced to the Field Show and learn skills required for producing an outstanding performance as a Unit.

Band Camp Dinner: These are meals provided by the Band Boosters in the evenings during the weeks of Band Camp. The students enjoy a relaxing time with the band members dining on site. These times are always a welcome break for the students and a time of need for volunteers to help serve the food.

Band Room: this is generally the Smiley Campus Band Room however it can also mean Milburn!! This area is on the North end of the Smiley facility.

Band Shoes: These are the black shoes required to perform at events.

Band Together Leads: This group of experienced band parents divided by sections to help new parents acclimate to “band life”.

Band Wagon: Separate from Concessions, this is the customized trailer that is a self-contained funnel cake and sno-cone producing machine staffed by Band Booster Volunteers.

Battery: This is the portion of the Band that consists of the snare drums, bass drums, and quad drums. Also occasionally used as a term to name the cylindrical energy source used to power portable electronics.

Bibbers or bibs: Refer to the dark blue bib overall type part of the Band Uniform. Generally stored in a garment bag and slipped over shorts near time of performance.

Big Blue: Tractor/trailer used to transport band instruments to the various venues the Band participates in. This customized trailer accommodates the bulk of the student’s instruments on trips. Additionally, this is the storage area for Shakos. (See shako)

Black Socks: Must be worn with the band uniform. White socks + dark blue uniform=TACKY

Blue Shirt: Slang for the transportation crew that builds props and moves the band’s equipment. These men and women wear dark blue instead of yellow shirts because blue doesn’t show dirt as readily as yellow. They also act as the MacGyver’s for the Band. They routinely make anything out of plywood, pipe and duct tape! If it’s broke or needs moved—-see Transportation-they are in Blue Shirts!!

Blue Shorts: The dark shorts worn under the band uniform. Students are sometimes instructed to show up in polo and blue shorts. This is for ease of dressing in the uniform when they get to school. Pull the bibbers over the blue shorts and they are ready! The blue shorts are also part of the practice uniform.

BOA – Bands of America: This is a national music organization that the Marching Panthers are involved with. BOA provides high quality competitions and expert adjudication in all things band related. If it’s a BOA event—it is a big deal for the Students, Parents, and Spectators.

Board Meeting: This meeting is held monthly in the Smiley Cafeteria (or in a room nearby) and is attended by Booster Officer’s, Committee Chairmen, Event Key Workers, and is open to all Members. The meeting is to discuss the details of the Booster organization with regard to events, planning, review of events, finances and all issues in regard to supporting the Band.

Board: Term used to describe the Officers and Committee Chairmen for the Boosters

Boutique: Specialty items available specifically for the band. Some items are required for students, some are for spirit wear and fun. purchases are available for Students and Parents. Gloves, socks, shirts are generally available. The YELLOW SHIRTS parents will want to purchase are available here. Boutique items require payment when ordering.

Budget: This refers to the Band Boosters financial plan each year to support Band related activities through the purchase of, providing for, and maintenance of assets in our mission of supporting the Band.

By-Laws: These are guidelines followed by the Band Boosters organization to govern activities.

Calendar: This is the “event tracker” posted on CHARMS. Events, practices, times, dates, trips, etc. are posted to this calendar. It is important to reference it often as it changes nearly daily as the most current information is posted. Great communication tool for students and parents alike to stay “in tune” and plan your daily schedule.

Charter: Charter Bus-when traveling longer distances, Charter Coaches are generally used for the comfort of the students. These expenses are paid by the Booster organization. Charters are a “treat” to provide the highest level of comfort vs. using Yellow Busses. All rules still apply with Chaperones manning seats to assure compliance.

Color Guard: Section of the Band that handles the flags, weapons and related movements during performances.

Concessions: This term is used to describe the activities of selling soda, chips, hot dogs and other highly nutritious items at events including Craft Fair and HOME Football games. Profits from sales support the Band by helping to reduce Band Fees and general support of the band.

Concert Bands: The Concert Ensemble program is the basic level of involvement for all OTHS students. All students enrolled in the Band Program at OTHS will participate in one of four ability-based groups. Placement is determined by auditions/director discretion
– Wind Ensemble (PREREQUISITE IS PARTICIPATION IN MARCHING BAND and Private Lessons) – an orchestra composed of wind instruments (flutes, clarinets, bassoons, saxophones, etc.). Students must audition for the exclusive right to perform and for their placement in their section for the following school year.
– Symphonic Winds
– Symphonic Band
– Milburn Band (freshmen band)

Contra Club: Required weekly rehearsal in Late winter/early spring for all (new and returning) marching contra-tuba players. They learn to manage and play these massive instruments.

Craft Fair: The single LARGEST fundraiser for the Band Boosters. This event reduces band fees significantly!!! Annual event held for the last 40 years and is always the first weekend in November; an “ALL HANDS ON DECK” production. Parents and students volunteer for work shifts convenient for their schedule throughout the weekend, providing support and direction for the 300+ crafters hosted. Help is needed in all areas: parking, set-up, break-down, food concessions, bake sale, Santa’s Helpers, office help, and various other areas. The impact of the Craft Fair is simple: The more funds raised during this ONE weekend, the less money you pay in annual band fees. Please mark your calendar now and plan to spend time helping.

Dot Sheet/Book: This is the mysterious and top-secret sheet each Band Student uses to record and check their movements for the Field Show. You will hear this term and see your student referring to this Dot Sheet many times as they learn “the show”. It is a requirement for all students to have their “dot book” or their grades are affected.

Dr. Beat/The Met: This is an electronic device often heard at practices. It produces an audible sound for reference of Band students as they practice

Drop-off point: This is the Parking Lot on the South end of the Smiley Building. It is NOT the Faculty Parking Lot adjacent to the Band Room. Please DO NOT drop off your child anywhere except the South Lot. This is to provide the highest level of safety for your child. The students march many miles during the day; a few feet from the SOUTH parking lot to the band room is a good warm up.

Drum Major: These are the students standing on the ladders or platforms directing the Band during performances. They are also respected as a vital communication channel between Director, Assistant Directors, Techs and the Band students.

The Dome at America’s Center: Former home of the St. Louis Rams football team and a venue used quite often for band competitions and events. Located in downtown St. Louis. Use the MLK Bridge for quickest access (next best option is the Eads St. Bridge)

Etiquette Tips: Whether it’s a parade or a field show—stand and cheer for all bands participating but always make sure that, when the Marching Panthers perform, the loudest cheers are heard!!! Other Bands are kids just like yours—they just live in a different school district. Band is really about the students having the opportunity to learn life skills—individual pride in a job well done, always giving it their best, learning to function in a group setting, learning new skill sets, teamwork, listening skills, communication skills, and many more lifelong traits that are built upon to be a successful and satisfied member of society. The “cardinal rule” of “if you can’t say something nice—don’t say anything at all” is a trite expression that certainly applies. As parents of young adults, we all know how emotionally fragile these kids are at this age. Whether it’s your child or a child of someone in an entirely different band, positive reinforcement and encouragement through cheering and clapping will serve the Band student well. Treat others’ children the way you want your child to be treated! Whether you are sitting in the stands or standing along a parade route, the kids in the band performing are someone’s child just like yours!! Be respectful and encouraging please. Good sportsmanship also builds camaraderie and respect among other spectators and competitors. The Band Boosters look forward to providing support for many years to come as our predecessors have done for years. The Band continues to grow in numbers and quality of performances and not by chance. OTHS is blessed to have a Band Program led by quality staff, and educators, and supported by engaged PARENTS. As a parent, you are to be commended for seeing the value in music education for your child but the journey is not over! Now is the time that you, as a parent and Band Booster member, get to reap the rewards through making new friends and enjoying watching your child perform at an extremely high level in the music world. The Boosters look forward to getting to know you and your student over the next few years and encourage you to GET INVOLVED. A few short years from now–your child will Thank You for being there with them and experiencing their successes as Band Students.

Field Show: This is the show that is performed at football games and during competitions the Band is attending. This show is custom and unique to OTHS. The music and movements are designed and refined specifically for the OTHS Marching Panthers. Students start learning it in Band Camp and have it perfected by BOA Grand National Championships in November. Parents may record the events but are asked NOT to share the show until after the season to keep competition from scouting out performances.

Flags: These are the devices used by Color and Winter guard. They look like a flag on a stick hence the term Flags. Also referred to as silks.

Flute Choir: These flute members rehearse to perform for special events during Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and other holidays. In addition, the flute choir will rehearse outside the school day in preparation for the Solo/Ensemble Contest.

Football game: Used to describe the time when the Band allows the sports team to interrupt their practicing by hosting a game at Panther Stadium. The Band performs a half-time show and Band Members sit together showing support for their fellow OTHS participants throughout the game. Home games serve as “tune-up” time for the Field Show performances. Concessions are provided at home games by the Band Boosters. (Volunteers are always needed!) Away games are not mandatory for Band Students. The Marching Panthers do not perform at Away games.

Fundraising, General: A committee of dedicated individuals who organize, promote and nurture fundraising events that support the entire Band and all its associated programs (Winter Guard, Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, etc.). Activities include: Yard Sales, Craft Fair, Concessions, MEMC and much more.

Fundraising, Student: Activities, usually monthly, that are equivalent to opportunities for the student to raise money for their individual accounts. Percentages vary, but generally range between 30-50% of total sale of products, which include TJs Pizza, Auntie Anne’s, Coffee Beanery, and Butter Braids. These funds can be used for a myriad of things (band fees, trip payments, etc.) and results of efforts put forth are immediate rewards for each individual student having his/her account grow in balance to fund specific items related to their performance.

Funnel Cakes: The “other” thing the OTHS Band Program is known for!! Delicious treat that is cooked up by Band Parent volunteers at numerous events. These culinary delights are made in the Band Wagon exclusively and created by volunteer gourmands highly trained in frying things in lava-hot oil.

Garment Bag: This bag stores the Band Student’s uniform. It is required and should be treated with respect and Band Uniforms should be properly transported in this bag. This helps keep the uniform clean and presentable, safeguarding it from damage. Make sure your student’s name is on the bag!

Gauntlets: These are the dark blue/white and gold “cuffs” that go over the sleeves of band jackets and are designed to fill in the space where the uniform jacket ends, and the gloves begin (aka ‘hiding the wrists while playing an instrument’).

General Booster Meeting: This meeting is held monthly in the OTHS Smiley Campus Cafeteria- or other designated location. Discussion includes what is going on with the boosters, band, and color guard and discusses the needs of the Band regarding events and support issues. There are a few notable exceptions to the date, which is why it is so important to check the calendar often.

Gloves: Set of black and white gloves (black glove right hand, white glove left hand) sometimes all black and sometimes all white, depending on parade/football game/field show. An often-forgotten item that will need to be purchased in the boutique. (Not worn by Percussion students)

Golf Carts: These are (oddly enough) golf carts used at events to transport equipment and personnel. The use is restricted to adults only for safety concerns.

Grand Nationals—Grand Nats: This competition is the “Big-Daddy” of events. Held annually, and most recently at the Lucas Oil Stadium (home of the Colts) in Indianapolis, IN. This event is an overnight (or two, depending on the luck of the draw that determines performance date and time) competition that spotlights the best of the best bands across the nation. The competition starts with nearly 100 bands and is judged down in an elimination tourney-style atmosphere, eventually culminating in several categories of excellence. It is best compared to the NCAA Basketball tourney in its composition, level of national competition and level of exposure to the elite band programs. The Marching Panthers made history when they placed and medaled as “Grand National Finalists” in the Fall of 2018 with their field show, “Stretching The Canvas”.

Instrument: This is what your Band student plays!! It is also one of the most forgotten items when preparing to leave for an event

Jazz Band: Our Jazz Ensemble meets as an early bird class at the Smiley Campus daily, second semester. The freshman students have their own jazz band that meets during the band class period at the Milburn Campus. There is an offering of a jazz combo that meets afterschool and serves as a group that performs at local community events. The jazz program performs at our O’ That Jazz event, along with several other local festivals.

Junior: Our smaller 28” trailer that comes with us to competitions and parade appearances.

Khakis: These are the shorts or pants your student should wear for traveling to events and when referred to by Dr. G. These shorts/pants are purchased on your own and are not provided in the boutique. Like the polo shirts—appearance, in consideration to performance of a large group.

Lucas Oil Stadium: Home of the Indianapolis Colts and used as a venue for band competitions. Indy is an easy 4-hour drive straight out Interstate 70 East. Lucas Oil Stadium is in downtown Indianapolis.

Madrigal Brass: The Madrigal Brass group accompanies the Madrigal singers and cast during the annual Madrigal Dinner held during the Winter holidays. These students have two practices in preparation and are part of the overall production throughout the Madrigal weekend (first weekend in December annually).

Marching Panthers: The multi-talented and nationally competitive Marching Band program associated with OTHS. Approximately 240 students and growing.

Marquee: This is the area of the Smiley Campus near the electronic sign board, at the corner of Smiley and 50. This area has become a popular practice area due to the shade provided by the large trees.

MCCGA: Mid-Continent Color Guard Association provides competition venues for the popular Winter Guard program. OTHS has hosted MCCGA at the Smiley campus for the last several years. Parent volunteers will be needed.

MEMC: Metro East Marching Classic-an annual event hosted on the OTHS Smiley Campus. Invitations are sent out and accepted by as many as 18 Marching Bands in our area. This premier and typically first competition of the season allows band directors to gauge their band’s performance with professional judge feedback. Booster parents volunteer to man a variety of stations to ensure the event runs smoothly. It has developed into a well-respected band competition and a profitable fundraiser to support the Band Program. Marching Panthers perform as an exhibition twice during this event.

Milburn: Term used to identify the OTHS Milburn Campus on Milburn School Road. Also called the “Freshman Campus” or “9th Grade Center” at times.

Mission Statement: To provide support of the OTHS Band Program

Musicals: Pit Orchestra: Interested members of the Wind Ensemble band program accompany the actors and actresses in the spring musical. Instrumentation varies year to year, depending on the musical.

O’ That Jazz: Annual dinner auction that features the Jazz Band students. This semiformal event is held on the 3rd Friday in February and raises funds to support the Band Program and Booster mission.

Officer: General term used to describe the Band Booster Officers—President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Band Boosters. Each term is for 2 years; elections are staggered for program continuity’s sake.

Panther Dome: This is the main gym area on the South side of the Campus. The Band performs concerts and pep rallies in this facility. It is also an integral part of the Craft Fair.

Pep Band: All OTHS Band members are required to do an assigned number of home girls’ & boys’ basketball games because it is a part of the concert band requirements. Students will also earn awards at the conclusion of the school year for full membership in pep band. As part of our band’s commitment to OTHS high school, it is expected that each band member participates in basketball pep band activities, similar to the marching band being a part of all football games. The two pep bands alternate basketball game dates during the pep band season.

• Pep Band A – Wind Ensemble and Freshmen Band
• Pep Band B – Symphonic Winds and Symphonic Band

Pit: This term is used to describe the portion of the Marching Band that uses stationary percussion related equipment; commonly found front and center of the Field Show

Plume: This is the feather that goes on top of the shako (See “shako”)! Delicate and expensive. These are handed out and collected at each performance. Please do not play with or tickle someone with it even though this is very tempting!

Practice Locations (outside): Please refer to the map for locations. 

Practice Uniform: Consists of blue shorts (see blue shorts) and shirt (not the same blue shirt as transportation. These are required on Wednesday night rehearsals. They may also be worn under uniforms.

Red Bud: This parade is formally known as the Red Bud Fireman’s Parade. It is a “tune-up” parade for the VP Parade.

SAM: Student Account Manager—this is the person who tracks, records and reports the activities concerning the individual Band student’s financial account.

Scrip: A gift card program which raises money for your student’s individual financial account. Booster orders are placed about every three weeks during the school year, and once a month during the summer. Basically, you can purchase gift cards to the stores and restaurants where you shop and eat most and use them in lieu of cash; or you can order them to use as gifts for family, friends, neighbors, teachers, coworkers. POC: Tish Riggs jtriggs5@att.net

Section Leader: These are Student Leaders selected to head up each instrument section (e.g., “Clarinets,” “Flutes,” “Mellophones,” “Sousaphones,” etc.; main job is to communicate the expectations for the section to the section members. These leadership positions are key in the chain of command to interpret and move the Band toward the Director’s goals. This is your student’s best contact person. Having your student obtain the Section Leader’s cell number is suggested and may be helpful, especially since texting is the student-preferred communication method.

Shako: This is a term used to describe the Hats worn by Band members. These expensive little hats have a permanent home in Big Blue in a hat box specifically assigned to your band student. Generally worn at parades and performances. Never to be taken home or left lying around the Band Room.

Smiley: OTHS on Smiley Street. This is the “main campus” where the 10-12 grade students attend.

Sound System: This is the electronic component provided to the Band for performance. It consists of mixing boards, speakers, microphones and other electronic gadgetry and wizardry. It can be seen at all Field Shows front and center of the Pit.

South Parking Lot: This is the drop off/pick up point for Band Students. Do NOT drop them at the parking lot adjacent to the Band Room. This is IMPORTANT for the safety of all. It gets very congested in the small Staff Parking Lot adjacent to the Band Room and crossing the street can be very dangerous. PLEASE adhere to this requirement and drop your student—child where it is safest and have them walk the 400 steps to the Band Room.

Tarp: This is the floor covering used by the Winterguard to provide a visual backdrop for performances but also to protect the floor from damage.

Techs: These adults are consultants, teachers, and instructors and assist the Director in communication and performance enhancement. Generally, a Tech conveys very specific instruction to the student regarding the musical aspects and the overall wishes of the Director.

Travel Uniform: Consists of the Band polo and khakis to identify the students as part of OTHS Band. This small detail in dress reinforces the concept of self-pride, team unity and a professional look.

Turf Turds: They are little rubber pellets ( recycled tires ) nestled down in the artificial turf used in some sport complexes. It’s sole purpose is to aid in the safety of the players. For us parents it is just another one of life’s challenges that we must contend with. As they are everywhere!!! You will Continue to find turf turds in your house, long after the marching season is over!

Uniform: This consists of a jacket, bibbers (bibs), show shirt or polo shirt, shako, shoes, black socks, gloves, gauntlets, and other accessories.

Volunteer: This is you!! Your help is always needed and welcomed. The Band Boosters survive by the fantastic spirit of volunteerism to meet the needs of the Band. Each event and each time the Band moves— help is needed to ensure the students realize the highest possible level of performance and take away positive experiences. Great way to meet other parents who have a common interest—the Band – (and to get to know the kids your student is hanging out with)

VP Parade: The now called the America’s Birthday parade, is held in St. Louis around the 4th of July. OTHS has a proud history of being the standard bearer at this parade. The Band has a string of 20+ consecutive years as being voted the Outstanding Band at this parade- and taking home a significant cash prize!

Weapons: These are the stick guns and sabers used by Color and Winter Guards during performances.

Weber Field: Area used by the Band oftentimes to practice drill. The demands of Panther Stadium sometimes require the Band to practice here. The area is located just EAST of Weber Road—east of the Stadium. There is a huge parking lot for you to use to watch band practice should you decide to come a little early to pick up your Band Student.

Winter Guard: Unit of Band that performs during the “off-season” winter months. Similar to Color Guard but a stand-alone unit that competes against other units.

Yard Sale: This is a twice a year —Fall and Spring — fundraising event held at the Smiley Campus. Donated items are sorted and priced and offered to the general public for sale in a “yard sale” fashion. All unsold items are, in turn, donated to a local charity. This is one of our BIG VOLUNTEER EVENTS. 

Yellow Bus: Term used to describe the school bus that transports band members to events that are close to O’Fallon. The Yellow Bus drivers are employees of the same bus service used by OTHS to transport students daily to and from school. and all School Rules of Conduct are enforced. Band Booster Chaperones travel on these busses to events to also monitor activities and provide support to the Band students.

Yellow Shirts: These shirts are available for purchase. Parents attending or volunteering for events are encouraged to wear a Yellow Shirt. This serves two purposes — 1. Identification: You can easily find the OTHS Band Boosters in a large crowd, and the kids (and other attendees) get to see the outstanding support the Band enjoys and 2. If an OTHS band student should need assistance, they know they are soliciting help from an OTHS parent (even if they don’t know you personally) and not some random stranger. Also band slang for a Chaperone or Crazy Band Parents!