Program Essentials and Academics

 

1. Should musicians bring their instruments on the first day of school?

No. The first day is generally reserved for introductions, reviewing the syllabus, and getting an overview of what Ms Tana Barnett expects of her troops. Jazz band rehearsals do not begin on the very first day.

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2. Is there somewhere safe to stash instruments?

Yes. The band room provides musical instrument lockers that students typically share. You will need to bring your own sturdy combination lock for security.

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3. What are the expectations for practice and outside lessons?

Students meet for an hourly class every day during school hours. In addition, they are expected to practice regularly at home. Section leaders may call occasional sectional rehearsals at lunch, after school, or on weekends. Beyond this, the majority of our students pursue private lessons outside of school, which is strongly encouraged to ensure advanced musical growth.

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4. Are there finals, homework, or tests? What is the grading breakdown, and are performances mandatory?

Your performance class grade is primarily based on participation and achievement in two areas:

Performances (50%): All formal concerts and festivals are MANDATORY. If you have an excused absence for a concert, you must notify Ms. Barnett in writing one month in advance to arrange a makeup credit.

Daily Work & Preparedness (50%): This includes your daily practice (homework), in-class readiness, and recorded assignments. (As a rule, all phones must be stored in cubbies during class.)

Finals: Both semester finals are performance-based—the first is typically a solo or small ensemble work, and the second is the required Graduation performance.

Seniors have the option to take the course at the Honors level by completing a Capstone Project. Ms. Tana Barnett provides all detailed expectations regarding practice requirements and testing.

 

5. What’s a Quarterly Concert Review?

Ms. Tana Barnett expects students to sample the Bay Area music scene and write a brief concert review every quarter. This could involve hearing the San Francisco Symphony, catching jazz at Yoshi’s, or applauding classmates who perform with groups like the Contra Costa Youth Orchestra or state honor bands. The idea is to learn from musicians at your level or above.

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Performances, Events, and Leadership

 

6. How often do the band, orchestra, etc., perform?

In addition to the Pops Concert in early fall, formal concerts are traditionally held in November, February, and May, along with a Jazz Festival in December. Several ensemble and solo festivals are also sprinkled in. All music students in grades 9-11 perform at Graduation in June.

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7. What is the Student Music Council?

The Student Music Council is the core student leadership body for both the Band and Orchestra. Run by elected officers (Presidents, VPs of Marketing/Comms/Fundraising) and Section Leaders, the Council ensures the program runs smoothly. Their responsibilities include:

• Program Logistics: Providing student input on music repertoire and rehearsal schedules.

• Event Planning: Organizing social events like the Welcome Back BBQ and the year-end banquet.

• Outreach: Managing communications, social media, and developing fundraising efforts, such as the Homecoming concession booth.

This structure, devised by our students, provides members with crucial real-world organizational and communication experience. Leadership roles are slated annually.

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8. What is the Pops Potluck?

It’s a fun, casual event held a few weeks after school starts for everybody—musicians, parents, and siblings. Everyone brings food. Dress is casual, even for performers.

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9. Why does the Jazz Band Dance?

No, no, no! The annual Jazz Band Dinner Dance is a dinner and a dance, with music provided by the jazz band. It's a big, fun community event!

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Support, Funding, and Tickets

 

10. Why do we need the Campolindo Music Boosters, and how do they help?

The Campolindo Music Boosters (our official parent volunteer organization) are essential to maintaining the high quality of our music program. Because public school funding in California often focuses on core academics, it limits resources for co-curricular programs like music.

The Boosters fill this critical gap by providing financial and volunteer support for the "extras" that define our program's excellence. Booster funds pay for Essential Resources, Enrichment Classes, and Student Support.

We rely on this generous support from parents and the community to keep the music playing!

One of the biggest Booster fundraisers is staffing the concession booth at the Homecoming football game. This event is a great way for parents to donate time by flipping burgers, preparing food, and selling goods alongside band members at the stadium snack shack.

For more information on membership and financial tiers, please see the Music Booster page.

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11. How do I purchase tickets and what are the admission prices?

Admission for our performances varies. While some community concerts may offer free admission, most major performances have a ticket price. General Admission (Ages 12+): $15; Children: $10.

We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance through our website, Event & Ticketing page. This is the only way to guarantee entry. If space is available, tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the Campolindo Performing Arts Center (CPAC) before the concert begins.

Campo Music Booster Patrons who contribute at the Silver level and up for the current school year may qualify for complimentary concert tickets. Please check your membership tier benefits for details.

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​12. How do I become a Patron?

We appreciate all donations that help keep the music playing! To learn about becoming an Instrumental Music Patron, which includes making a generous Donation and selecting one of our support tiers, please visit the Membership page.