What’s marching band all about? — Plenty of hard work and A LOT of fun.
Why We Do It
The Oakmont-Overlook Marching Spartans is more than just a band. We are a family, a team, and a tradition of excellence.
Open to students entering grades 7-12 at Oakmont and Overlook, this dynamic ensemble offers the chance to perform exciting music and visuals at competitions, football games, parades, and more.
From high-energy field shows to community parades, the Marching Spartans bring spirit and precision to every performance.
Students develop both musical and visual skills through a variety of styles influenced by drum corps and traditional military marching bands.
How it Works
Marching band is a big commitment, but an even bigger reward. Students rehearse throughout the summer and fall, including a mandatory week-long overnight band camp in August.
The season includes:
- Weekly summer rehearsals
- A fun band camp in mid-August
- Fall rehearsals and football game performances
- Competitions, parades, and festivals
- Weekly ‘sectional’ rehearsals
- Leadership development opportunities
Join the Marching Band
Whether you’re a brass player, woodwind, percussionist, or guard member, there’s a place for you here. Auditions are held each spring for new and returning members, and all rookies are invited to a special Rookie Day to help them feel confident and prepared.
No experience is needed to join the program. Staff are on hand to teach students proper playing and performance techniques in all areas of the program, including brass, woodwind, percussion, and guard.
Ready to sign up?
All students entering grades 7-12 at Oakmont or Overlook who are interested in participating in the upcoming season must complete the online registration form.
This includes new and returning members.
Registration helps us plan for rehearsals, equipment, uniforms, and communication throughout the season.
Have questions?
Reach out to Oakmont Band Director, Mr. Kris DeMoura: kdemoura@awrsd.org
Marching Band Fees
We work hard to keep the Marching Spartans program affordable for all families.
$525 – Annual Fee
Includes band camp, show shirt, swag, and sectional sessions
$135 – Rookie Packet
Includes band jacket, shoe rental, fanny pack, and sling bag
$160 – Guard Uniform
Includes customized uniform and flag rental
$285 – Activity Fee
Paid to AWRSD for bus services and waived for free or reduced lunch
Students will NEVER be turned away because of financial need!
Please contact the OOMPA Board if you need financial support.
Volunteering
The Marching Spartans wouldn’t be the program it is without the support of our amazing parent community.
There are many ways to get involved, no experience needed.
- Build props
- Help move equipment on and off the field
- Chaperone at band camp and competitions
- Assist with uniforms, fittings, repairs, organizing, and washing t-shirts
- Organize fundraising
- Help out at band camp
If you’re interested in helping, even just once, reach out to one of the board members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Marching Spartans?
Any student entering grades 7-12 at Oakmont or Overlook is eligible to join. We welcome brass, woodwind, percussion, and color guard members of all experience levels.
What does my child need to bring to rehearsals?
Students should come dressed in athletic clothing and sneakers and bring a water bottle, instrument or equipment, music binder and dot book, a pencil, and a positive attitude.
We also recommend sunscreen and a hat for outdoor rehearsals.
How much of a time commitment is marching band?
Marching band is a significant but manageable commitment. It includes summer rehearsals, band camp, weekly fall practices, and weekend performances. We provide the full schedule early and encourage families to plan ahead.
What is Band Camp, and is it required?
Band Camp is a one-week overnight camp in August, this year August 11-16, where we learn the majority of the show and build our team. Attendance is required unless there is an emergency and all absences must be approved by the Band Director.
Can my child participate in other school activities while doing marching band?
In many cases, yes. Students can often balance marching band with sports, clubs, and other commitments. Open communication early in the season helps make this manageable.
How can parents get involved?
We love parent volunteers! From helping with uniforms and chaperoning events to fundraising and pit crew support, there are many ways to be involved through OOMPA. Reach out to one of the board members.