WCB logoWATERLOO CONCERT BAND – MEMBER GUIDELINES

Welcome to the Waterloo Concert Band. We are a no-audition, no-fee band, welcoming all who would like to play.

Attendance

We understand that everyone can’t attend every rehearsal and performance, but we all strive for at least 2-in-3 rehearsals. You are considered a member after you’ve attended 3 rehearsals in a row. Please consider sending a courtesy email to your Section Leader and to library@waterlooband.com before a missed rehearsal.

If circumstances prevent you from attending regularly, speak with your Section Leader and/or the band Personnel Manager to arrange a leave of absence. If you are leaving the Band, please inform your Section Leader or the Personnel Manager.

It is extremely important to notify your Section Leader as soon as possible when you know you can’t play a performance date.

If you encounter transportation problems getting to rehearsals or performances, please tell your Section Leader, who may be able to facilitate ride-sharing.

Section Leaders

Each instrumental group has a Section Leader who ensures that members feel welcome; that all members have assigned folders; that all sub-divided parts are covered. Please see your Section Leader with any questions or problems.

Rehearsal Etiquette

Music stands are provided at rehearsals, which need to be set up, then packed away. To that end, we encourage members to arrive a bit early, and stay after rehearsal to tidy up. It’s a great chance to chat with fellow players!

Here are a few reminders to ensure that rehearsals are fun and productive for everyone:

  • Please be warmed up and ready to play at 7:30pm sharp.
  • Please do not talk or “noodle” on your instrument while the Music Director is speaking, or during other announcements. This is impolite, and makes it difficult for everyone to hear.
  •  We welcome players of all levels and abilities; please do not comment on or critique another member is playing. This is the responsibility of the Music Director.
  • Please, no cell phones during rehearsals or performances: switch to silent or vibrate.
  • Unless you are a first responder, or on-call professional, check messages only during break.
  • Please return promptly from 15-minute rehearsal breaks.
  • Please refrain from excessive practicing or “noodling” during break times. This period is meant for resting our fingers, embouchure’s and minds.

Performing with the Waterloo Concert Band

New members should attend at least 3 rehearsals before their first concert. For all WCB members, if you are unable to attend regularly leading up to a concert, please speak to your Section Leader or the Music Director.

For concerts, volunteers are required to help pack and transport our equipment; all band members are encouraged to help with stand setup and takedown, and other tasks as required.

Performance attire is white collared shirts or tops and black pants/skirts, shoes, socks. Black shorts and sandals are acceptable for summer engagements. White polo shirts with an embroidered band logo are available for purchase, but are not mandatory.

Music Folders and Library Policies

Please refer to the printed sheet in your folder for further Library Policies and Folder Contents.

Uniform

Performance attire is the traditional white shirts with black bottoms, black socks, and black shoes. White Band polo shirts are available for sale, though are not required. See Bob Gauthier (trombone) or a Board member to purchase. During the summer, black shorts and sandals are permitted.

Inclement Weather and Cancellations

Outdoor performances are occasionally cancelled due to inclement weather, or bad weather may make getting to and from concerts/rehearsals unsafe. Announcements will be made by group email and social media (Instagram, Facebook, WCB website). Section Leaders will initiate a phone tree. If there is no notification, and it is safe for you to travel, assume the event is happening.

Volunteer Opportunities

As a member-run charitable organization, the WCB offers many volunteer opportunities for members of all ages and abilities. These can include moving equipment, providing rides to members without transportation, serving on the Board of Directors, assisting with publicity and promotion, helping with fundraising campaigns, website management, etc. If you would like to be more involved or have a good idea, please talk to your Section Leader and/or a Board Member.

Website

The WCB website is at www.waterlooband.com. It includes concert and rehearsal schedules, photographs, band news, repertoire lists, YouTube performance links, and a variety of other features.

General questions can be emailed to info@waterlooband.com.

Revised: May 2024   |  Reviewed: August 2025