Before school even starts there is a lot of time spent preparing for the start of the fall band season-- and yes I said band season, because the football players aren't the only ones sweating it out during practices. You can always count on at least 2-3 people passing out during band camp, and that's just a given because of the soaring temperatures. However, you are always willing to cut your summer a little early and work through the heat, because your heart belongs with the band and it always will. That being said, all of us band geeks have these similar thoughts that come to mind right as band camp approaches.
1. You randomly start humming pep band tunes, because you are genuinely excited to play your favorite rendition of "The Hey Song" again....and then the tubas ruin it for you for the rest of the season, as they insist on playing the bass line during every spare moment of practice.
2. You also buy the biggest water bottle that you can find, because you are certain that you will guzzle down every single drop during the harsh, midday practices.
3. You aren't ashamed to roll your feet in Walmart, because you need maximum prep time before band camp hits you like a freight train.
4. Speaking of band camp, you go ahead and kiss your social life goodbye for at least two weeks.
5. Even though it is admittedly disgusting, you wipe off the top layer of grime molding on your old reeds in order to trick yourself into thinking that they are actually playable.
6. You stock up on black socks, because you know that you will need every pair that you can get your hands on.
7. You finally attempt to play your instrument in hopes that a God-awful screeching sound doesn't come out the end. Yes clarinets, I'm talking about you.
8. You try to remember what it's like to play your instrument and march at the same time, only to realize that concert season spoiled you with all of the sitting down.
9. You text all of your band friends and nerd out just a little bit--Okay you nerd out a lot--and you get each other pumped about the show.
10. You fill in all of the scuff marks on your marching shoes with Sharpie. You might be judged, but it saves a sizable amount of money in the long run.
11. After not eating for two days and sucking in your stomach as much as you can, you realize that your freshman band pants just won't fit, no matter how hard you try.
