The American Legion Band of the Tonawandas is a volunteer organization. The reason that the band has continued to thrive over its long existence is that the membership is dedicated to making the band a top notch ensemble in all respects. Although social functions are held so members and their families enjoy the camaraderie of other members, the primary reward lies in performing with an organization that musically has no peer in the United States in its particular type of endeavor: a non-professional, community, symphonic, and parade band.

General:

The band depends on talented area musicians wanting to perform challenging music at an extremely high level. We encourage and actively recruit new members from area high schools and colleges as well as from the community at large.

Musicians wishing to become members must first audition, preferably on a Grade 6 work. If the audition is passed, the new member is placed on a 6-month probationary period and should perform with the band at all scheduled rehearsals, concerts, and parades. After completing the probationary period, the new member is voted into the band as a permanent member. For college students, the probationary period can be extended to compensate for the time they are away at school.

The band does not pay members and does not require membership in the local musicians' unions. Income from performances, raffles, special events, and fundraising all goes into the band treasury. Band income is used for:

Members have no financial obligation to the band. There are times, however, when it may cost money to participate in specific band activities, usually when the band plays out of town. On these such occasions travel and lodging is normally paid by the band, but members pay for their own meals and personal expenses. If a member wishes to take family along (spouse, companion, and/or children), any extra travel/lodging/food expenses are that member's responsibility. Reduced travel and lodging rates for any additional family are usually available as a result of going with the entire group, though.

Becoming a Member:

Individuals wishing to schedule an audition or discuss section needs may contact Jim Scott (personnel director) at 632-0678.

Rehearsals:

Rehearsals are held every Wednesday night at the American Legion Post 264, 60 Main Street, Tonawanda, NY, from 7:30 - 9:30pm. Members should arrive 15 minutes early to warm up. At the end of rehearsal, help with putting back percussion equipment, stands, chairs, etc. is appreciated.

For a map and directions to the Post, click here.

Member Responsibilities:

Members are expected to maintain their musical skill at levels acceptable to their peers and the conductor. If a piece requires additional individual practice, or if marching practice is necessary, members are expected to put in this extra effort. In addition, the Conductor is the sole judge with regard to musical performance - there should be no question concerning the chair an individual is assigned to or the part(s) an individual is asked to play/not play.

All members, including probationary members, are responsible for being present at rehearsals, concerts, and parades. If a member has to miss a band function, they should inform their section leader or the personnel manager. And because it reflects directly on the band, members and probationary members are expected to conduct themselves appropriately and with good judgement at all band functions.

On a rotating basis, members are assigned to help in the setup/teardown of chairs and music stands in the rehearsal space. These assignments are scheduled well in advance and occur only once or twice a year. All members are also encouraged to attend the once-a-month 'business of the band' meetings, which take place after rehearsal. At some point, members may be asked to serve on special committees or assist in projects for the good of the band.

After completion of a successful probationary period, new members are issued a standard band uniform consisting of pants/skirt, concert jacket & tie, and marching shirt, tie, hat, & belt. Substitute players and probationary members should contact the equipment manager or their section leader for uniform information.