Membership Information
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 wishing to ultilize their years of practice by performing challenging music at an extremely high level. We encourage and actively recruit new members who are qualified from area 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 scheduled concerts and parades. After completing a successful probationary period, the prospective member is voted into the band at a monthly meeting. For college students, the probationary period may 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, bingo, raffles, special events, and fundraising goes into the treasury for use as decided by membership at large. Band income goes toward:
- Maintaining band equipment
- Trip expenses
- Operating expenses
- Membership social functions
Members have no financial obligation to the band. There are times, however, when it may cost money to participate in specific band activities; this usually occurs when the band plays out of town. On such occasions travel and lodging is normally paid by the band, but members pay for their own meals and other personal expenses. If a member wishes to take along their spouse, companion, and/or family (based on room availability), their travel, lodging and food expenses are that member's responsibility. Reduced travel and lodging rates may be available, though, as a result of going with the entire group.
Becoming a Member:
Individuals wishing to schedule an audition or discuss section needs may contact Jim Scott (personnel director) at 632-0678.
Member Responsibilities:
All members, not just those in the probationary period, are responsible for being present at band functions: rehearsals, parades, concerts, and Bingo. If they cannot attend a function, it is the member's responsibility to inform their section leader or the personnel manager. Members and prospective members are expected to conduct themselves appropriately at band functions, which implies a reasonable amount of maturity and good judgement (regardless of age).
All members and probationary members are urged to attend the regular monthly 'business of the band' meetings. At some point, members may be asked to serve on special committees or prepare special projects for the good of the band. On occasion, in order to insure maximum member participation, matters of extreme importance to the band may be brought up during a rehearsal or immediately following a performance.
Once or twice a year, all members are requested to work at the Post's weekly Bingo. Bingo assignments are scheduled well in advance, and members can simply trade their assignment with another member if they have a scheduling conflict. This is an important responsibility of each member, as the Post provides rehearsal space, instrument storage, and financial support in return for Bingo work.
Members are expected to maintain their musical skill at a level acceptable to their peers and the conductor. If a musical piece requires additional individual practice, or if marching practice is necessary, members are expected to put in this extra effort.
Failure to carry out the above responsibilities is cause for dismissal during both the probationary period or full membership.
In matters of musical performance, the Conductor (or their representative) is the sole judge of an individual's acceptability. There should be no question concerning:
- The chair an individual is assigned to
- The part(s) an individual is asked to play
- The part(s) an individual is asked to NOT play
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.
Attire:
After completion of a successful probationary period, members are issued a standard band uniform consisting of pants/skirt, blazer, concert shirt & tie, marching shirt & tie, and marching hat & belt. Members should wear the appropriate combinations for concerts and parades.
For concerts, substitutes/probationary members should wear the following:
Men
Black or navy blue suit (jacket and pants); long-sleeve white shirt (no short sleeves); narrow black bow tie; black socks; black shoes
Women
Black gown, pants, or skirt; black blazer (optional); long-sleeve black blouse (no short sleeves); black stockings/socks; closed-toe black shoes (no patterns or designs)
For parades, substitutes/probationary members should contact the equipment manager for uniform information.