Who we are:

The Marching Band at Independence High School represents the epitome of the model student and classmate in Charlotte. Acting as ambassadors to the school, the band is often the first group seen, and certainly the first group heard when visitors come to our campus. The Marching Band has a history of pride and excellence, including quality musicianship, relentless passion, and un-yielding determination in the pursuit of perfection. The Patriot Marching Band is an integral part of the community in Mint Hill, performing at pep-rallies, parades, games, and other events throughout the school year.

As director of the band program, it is my responsibility to make sure the students are not only knowledgeable of the music and drill, but that they are provided with the opportunity to succeed as positively contributing members of both the community, and society as a whole. I am tasked with the responsibility to push these students to reach their musical potential, all while maintaining an environment that is supportive and allows them to creatively go beyond where before they may have stopped. Each member of the band program is valued and respected for the talents and abilities that they bring to the classroom, and I am here to help guide those individuals to success. At the end of the day, I make no sound in the performance - that is entirely the product of the students. My job is to guide and shape these young, talented minds so that they have a place where they feel they belong, and can become the best human beings they are capable of being.

- Adam Collins, director

COST:

$350 for returning members, and $400 for new members.

This is broken up into three payments which are due:

• May 29th - $50 Deposit

• June 26th - $150

• July 24th - $150 or (New Members $200)

HOW TO PAY:

Payment can be made in cash, check, or via our paypal link. If you have any questions, please contact our treasurer, Amanda Dobrich, at andobrich@gmail.com

Band Camp

WHEN: Camp is July 27 - August 7, 2025

WHERE: Independence High School

HOW: Complete the online registration process for Band Camp. You must be registered Band Camp in order to attend. You can register for Band and Band Camp here: Independence Band Registration and Participation Agreement Form (note that this is different from the interest form that’s at the top of the page)

Band Camp is open to all Independence students interested in participating in Marching Band. While not a strict requirement for participating in Marching Band, it is a highly valuable resource for not only learning marching and playing, but gaining early experience in a high school setting, and making lifelong friendship. Knowing that the financial burden is difficult for some families, the Independence Band Boosters provides scholarships for Independence students for marching band tuition based on need, as well as opportunities to raise funds. If payments of any kind ever become difficult, we strongly encourage band families to speak confidentially to the Director of Bands. To submit a scholarship application, go to the Band Camp Scholarship Application form (coming soon).

HEALTH FORMS:

All students participating in marching band are required to submit a completed Medical/Emergency Health Form. Fill out this form prior to your first day of band camp.

If you do not see the answer to any questions you may still have, please contact adam1.collins@cms.k12.nc.us

ABOUT CAMP

Starting in the last week of July and ending in the first week of August, the marching band meets for two weeks of rehearsals and fun. Students spend their time brushing up their marching fundamentals, both musically and physically, and learning what will eventually come to be our competitive field show. Sectional rehearsals occur, as well as physical training and even dedicated time to focus and be present in the moment.

One of the highlights of camp is our Friday showcase, where students demonstrate their fundamentals and every bit of the field show that we’ve gotten on the field. This is a great way for students to have early access to getting to know other students and making lifelong friendships in a safe and creative environment!

Band Camp also brings in dedicated staff and alumni to help out at the camp. These individuals are chosen specifically for their knowledge of music and marching, as well as their commitment to the growth and development of the program at Independence. Thus, parents are assured that the students are given personal attention when needed, and will have a lot of fun at camp.

For the second week of camp, dinner will be provided to the students, thanks to our amazing boosters. Lunch will be each students’ responsibility, whether that is walking to a nearby location to buy food, or by bringing lunch with them each day.