FAQs & Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

about joining Marching Band

Can I participate in sports and other activities and still be in marching band?  

It depends on the activity. ☺ Fall sports schedules would conflict with marching band. Students can participate in most fall school clubs.  However, students can still participate in all winter sports, spring sports & clubs!  Please reach out to Mr. Dudzinski if you have a question about a fall activity.


Does marching band take up my whole summer? 

NO!  We have practice after the last week of school in June, then marching band begins again for all students at the end of July.  Even these rehearsals are mostly NOT all day rehearsals, leaving plenty of time for other activities, vacations, etc. The exception is our Band Camp week the week of Aug 5, where we do have rehearsal time (and fun activity time) all day!


Do I have to memorize my music? 

Yes, but it is not as hard as it may seem.  The marching band rehearses in a very systematic manner that encourages memorization.  The exercises and show music are available on the band website so students can begin looking through the music as soon as school is out.


Can I take AP, IB and Honors classes and still do marching band? 

YES! In fact, almost all of the Walled Lake Marching Band students participate in AP, IB, or Honors classes!  


Is marching band too hard? 

NO!  Marching band is such that the music and drill movement are very systematic way that promotes success.  Students of all ability levels can be successful in marching band!


Do I have to be in a band class to participate in marching band? 

YES! You need to enroll in a regular band or orchestra class at Western or Central to participate in marching band.  Some exceptions apply due to unique circumstances.  If you have questions, please contact Mr. Dudzinski.


How do I join marching band and add it to my schedule? 

See registration information above! Attend the Marching Band Registration Night on April 23rd or April 24th, 2024 from 6:30-8:00pm (Pick one date to attend).   


I want to hang out with other friends at the football games…

You can! The marching band plays in the stands at the games for the first half.  After halftime, the second half is covered by a volunteer pep band.   The full band is only required to stay the entire game for Homecoming, the PINK OUT game (WLW), and any late-season playoff games.


What if I play the oboe…or bassoon…or viola?

Many students who play instruments not suited for marching learn a new or similar instrument.  Bass clarinetists frequently play clarinet or tenor saxophone. Bassoonists and oboists frequently play saxophone or percussion.  String students often play percussion, electric bass, guitar, piano, or even learn a wind instrument.


I’m afraid marching band will take too much time…

Having marching band in your schedule at the beginning of the year is a great way to start the year organized with a plan for time management.  This is a great skill that is useful for the rest of your life.  Recent research shows that busy students do better in school than those who do not take on after school activities.

Student Testimonials

Why Comp Band?

Parent Testimonials

Participating in marching band has instilled an unbelievable work ethic in our son. He always wants to arrive early to band practice and is committed to participating in all band related activities no matter what else we have going on on our schedule. It has also really helped him learn about the challenges of balancing school and outside activities. Our son has built and fostered strong friendships through Marching Band that I know will continue long past high school. While our son is only a sophomore, his experience in the walled Lake marching band has already been so impactful to him and to our whole family. - Adina Kanner, parent of Noah, 11th Grade,  Front Ensemble

A year ago, if you would have told me that I was going to be a "band parent", I would have said that you are crazy. I was not the most supportive parent at the beginning and was really concerned about the financial and time commitments that were going to be asked of me. But, as I saw what a great group of parents and students this was, my opinion began to change. As the show developed, I was amazed at the absolute talent that this group has. I tell everyone I know about the great experience I have had as a band parent, and how utterly amazing these students are. When I tell coworkers from across the state that my son (and next year, my daughters) are members of the Walled Lake Marching Band, they immediately remark about what a great program we have, and what a legacy this band has developed over the years. I love being a part of this group. - Mike Freeman, parent of Charlie, 11th Grade, Front Ensemble

Marching band, hands down, has been the best thing to happen to both of my kids. They have developed on so many levels.  It is more than just music; there are so many life lessons! Your child will flourish and do things you never thought possible. It is really amazing to watch your child grow in such a profound way.  Your child's fullest potential will be uncovered. They will become leaders and absolutely SHINE!  You will experience pride in your child like you have never experienced before; and they will be so proud, too. It will bring you to tears, give you chills and render you speechless. My daughter just became part of the marching band leadership team at her university.  My son, who played baseball since he was six and wanted to pursue college baseball, has decided to hang up his cleats (much to our surprise) and continue drumming in college. (He will still play on the varsity team this spring.)  Something I never thought would happen.  He even turned down a D3 offer to play baseball at a small school. Even though he does love it, drumming has become his passion.  It's been an absolute pleasure to have a front row seat to witness my kids' growth throughout this incredible program.  There is really nothing else like it and I've been on the athletic side of things, as well.  This band program is really something special. It will be life-changing for not only your child, but can be for you as a parent; if you let it. Do not sleep on this opportunity.  Best money I ever spent.  Every single cent. You will not regret it! And when you have completed your last child's senior season, you will be left wondering how did this go so quickly?!? But you will also be left with some of the most amazing memories of your lifetime. And your child will be, too. - Kristi Cornish, parent of Brayden, WLMB Graduate & member of the MSU Spartan Marching Band, Battery

My son was hesitant to join the competitive marching band, but I encouraged him to give it a try, after talking with some current band parents, and I am very glad that I did!  He has made many new friends and the transition from middle school to high school went very smoothly because of the friends that he made over the summer after 8th grade. Everyone has been great, from the students to the parents, to the band directors and staff. There are many opportunities for the kids and parents to be actively involved with the group. My son gained more confidence after joining and he looked forward to his practices, even though they were demanding. Overall, it has been a very positive experience for our whole family.  We thoroughly enjoy having our son participate in something so positive and rewarding. - Angela Bryan, parent of Donovan, 10th Grade, Trombone

Band is my child’s safe space. It’s where they can go to relax, learn, have fun, be themselves and feel protected. Having had 2 children each spend 4 years in the band, we have come to love the tight knit community it provides. They have truly developed what will be life long friendships from this band. And enough cannot be said about the directors. They have pushed, loved, supported and challenged our kids to be their very best. Wonderful high school experience!!! - Dee & Pete Middleton, parents of Ella, 12th Grade, Flute

Impact on Abby has been the drive to succeed - all the hours improving - and having so much fun in the process.  Both at the competitions but MOSTLY the camaraderie with fellow sax friends/band friends.  So many stories of just being kids and having fun.  Abby doesn't like personal attention but I see that participating in Marching Band has brought out leadership in her.  She wants to make sure others around her are getting the training needed. Impact on me as a parent - WOW!  I had no idea there were even competition Marching Bands.  Mind is blown.  And the routines I see (especially from WLMB) is beautiful and so inspiring.  I now see the time and precision and bonding that truly goes on - and I want to be that band kid putting on these preformances that move strangers to tears  (true story).   On side note - the combined Western/Central competition band is so great.  Students from Sarah Banks split off to Central and Western so Abby got to see a lot of her former friends and then made so many new ones.  I think she has more band friends from Central.  She gets to go to 2 homecomings.  Central band alto's come to Western football home games and Western alto's go to Central home games.  Double the opportunities for her high school experience!!!! - Nanette Balsom, parent of Abby, 11th Grade, Alto Sax

Oh my goodness! When Lucas first showed interest in band I was glad because it was the first summer of covid and I wasn't sure how he was going to meet classmates with virtual school. He had to switch instruments (because oboes don't march), but Mr Rogers was extremely helpful with that change. Lucas was so eager to be part of band he focused and practiced hard. Over the years I've seen him become a responsible and caring young man. He is dedicated to giving his best effort in band and helping others as well. I've seen him teaching another student how to play tuba. I've seen him comfort and encourage other members during practices and before or after performances. As a freshman he started school with new friends due to band. Now as he is about to be a senior I have seen him grow into a natural leader and talented musician. - Samantha DeMont, parent of Lucas, 12th Grade, Tuba

This program changed his life!!  The last four years have brought so many wonderful experiences. My son found his people. These kids not only watch over each other, but they challenge their friends to be the best version of themselves. My son is confident, kind, has great time management skills and has become a leader. He understands how to preserve in trying times and to never give up. He is graduating with 4 AP classes under his belt. His physical and mental health has improved.  He has lost weight and toned up.  Additionally, he has a great time being a kid and playing music. These kids are fun to be around! It is an experience like no other. I am forever grateful for this program. - Dawn Riecher, parent of Brody, WLMB Graduate, Battery

I’m so grateful that my son had the opportunity to join the Walled Lake Marching Band.  It has been such a positive experience for him and it truly is so much more than just playing an instrument!  Marching band has helped him become more disciplined, more physically active, improved his teamwork skills, boosted his self-confidence and has given him a better sense of responsibility.  He’s also made new friendships as well as strengthened his existing ones. Overall, I believe it's been an incredibly valuable learning experience for him. - Dana Waldman, parent of Dylan, 11th Grade, Clarinet

How has band made an impact on us and our child? Let me count the ways!

1. Starting high school knowing many students already (in multiple grades no less) and being familiar with the building was so comforting for all of us!

2. Getting to keep up playing an instrument when band/orchestra didn’t fit into his daily school schedule-priceless! (And earning .5 credits in fine arts with a fun extracurricular activity was just icing on the cake!) 

3. High school can be such a difficult time to connect with other parents because the kids are becoming so independent-but being involved with the band has given us opportunities to make connections and build friendships with other band parents that help our parenting village grow bigger and make attending the events so much fun! 

4. It really is a team effort to pull off the show and the season-and that model works from the students up through the parents and staff. Love that my kid is part of a team/competitive sport. It is so exciting to be part of this band community and play a small role in their season.  - Sarah & Brett Reese, parents of Jonas, 10th Grade, Clarinet

Jeff has thrived by participating in Band (not just one, but 5!! Competitive Marching Band; Spirit Band for football games; Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band I & II) His confidence as a student leader and his expanding, ever impressive musical skills are all due to our amazing Band Directors, Mr Dudzinski & Mr Rogers. I would never have believed that the nervous, ‘deer in headlights’ 7th grader would be the outgoing young man who couldn’t Wait to perform at State Solo & Ensemble; he seemed to know ever other brass player there, and took time to encourage all. A proud time for me as Mom! My daughter was also a trombonist under Mr D seven years ago; Band was her 2nd Family, and she still maintains close relationships with Band buddies. Band takes work, time (for parents & students), and dedication. Is it all worth it? ABSOLUTELY YES!!! - Jackie Campbell, parent of Jeff, 12th Grade, Trombone