8th Grade Weekly Newsletter - Week of 9/22/25

Dear WBMS 8th Grade Band Parents,

Our first performance is coming up on Thursday, October 23rd in the WBMS Cafeteria. More information regarding timing will be sent home as we get closer to the concert.

As a reminder, if you need a new band polo please fill out the following form. If your band polo from last year still fits and is in good condition - you do not need to request a new band polo.

​This request is due by Wednesday, September 24th.

WBMS Band Polo Order Form - Click Here
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Please refer to our uniform requirements below and start obtaining all of the necessary attire.

• Band Polo for 8th Grade (provided through the band fee if needed - these will be sent home with the students after the fall break)
• Solid Black Pants/Slacks – please no jeans, jogging pants, track pants, leggings or pants with sequins/designs
• Black Dress Belt – if you want to wear a belt
• Black Dress Shoes/Flats – please no tennis shoes
• Black Socks for black dress shoes – not required for flats

The Band Polo/Concert Band Shirt must be tucked in for all band concerts/events throughout the year unless instructed otherwise. We prepare our music to be performed at a high level of performance and we want to look our very best when we perform! 

Encourage Practicing

​It is necessary that the students practice at home as often as they can (we recommend every day for 15 minutes outside of class time) to ensure proper development during 7th Grade. This is much more beneficial than practicing once a week or only on the weekends as this is not nearly enough time to develop. Frequency (every day) of practice is most important! Please remember that the band room is open every morning starting at 8AM for open practice - students are strongly encouraged to come down to practice!

Private Lessons!

A great way to get ahead in class is to take private lessons. Please send us an email if you would like suggestions regarding instructors that are local to the area.

Please send us an email for some suggestions of local teachers that can help get your child ahead!

​​​Alpharetta High School Raider Band

​​The Alpharetta High School Marching Band is just one aspect of the band program at Alpharetta High School.

This week they have their first band concert of the year.

Be sure to try and check out the Alpharetta High School Fall Band Concert on Wednesday, September 24th at 6:30PM in the AHS Auditorium.

​​​​​​Upcoming Due Dates and Performances

Please find a bulleted list of important items relating to 8th Grade below. These are links that you can click on.

• WBMS Band Calendar
• WBMS Band Calendar (for printing)
• WBMS Band Activity Fee - This was due on Tuesday, September 9th

As always, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Mr. Stroud, Band Director
Mr. Stallings, Band Director
Mr. Durden, Assistant Band Director