Marching Band & Color Guard Camp

All students participating in the Marching Band & Color Guard are expected to attend our 2 week summer training camp. 2026 Camp will take place at Taft Charter High School, Monday-Friday July 27 - August 7 from 8am-3pm. Students have a one hour lunch break.

You MUST bring: Hat, closed toed tennis/athletic shoes, sunscreen, water bottle/jug (bring EXTRA!), loose athletic clothing (NO JEANS!), folder for music, instrument, & accessories.

It would be nice to also bring: hair ties, cool towel, handheld fan, snacks, lunch, money for food, personal hygeine products. 

What do we do during band camp? We learn our pre-game show, marching basics, music for our competition show, pep tunes, and most importantly, get to know each other! It is absolutely important that students make every effort to attend. Students who do not attend band camp will struggle during the semester as there is a lot of catching up. 

I don't have an instrument! No worries! Email natalie.laurie@lausd.net to make sure we have a school provided one for you, that can be checked out with parent signature. Please try to get any accessories you may need, such as a mouthpiece, reeds, neckstrap, slide grease/oil, etc. 

I don't have any Color Guard equipment! No worries! We have flags, rifles, and sabres to loan out. You will need to purchase your own gloves and shoes - email natalie.laurie@lausd.net for links to order.

I've never played an instrument or been in Color Guard! Can I still join? YES! Students with no experience can be successful in this ensemble IF they are motivated and curious about music. Students are paired with a student mentor to guide them and get them up to speed. This does require extra commitment from the student - you will have to practice at home! 

I'm a new student, how do I "officially" sign up? Email natalie.laurie@lausd.net to RSVP.

I'm a prospective parent and would like to talk to a current band/guard parent. We'd love to answer your questions! Taft Educational Arts Fund is the parent organization that supports the department. You can connect with us at taftmusic.org@gmail.com.

I have a question but can't find the answer! No worries! Connect with Mx. Laurie at natalie.laurie@lausd.net to arrange a phone call or Zoom meeting so we can get you the answers you're looking for.

Below is a tentative list of important dates for Fall 2026, subject to change. All dates are grades for students in addition to in-class assignments.