How to Letter in Band

A student involved in music can earn a music letter by accumulating 450 points in any one academic year or by accumulating from year to year. Once the 450 points have been attained, the student can begin accumulation points towards another 450 points. When subsequent totals of 450 points have been earned, a chevron will be awarded to accompany the previously awarded letter.

Points are awarded on the following system:

Participation and a member in good standing in a regular class band for a full academic year: 

(Ex. concert band, freshmen band; full-season)

1st year - 75 points 3rd year - 125 points

2nd year - 100 points 4th year - 150 points

Participation and a member in good standing in a jazz ensemble for a full academic year:

1st year - 75 points 3rd year - 125 points

2nd year - 100 points 4th year - 150 points

Wind or percussion players participating in Orchestra for a full academic year:

1st year - 75 points 3rd year - 125 points

2nd year - 100 points 4th year - 150 points

Participation in Marching Band for a full season:

1st year - 75 points 3rd year - 125 points

2nd year - 100 points 4th year - 150 points

Additional points are awarded for participation in the following extra activities:

All-State Band, Jazz Band, Orchestra Audition - 75 points

All-State Band, Jazz Band, Orchestra Selection/Participation - 200 points

Honor Band Audition (USD, SDSU, Augustana) - 25 points

Honor Band Selection/Participation - 100 points

Region Music Contest Solo (per solo) - 40 points

Region Music Contest Ensemble (per ensemble) - 20 points

School Musical (pit orchestra) - 60 points

Show Choir show band - 50 points

Percussion ensemble - 50 points

Brass Choir - 50 points

Woodwind choir - 50 points

Winter drumline - 50 points

Winter color guard - 50 points

Pep Band Participation (per completed event) - 5 points

Marching Band Section leader - 30 points

Classroom officer (President, VP, Treasurer, Secretary) - 30 points

Drum Major - 50 points

Private Lessons ( dependant on frequency and length of individual lessons) - 50 points

Peer Tutoring (with band department - per semester) - 25 points

School/non-school music gigs (per gig) - 20 points