News & Events

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Tuesday, August 18 Band Parent Meeting 7pm
Friday, August 28 First Football Game @ Montour
Thursday, September 17 Band Parent Meeting 7pm
Saturday, September 19 Local Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS
Saturday, October 10 Local Competition at Deer Lakes HS
Thursday, October 15 Band Parent Meeting 7pm
Saturday, October 17 Local Competition at McKeesport HS
Saturday, October 24 - PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
Thursday, December 17 - Winter Band Concert
Wednesday, May 19, 2027 - Spring Band Concert

REMINDERS:
Band Parent Meeting: this Tuesday, August 18^th at 7pm in the High School Band Room.

FUNDRAISING: Marianna’s Hoagie & Pizza Fundraiser orders will be delivered to the high school cafeteria on August 26^th, time TBD.  Please email Alyssa at mabpofundraising.ad@gmail.com with any questions.

Sign Up Genius for Football Games/Competitions
We need Parent Volunteers to help with Friday Night Football Games and Saturday Competitions. Please make sure your clearances have been submitted and are up to date. Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

Amazon Snack Wish List: With football games, competitions, and home-game hospitality for visiting bands, we go through a lot of snacks. If you’d like to help, please choose an item from our Amazon Snack Wish List and have it shipped directly to us. Thank you for helping us keep the band fed and the snack bins stocked! Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

Concession Stand Update: We are so excited to have the opportunity to work with you all!! Please consider volunteering for our first ever concession stand at RMU!! We will have two stands running at the same time. The “inside” will be us running one of RMU stands and we will receive 10% of all revenue from that stand. The “outside” stand will be more like our normal concessions with donated items under our tent. Thank you for considering volunteering and if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at concessions@moonband.org

RaiseRight: Support Moon Area Band Every Time You Shop! We’re excited to launch RaiseRight as a new way to support the Moon Area Band Parents Association! It’s simple: Purchase gift cards for the stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online retailers you already use, and a percentage of your purchase is donated back to our band! Every dollar earned through RaiseRight goes directly into the Moon Area Band Parents Association General Fund, helping support ALL our student musicians through equipment, transportation, events, scholarships, and so much more. Whether you’re buying groceries, filling up your gas tank, grabbing dinner, or shopping for birthdays and holidays, your everyday purchases can have a lasting impact on our band program. Shop. Earn. Support. Thank you for helping our students hit all the right notes this year! Please click on link Raise Right 
Enrollment Code: YXD6W6W9YJFL

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
You are now able to apply your students’ credits to fees in presto. Under finances, it lists My Fees, My Payments and My Credits.  Click on My Credits, then select Apply Credits.  Select the fee you would like to apply the credit to. 

The second payment of $125 is due on August 27th. Please pay online via Presto or place a check in the band room mailbox. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen

REHEARSAL SCHEDULE - Week of August  17
Mon. 8/17 - Perc & Guard - 5 pm- 9 pm – MAHS – Learn Mvt. 3 Dots
Tue. 8/18 – 4:30 PM – Arrive at MAHS, grab equipment, get on Bus to Hyde
                   Winds Rehearsal - 6pm-9pm – MAHS – Learn Mvt. 3 Dots
Wed. 8/19 – 7:30 am – 8:20 am – Teacher In-Service Performance at MAHS Auditorium.
Thu. 8/20 - Full Band Rehearsal - 6 pm- 9 pm – MAHS – Ensemble & Learn Mvt. 3 dots
Fri. 8/21  None
Sat. 8/22 – None

**NEW**Band Performance at Opening of Hyde Academy – Tuesday, August 18
Arrive at HS at 4:30 PM to board the bus to and from Hyde.
The band has been requested to perform at the Opening of Hyde Academy on Tuesday, August 18 from 5PM-5:30PM. We have moved the wind rehearsal to 6-9pm to facilitate this performance.  Color Guard should not attend this event.  
**NEW** MASD Administration has provided two school buses to and from the event to alleviate parking issues at Hyde. 
Please arrive at the HS at 4:30pm.  Attire for this performance is Red Moon Area attire, shorts, tennis shoes, etc.  We should return to the high school by 5:45pm.

**NEW**Band Performance at Opening Day In-Service for Teachers - Wednesday, August 19 - 730AM - 8:15 AM 
Our superintendent, Dr. D'Alessio, has requested the band perform for the teachers on the opening in-service day meetings at the HS Auditorium.  We will be performing "Hero," "Apt." and "The Fight Song" in the auditorium.  Attire is shorts and a red moon shirt of your choosing.  The event will run from 7:30 AM until 8:15 AM on Wednesday, August 19.  Due to space constraints, the color guard should not attend this event.

**NEW** THURSDAY, September 3 - Bethel Park Football Game
The Bethel Park Football game has been moved to Thursday night, September 3.  The game will be aired live on TV.  There will be no band activities on Friday, September 4.

LABOR DAY WEEK REHEARSALS
REMINDER, as previously scheduled, there will not be rehearsal on September 7.  We will hold FULL BAND Rehearsals on Tuesday, 9/8 and Thursday, 9/10.  Please plan accordingly.

PLEASE NOTE:  As previously scheduled, due to Homecoming, Tuesday. Sept. 22 will be a FULL BAND Rehearsal from 6-9PM; Thu. Sept. 24 will be the Parade only at 5 PM at MAHS. Monday, Sept. 21 will be percussion and color guard from 6-9pm as scheduled.

DOT BOOK CHECKS - There will be a graded dot-book check on August 27.  Students will have their dot-book collected after the 8/27 Rehearsals.  

MUSIC MEMORIZATION TESTING WILL BEGIN ON SEPTEMBER 8-15 - LINK
Music to be memorized included:
Star Spangled Banner
Alma Mater
Fight Song                                                  
Hero
Treasure                                                    
Apt.
ALL THREE MVTS OF THE COMPETITION SHOW

ABSENCE COMMUNICATION
If your student will be absent from a marching band rehearsal, please communicate with either Mr. Barthen (winds/guard) or Mr. Fear (pit/battery percussion). This will aid us in planning and structuring rehearsal.

BAND HANDBOOK - LINK

COMPLETE 2026 SUMMER/FALL MARCHING BAND SCHEDULE - LINK 

PRESTO-ASSISTANT 
https://www.presto-assistant.com - MAHS Band will utilize the Presto Assistant for managing and communicating to band families. This website is a one-stop shop for all parent information, communication, and financial information for the band program and the MABPO (Moon Area Band Parent Organization). This is our first season using this application. All parents will receive an email link to create a PARENT account in mid-June and again in July. Please check the email address from which you received this email. If you have issues creating an account, please get in touch with Mr. Barthen for assistance. Our organizational code is: moonareahsband.

MARCHING BAND MICROSOFT TEAMS 
Each marching band student was invited to a MS Teams Channel. This channel will be used to distribute music, drill, and other important student information throughout the year. Please make sure your student turns notifications on for this channel.

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. Aug. 17 - Percussion and Color Guard Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn dots
Tue. Aug. 18 -  Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn Dots
                         Hyde Academy Opening – 5PM- 5:45PM – Report to HS at 4:30 to board bus.
Wed. Aug. 19 – MAHS Teacher In-Service Performance – 7:30 AM
Thu. Aug. 20 - Full Ensemble Rehearsal – 6:00PM-9PM – MAHS – Ensemble & Learn dots
Fri. Aug. 21 -
______
Mon. Aug. 24 - Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn Dots
Tue. Aug, 25 - Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn Dots
Wed. Aug. 26
Thu. Aug. 27 - FULL Ensemble Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Ens. & Learn Dots
Fri. Aug. 28 - Away Football Game @ Montour HS - Report time is 5:00PM
____
Mon. Aug. 31 – Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal – 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn dots
Tue. Sept. 1 – Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn dots
Wed. Sept. 2 - 
Thu. Sept. 3 - Football Game at Bethel Park HS
Fri. Sept. 4 -
___
Mon. Sept. 7 – No Rehearsal – Labor Day
Tue. Sept. 8 – FULL BAND Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Learn & Ens Dots
Wed. Sept. 9 - 
Thu. Sept. 10 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL - 6PM-9PM – MAHS – Finish 3rd mvt.
Fri. Sept. 11 - Football Game vs Penn-Trafford at RMU
Sat. Sept. 12 -
___
Mon. Sept. 14 - Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal – 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Sept. 15 - Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Sept. 16
Thu. Sept. 17 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Sept. 18 – Football game at Thomas Jefferson HS
Sat. Sept. 19 – PIMBA Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS – Report time approx. 1pm. Performance time TBD.

Future Events
Sat. September 19 – Mt. Lebanon PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 10 – Deer Lakes PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 19 – McKeesport PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 24 – PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLEARANCES
MABPO has no connection to MASD's Applitrack, therefore a digital or physical copy of the clearance needs to be submitted the MABPO secretary.  Clearances can be emailed to: Heather Longstreth - secretary@moonband.org

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Saturday, September 19 Local Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS
Saturday, October 10 Local Competition at Deer Lakes HS
Saturday, October 17 Local Competition at McKeesport HS
Saturday, October 24 - PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
Thursday, December 17 - Winter Band Concert
Wednesday, May 19, 2027 - Spring Band Concert

THANK YOU again to our outstanding band directors, board members, chaperones, equipment crew, bus drivers, photographers, and W&J College for helping make our 2026 Away Camp such a success. Your time, dedication, hard work, and countless behind-the-scenes hours make everything we do possible, and it is truly appreciated. Because of your support, our children are learning, growing, becoming stronger musicians, and creating memories they will carry for years to come. We are deeply grateful for everything you do for our kids and our band.

REMINDERS:
Mark your Calanders for the 2026-2027 MABPO Parent Meetings
Meetings will start at 7pm in the High School Band Room.

August Meeting Date Change: Due to the High School scheduled walk on August 20th, our meeting has been moved to Tuesday, August 18^th at 7pm.
September 17
October 15
November 19
December 10
January 21
February 18
March 18
April 22
May 20

FUNDRAISING: August 14th is the last day to turn in your Marianna’s Hoagie & Pizza Fundraiser orders! Hoagies & pizzas are $12 each, no late orders will be accepted. Please place order forms and one check payable to MABPO in the band mailbox by August 14^th. Delivery will be August 26^th, time and place TBD.  Please email Alyssa at mabpofundraising.ad@gmail.com with any questions.

Sign Up Genius for Football Games/Competitions
We need Parent Volunteers to help with Friday Night Football Games and Saturday Competitions. Please make sure your clearances have been submitted and are up to date. Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

Amazon Snack Wish List: With football games, competitions, and home-game hospitality for visiting bands, we go through a lot of snacks. If you’d like to help, please choose an item from our Amazon Snack Wish List and have it shipped directly to us. Thank you for helping us keep the band fed and the snack bins stocked! Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

Concession Stand Update: We are very excited to announce that we have been given the opportunity to sell concessions at our two RMU games!! Stay tuned for more information.

RaiseRight: Support Moon Area Band Every Time You Shop! We’re excited to launch RaiseRight as a new way to support the Moon Area Band Parents Association! It’s simple: Purchase gift cards for the stores, restaurants, gas stations, and online retailers you already use, and a percentage of your purchase is donated back to our band! Every dollar earned through RaiseRight goes directly into the Moon Area Band Parents Association General Fund, helping support ALL our student musicians through equipment, transportation, events, scholarships, and so much more. Whether you’re buying groceries, filling up your gas tank, grabbing dinner, or shopping for birthdays and holidays, your everyday purchases can have a lasting impact on our band program. Shop. Earn. Support. Thank you for helping our students hit all the right notes this year! Please click on link Raise Right 
Enrollment Code: YXD6W6W9YJFL

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
You are now able to apply your students’ credits to fees in presto. Under finances, it lists My Fees, My Payments and My Credits.  Click on My Credits, then select Apply Credits.  Select the fee you would like to apply the credit to. 

The second payment of $125 is due on August 27th. Please pay online via Presto or place a check in the band room mailbox. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
**IMPORTANT** REHEARSAL TIME CHANGES
WIND REHEARSAL - Tuesday, August 18 – 6PM-9PM
FULL BAND REHEARSAL – Thursday, August 20 – 6:00PM-9:00PM
Varsity Football Game at Bethel Park moved to Thursday, 9/3.

**NEW**THURSDAY, September 3 - Bethel Park Football Game
The Bethel Park Football game has been moved to Thursday night, September 3.  The game will be aired live on TV.  There will be no band activities on Friday, September 4.

PRODUCTION REHEARSAL - SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 - 8 AM-4 PM - MANDATORY!!
Kyle (our choreographer) will be in all day to teach the ballad and any other big-body moments (Mvt. 2). 
Lunch will be from 11:30-12:15. Students may leave campus at this time or pack lunch and eat inside the high school.
This rehearsal is vital to our competitive season!

COLOR GUARD WILL REHEARSE ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 from 6PM-9PM at the High School with Kyle, then will report on Saturday at 10:00 AM.

**NEW**Band Performance at Opening of Hyde Academy – Tuesday, August 18 – 5PM-5:30PM
The band has been requested to perform at the Opening of Hyde Academy on Tuesday, August 18 from 5PM-5:30PM.  We have moved the wind rehearsal to 6-9pm to facilitate this performance.  Color Guard should not attend this event

**NEW**Band Performance at Opening Day In-Service for Teachers - Wednesday, August 19 - 730AM - 8:15 AM  
Our superintendent, Dr. D'Alessio, has requested the band perform for the teachers on the opening in-service day meetings at the HS Auditorium.  If you are available, please complete the form linked above.  We will be performing "Hero," "Apt." and "The Fight Song" in the auditorium.  Attire is shorts and a red moon shirt of your choosing.  Please complete the form if you can attend from 7:30 AM until 8:15 AM on Wednesday, August 19.  Due to space, color guard should not attend this event.

BAND PICTURES - Wednesday, August 12 - 8 AM-10 AM - REPORT TIME IS 7:30 AM - MAHS - 
Band Pictures will be held on Wednesday, August 20, students report at 7:30 AM at MAHS.  Students must wear black socks (above their ankles), band shoes, and appropriate gym shorts (no jean shorts or cargo shorts).  Compression shirts and gloves will not be required for the picture.  Students will not wear hats, and students must have long hair pulled out of their faces.  Order forms were distributed after the 8/10, 8/11 rehearsal and can be found 2026 Band Pict Form
Hard copies will be available at the photo shoot.  The order of events is as follows:

MAHS MARCHING BAND PICTURE DAY SCHEDULE 
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 

• All band students must participate in the group, section, and class pictures. 
• Once the group pictures, section pictures, and class pictures are completed, students may change and leave. 
• Students may opt to purchase individual pictures.  You must stay and wait for an additional individual picture to be taken.  Make sure you have your picture form ready. 
• Please remember your black shoes and black socks for these pictures.   
• Students are not permitted to wear jeans or jean shorts underneath uniforms.   
• Students must have hair pulled out of their face. 
• Students will not wear shakos (band hats) for pictures.  Students must “fix” their hair. 
• Students will not wear gloves for this picture 
• Students do not need to wear compression shirts for this picture. 
• Jewelry, including earrings, watches, bracelets, and piercings, must be covered up or removed from the body.   
• Students who do not follow guidelines and uniform etiquette will not be permitted to have their pictures taken in an MAHS Band uniform. 

MONIES MUST BE BROUGHT AT THE TIME OF PICTURES. 

DOT BOOK CHECKS - There will be a graded dot-book check on August 27.  Students will have their dot-book collected after the 8/27 Rehearsals.  

MUSIC MEMORIZATION TESTING WILL BEGIN ON SEPTEMBER 8-15
Music to be memorized included:
Star Spangled Banner.                        
Alma Mater
Fight Song                    
Hero
Treasure                                                    
Apt.
ALL THREE MVTS OF THE COMPETITION SHOW

PRESTO-ASSISTANT 
https://www.presto-assistant.com - MAHS Band will utilize the Presto Assistant for managing and communicating to band families. This website is a one-stop shop for all parent information, communication, and financial information for the band program and the MABPO (Moon Area Band Parent Organization). This is our first season using this application. All parents will receive an email link to create a PARENT account in mid-June and again in July. Please check the email address from which you received this email. If you have issues creating an account, please get in touch with Mr. Barthen for assistance. Our organizational code is: moonareahsband.

MARCHING BAND MICROSOFT TEAMS 
Each marching band student was invited to a MS Teams Channel. This channel will be used to distribute music, drill, and other important student information throughout the year. Please make sure your student turns notifications on for this channel.

ABSENCE COMMUNICATION 
If your student will be absent from a marching band rehearsal, please communicate with either Mr. Barthen (winds/guard) or Mr. Fear (pit/battery percussion). This will aid us in the planning and structure of rehearsal. Our e-mail addresses can be found at the bottom of this document.
**PLEASE NOTE: As per the marching band handbook (Page 3):
BAND HANDBOOK - LINK
The band handbook will be available on July 28 on the Presto website in the Presto Files Area as well as linked in the MABPO Newsletter. The band handbook outlines the procedures and protocols that the band and its members follow throughout the entire school year.

COMPLETE 2026 SUMMER/FALL MARCHING BAND SCHEDULE LINK​

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. Aug. 10 - Percussion and Color Guard Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug. 11 - Wind Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Aug. 12 – Band Pictures – 7:30 AM
Thu. Aug. 13 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug. 14 - Color Guard Rehearsal with Kyle - 6PM-9PM
Sat. Aug. 15 - FULL ENSEMBLE REHEARSAL (PRODUCTIO REHEARSAL w/ KYLE) - 8AM-4PM - MAHS
____
Mon. Aug. 17 - Percussion and Color Guard Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug. 18 - Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM – MAHS
                        Hyde Academy Opening – 5PM- 5:45PM
Wed. Aug. 19 – MAHS Teacher In-Service Performance – 7:30 AM
Thu. Aug. 20 - Full Ensemble Rehearsal – 6:15PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug 21 -
_____
Mon. Aug 24 - Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug 25 - Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Aug. 26
Thu. Aug 27 - FULL Ensemble Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug 28 - Away Football Game @ Montour HS - Report time is 5:00PM
____
Mon. Aug. 30 – Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal – 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Sept. 1 – Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS 
Wed. Sept. 3 - 
Thu. Sept 4 - Football Game at Bethel Park HS
Fri. Sept. 5 -
____
Mon. Sept. 7 – No Rehearsal – Labor Day
Tue. Sept. 8 – FULL BAND Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Sept. 9 - 
Thu. Sept. 10 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Sept. 11 - Football Game vs Penn-Trafford at RMU
Sat. Sept. 12 -
___
Future Events
Sat. September 19 – Mt. Lebanon PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 10 – Deer Lakes PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 19 – McKeesport PIMBA Competition
Sat. October 24 – PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLEARANCES
MABPO has no connection to MASD's Applitrack, therefore a digital or physical copy of the clearance needs to be submitted the MABPO secretary.  Clearances can be emailed to: Heather Longstreth - secretary@moonband.org

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Saturday, September 19 Local Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS
Saturday, October 10 Local Competition at Deer Lakes HS
Saturday, October 17 Local Competition at McKeesport HS
Saturday, October 24 - PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
Thursday, December 17 - Winter Band Concert
Wednesday, May 19, 2027 - Spring Band Concert

REMINDERS:
New this year but depending on Weather! We will be offering a limited concession stand before the Friday, August 7th performance at Away Band Camp. Arrive early and bring cash to buy snacks and drinks.

Mark your Calanders for the 2026-2027 MABPO Parent Meetings
Meetings will start at 7pm in the High School Band Room.
August 20
September 17
October 15
November 19
December 10
January 21
February 18
March 18
April 22
May 20

FUNDRAISING: Don’t forget your Marianna’s Hoagie and Pizza fundraiser forms! Stop by the band room to pick one up. Every order helps support our band program, so grab your form and get ready to start selling! All hoagies and pizzas are $12.00 each. Sell dates are July 24^th through August 14^th. Delivery will be August 26^th, time and place TBD. Please place order forms and one check payable to MABPO in the band mailbox by August 14^th. Please email Alyssa at mabpofundraising.ad@gmail.com with any questions.

Sign Up Genius for Football Games/Competitions
We need Parent Volunteers to help with Friday Night Football Games and Saturday Competitions. Please make sure your clearances have been submitted and are up to date. Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
You are now able to apply your students’ credits to fees in presto. Under finances, it lists My Fees, My Payments and My Credits.  Click on My Credits, then select Apply Credits.  Select the fee you would like to apply the credit to. 

The second payment of $125 is due on August 27th. Please pay online via Presto or place a check in the band room mailbox. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
AWAY BAND CAMP PICK-UP DETAILS
An email will be sent on Thursday afternoon, 8/6, confirming Parent Show and pick-up details for Friday, 8/7.

PRODUCTION REHEARSAL - SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 - 8 AM-4 PM - MANDATORY!!!
Kyle (our choreographer) will be in all day to teach the ballad and any other big-body moments. 
Lunch will be from 11:30-12:15. Students may leave campus at this time or pack lunch and eat inside the high school.
This rehearsal is vital to our competitive season!

BAND PICTURE DAY
Band Picture Day has been scheduled on Wednesday, August 12, beginning at 8:00AM at MAHS.  Forms will be distributed/made available closer to the date.  All students must attend, even if not purchasing pictures.  We will take the large-group pictures first, then move on to the individual pictures.  Individual Pictures historically conclude around 10AM.

FOOTBALL GAME DATE CHANGE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 @ BETHEL PARK HS

Complete 2026 Season Marching Band Schedule - ​​​​​LINK​​​​​ 

ABSENCE COMMUNICATION 
If your student will be absent from a marching band rehearsal, please communicate with either Mr. Barthen (winds/guard) or Mr. Fear (pit/battery percussion). This will aid us in planning and structuring rehearsal. Our e-mail addresses can be found at the bottom of this document.

MARCHING BAND MICROSOFT TEAMS 
Each marching band student was invited to a MS Teams Channel. This channel will be used to distribute music, drill, and other important student information throughout the year. Please make sure your student turns notifications on for this channel.

BAND HANDBOOK  - ​LINK​
The band handbook will be available on July 28 on the Presto website in the Presto Files Area as well as linked in the MABPO Newsletter. The band handbook outlines the procedures and protocols that the band and its members follow throughout the entire school year.

UPCOMING DATES
Sun. Aug. 2 - Away Band Camp Check in between 10:30AM - 11:30 AM
Aug. 2 -7 - Away Band Camp @ W&J
____
Mon. Aug. 10 - Percussion and Color Guard Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug. 11 - Wind Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Aug. 12 - Full Band Pictures - 7:45AM - 10:00AM
Thu. Aug. 13 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug. 14 - Color Guard Rehearsal with Kyle - 5PM-9PM
Sat. Aug. 15 - FULL ENSEMBLE REHEARSAL (PRODUCTIO REHEARSAL w/ KYLE) - 8AM-4PM - MAHS
___
Mon. Aug. 17 - Percussion and Color Guard Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug. 18 - Wind Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Aug. 19
Thu. Aug. 20 - Full Ensemble Rehearsal - 5PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug 21 - 
______
Mon. Aug. 24 - Color Guard & Percussion Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Tue. Aug. 25 - Wind Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Wed. Aug. 26 - 
Thu. Aug. 27 - Full Band Rehearsal - 6PM-9PM - MAHS
Fri. Aug. 28 - Football Game @ Montour HS - Tentative Report time is 4:45PM.
Sat. Aug. 29 - 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLEARANCES
MABPO has no connection to MASD's Applitrack, therefore a digital or physical copy of the clearance needs to be submitted the MABPO secretary.  Clearances can be emailed to: Heather Longstreth - secretary@moonband.org

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Saturday, September 19 Local Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS
Saturday, October 10 Local Competition at Deer Lakes HS
Saturday, October 17 Local Competition at McKeesport HS
Saturday, October 24 - PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
Thursday, December 17 - Winter Band Concert
Wednesday, May 19, 2027 - Spring Band Concert

REMINDERS:
Band Varsity Jackets: It’s time to order Band Varsity Jackets! Sophomores (Class of 2029), Freshmen who marched as 8th graders (Class of 2030), and upperclassmen who have completed one year of band are eligible to place an order. The DUE DATE for payment is WEDNESDAY JULY 29th, 2026. LATE ORDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED!

Uniform Help Needed: We need help fitting all the students into their band uniforms. If you can help, Thursday, July 30 from 7-8 am. Please email Heather at uniforms@moonband.org. Thanks!

Sign Up Genius for Away Band Camp: We need some help on Sunday, August 2nd at the high school to help get the kids out the door, and settled at W&J. We also need LOTS of snack donations for camp. All donations can be brought Sunday morning, August 2nd when you bring your child to the high school for away band camp departure! Please see the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

Candygram Pre-Order: All orders are due during check-in for away band camp. Please use a separate block for each student you are sending a Candygram to. Payable with exact change/cash or checks made out to: MABPO.

Away Camp Daily Themes: August 3rd through August 7th
Monday: American Day
Tuesday: Tie-Dye Day
Wednesday: Adam Sandler Day
Thursday: Hawaiian Day
Friday: Dress Your Class!
Class Colors:
Freshmen (Grades 8 & 9): Purple
Sophomores: Red
Juniors: Green
Seniors: Wear your Senior Shirts!

Mark your Calanders for the 2026-2027 MABPO Parent Meetings
Meetings will start at 7pm in the High School Band Room.
August 20
September 17
October 15
November 19
December 10
January 21
February 18
March 18
April 22
May 20

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP - Do you or a family member own your own business?  Does your employer give donations to 501c's?  If so, please pass along this year's Sponsorship Letter with our tiered donation opportunities. Reach out to Stephanie Haas at woogitrae@gmail.com with any questions. 

FUNDRAISING: Don’t forget your Marianna’s Hoagie and Pizza fundraiser forms! Stop by the band room during home band camp to pick one up. Every order helps support our band program, so grab your form and get ready to start selling! All hoagies and pizzas are $12.00 each. Sell dates are July 24^th through August 14^th. Delivery will be August 26^th, time and place TBD. Please place order forms and one check payable to MABPO in the band mailbox by August 14^th. Please email Alyssa at mabpofundraising.ad@gmail.com with any questions.

Sign Up Genius for Football Games/Competitions
We need Parent Volunteers to help with Friday Night Football Games and Saturday Competitions. Please make sure your clearances have been submitted and are up to date. Refer to the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
You are now able to apply your students’ credits to fees in presto. Under finances, it lists My Fees, My Payments and My Credits.  Click on My Credits, then select Apply Credits.  Select the fee you would like to apply the credit to. 

The first payment of $210 was due today. If you have not paid it yet, please pay online via Presto or place a check in the band room mailbox. This payment must be paid before we leave for away band camp. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
2026 MAHS Band Handbook - LINK

Trailer Practice Load - Thursday, July 30 - 7PM - MAHS Student Entrance
Anyone who is interested in serving as truck crew or truck drivers for the band's equipment trailers should attend the practice load on Thursday, 7/30 at 7PM.  We will meet at the Student Entrance Parking Lot.

SENIOR PORTRAITS - Friday, 7/31 - 7:45AM - MAHS Band Room

MANILA ENVELOPE 
At the July 21 rehearsal, an 8”x 12” manila envelope containing forms will be distributed to students. Please make sure parents and students familiarize themselves with the material inside the packet. Please refer to the table below to understand what is in the envelope.

HOME BAND CAMP – July 27 – July 31 - MANDATORY ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED
Home Band Camp is scheduled for July 27 – July 31 from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM for Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion Members; and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM for Color Guard Members. 

WE WILL HAVE A FULL BAND REHEARSAL ON FRIDAY, JULY 31. Color Guard members as well as the Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion will report from 8AM-3PM on Friday, JULY 31.

Rehearsals will take place at the High School.  Students will be responsible for bringing or buying their own lunch.  Students may leave campus for their lunch break.  Lunch will run from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.  Students are not permitted to walk on University Boulevard.  Please have discussions with your child regarding if permitted to ride in cars with teenage drivers.

Proper summer attire is required, shorts, light colored t-shirts, etc.  FLIP-FLOPS OR SANDALS MAY NOT BE WORN TO THESE REHEARSALS!  Please be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.  We will be outside!  Water breaks will be given as needed and determined by the weather.

THE BAND WILL NOT PROVIDE WATER AT REHEARSALS.  ALL STUDENTS SHOULD BRING AT LEAST A ONE HALF (1/2) GALLON OF WATER TO EVERY REHEARSAL.  STAY AWAY FROM CARBONATED BEVERAGES and make sure you EAT BREAKFAST before rehearsal.

DAILY HOME BAND CAMP SCHEDULE
8 AM – 11 AM – Field Rehearsal - Outside
11 AM – Noon – Lunch on own
Noon – 3 PM – Music Rehearsal - Inside and outside

AWAY BAND CAMP ROOM SIGN-UPS 
A link has been posted on the students' Microsoft Team pages to sign-up with their roommates for a room at Away Band Camp.  PLEASE ASK YOUR STUDENT WHO THEY ARE ROOMING WITH!!  If there are any questions, please contact Mr. Barthen.

AWAY BAND CAMP MEDICATION
Medication for Away Band Camp will be checked on Sunday, August 2, by the Trip Medical Volunteer.  Please have ALL medication in a gallon Zip Lock Bag with both the Self Medication Form and Prescribers Form (If Applicable).  If you have already turned that form into Mr. Barthen, the Nurse will have it on Sunday to reference.  Even if your child is not taking any medication to band camp, please turn the self-medication form in with their name on the top and an "X" across the entire page.

REMINDER: ONLY UNOPENED PACKAGES/CONTAINERS OF OTC MEDICATION IS ACCEPTED.  No open bottles of OTC Medication are permitted.

AWAY BAND CAMP FINAL EMAIL - A reference email will be sent Friday (7/31-evening) regarding our Sunday 8/2 departure and packing lists for Away Band Camp.  Please reference the Away Band Camp Section of the Band Handbook.

PRESTO-ASSISTANT – https://www.presto-assistant.com
MAHS Band will utilize the Presto Assistant for managing and communicating to band families.  This website is a one stop shop for all parent information, communication, and financial information for the band program and the MABPO (Moon Area Band Parent Organization). All new parents will receive an email link to change their passwords and adjust information within their established account after you receive Summer E-Mail #3.  DO NOT ERASE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN PRESTO, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE BAND UPDATES IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS IN PRESTO. Also, do not change your child’s email address in Presto.  We do not email the students using this application.  If you are having issues with your account, please contact Mr. Barthen for assistance.  Our organizational code is: moonareahsband.

DIETARY/ALLERGY INFORMATION - LINK
To aid in the planning and preparation of the marching band season, please complete the form pertaining to your child’s Dietary needs as well as any allergies they may have.  This information is confidential and will be used to ensure we meet your child’s needs during meals and/or snacks in which the band provides.  https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/0TSUwgJpCg

ABSENCE COMMUNICATION 
If your student will be absent from a marching band rehearsal, please communicate with either Mr. Barthen (winds/guard) or Mr. Fear (pit/battery percussion). This will aid us in the planning and structure of rehearsal. Our e-mail addresses can be found at the bottom of this document.

UNIFORM FITTING SIGN-UP - LINK
We will fit the marching band uniforms beginning on Tuesday, July 22.  Please sign-up for an appointment via the link.
Here is the daily schedule:
PERCUSSION ONLY
July 22 – 3:10PM – 3:50PM
July 23 – 3:10PM – 3:50PM 
July 24 – 3:10 – 3:50PM
WINDS ONLY
July 21 - Wind Seniors – 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 22 - Wind Juniors - 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 23 – Wind Sophomores and 2nd year Freshman - 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 30 – Wind Freshman (1st & 2nd year) & 8th Graders – 7:00AM – 8:00AM; 11:00AM-12:00PM; 3:00PM-4:00PM

BAND PICTURE DAY
Band Picture Day has been scheduled on Wednesday, August 12 beginning at 8:00AM at MAHS.  Forms will be distributed/made available closer to the date.  All students must attend, even if not purchasing pictures.  We will take the large group pictures first, then move to the individual pictures.  Individual Pictures historically conclude around 10AM.

Complete 2026 Season Marching Band Schedule - ​​​LINK​​​ 

A CHECKLIST OF INFORMATION: (SAVE THIS LIST)

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Saturday, September 19 Local Competition at Mt. Lebanon HS
Saturday, October 10 Local Competition at Deer Lakes HS
Saturday, October 17 Local Competition at McKeesport HS
Saturday, October 24 - PIMBA Championships at Gateway HS
Thursday, December 17 - Winter Band Concert
Wednesday, May 19, 2027 - Spring Band Concert

REMINDERS:
Mandatory MABPO MEETING AND AWAY BAND CAMP TRIP MEETING – Thursday, July 23 – 7:00pm – MAHS Auditorium: Please enter the building via the Student, Main Office, or Natatorium Entrances.

Uniform Help Needed: We need help fitting all the students into their band uniforms. It will take place in the band room and no experience is necessary. We are looking for help with the following times: Tuesday 7/21 from 3-5 pm, Wednesday 7/22 from 3-5 pm, Thursday 7/23 from 3-5 pm, and Thursday 7/30 from 7-8 am, 11-12pm, and 3-4 pm. Please email Heather at uniforms@moonband.org if you can help for one or more of these time slots. Thanks!

Candygram Pre-Order: All orders are due during check-in for away band camp. NEW THIS YEAR! Turn your order form in at the MANDAORY Parent Meeting July 23^rd. We will have a table set up for Candygram orders both days. Please use a separate block for each student you are sending a Candygram to. Payable with exact change/cash or checks made out to: MABPO.

Band Varsity Jackets: It’s time to order Band Varsity Jackets! Sophomores (Class of 2029), Freshmen who marched as 8th graders (Class of 2030), and upperclassmen who have completed one year of band are eligible to place an order. The DUE DATE for payment is WEDNESDAY JULY 29th, 2026. LATE ORDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED! 

Sign Up Genius for Away Band Camp: We need some help on Sunday, August 2nd at the high school to help get the kids out the door, and settled at W&J. And we also need LOTS of snack donations for camp. The kids are snacking a few times a day. We go through a LOT of fruit, salty snacks, etc. We also do a “late night snack” before they go back to the dorms at night. All donations can be brought Sunday morning, August 2nd when you bring your child to the high school for away band camp departure!

Please see the sign-up genius links included in the newsletter email. Please contact Beckie at Vpoperations@moonband.org with any questions.

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP - Do you or a family member own your own business?  Does your employer give donations to 501c's?  If so, please pass along this year's Sponsorship Letter with our tiered donation opportunities. Reach out to Stephanie Haas at woogitrae@gmail.com with any questions. 

FUNDRAISING: Please email Alyssa at fundraising@moonband.org with any questions.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games at PNC Park this season, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
You are now able to apply your students’ credits to fees in Pesto. Under Finances, it lists My Fees, My Payments and My Credits.  Click on My Credits, then select Apply Credits.  Select the fee you would like to apply the credit to. 

The First Payment of $210 is due Monday, July 27. I will be at a table outside of the auditorium collecting payments before the meeting on Thursday, July 23rd. You can also pay online through Presto or place a check in the mailbox in the band room. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
Summer Email #3 - Mega Form Email - was sent on Friday, July 10.  If you have not received this email, please contact Mr. Barthen.

Mr. Barthen's 2026 Marching Band Season Welcome Letter - ​​LINK​​

COLOR GUARD, PERCUSSION AND WIND MINI-CAMP – July 21-23 - If you are in town, you are expected to attend! Mini-Camps for the Color Guard, Percussion and Wind sections will be held on July 21-23 (check the calendar for specific times). If you are in town, and not on vacation, your child should attend these camps.  MEMBERS SHOULD WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING TO ALL REHEARSALS – NO FLIP-FLOPS/SANDALS. BRING WATER!!

MANILLA ENVELOPE 
At the July 21 rehearsal, an 8”x 12” manilla envelope containing forms will be distributed to students. Please make sure parents and students familiarize themselves with the material inside the packet. Please refer to the table below to understand what is in the envelope.

MABPO MEETING AND AWAY BAND CAMP TRIP MEETING – Thursday, July 23 – 7:00pm – MAHS Auditorium
The first MABPO Meeting and Band Camp Trip Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 23 at 7:00pm in the MAHS Auditorium. Please enter the building via the Student, Main Office, or Natatorium Entrances.  This meeting will discuss the innerworkings of the band parent organization as well as serve as the mandatory trip meeting for away band camp. Please make every effort to attend this meeting!

COMPRESSION SHIRT ORDER – DUE JULY 23, 2026 - LINK
Our marching band uniforms utilize state of the art design and fabric technology.  Lighter fabrics and new age construction techniques not only provides a tall, sleek line on each performer, but provides the performer a more comfortable experience while moving, playing and enduring warm weather conditions.  With that in mind, ALL WIND AND PERCUSSION PERFORMERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR/PURCHASE THE MAHS MARCHING BAND COMPRESSION SHIRT.  This shirt will protect the uniform in warm weather conditions as the perspiration is evenly distributed across the fabric, and also provide a uniformed look when we remove the jacket.  The order form is included in the packet as well as posted in the PRESTO website in the MY FILES TAB.  If you purchased a shirt(s) last year, you do NOT need to purchase the shirt again, unless you wish. (please make sure the shirt fits).

HOME BAND CAMP – July 27 – July 31 - MANDATORY ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED
Home Band Camp is scheduled for July 27 – July 31 from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM for Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion Members; and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM for Color Guard Members. 

WE WILL HAVE A FULL BAND REHEARSAL ON FRIDAY, JULY 31. Color Guard members as well as the Woodwinds, Brass and Percussion will report from 8AM-3PM on Friday, JULY 31. 

Rehearsals will take place at the High School.  Students will be responsible for bringing or buying their own lunch.  Students may leave campus for their lunch break.  Lunch will run from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.  Proper summer attire is required, shorts, light colored t-shirts, etc.  FLIP-FLOPS OR SANDALS MAY NOT BE WORN TO THESE REHEARSALS! 

Please be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.  We will be outside!  Water breaks will be given as needed and determined by the weather.  THE BAND WILL NOT PROVIDE WATER AT REHEARSALS.  ALL STUDENTS SHOULD BRING AT LEAST A ONE HALF (1/2) GALLON OF WATER TO EVERY REHEARSAL.  STAY AWAY FROM CARBONATED BEVERAGES and make sure you EAT BREAKFAST before rehearsal.

DAILY HOME BAND CAMP SCHEDULE
8 AM – 11 AM – Field Rehearsal - Outside
11 AM – Noon – Lunch on own
Noon – 3 PM – Music Rehearsal - Inside and outside

PRESTO-ASSISTANT – https://www.presto-assistant.com
MAHS Band will utilize the Presto Assistant for managing and communicating to band families.  This website is a one stop shop for all parent information, communication, and financial information for the band program and the MABPO (Moon Area Band Parent Organization). All new parents will receive an email link to change their passwords and adjust information within their established account after you receive Summer E-Mail #3.  DO NOT ERASE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN PRESTO, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE BAND UPDATES IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS IN PRESTO. Also, do not change your child’s email address in Presto.  We do not email the students using this application.  If you are having issues with your account, please contact Mr. Barthen for assistance.  Our organizational code is: moonareahsband.

DIETARY/ALLERGY INFORMATION - LINK
To aid in the planning and preparation of the marching band season, please complete the form pertaining to your child’s Dietary needs as well as any allergies they may have.  This information is confidential and will be used to ensure we meet your child’s needs during meals and/or snacks in which the band provides.  https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/0TSUwgJpCg

ABSENCE COMMUNICATION 
If your student will be absent from a marching band rehearsal, please communicate with either Mr. Barthen (winds/guard) or Mr. Fear (pit/battery percussion). This will aid us in the planning and structure of rehearsal. Our e-mail addresses can be found at the bottom of this document.

UNIFORM FITTING SIGN-UP - LINK
We will fit the marching band uniforms beginning on Tuesday, July 22.  Please sign up for an appointment via the link.

Here is the daily schedule:
PERCUSSION ONLY
July 22 – 3:10PM – 3:50PM
July 23 – 3:10PM – 3:50PM
July 24 – 3:10 – 3:50PM
WINDS ONLY
July 21 - Wind Seniors – 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 22 - Wind Juniors - 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 23 – Wind Sophomores and 2nd year Freshman - 3:50PM – 5:00PM
July 30 – Wind Freshman (1st & 2nd year) & 8th Graders – 7:00AM – 8:00AM; 11:00AM-12:00PM; 3:00PM-4:00PM

BAND PICTURE DAY
Band Picture Day has been scheduled on Wednesday, August 12 beginning at 8:00AM at MAHS.  Forms will be distributed/made available closer to the date.  All students must attend, even if they do not purchase pictures.  We will take the large group pictures first, then move to the individual pictures.  Individual Pictures historically conclude around 10AM.

Complete 2026 Season Marching Band Schedule - ​​LINK​​ 

A CHECKLIST OF INFORMATION: (SAVE THIS LIST)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLEARANCES
MABPO has no connection to MASD's Applitrack, therefore a digital or physical copy of the clearance needs to be submitted the MABPO secretary.  Clearances can be emailed to: Heather Longstreth - secretary@moonband.org
Note:  If the child's last name differs from the parent sending the clearances, please point that out in the email.
Per the updated MASD policy, Clearances are valid for 5 years
Under PA Law Act 153, The State of Pennsylvania is requiring all adults who volunteer in any capacity within the school to obtain background checks. This will include parents who volunteer to chaperone the MAHS Marching Band at football games, parades, band camps, and trips. Chaperones are required to complete the PA State Police Criminal Background Check, Child Abuse History, and FBI Fingerprints. The FBI Fingerprint is only if the volunteer has not been a state of PA resident for at least 10 years. Please visit http://www.keepkidssafe.pa.gov for additional information.
OR follow the steps below: 
Child Abuse Clearance click HERE 
1. Cost: Free
2. Create the account
3. Submit the required information
4. Print certificate and submit to MABPO Secretary
PA Criminal Background Check click HERE
1. Cost: Free
2. Click on "NEW RECORD CHECK" (Volunteers Only)
3. After the record check is complete, click on the blue control number
4. To view the certificate, click on the blue words "Certification Form"
5. Print the certificate and submit to the MABPO Secretary
FBI Fingerprinting click HERE
use service code 1KG6XN
Contact secretary@moonband.org if you have any questions about clearances.

Check out Moon Band on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/moonareabands
Questions, comments or suggestions contact communications@moonband.org