News & Events

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Monday, May 4 - Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - MAHS Spring Band Concert
Friday, May 15 - MAHS Spring Jazz Concert
Monday, May 25 - Sewickley Memorial Day Parade
Friday, June 5 - MAHS Graduation - All Band & Orchestra Students Perform

REMINDERS:
Parents Board Meeting: March 19^th at 7pm in the band room.

Dine To Donate: Texas Roadhouse March 25th

Moon Band has been asked again to supply concessions for the Region 22 Karate Tournament located at the CCBC Golden Dome on Saturday April 18th. We could use a few volunteers to make this a successful fundraiser for MABPO. All proceeds will go to our general fund to help support our music program. A donation sign up will be sent out later this month. 

Pictures: Parents who wish to contribute some of their own pictures from the stands or other interactions are welcome to do so at this link.  Please note that contributions will be reviewed prior to posting in the SmugMug gallery.  Please take a moment to consider your contributions and make sure they are bright enough, clear, and do not upload excessive variations of the same picture.  If you wish to participate in more robust media coverage, contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) to discuss.

FUNDRAISING
BLOOM flower sale is starting up. This fundraiser will include hanging baskets and planters which will arrive in time for Mother's Day! Brochures are available in the band room. Orders are due Thursday, March 26 to the band room mailbox. Delivery is Saturday, April 25 from 1:00- 3:00 outside of the cafeteria. If you have any questions, please email Hope at fundraising@moonband.org.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games at PNC Park this season, please sign up for Guest Promise Training. The available dates are 3/16, 3/19, 3/22, and 3/30. Opening weekend is April 3-5th! If you are interested in working the NFL Draft, the dates are April 23-25th. Shifts will pay out $185. If you are interested, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
The 3^rd winter guard payment of $40 is due on March 9th. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
Congratulations!! to the MAHS Winter Guard, whom placed third on Saturday, March 7 at the Hempfield HS TRWEA Show.  The guard scored an 80.74 and placed behind Kiski and Norwin HS.

March 10 - MASD Ground Breaking Ceremony - By Stadium - 4:00pm - 4:30pm - Symphonic Band MANDATORY and any MARCHING BAND STUDENT WHO WOULD LIKE TO JOIN!

Marching Band Florida Uniform is the attire

2026/2027 Marching Band Summer Dates
July 21-23 - Guard (5-9pm), Wind (5-9pm), and Percussion (8AM-3PM) Camps
July 27-31 - Home Band Camp
August 2-7 - Away Band Camp
August 15 - Production Rehearsal

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. March 9 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 10 - Symphonic Band Gig After School - 4pm-4:30pm - On Campus
Wed. March 11 - 
Thu. March 12 - 
Fri. March 13 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 14 - 

Mon. March 16 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 17 - 
Wed. March 18 - 
Thu. March 19 - 
Fri. March 20 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 21- TRWEA Winter Guard Show at Penn-Trafford HS

Mon. March 23 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 24 - 
Wed. March 25 - 
Thu. March 26 - 
Fri. March 27 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 28 - TRWEA Championships

Mon. March 30 - 
Tue. March 31 - 
Wed. April 1 - SPRING BREAK
Thu. April 2 - Spring Break
Fri. April 3 - Spring Break

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert
Monday, May 4 - Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - MAHS Spring Band Concert
Friday, May 15 - MAHS Spring Jazz Concert
Monday, May 25 - Sewickley Memorial Day Parade
Friday, June 5 - MAHS Graduation - All Band & Orchestra Students Perform

REMINDERS:
Pictures: Parents who wish to contribute some of their own pictures from the stands or other interactions are welcome to do so at this link.  Please note that contributions will be reviewed prior to posting in the SmugMug gallery.  Please take a moment to consider your contributions and make sure they are bright enough, clear, and do not upload excessive variations of the same picture.  If you wish to participate in more robust media coverage, contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) to discuss.

FUNDRAISING
If you have any questions, please email Hope at fundraising@moonband.org.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you’re interested in working games at PNC Park this season, please sign up for Guest Promise Training. The available dates are 3/16, 3/19, 3/22, and 3/30. Opening weekend is April 3-5th!
If you are interested in working the NFL Draft, the dates are April 23-25th. Shifts will pay out $185. If you are interested, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
The 3^rd winter guard payment of $40 is due on March 9th.  Also  if you have not yet submitted the 2^nd payment of $40, it was due on February 9th.Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
THANK YOU!! - A big thank you to all who made the Florida trip a great success.  To the chaperones, truck drivers, medical checkers, baggage checkers, luggage loaders, to the parents, and students, your assistance was truly appreciated.  THANK YOU!

March 3 - All-District Music Concert - Symphonic Band Only!
Symphonic Band members are to report to the band room by 7:20pm on 3/3.  
Tux and Gown attire
Concert begins at 7pm, admission is free.  Concert should conclude around 8:30pm. Symphonic Band performs last

March 10 - MASD Ground Breaking Ceremony - By Stadium - 4:00pm - 4:30pm - Symphonic Band ONLY!
Marching Band Florida Uniform is the attire

2026/2027 Marching Band Summer Dates
July 21-23 - Guard (5-9pm), Wind (5-9pm), and Percussion (8AM-3PM) Camps
July 27-31 - Home Band Camp
August 2-7 - Away Band Camp
August 15 - Production Rehearsal

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. March 2 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 3 - All-District Music Concert - 7pm - Symphonic Band to Perform ONLY
Wed. March 4 - 
Thu. March 5 - 
Fri. March 6 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 7 - Winter Guard Show at Hempfield HS - Perform at 7:31pm;  3:30 is report time at MAHS

Mon. March 9 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 10 - Symphonic Band Gig After School - 4pm-4:30pm - On Campus
Wed. March 11 - 
Thu. March 12 - 
Fri. March 13 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 14 - 

Mon. March 16 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 17 - 
Wed. March 18 - 
Thu. March 19 - 
Fri. March 20 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 21- TRWEA Winter Guard Show at Penn-Trafford HS

Mon. March 23 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 24 - Symphonic Band Gig After School - 4pm-4:30pm - On Campus
Wed. March 25 - 
Thu. March 26 - 
Fri. March 27 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 28 - TRWEA Championships

Future Events
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert - Symphonic Band to perform
Monday, May 4 - High School Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - High School Spring Band Concert
Friday, June 5 - Graduation - All HS Instrumental Students Perform
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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: Rachel Jones - 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

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert
Monday, May 4 - Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - MAHS Spring Band Concert
Friday, May 15 - MAHS Spring Jazz Concert
Monday, May 25 - Sewickley Memorial Day Parade
Friday, June 5 - MAHS Graduation - All Band & Orchestra Students Perform

REMINDERS:
Pictures: Parents who wish to contribute some of their own pictures from the stands or other interactions are welcome to do so at this link.  Please note that contributions will be reviewed prior to posting in the SmugMug gallery.  Please take a moment to consider your contributions and make sure they are bright enough, clear, and do not upload excessive variations of the same picture.  If you wish to participate in more robust media coverage, contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) to discuss.

FUNDRAISING
If you have any questions, please email Hope at fundraising@moonband.org.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
There will be opportunities to work concessions for the NFL Draft April 23-25. More details will be released shortly. If you would like to work at PNC Park for the upcoming season, it’s time to do Guest Services Training. The first set of dates are 3/16 at 6 pm, 3/19 at 6 pm, and 3/22 at 1 pm. If you are interested, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
Congratulations to the MAHS Winter Color Guard on their first-place finish at the Baldwin HS TRWEA Show this past weekend.  The group scored 70.75 and placed first in Scholastic A classification.  Their next show is March 7 at Hempfield High School.

REMINDER: FLA Luggage, Equipment & Uniform load on 2/17 - ALL STUDENTS MUST ATTEND - ​PACKING LIST

FLORIDA UPDATES - PLEASE READ AND PAY ATTENTION TO DEADLINES AND DATES.  YOUR FAILURE TO MEET DEADLINES WILL CAUSE YOUR CHILD TO BE LEFT OUT OF DISNEY PLANS!  Deadlines are planned around items we must submit to our vendors.

Form Packet was distributed in class on 1/14/26 (links for forms are below)

FLORIDA HANDBOOK & FORM LINKS
Florida Trip Handbook - ​LINK​
Medication Administration/Prescriber Form - ​LINK​​ ​ - complete only if taking prescribed medication while on trip
Self Medication Form - ​LINK​ - EVERYONE COMPLETES, even if not taking medication on trip

ADDITIONAL FLORIDA DATES
February 17 - Luggage load and Check – beginning at 6:30 PM (times staggered by last names)
February 19 – Depart via school bus
February 21 - Marching Band performance at Magic Kingdom
February 23 – Return to MAHS via school bus

2026/2027 Marching Band Summer Dates
July 21-23 - Guard (5-9pm), Wind (5-9pm), and Percussion (8AM-3PM) Camps
July 27-31 - Home Band Camp
August 2-7 - Away Band Camp
August 15 - Production Rehearsal

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. Feb. 16 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 17 - FLA LUGGAGE AND EQUIPMENT PACK - 6:30 - 8:30 by times.
Wed. Feb. 18 - 
Thu. Feb. 19 - Depart for Florida after period 2 (MS Period 1)
Fri. Feb. 20 - In Epcot
Sat. Feb. 21 - In Magic Kingdom - Band Performs 2:30pm
Sun. Feb. 22 - In Hollywood Studios

Mon. Feb. 23 - In Universal Studios - Arrive back PM
Tue. Feb. 24 - PICK UP LUGGAGE 6pm-7:15PM
Wed. Feb. 25 – 
Thu. Feb. 26 –
Fri. Feb. 27 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 -10pm - MAMS Aux Gym

Mon. March 2 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. March 3 - All-District Music Concert - 7pm - Symphonic Band to Perform ONLY
Wed. March 4 - 
Thu. March 5 - 
Fri. March 6 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 7 - Winter Guard Show at Hempfield HS

Mon. March 9 -  Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. March 10 - Symphonic Band Gig After School - 4pm-4:30pm - On Campus
Wed. March 11 - 
Thu. March 12 - 
Fri. March 13 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 14 - 

Future Events
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert - Symphonic Band to perform
Monday, May 4 - High School Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - High School Spring Band Concert
Friday, June 5 - Graduation - All HS Instrumental Students Perform
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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: Rachel Jones - 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

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert
Monday, May 4 - Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - MAHS Spring Band Concert
Friday, May 15 - MAHS Spring Jazz Concert
Monday, May 25 - Sewickley Memorial Day Parade
Friday, June 5 - MAHS Graduation - All Band & Orchestra Students Perform

REMINDERS:
Winter Guard: the 2^nd Winter Guard payment of $50 is due today February 9th.

Assistance Needed with Senior Memory Books
Contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) if you'd be able to help out!

Pictures: Parents who wish to contribute some of their own pictures from the stands or other interactions are welcome to do so at this link.  Please note that contributions will be reviewed prior to posting in the SmugMug gallery.  Please take a moment to consider your contributions and make sure they are bright enough, clear, and do not upload excessive variations of the same picture.  If you wish to participate in more robust media coverage, contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) to discuss.

FUNDRAISING
Texas Roadhouse in North Fayette/Robinson Township is partnering with the Moon Area Marching Band to host a Gift Card Fundraiser. Make sure to purchase a few gift cards to use at our Dine to Donate on March 25^th. This fundraiser ends February 12^th with gift cards being distributed the week of March 9^th.

Sarris Easter candy sales brochures and order forms are located in the band room. Orders are due by February 12th. Late orders will not be accepted! If you have any questions, please email Hope at fundraising@moonband.org.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
There will be opportunities to work concessions for the NFL Draft April 23-25. More details will be released shortly. If you would like to work at PNC Park for the upcoming season, it’s time to do Guest Services Training. The first set of dates are 3/16 at 6 pm, 3/19 at 6 pm, and 3/22 at 1 pm. If you are interested, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
The 2^nd Winter Guard payment of $50 is due today February 9^th. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
REMINDER: FLA REHEARSAL - TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 - 3pm-5pm - MAHS GYMS - MANDATORY FOR ALL!!

FLORIDA UPDATES - PLEASE READ AND PAY ATTENTION TO DEADLINES AND DATES.  YOUR FAILURE TO MEET DEADLINES WILL CAUSE YOUR CHILD TO BE LEFT OUT OF DISNEY PLANS!  Deadlines are planned around items we must submit to our vendors.

Form Packet was distributed in class on 1/14/26 (links for forms are below)

FLORIDA HANDBOOK & FORM LINKS
Florida Trip Handbook - ​LINK​
Medication Administration/Prescriber Form - ​LINK​​ ​ - complete only if taking prescribed medication while on trip
Self Medication Form - ​LINK​ - EVERYONE COMPLETES, even if not taking medication on trip

MARCHING BAND REHEARSAL FOR FLORIDA PARADE – TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 – 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
We will hold one rehearsal for the Marching Band Florida Parade.  This is a mandatory rehearsal to be eligible to attend the trip.  We will hold this rehearsal in the High School Gyms.

FLA MUSIC MEMORIZATION TESTING - February 2-6
Music has been posted to the Microsoft Florida Teams page.  Please have your child begin to memorize these two pieces of music.  If music is not memorized successfully, they will not be permitted to attend the trip.

ADDITIONAL FLORIDA DATES
February 10 – 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Mandatory Marching Band Rehearsal for Florida
1 rehearsal only.  Everyone must attend or not attend the trip.
February 17 - Luggage load and Check – beginning at 6:30 PM (times staggered by last names)
February 19 – Depart via school bus
February 21 - Marching Band performance at Magic Kingdom
February 23 – Return to MAHS via school bus

2026/2027 Marching Band Summer Dates
July 21-23 - Guard (5-9pm), Wind (5-9pm), and Percussion (8AM-3PM) Camps
July 27-31 - Home Band Camp
August 2-7 - Away Band Camp
August 15 - Production Rehearsal

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. Feb. 9 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 10 - FLA MANDATORY MARCHING BAND REHEARSAL - 3:00 - 5:00PM
Wed. Feb. 11 - 
Thu. Feb. 12 - 
Fri. Feb. 13 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. Feb. 14 - Winter Guard Show at Baldwin HS - Time TBD

Mon. Feb. 16 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 17 - FLA LUGGAGE AND EQUIPMENT PACK - 6:30 - 8:00 by times.
Wed. Feb. 18 - 
Thu. Feb. 19 - Depart for Florida after period 2 (MS Period 1)
Fri. Feb. 20 - In Epcot
Sat. Feb. 21 - In Magic Kingdom - Band Performs 2:30pm
Sun. Feb. 22 - In Hollywood Studios

Mon. Feb. 23 - In Universal Studios - Arrive back PM
Tue. Feb. 24 - PICK UP LUGGAGE 6pm-7:15PM
Wed. Feb. 25 – 
Thu. Feb. 26 –
Fri. Feb. 27 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 -10pm - MAMS Aux Gym

Mon. March 2 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. March 3 - All-District Music Concert - 7pm - Symphonic Band to Perform ONLY
Wed. March 4 - 
Thu. March 5 - 
Fri. March 6 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. March 7 - Winter Guard Show at Hempfield HS

Future Events
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert - Symphonic Band to perform
Monday, May 4 - High School Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - High School Spring Band Concert
Friday, June 5 - Graduation - All HS Instrumental Students Perform
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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: Rachel Jones - 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

IMPORTANT DATES – MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert
Monday, May 4 - Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - MAHS Spring Band Concert
Friday, May 15 - MAHS Spring Jazz Concert
Monday, May 25 - Sewickley Memorial Day Parade
Friday, June 5 - MAHS Graduation - All Band & Orchestra Students Perform

REMINDERS:
Winter Guard: the 2^nd Winter Guard payment of $50 is due on February 9th.

Assistance Needed with Senior Memory Books
Contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) if you'd be able to help out!

Pictures: Parents who wish to contribute some of their own pictures from the stands or other interactions are welcome to do so at this link.  Please note that contributions will be reviewed prior to posting in the SmugMug gallery.  Please take a moment to consider your contributions and make sure they are bright enough, clear, and do not upload excessive variations of the same picture.  If you wish to participate in more robust media coverage, contact Ted Merklin (pictures@moonband.org) to discuss.

FUNDRAISING
Texas Roadhouse in North Fayette/Robinson Township is partnering with the Moon Area Marching Band to host a Gift Card Fundraiser. Make sure to purchase a few gift cards to use at our Dine to Donate on March 25^th. This fundraiser ends February 12^th with gift cards being distributed the week of March 9^th.

Sarris Easter candy sales have started. Brochures and order forms are located in the band room. Orders are due by February 12th. Late orders will not be accepted! If you have any questions, please email Hope at fundraising@moonband.org.

FUNDRAISING – ARAMARK – PNC/Acrisure/PPG 
If you are interested in working games and events at Acrisure Stadium to raise funds for your band student, please email Heather Park at hburakow@yahoo.com.

STUDENT ACCOUNTS
The balance for all Forida trips is past due and must be $0 in order to attend. Please email Maria at treasurer@moonband.org if you have questions.

The 2^nd Winter Guard payment of $50 is due on February 9th.

BAND DIRECTOR’S COMMENTS: Mr. Barthen
CONGRAULATIONS to the MAHS Winter Guard for placing 1^st in their classification on Saturday 1/31 at Deer Lakes High School TRWEA Competition.  Next competition will be at Baldwin HS on 2/14.

Symphonic Band MS Concert - 2/3 - Periods 1,2,3 
Symphonic Band concert at the Middle School has been rescheduled to Tuesday, February 3, periods 1,2,3.  Students should submit permission forms to Mr. Barthen/Mr. Fear ASAP!

FLORIDA UPDATES - PLEASE READ AND PAY ATTENTION TO DEADLINES AND DATES.  YOUR FAILURE TO MEET DEADLINES WILL CAUSE YOUR CHILD TO BE LEFT OUT OF DISNEY PLANS!  Deadlines are planned around items we must submit to our vendors.
Form Packet was distributed in class on 1/14/26 (links for forms are below)
In case you did not receive the email I sent on 12/18, please click ​​​​LINK​​​​
FINAL payment was due on January 9.

FLORIDA HANDBOOK & FORM LINKS
Florida Trip Handbook - ​LINK​
Permission Form - ​LINK​ - EVERYONE COMPLETES
Not Returning with the Group - ​LINK​ - complete only if not returning with group
Medication Administration/Prescriber Form - ​LINK​​ ​ - complete only if taking prescribed medication while on trip
Hotel Fitness Center Form - ​LINK​  - complete only if using fitness center
Self Medication Form - ​LINK​ - EVERYONE COMPLETES, even if not taking medication on trip
Medical Form  - ​LINK​ - only complete if form from fall 2025 has changed or medical conditions has changed

Mandatory Parent Trip Meeting - Tuesday, February 3 - 6:30pm - MAHS CAFETERIA
As per MASD Policy, the mandatory trip meeting for parents will be held on Tuesday, 2/3 at 6:30pm in the HS CAFETERIA.  An overview of policies and expectations regarding the trip will be reviewed.  A parent or parent representative (grandparent, aunt, uncle, or sibling (over the age of 21 and who can sign for the student)) must attend the parent meeting.  Students are encouraged to attend the meeting but not required.

MARCHING BAND REHEARSAL FOR FLORIDA PARADE – TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 – 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
We will hold one rehearsal for the Marching Band Florida Parade.  This is a mandatory rehearsal to be eligible to attend the trip.  We will hold this rehearsal in the High School Gyms.

FLA MUSIC MEMORIZATION TESTING - February 2-6
Music has been posted to the Microsoft Florida Teams page.  Please have your child begin to memorize these two pieces of music.  If music is not memorized successfully, they will not be permitted to attend the trip.

ADDITIONAL FLORIDA DATES
February 3 – 6:30 pm - Mandatory Florida Trip Parent Meeting
February 10 – 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Mandatory Marching Band Rehearsal for Florida
1 rehearsal only.  Everyone must attend or not attend the trip.
February 17 - Luggage load and Check – beginning at 6:30 PM (times staggered by last names)
February 19 – Depart via school bus
February 21 - Marching Band performance at Magic Kingdom
February 23 – Return to MAHS via school bus

Jazz Band Sign-ups - LINK
Please have your child complete the linked form above
Rehearsals will be mostly on Tuesdays, a couple on Thursdays.  A complete rehearsal/performance calendar will be distributed once personnel is known.
There will not be an audition for this year.
Rehearsals begin on Tuesday, 1/20

2026/2027 Marching Band Summer Dates
July 21-23 - Guard (5-9pm), Wind (5-9pm), and Percussion (8AM-3PM) Camps
July 27-31 - Home Band Camp
August 2-7 - Away Band Camp
August 15 - Production Rehearsal

UPCOMING DATES
Mon. Feb. 2 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 3 - Symphonic Band to Middle School for Concert - Periods 1,2,3 - Tux/Gown
                             FLA Parent Meeting - 6:30pm
Wed. Feb. 4 - 
Thu. Feb. 5 - PMEA District Band at South Park HS
Fri. Feb. 6 - FLA Forms are Due
             PMEA District Band at South Park HS
             Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. Feb. 7 - PMEA District Band at South Park HS

Mon. Feb. 9 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 10 - FLA MANDATORY MARCHING BAND REHEARSAL - 3:00 - 5:00PM
Wed. Feb. 11 - 
Thu. Feb. 12 - 
Fri. Feb. 13 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 - 10pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Sat. Feb. 14 - Winter Guard Show at Baldwin HS - Time TBD

Mon. Feb. 16 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6-9pm - MAMS Aux Gym
Tue. Tue. Feb. 17 - FLA LUGGAGE AND EQUIPMENT PACK - 6:30 - 8:00 by times.
Wed. Feb. 18 - 
Thu. Feb. 19 - Depart for Florida after period 2 (MS Period 1)
Fri. Feb. 20 - In Epcot
Sat. Feb. 21 - In Magic Kingdom - Band Performs 2:30pm
Sun. Feb. 22 - In Hollywood Studios

Mon. Feb. 23 - In Universal Studios - Arrive back PM
Tue. Feb. 24 - PICK UP LUGGAGE 6pm-7:15PM
Wed. Feb. 25 – 
Thu. Feb. 26 –
Fri. Feb. 27 - Winter Color Guard Rehearsal - 6:30 -10pm - MAMS Aux Gym

Future Events
Tuesday, March 3 - All-District Music Concert - Symphonic Band to perform
Monday, May 4 - High School Percussion Ensemble Concert
Thursday, May 14 - High School Spring Band Concert
Friday, June 5 - Graduation - All HS Instrumental Students Perform
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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: Rachel Jones - 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.

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Questions, comments or suggestions contact communications@moonband.org