UPDATE – WEEK 9
Congratulations on outstanding performances at the home football game on Friday and the MAX! Preview of Champions on Saturday! A huge THANK YOU to all the parents who helped over the two days with concessions, props, equipment, lunch, snacks, transportation, uniforms, costumes, and so much more! We would also like to thank everyone who joined us at Wednesday’s monthly parent Booster Meeting.
We’ve got an important week of rehearsals as we gear up for the Ayala Music in Motion Tournament this Saturday, October 10th! Attendance is extremely important to ensure that we are able to have our best performance possible. Always hydrate 24 hours ahead and eat throughout the day. Wash your hands frequently. Students who are not at rehearsal may not perform, and their grade will be affected accordingly.
PARENTS: Join us for a Prop Taping Party this Tuesday night at 5:30PM in the Gahr HS Stadium! We will be taping small weights to the back of a “measuring tape” vinyl that we will be adding into the field show production. No special skills needed – just an extra set of hands! Sign up to help by clicking here.
Join us this Wednesday anytime between 11:00AM and 8:00PM at the California Fish Grill in Cerritos! Make sure to show the flyer and they’ll donate 25% back to the program.
Want to help keep student lunches at $5? Donate items to the Booster Wishlist! This also allows us to provide meals to students on competition days. Thank you for your support!
Just a reminder that the final donation of $150 was due last Friday, September 26th. Please pay with cash, a check made payable to “Gahr Band Boosters,” or click here to make a payment online with a credit card. Thank you!
FAN-PLEDGE UPDATE!
We’ve already raised $18,605 through our Fan-Pledge Fundraiser! Your support is helping us reach our goal to repair and professionally wrap the Gahr Band trailer.
Our current trailer is in bad shape. The paint is peeling and it’s long overdue for an upgrade that truly reflects the pride and excellence of our program. The trailer is one of the first things people see when we arrive at competitions and events – and with your help, we can give it a professional look that our students deserve. Every donation counts, no matter how small.
PLEASE DONATE AND SHARE OUR LINK: https://www.fpfans.com/31dc78
As many parents and alumni know, we rent uHauls every year for the marching band, indoor percussion, and winter guard. If we are able to exceed our goal, it would be wonderful to be able to purchase a second equipment trailer.
The section that raises the most money will win a Cane’s Party or Pizza Party! The individual student that earns the most money will win dinner from Mr. Loney. Congratulations to the students who have won prizes so far, including Kyle Yap winning brand new AirPods!
We’re so close to hitting our goal! Let’s keep the momentum going!!
AYALA MUSIC IN MOTION FIELD TOURNAMENT 10/11
The Ayala Music in Motion Field Tournament is this Saturday, October 11th! CALL TIME IS 8:30AM FOR REHEARSAL – DO NOT BE LATE. We will need all parents who are helping at the competition with equipment and props to be at rehearsal at 11:30AM to do a timed push on/off.
Band students will be in full uniform – bring your black, sleeveless compression top, black compression shorts, long black socks (mid-calf), and black marching shoes. Color Guard will be in full guard costume – bring your guard warm ups and everything you need for hair & make up. Students will need to bring a change of clothes and wear their black Gahr Marching Gladiators hoodie or Gahr Band jacket, guard warm ups, or letterman jacket. Bring money for concessions at the show (approximately $15-20).
Students must stay in groups of 4 or more at all times, even when using the restroom. Once inside, you may not leave the stadium. Eat at the concessions and enjoy watching other bands. Sit together as a group in the stands, represent our school with pride, and remember: Gahr is a CLASS ACT AT ALL TIMES. We cheer respectfully for all bands and do not use phones or talk during performances – just as we’d expect the same courtesy during ours.
Just a reminder that all spectators must buy a wristband for admission at every competition, even if you are helping with props or equipment. Please note that there is a clear bag policy at this field tournament – only small clear bags, one-gallon Ziplocks, or small clutches are allowed; all other bags (including backpacks and large purses) must be left in vehicles.
AYALA MUSIC IN MOTION – FIELD TOURNAMENT ITINERARY
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Location: Bulldog Stadium - Ayala High School
Address: 14255 Peyton Dr., Chino Hills, CA 91709
Tickets/Show Info: https://www.westernbands.org/events/details.php?ID=1280
General Admission: $20 • Military/Senior/Kids 5–12: $18 • Kids 4 & Under: Free
Premier Spectator Parking: $10
8:30AM Call time / Set up ASAP – DO NOT BE LATE
9:00AM Warm up / Sections
9:30AM Full ensemble rehearsal
11:30AM Timed run-through – PARENT HELP NEEDED
11:45AM Load
12:30PM Lunch (provided)
1:15PM Change into full uniform/costume
1:45PM Load buses
2:15PM Travel to Ayala HS –14255 Peyton Dr., Chino Hills, CA 91709
3:15PM Arrive / Restrooms / Quick snack
3:45PM Unload ASAP
4:15PM Warm up
5:30PM Music Ensemble
6:00PM Push to Gate
6:10PM Gate time
6:20PM Performance Time
6:35PM Quick debrief / Push back to trucks ASAP
6:50PM Load ASAP – Everyone helps
7:20PM Change out of uniform/costume ASAP
7:40PM Watch bands and eat concessions (bring money)
8:40PM Awards for 4A/5A
9:30PM Walk back to buses
9:45PM Depart for Gahr HS
10:30PM Arrive at Gahr / Unload ASAP – Everyone helps
11:00PM Dismissal
CALIFORNIA FISH GRILL FUNDRAISER – SUPPORT THE GAHR BAND!
Join us this Wednesday, October 8th between 11:00AM to 8:00PM at California Fish Grill in Cerritos! California Fish Grill will donate 25% of sales back to the Gahr Band Boosters – just mention Gahr Band when ordering, show the flyer, or scan the QR code at the kiosk. If you’re ordering online, enter code fund2025 at checkout. Enjoy some great seafood while supporting our students!
The Gahr Marching Gladiators will be traveling to Fresno to compete at the Western Band Association (WBA) Championships from Friday, November 21st through Sunday, November 23rd. The cost for each student is $275.00 due this Monday, November 3rd, 2025.
Students will be traveling on charter buses and staying at Spring Hill Suites by Marriott. Most meals will be covered (breakfast, lunches, and two dinners).
The address for the student hotel is:
Spring Hill Suites by Marriott
6844 North Fresno Street
Fresno, CA 93710
If this is your first overnight trip, please know that it is standard to have students stay four to a room, typically with two queen-sized beds. Students can select who they would like to have in their room and we will do our best to accommodate their requests if possible. As with all trips for the Gahr Instrumental Music Program, students must stay in the hotel with other students. A block of rooms has already been reserved and we are able to keep the trip cost low based on the students staying together.
Parents are encouraged to go on this trip as well. We will need parent help as we always do with uniforms, transportation, equipment, and props, and having as many parents in the stands cheering for the kids can greatly motivate the kids (and the judges).
Parents are responsible for paying for their own trip. To make this easier for you, we have secured a block of rooms with a special rate for the parents to use at the Homewood Suites in Fresno. When calling, make sure to mention you are booking for the block of rooms set aside for the "Gahr High School Band Boosters." This special rate includes cook-to-order breakfasts and parking. The rate negotiated for this block is $169.00 (plus tax) per night. You will need to book your room no later than Monday, October 20th, 2025 to take advantage of this special price.
The address for the parent hotel is:
Homewood Suites Fresno
6820 North Fresno St.
Fresno, CA 93710
Telephone: (559) 440-0801
We have a mandatory meeting on Tuesday, November 18th, 2025 at 7:00PM in the Band Room where we will go over all the details for the trip. Please note, this meeting is after the date to reserve your room so don’t wait until this meeting to make your reservation. Feel free to reach out to Deanna Varney at (562) 413-3068 or email her at dvarney15@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns.
We ask that students stay together as a group for the entire weekend. Please do not pull your child away from the rest of the group.This is a school trip, and students will need to stay with the rest of the group for the duration of the weekend.
Thank you for your support and helping to create such an amazing experience for the students!
FIELD SHOW PROGRAM ADS FUNDRAISER
Advertise in our program for the Gahr Invitational Field Tournament! THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST INDIVIDUAL STUDENT FUNDRAISER OF THE ENTIRE YEAR!! Students earn 90% of the profit from all ads sold. Please click here to download the form. The deadline for all advertisements is Friday, October 17, 2025. We cannot accept late ads once the program is sent to the printer.
This is a great way for local businesses to advertise to the community! The Gahr Invitational Field Tournament typically has over 5,000 people in attendance, and we usually sell around 500 programs. This is also a great opportunity to put in a "shout-out" for your son/daughter in the program! Best of all, students still earn 90% of profit from getting a shout out!
You can also purchase a program ad directly through our website. Please just make sure you email the ad to Mr. Loney at darren.loney@abcusd.us.
This is a great way to raise money for the WBA Championships trip or to get ahead for your donations for Winter Guard or Indoor Percussion. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
SENIOR PARENTS – BABY PHOTOS REQUEST
We have a special tradition at the Gahr Invitational Field Show: creating a picture spread in the middle of the program featuring baby and toddler photos of our seniors! Please take a moment to dig through those photo albums, scroll through your cloud storage, or check that shoebox under the bed to find the perfect picture of your senior.
Deadline: Submit photos by Friday, October 10, 2025
How to Submit: Please email your son/daughter’s baby photo to dvarney15@gmail.com or you can text it directly to (562) 413-3068
Thank you, and way to go Class of 2026!! 🎓💙💛
GAHR INVITATIONAL FIELD SHOW!
We are proud to host the 10th Annual Gahr Invitational Field Tournament on Saturday, November 8th right here at Gahr High School! This is one of the largest field show competitions in Southern California, and it takes an incredible team effort to make it happen. Our next committee meeting is Tuesday, October 14th at 7:30PM in the Band Room.
WE EXPECT ALL FAMILIES TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE GAHR INVITATIONAL FIELD TOURNAMENT. IMPORTANT: If you haven’t signed up for a shift yet, please click here to sign up. We still especially need help with the 2nd shift of stadium traffic and spectator parking. This is the one field show competition you should NOT be watching your student perform in.
This is a huge undertaking and we need ALL HANDS ON DECK to make it a success. Let’s make this the best Gahr Invitational yet!
SCSBOA ALL-SOUTHERN HONOR GROUP AUDITIONS
Students are encouraged to audition for the 2026 SCSBOA All-Southern Honor Groups! These ensembles bring together the top high school musicians from across Southern California for an unforgettable musical experience. Selected students will rehearse with renowned conductors and perform in a showcase concert at the SCSBOA Conference in January.
Auditions are open to winds and percussion, and include required scales, prepared excerpts, and sight-reading. All audition information – including requirements, registration forms, and deadlines – can be found on the SCSBOA website. Students interested in auditioning should begin preparing now and speak with Mr. Loney for guidance.
SCSBOA HS All-Southern Band Music & Scales
SCSBOA HS All-Southern Jazz Audition Materials
This is an excellent opportunity to challenge yourself, meet other outstanding musicians, and represent Gahr at the regional level. In recent years, we’ve had students make the top Wind Band and the Jazz All-Star Band. Don’t miss the chance to be part of one of Southern California’s most prestigious honor groups!
ASB CARD & TRANSPORTATION FEE
All students are required to purchase an ASB Card and pay for Transportation. When purchased together, the total cost is $120 ($60 for the ASB Card and $60 for Transportation). Students who do not purchase an ASB Card will be required to pay $150 for Transportation. To avoid the higher fee, make sure you have turned in $60 for the ASB Card and $60 for Transportation directly to the school at the finance window in the front office.
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
Private lessons are one of the best ways to grow as a musician. One-on-one instruction helps strengthen fundamentals, prepare for auditions, and reach personal goals. If you’re interested in starting lessons and would like recommendations for local teachers, please email me and I’ll be happy to connect you.
MORE WAYS TO RAISE MONEY
Use the fundraisers below to raise money for your donations. Extra money can also go towards the WBA Championships trip, Winter Guard donations, and Indoor Percussion donations.
Field Show Program Ads - Earn 90% of the profit from all field show ad sales. The ad prices range from $25 to $175. Many local businesses are looking for ways to advertise to the community. See Mr. Loney to get a past field show program that you can use as an example when selling ads.
Student Sponsorship Letter - 100% of the money sponsorships goes directly to your student account. These take a few hours to complete and mail out, but the return on investment is HUGE if you can make $400-500! This is a great way your family and loved ones can help support.
THIS WEEK:
MONDAY 10/6
6:55AM Band Room open (need student help at patio gate)
7:17AM Jazz I & II attendance – Rhythm Section only
7:20AM Jazz I & II start time – Rhythm Section only
3:30-6:00PM Winds/Color Guard/Front Ensemble
6:00-9:00PM Battery only rehearsal
TUESDAY 10/7
6:55AM Band Room open (need student help at patio gate)
7:17AM Jazz I & II attendance – Winds only
7:20AM Jazz I & II start time – Winds only
Study Hall during period 2/3/6
After School — Homework/Dinner/Change
4:45PM Set up for rehearsal at stadium (need all props including vinyl)
5:29PM Rehearsal downbeat in stadium – DO NOT BE LATE
8:25PM Rehearsal
8:35PM Full run-through (Mvt. 1, 2, 3)
8:45PM Debrief & Clean up – EVERYONE HELPS
WEDNESDAY 10/8
NO ZERO PERIOD
3:30-4:30PM Sectionals – Mvt. 3 memorization test
11:00AM-8:00PM California Fish Grill Fundraiser!
THURSDAY 10/9
6:55AM Band Room open (need student help at patio gate)
7:17AM Jazz I & II attendance – EVERYONE
7:20AM Jazz I & II start time – EVERYONE
3:30-6:00PM Rehearsal/Run-through
FRIDAY 10/10
6:55AM Band Room open (need student help at patio gate)
7:17AM Jazz I & II attendance – EVERYONE
7:20AM Jazz I & II start time – EVERYONE
3:30-5:00PM CYMBAL LINE CLINIC!
SATURDAY 10/11
AYALA MUSIC IN MOTION FIELD TOURNAMENT 10/11
Location: Bulldog Stadium - Ayala High School
Address: 14255 Peyton Dr., Chino Hills, CA 91709
Tickets/Show Info: https://www.westernbands.org/events/details.php?ID=1280
General Admission: $20 • Military/Senior/Kids 5–12: $18 • Kids 4 & Under: Free
Premier Spectator Parking: $10
8:30AM CALL TIME TO SET UP FOR REHEARSAL – DO NOT BE LATE