Competition Etiquette


One of the most important parts of a performance, besides the obvious - the bands, is the audience! As spectators we each have a responsibility to celebrate every band’s performance by being a good audience.

 

It is also important to realize that although it is fun to visit with family and friends during a contest, it is unfair to distract other spectators from enjoying the show. This is true at any performance, so please be respectful of all other spectators and hopefully, they will extend you the same courtesy.


Do:

  1. Be supportive of each and every band. Be considerate during each band’s performance and show your appreciation for their hard work by your hearty applause at the end of every band’s performance as well as when they take the field for competition. It is 100% appropriate to applaud at the end of solos, major drill moves and at the end of musical selections
  2. Show up early. Early is on time and on time is late! 
  3. Turn off (or at least put on vibrate) your cell phone. If you receive a call during a performance, wait until that performance is over before returning the call.
  4. Refrain from conversation during the performances, even whispering. 
  5. Buy something from the concession stand. In many cases, a band competition may be the major source of a band program's yearly budget. They have made a large investment and would appreciate your support. 

 

Don't:

  1. Don't leave or return to your seat during a band’s performance. Wait until a performance has ended before moving about. You will only need to wait 15 minutes, at the most, before the next break. There is sufficient time between bands to move in and out of your seating area.
  2. Don't obstruct the view of others. Please avoid standing in front of people trying to watch the show. Please do not hold your cell phone above your head, you may be blocking someone else’s line of sight.
  3. Don't allow children to play in the stands and distract other spectators. Obviously, children are the future of this activity. It is good for them to see why big brother and big sister are always at practice and are not at home. However, for their safety and as a courtesy to others they should not be allowed to run up and down steps and play in the aisles so others may enjoy the show.
  4. Don't comment on other performances unless it's complimentary.  Every band on the field is “somebody’s band”, and it may be the folks sitting next to or behind you. Give to the other participating bands the same respect and attention you hope they will give to our band.

 

General Information:
The best seats are as close to the 50-yard line and as high up in the stands as possible. Naturally, these are the first to go. If you want to have the best seats, arrive before the show begins and stake out your spot. Wear your Wheeler gear and look for other Wheeler fans so everyone can sit together.