WELCOME TO THE POPE BAND PROGRAM!
We are so glad you are here
Joining the Band program at Pope is more than a decision about music, friends, or extracurricular activities. It’s about choosing an experience of a lifetime that will provide opportunities for self-discovery, growth, and of course, a lot of fun! Read on to learn more about our exceptional program.
COME TO PLAY, LOVE IT AND STAY
Why Pope Band?
Since its inception in 1987, the Pope Band has maintained a tradition of excellence. Its symphonic bands have performed at area, regional, and national events to great acclaim and have received Superior Ratings at all GMEA Festival events. The Pope Marching Band has over 400 awards for excellence, including the prestigious Sudler Shield of Marching Excellence from the John Philip Sousa Foundation.
But Pope Band is so much more than awards! Students who participate in this program find...
Belonging | The friendship and comradery found in band is unlike any other sport or team at the school.
Involvement | A rewarding and demanding activity that helps students be part of something positive and bigger than themselves.
Leadership | Opportunities abound for students to learn the art of leadership and influence.
Rigor | The physical and mental rigor of marching band encourages students to strive for excellence and take satisfaction in their efforts.
Travel Opportunities | Pope Band students have frequent opportunities to travel and perform.
THE INVESTMENT OF A LIFETIME
Band fees may look like a big commitment, but the value gained from that contribution cannot be measured. From instruments to instructors, trips to training, your student will have access to expert personnel and transformative experiences. Dollar for dollar, band students receive far more than any other student activity or organization can offer. Every student receives instruction from a range of professionals, can participate in multiple ensembles, and finds a place of belonging and purpose.
Concert only fees contribute to the expenses for guest conductor clinics, out-of-school performances, and more. Marching band fees contribute to additional staff present at marching rehearsals, supplies to promote safety and performances, and a wide variety of events and activities.
It’s the investment of a lifetime!
DATES AND UPCOMING EVENTS
We also know that the transition to all things high school can feel overwhelming, so we have put together a year of fun activities and informational opportunities to make it easier. Please come out to learn more about just what lies in store and experience it for yourself! By the end of the year, you will be ready to tackle high school – and Pope Band too! Mark your calendars now for the following opportunities:
October 9, 5-9 pm: 8th Grade Night, Pope High School
A fun night to meet the marching band, enjoy a game, and to see our program in action.
Parents join us at 5:15 pm in the Pope Cafeteria for a reception!
October 20, 7 pm: Community Show, Pope High School Stadium
Your chance to see our award-winning competition marching show for free!
October 27, 7-8 pm: Pope Band Joins HTMS 6th and 7th grade Fall Concert, HTMS Theatre
Enjoy a joint concert featuring the HTMS and Pope Bands!
December 7 : Pope Band and HTMS 8th Grade Winter Concert
Enjoy the fruits of our students’ hard work and a welcoming reception too!
January 22 : Greyhound Games, Pope High School Campus
Come have fun after your side-by-side rehearsal with our wind symphony!
January 19 : Elective Registration Informational Meeting, Virtual (Zoom)
Learn about all the in-school programs we offer and how to complete elective registration.
March 30, 6-8 pm: Marching Band Info Meeting and 2027 Show Reveal!, Pope Band Room
A chance for students to get a taste of marching band with no strings attached. Come have fun whether you plan to march or not, then stay to find out what our show will be for 2027!
May 3, 4, and 6, 5-7 pm: Marching Band Mini Camp and Signing Day!, Pope Band Room
Required for all students planning to march. A great way to get started before summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
It seems like Band is a big commitment. How will I have time to do it all?
Band is a commitment, but Pope Band members balance Band rehearsals and performances with academic classwork, sports, clubs, and more. Mr. Sodders and Mr. Rudolph, our Pope Band directors, care about each Pope Band member and work to not only develop musicians, but well-rounded Pope students.
Can I continue to play sports or participate in other extracurricular clubs and activities while being in the Pope Band?
Absolutely! Many Pope Band members participate in Pope sports teams, academic teams, and clubs, as well as groups outside of school, including Scouting, volunteering, and faith communities.
Marching Band looks fun, but I've never done anything like that before. Will I be able to learn how to march? Are there auditions and cuts to join the Marching Band?
Marching is for everyone! Don't worry, we have incredible instructors who will teach you everything you need to know. Pope Band members with more experience will help you out, too! We have an inclusive, team-building community, and no one is "cut" or "benched" from the Marching Band. Give it a try, and you will love it!
Will participation in the Pope Band help with college admissions or scholarships?
Yes! Participation in the Band program in high school demonstrates commitment, teamwork, and creativity to college admissions. High school band students consistently outperform their peers on standardized testing, such as the SAT. Many colleges and universities also offer band student-specific scholarships.
Is it expensive to be in the Pope Band?
Band fees may look like a big commitment, but the value gained from that contribution cannot be measured. Dollar for dollar, band members receive far more than any other student activity or organization can offer. Every student receives instruction from a range of professionals, can participate in multiple ensembles, and finds a place of belonging and purpose. Fees for Marching Band and Concert Band are communicated upfront at the beginning of each year, and multiple payment plans and options exist. Additionally, scholarships are available in case of financial need. We never want financial constraints to stop a student from joining the Pope Band!
Questions?
Please reach out to us!
Bo Sodders, Director of Bands, matthew.sodders@cobbk12.org
Josh Rudolph, Associate Director of Bands, joshua.rudolph@cobbk12.org
Susannah MacKay, Pope Band Parents Association President, president@popeband.com
