Marching Band is one of the most exciting, fun-filled programs at Coon Rapids High School.  The Marching Cardinals perform at parades and football games throughout the summer and fall, and take great pride in representing our school and our community.  The Marching Cardinals operate and succeed based on one important premise:

~Attitude is more important than ability!
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  • In marching band, there is no “second string,” or “bench sitter.” Every single student makes an important contribution to the team. As a member of the marching band, you’ll work hard and learn about teamwork, leadership, motivation and responsibility. You’ll represent our school and our community at events throughout the state and region and make a lot of new friends. Most important of all, you’ll have a ton of fun!

  • Who can join Marching Band? Band students entering grades 9-12 may register for the class when they are creating their class schedule! If you enjoy music and want to make new friends, marching band is for you! The Marching Cardinals consist of several sections: winds, percussion, front ensemble and color guard. Come & join us!

  • Is there an activity fee to join Marching Band? No. Beginning in the 2015-2016 school year Marching Band officially became a class at CRHS. Going forward, the $240 activity fee made payable to the school district is no longer applicable but first year or “rookie” students have a supply fee of $75. The fee covers marching shoes, socks, gloves, a red marching band t-shirt that is used as a casual uniform for parades and a show-themed shirt that may be used as an alternative to the red t-shirt.

    Can I letter in Marching Band? YES! Marching Band participation earns points toward your band letter. Earning a band letter is dependent upon a student’s level of participation in other band activities such as jazz band and winter activities, pep band, pit orchestra, winter guard, and other activities in conjunction with marching band participation.  To get further information on how a student qualifies for a band letter, contact Mr. Palmer, the CRHS Band Director.
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    What else is necessary for Marching Band? Funds are needed to supplement the program when costs exceed the budget allowance from the district. The Marching Band Parent Group (Boosters) are the driving force in organizing the fundraisers. U Night is the biggest, most successful fundraiser. Students canvass the community via organized and chaperoned door to door donation requests. The band also bags groceries at Cub Foods. Band members typically participate U Nights and grocery bagging. The boosters do not hold fundraisers where students sell candy, wrapping paper or pizza. The success and participation in these events allows the Marching Band to grow and thrive.​
  • **Please note that members of other programs (winter guard, winter percussion line, etc) may need to fundraise to contribute to the budget of those programs, but because they are operated separately from Marching Band, those plans are made on a program-by-program basis.

​What should I know about being a parent of a Maching Band student? The Marching Cardinals Parent Group (otherwise known as the band boosters) provide much needed physical and financial support to the marching band. All parents are considered members of the Marching Cardinal Parent Group. Contact our Marching Band Executive Board with any questions related to uniforms, fundraising, payments or social events. Direct any questions about the class, absences, requirements or instructions for scheduled performances, etc, to our Band Director, Mr. Palmer.