
You're NOT going to want to miss this season!

The Noblesville Marching Millers
The Noblesville Marching Millers have a tradition of excellence spanning over 70 years, including back to back State Fair Band Day Champions in 2017 & 2018 and their first ever ISSMA State Final appearance in 2021.
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In 2019 the Marching Millers began competing in the very prestigious ISSMA Field Show Competition, Open Class A. In their very first year competing, the Marching Millers finished with a semi-state appearance, the highest finish in the history of the program. In 2021, the Marching Millers became field show Open Class A State Finalist for the first time in program history. In 2023 with back to back performances, the Marching Millers made history again by becoming BOA super regional finalists and making ISSMA state finals in the same day! 2024 brought more historic moments to the band program as the Marching Millers placed highest in school history at ISSMA State Finals and performed for the time in BOA Grand Nationals.
The Marching Millers have marched in the Indianapolis 500 parade, Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade as well as competed in the national marching competition; Bands of America at Lucas Oil Stadium. In March 2024, the 2023 Marching Millers experienced their first international debut, traveling to Dublin, Ireland and marched in the 2024 St. Patrick's Day Parade!
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MARCHING BAND RESOURCE CENTER
Use the tabs below to find all information you need about marching band.
Join the Marching Millers
We are excited you are interested in Noblesville Marching. 2025 season sign ups are now open. ​

Required for Eligibility
**Must be completed to participate **
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Medical Form (Distributed at 5/29/25 Parent Meeting orange form)
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Concussion & Cardiac Arrest Acknowledgement (Distributed at 5/29/25 Parent Meeting. Signature required blue form)
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Pay Deposit- Received via email invoice
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Online Sign-Up Form & registration fee
Documents
2025-2026 Marching Band Handbook
2025-2026 Color Guard Schedule Printable Calendar
Competition Packing
Payment Information
Payment options and pay schedules will be included in the Commitment Contract and in the email with your invoice reminders
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Monthly reminders will be sent until invoices are paid in full.
Questions: Jacky Doke, Treasurer - treasurer@noblesvilleband.org
Gear & Merch
Be prepared for a long intense day. Please be sure to come well rested and hydrated.
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Black shorts
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Black compression shirt
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Black crew/knee socks (tall - no skin showing)
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Compression sleeves
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Gloves
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Marching shoes
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Hair accessories as needed
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Water jug
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Lunch for practice
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Money for concessions dinner or packed dinner
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Portable charger if needed

Social Media
Noblesville Band - Facebook
Noblesville Band - Instagram
Noblesville Band Band Boosters - Facebook
Noblesville Band Boosters - Instagram

Summer Uniform is included with marching band commitment. Includes: 1 branded t-shirt, 1 pair black athletic shorts, 1 ball cap.
Black socks to be provided on your own. Must be all black crew socks. No colored toe or heel and no branding.
Helpful Links
Parent Communication
Weekly newsletter from Boosters
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Facebook Private Groups:
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These groups are for additional discussion. This is not our primary source of communication. Our Facebook group is private/by request and only for Noblesville Band families. If you have complaints, please do not post those in the Facebook group. ​
Download the Bandapp and join the group!
Contact your Section Parent for link to group

eMail Communications from Director Thornbury
will provide essential schedules and imperative information throughout the season. Please stay up to date on your inbox!
Contacts
Director Contacts
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Eric Thornbury, Director - eric_thornbury@nobl.k12.in.us
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Jacob Crossley, Associate Director - jacob_crossley@nobl.k12.in.us
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Jeffrey Welsh, Color Guard Director - ufjeffdm86@yahoo.com
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Cal Lennon, Percussion Director - charles_lennon@nobl.k12.in.us
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​Section Parents
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Band Booster Contacts
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Emily Alexander, President - President@NoblesvilleBand.org
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Jen Melton, VP - President@NoblesvilleBand.org
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Kim Eshbaugh Volunteer Coordinator - volunteers@noblesvilleband.org
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Jacky Doke, Treasurer- Treasurer@NoblesvilleBand.org
Volunteer Opportunities
LEVEL 3 Background Check Required
There is an $18.95 fee and it is good for 6 years. This is a new, longer enhancement than in previous years. One application qualifies for ALL Noblesville Schools.**​​​
​​​​2025 Marching Band Volunteer Requirements
Per Household:
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20 hours per family
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Including: 4 hours mandatory service during Black & Gold Marching Invitational on Sept 27, 2025


SIGN UP BELOW
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SUBSCRIBE TO MARCHING CALENDAR:
Note: .pdf calendars are subject to change and may not be reflected on this website
Upcoming Events
Support Noblesville Marching Millers Through Fundraisers
Our band program offers select fundraisers throughout the season as a way for students to gain support from patrons like you. These fundraisers play a vital role in offsetting the supplemental costs of participating in our highly competitive program. While donations to the Noblesville Band Booster Program provide essential support, student and family contributions are key to sustaining our success. Explore the fundraisers below and help our talented students shine on and off the floor!
- Become a SponsorUnlock unparalleled branding opportunities and premium visibility with our Platinum Corporate Sponsorship. Elevate your brand's presence, engage with top-tier audiences, and showcase your commitment to excellence. Join us as a Platinum Sponsor and set a new standard in corporate partnership.
MARCHING BAND FAQs
Welcome! We are so glad you're interested in marching band. We know marching band can seem overwhelming and there is A LOT of information to process.
Topics: Intensity & Commitment, Length of Season, Cost & Fees, Forms & Documents, Classification, Audience Etiquette, Media Policy, Rules & Judging
Intensity & Commitment
Marching Band is the equivalent of a varsity sport in terms of commitment and intensity. It’s hot, marching is new to many (which can be frustrating) and your student will likely have some nerves about being at the high school. Please encourage your student with positive words at home.
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Commitment and attendance is VERY IMPORTANT! Drill camp, Practice, Band Camp, Competitions, Events - our high schoolers will be exhilarated and fulfilled, but it takes hard work! They are apart of something much bigger than themselves and in the long run, the lessons learned from marching band will follow them for a lifetime.
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Parents/Guardians - not only is your student going to be required to participate, so are you! The success of our band highly depends on you, our volunteers. There will be required and mandatory meetings. We will need help throughout the season with chaperones, props, transportation, food, and most of all you will become a marching miller roadie!
Length of Season
Sign ups Jan/Early Feb - April
Try outs first week of May
New member rehearsals start the beginning of May
All member rehearsals start mid May
Camps start in June
First Parade July 4th
Competitions start September
Season wraps up in November
Costs & Fees
Marching band will require an initial deposit at registration and commitment. The remaining balance will be due approximately 3-4 months later. Your initial fees help cover uniforms, props, a show t-shirt, etc. But there will be more - Contest tickets, contest parking, cost of self transportation, section meals, section treat bags, packed lunches, and add-ons will be additional to your fees. If you volunteer the required hours (per family) by Nov. 1, you will receive a discount from your marching band fees. **Please note that a portion of your volunteer time will be REQUIRED participation in the Black and Gold Marching Invitational.
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We do not want to deny any student the opportunity to be apart of this amazing program. If you are in need of financial assistance, please contact the Noblesville Band Boosters. We are here to help!
Forms & Documents
Before band camp begins, you will need to turn in forms for participation. These forms are available on our website in the resources tab.
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Required Student Forms:
Registration
Medical form
Concussion form
Marching contract form
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Parent Forms:
All parents volunteering working will students will need a Level 3 background check on file with us. Once cleared you will receive a volunteer badge. These badges are REQUIRED to be worn while volunteering. You will also use these badges to track your volunteer hours.
Classification
Currently, The Marching Millers compete in Class A Open Field.
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The total enrollment of a high school (not the size of the band) determines the class of competition. Our band size determines that we are Open Field, as opposed to Scholastic Field.
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Prior to 2019, The Marching Millers competed in Track Show Competitions (i.e. Indiana State Fair). The season time frame is different for Track Show vs. Field Show.
Audience Etiquette
At a marching band performance, the audience is one of the most important elements of a marching music performance. Our staff, students, directors, boosters, invest months preparing and fine-tuning a show, to perform it for thousands of eyes. Did you know bands can be penalized for the actions for their audience. When attending a marching band competition, please keep the following in mind:
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Respect the Band Directors and Staff:
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The Bands are on a strict timeline with rules.
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Follow any instructions or guidance given by the band directors and staff.
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Punctuality:
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Arrive at events on time to ensure you don't miss any part of the performance or competition.
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You may only enter and exit to seats in between performance. DO NOT enter while our band or any other band is performing.
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Encourage and Support:
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Be supportive of all band members. Cheer them on and offer words of encouragement before and after performances.
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Respect the Uniform:
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Admire the band members' uniforms from a distance but avoid touching them.
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Do not enter restricted areas where band members are changing or preparing their uniforms.
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Noise Control:
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Maintain a quiet atmosphere during performances. Refrain from talking or making unnecessary noise during the band's routine.
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Cell Phone Usage:
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Keep your cell phone on silent mode during performances.
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Limit phone usage to emergencies or taking photos/videos when it doesn't disrupt the event.
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Hygiene and Cleanliness:
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Maintain good personal hygiene when attending band events.
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We are on display and want to present in the best possible light.
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Hair will be required to be off shoulders and collar.
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Dispose of any trash properly and keep event areas clean.
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Respect for Performance Spaces:
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Treat performance venues with care. Do not touch or tamper with any equipment or props used by the band.
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Stay Positive:
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Maintain a positive attitude and refrain from negative comments about the performance.
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Focus on uplifting the band members with your support.
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Conflict Resolution:
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If you have concerns or issues related to the band, address them respectfully with our band directors or staff, rather than engaging in gossip or negative discussions.
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Audience Interaction:
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While it's natural to feel excited during a performance, avoid distracting behaviors like shouting instructions or conversations with other spectators.
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Applause and Acknowledgment:
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Show your appreciation for the band's performance by applauding at the appropriate times.
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Avoid yelling or shouting during quieter moments of the show.
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Stay Informed:
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Familiarize yourself with any event-specific rules or guidelines provided by the organizers.
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Be aware of any event-specific protocols related to seating or movement.
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Follow Event Policies:
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Respect any policies set by the event organizers, such as ticketing, seating arrangements, or prohibited items.
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Cheer for All Bands:
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When attending competitions with multiple bands, show respect and support for all participating groups, not just your own school's band.
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Be a good sport:
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Win or loss - Be gracious. All participants put in lots of time, effort, and resource. You represent Noblesville Band Department, High School, and community as a whole.'​
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Remember that your positive and respectful behavior as a spectator or parent enhances the overall experience for both the band members and the audience. High school marching band events can be incredibly rewarding, and your support plays a crucial role in their success and enjoyment.
Media Policy
While we are very proud of our students and show, video of practice and show are NOT PERMITTED to be posted and/or shared on social media. Please understand this is to protect the integrity of the band and directors.
Rules & Juding
Time
Each band starts behind the end zone goal line of the football field. Once the official drops the red flag the band has 11 minuets to get all equipment and props on to the field and set-up, preform their show, tear down, and past the end zone goal line on the opposite end of the field. Points are deducted for every 3 seconds past the 11 minute time frame.
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Invitationals
Invitationals are hosted by difference schools. Bands compete in these shows as "warm-ups" for the BIG competitions. The host school hires professional high caliber judges. This is a main attractiveness to bands participating. The host school is not allowed to compete, rather perform an "exhibition" at the end of all performances. Schools will receive feed back from the panel of judge to help improve performance the rest of the season. Scores and winners are awarded at the end of all the performances.
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Rehearsal
Marching band is hard physical work, oftentimes in extreme weather, and injuries can occur. Health & safety is of upmost importance to our program. Familiarize yourself with Health & Safety portion of the Marching Band Handbook.

Rehearsal & Camp Packing
Be prepared for a long intense day. Please be sure to come well rested and hydrated.
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Sunscreen/sunglasses/hat
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Athletic shoes w/socks.
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No sandals.
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Sack meal/after school snacks/camp day lunch
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Large insulated water jug (bring full, refill during rehearsal at school)
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White shirt for most Thursday rehearsals

Band Camp & Drill Camp
Both drill camp/July 4th prep/band camp are rehearsal days, with different starting times. For band camp, the biggest difference includes evening activities including a special student-only ceremony (passing the torch from seniors to freshman) usually on Thursday. See current calendar in this resource center (Calendar Tab) plus more information to come via email and Band App the week before band camp.​
Food & Dinner Breaks
Each drill/camp day will include a 45-minute meal break. Students are not allowed to leave NHS to get food. Parents may drop off food, but we highly suggest the students come prepared with their sack dinner. No outside visitors allowed.
Attendance Policy
Attendance is critical. We are a team and can only grow together. Rehearsals over breaks and non school days are required. Please review the Marching Student Handbook (located in the Resources Tab) concerning procedure on reporting absences, as well as your "Commitment to Excellence" paperwork.
Pick Up & Drop Off

Drop off and pick up students in the North parking lot ONLY (bus lot or Community Center).
NO VEHICLES SHOULD BE WAITING OR DROPPING OFF IN THE BACK DRIVE!
Closed Rehearsals & Camp Days
NHS is a closed campus during rehearsals. Students are not allowed to have visitors during our rehearsal times/dinner breaks. However, we do encourage parents to park in the north parking lot and walk over to watch the final run through of the show that happens at most rehearsals.
End of Rehearsal Proceedure
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Marching Rehearsals are closed to the public. Parents, family and friends are encouraged to watch the last 20 minutes of rehearsal to see the final run through.
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Students should be ready for pick-up 15 minutes after rehearsal ends. This allows time to put instruments away and for section meetings. Please have rides for students between 15 and 30 minutes after rehearsal or performance ends. Students should not be waiting on rides 30+ minutes after rehearsals or performances.
Dress Code
Students should wear comfortable athletic shorts. For students safety, (heat is a factor) DO NOT wear jeans or dark clothing. Light cotton t-shirts, tennis shoes, and athletic shorts should be worn each day. Students must follow school dress code policy. Students in violation of the dress policy may be given a t-shirt from the uniform room to wear, and non-compliance could result in dismissal from the group.

Feed Our Band
FUEL A MILLER TODAY
Our dedicated members expend an astounding 4000+ calories on competition days, and your sponsorship plays a crucial role in ensuring these talented athletes receive nourishing meals on a tight schedule.