Band camp, rehearsals, and season schedule

What to Expect

The PLD Marching Band season is an exciting, fast-paced journey that runs from mid-July through November. From the first day of Band Camp to the final competition, every member plays a vital role in bringing the season's show to life.

Summer — The season kicks off with Band Camp in mid-July. New and returning members come together to learn the show, build chemistry, and prepare for competition season.

Fall— Weekly rehearsals begin as the show takes shape. The band performs at home varsity football games and travels to 4–6 competitions at the local, state, regional, and national levels.

Late Fall — Competition season reaches its peak with KMEA State Finals and, for qualifying bands, national-level events. This is what all the hard work is for!

The marching band is a co-curricular activity, meaning most rehearsals take place outside of the regular school day. A full rehearsal schedule is provided at the start of each season and is always available on CutTime.

Band camp

Where It All Begins

Band Camp is one of the most important — and most memorable — parts of the PLD Marching Band experience. It's where friendships are formed, fundamentals are built, and the season's show starts to come to life.

New Member, Percussion & Color Guard Camp

Before Full Band Camp begins, new members, percussionists, and color guard members gather for their own dedicated camp. This focused time introduces marching fundamentals, posture, drill commands, and performance expectations.

Full Band Camp

Full Band Camp runs for two weeks in late July and is held at PLD High School. Mornings are dedicated to marching rehearsals; afternoons move indoors for musical rehearsals.

Attendance at Band Camp is required to ensure your spot in the competition show.

Fall Break Band Camp

The PLD Marching Band holds band camp during part of Fall Break each year as we continue through competition season. Check the calendar for this year's specific dates and times!

New to camp?

The Band Camp Survival Guide — developed by former students and parents — is available in the Resources section..

Rehearsals

Putting in the Work

Every rehearsal matters — the marching band depends on every single member being present and giving their best.

After School Rehearsals

Held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 4:00–6:30 PM. Rehearsals are not held on Wednesdays..

Sectionals

Additional sectional rehearsals may be scheduled throughout the season. Sectional schedules are determined closer to the season and will be communicated through CutTime.

Extra Rehearsals

Additional full-day rehearsals may be scheduled on Saturdays or on weekdays when school is not in session. Color Guard may also hold separate rehearsals.

Staying in the Loop

The full rehearsal schedule is distributed in advance of each season and is always up to date on CutTime. Check the calendar for updates!

Performances

Showtime

All the hard work of camp and rehearsals comes together in performance.

Football Games

The band performs at all home varsity football games. Each game includes the National Anthem, pep tunes, and a full performance of the competition show at halftime. Friday nights with the Bulldogs are an experience all their own!

Competitions

The band travels to 4–6 competitions each season at the local, state, regional, and national levels. Competition season culminates with the KMEA State Marching Band Championships — one of the most prestigious events in Kentucky music education