How to Raise Money to Buy Marching Band Instruments

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Ask the school

   Schools don't always have a lot of money to go around, but if they have bothered to set up a marching band, perhaps they can offer some support, as well.
   
   Find out what the athletic budget is.
   
   Point out that bands involve a different, and often broader, group of students, and that they need equipment as well.
2. 2

   Step 2: if you're affiliated with one.

   Members who play woodwinds and high brass are likely to have their own instruments.
   
   Percussionists may also be able to provide their own sticks.
   
   Percussion instruments and tubas/sousaphones will probably be your priority, but talk it over with band members to decide what is most needed first., If by any chance a band or drum corps anywhere near you is scaling back or upgrading or closing down, jump at the chance to get their instruments.
   
   Failing that, take a good look at Craigslist, eBay, and the like., If you don't already have uniforms, choose something casual and simple the first few years.
   
   Ask everyone to wear black pants and a black dress shirt, or some other easily matched combination that works with your school or group colors.
   
   As you become more established, add simple uniform elements, such as a vest, scarf, tie, hat, or a shirt that members can reasonably afford. , Obviously, instrument manufacturers cannot afford to give instruments away for free to all groups, but good, well-known groups can sometimes promise they'll proudly display the manufacturer's logo (and mention them in programs and stuff) in exchange for donations or discounts., Post a notice on Craigslist or Freecycle, saying you'll accept donated instruments.
   
   If you get one you can use, by all means, use it.
   
   If you get something you can't use, such as a ukulele, sell it., Not all gigs pay, and many don't pay very much, but see if any local parades, festivals, or other events (Earth Day, Art & Wine Festival, holiday tree lighting, Independence Day, etc.) offer a stipend for performing.
   
   Would any companies in your area consider hiring a marching band instead of a DJ for their next party or event?, Do you play at all the football games? Do you send a pep band to rallies or basketball games? Ask to have a table selling snacks or t-shirts or something.
   
   Ask to get the band paid if a few members to help in the concession stand.
   
   Ask to hold a raffle.
   
   Ask to announce an upcoming fundraiser or request donations. , Publicize it well, and charge admission.
   
   See if you can use the university stadium or auditorium to perform.
   
   Don't forget to sell ads in your program and snacks at intermission., If you're recruiting members as well, this is a great opportunity to announce that fact. , If your members are up to it, and are willing to volunteer their time, spread the word that you'll teach aspiring musicians.
   
   You might also end up with some new members later on., You'll need to find out what the rules are about establishing bingo operations in your area, and your group (including any band boosters and volunteers) will have to put in quite a bit of time, but some of the largest organizations support themselves this way., These are car washes, bake sales, spaghetti feeds, flea markets, and so on.
   
   You'll find many good lists of ideas online., Would the local shopping center or mall let you set up a gift-wrapping booth? Does a store in your area need lots of warm bodies for just a few nights, to take inventory? Does an event where you're not performing need ushers, ticket takers, hand-stampers, sign-in help, or parking attendants?
3. 3

   Step 3: Set priorities.

4. 4

   Step 4: Look for used instruments.

5. 5

   Step 5: Choose instruments over uniforms and other expenses.

6. 6

   Step 6: Ask musical instrument companies.

7. 7

   Step 7: Ask for donations from the public.

8. 8

   Step 8: Perform paying gigs.

9. 9

   Step 9: Make an announcement or hold a fundraiser at school events.

10. 10

    Step 10: Hold your own concert or band competition.

11. 11

    Step 11: Do impromptu performances on campus and pass the hat

12. 12

    Step 12: or take the opportunity to plug upcoming events and fundraisers.

13. 13

    Step 13: Sell music lessons.

14. 14

    Step 14: Host bingo nights.

15. 15

    Step 15: Hold general fundraisers.

16. 16

    Step 16: Find seasonal and short-term work for volunteers.

Detailed Guide

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