Question 1

What are my options if I, the parent or guardian, would like to stay at the Boxboro Regency as well?

Accepted Answer

The Boxboro Regency Hotel has decided to kindly extend to families a special room discount to stay at the hotel during the Festival. They have just created and shared this offer with us to pass along, questions regarding hotel bookings should be directed to the Boxboro Regency as the Sousa National Honor Band does not work for the Boxboro Regency Hotel. Below are instructions on how to book a room using this deal.
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If you have any questions regarding hotel reservations, please contact The Boxboro Regency, 978-263-8701, and mention the Sousa Honor Band.

Step 1: Click this link
Step 2: Select your dates (you do not need to use the dates given automatically)
Step 3: Click "Check availability" (blue box)
Step 4: Select your room type
Step 5: Click "Book It!" under John Philip Sousa Parents Block
Step 6: Proceed through the remainder of the booking process.

Question 2

Where can I buy tickets to the Mechanics Hall performance?

Accepted Answer

You can buy tickets for our July 15th performance here:

Question 3

Are high school seniors allowed to audition even though the festival will be after graduation?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The festival is open to those currently enrolled in grades 9-12 for the 2025-26 school year.

Question 4

What happens if my student's flight is delayed and they miss the shuttle?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we cannot account for flight delays with our shuttle plan. We recommend that students book flights the day before in order to avoid arriving late to the festival. If a student's flight is delayed, we can help the student arrange for transportation via taxi, Uber, or public transportation to the festival.

Question 5

Will there be medical staff present at the festival?

Accepted Answer

Yes. At the festival we have a licensed nurse. Many of our staff members are also First Aid and CPR Certified

Question 6

What does the $750 participation fee cover?

Accepted Answer

The $750 covers food, hotel, bussing at festival, t-shirt, music, and mailing costs. It does NOT cover transportation to and from festival (such as air travel).

Question 7

Will the students be allowed any downtime during the festival?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Students will be given breaks everyday throughout the day. We are also planning a group outing to a historic/scenic location in Massachusetts - Stay tuned for details!!

Question 8

As a parent, am I allowed to stay at the hotel with my student?"

Accepted Answer

No. We only have enough rooms at the hotel to accommodate the student participants and staff. Parents attending the festival with their student will need to find their own housing. We are currently working on a deal with another local hotel for parents, so be on the lookout for that.
It is strongly suggested that you rent a car so you may explore the are while your student is enjoying their festival experience.

Question 9

Are band directors and parents required to stay at the festival with students?

Accepted Answer

Parents and band directors are not required to stay, but are encouraged to be in the area and to at stay at the hotel if they would like. We would greatly appriciate any help that band directors can provide throughout the festival. There is always a job for you to support your students! Please reach out if you would like to help!

Question 10

Can my student drive themselves to the festival?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with parental permission students will be allowed to park at the hotel, however for safety and attendance, students who drive themselves are REQUIRED to take the busses and shuttles to and from all festival locations. Under no circumstances will students be able to leave the festival on their own during the scheduled festival activities.

Question 11

Can I set up a payment plan to pay the festival fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are more than willing to accommodate a payment plan for you as long as all fees are paid by the start of the registration period on the first day of the festival. If you require a payment plan for the festival, please fill out a contact form or email us directly and we will be happy to accommodate you the best that we can!

Question 12

Are students allowed to request their own roommates for the festival?

Accepted Answer

If you wish to request a roommate, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you. Last minute requests may not be able to be accommodated.

Question 13

Will there be eating accommodations for students who need them?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All eating accommodations can be submitted on the medical form for students. Our chef will be happy to accommodate any allergies or medical needs throughout the duration of the festival.

Question 14

What can parents who are staying at the festival do during rehearsals?

Accepted Answer

Parents are welcome to stay and enjoy the amenities at the hotel, or they can explore central Massachusetts! Attached is a link to some local historical sights or places to visit and enjoy!!
 
https://www.discovercentralma.org/see-do/attractions/historic-sites-homes/

Question 15

My student plays an instrument that is difficult to transport. Is there an instrument rental program?

Accepted Answer

Percussion instruments will be provided, however, percussionists should bring their own sticks and mallets.

The John Philip Sousa National High School Honor Band

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