Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Forward
The purpose of this handbook is to provide convenient and valuable information to
students, parents, administrators, staff, and directors about the many aspects of the
Marion County High School Band program. Members of the band, along with
parents, should familiarize themselves with this handbook and sign and return the
appropriate forms found in the back. Band members are expected to understand
and abide by all rules and regulations set forth in this handbook. If a problem or
question not covered in this handbook should arise, the director should be consulted
for an explanation.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is one that states that music should be taught to
everyone. Music should be learned by all because it is such a universal language
that takes place in our everyday lives. Music should take place in every school
setting regardless of any barrier. It is something that can connect concepts
throughout all content areas.
I believe in a hands-on approach and an active style of learning where all
students are encouraged to participate and to be involved in experiencing music. I
want my students to develop, if nothing else, an eternal love and appreciation for
music. My idea of a classroom is a safe environment where the students feel
absolutely comfortable in exploring and discovering the art of music.
To me, the term respect is a huge aspect not only in a classroom setting but
in life. I will expect respect from my students at all times, but thats only because I
will show respect to my students at all times. It is crucial to respect your students
and in turn it will make it easier for them to abide and respect the teacher as well as
the rules.
Music can be so incredibly beneficial to students. It can be an outlet for their
emotions, a means of expression, a common ground for every individual. I believe
in setting a comfortable classroom appropriate relationship between teacher and
student. Without that relationship, that trust that should be established, the
classroom will not be as beneficial for everyone.
I want my classroom to be a place where learning takes place not simply for
the next exam but for life. I want my students to be able to take the knowledge they
acquire and apply it and take it with them for the rest of their lives mainly because
music effects and impacts our life not only in a classroom.
I know the profound impact that music can have on a students life. Every
child deserves to experience music and be exposed to musical concepts and ideas
so they have those tools to help further develop their potential for the arts.
Dear Parent/Guardian
As the director of the Marion County Public Schools, it is my pleasure to welcome
you to the MCHS Band Experience. We believe the MCHS Band Program to be one of
the brightest in our state. This is due to excellent staff, boosters, a supportive
community, and of course, great kids. It is our goal, at MCHS, to help all kids to
reach their full potential.
Congratulations on your decision to be part of this program. The 2016-2017
academic year provides an opportunity for the band to strive in being the best it can
be. Musical activities for the Marion County Band encompass a wide scope and
encourage each member to reach the highest possible level of success.
As a member and part of this excellent program, you will have responsibilities
to meet. We expect you to do your part - be at rehearsals, participate in fundraisers,
practice individually, etc. Most of all, we expect that in everything you do, both
inside and outside the program, you will strive for excellence that will continue our
tradition of an outstanding program. In all aspects of their lives, our members will
excel at what they choose.
You will find a cross section of this school in our band. We have athletes,
scholars, and socialites. We have leaders in virtually every club and activity in the
school. Members of the National Honor Society are common, and many of our
students will receive scholarships to collegenot just in music, but in many other
areas.
Since most of our members will not become professional musicians, this may
be your best opportunity to be in the spotlight and be recognized as an outstanding
performer. We want this to be a once in a lifetime opportunity and to be the best
possible experience for you. Therefore, we do expect that you will give it your all at
all rehearsals and performances.
This is a winning team with a rich tradition of which you are now a virtual
part. As with any activity, you get out of it what you put into it. We want the best for
you and that is the reason the program demands the best from you. You have the
opportunity to enjoy great times as part of this band, and we look forward to sharing
them with you. The students, parents, administrators, staff, and directors will use
this handbook as a convenient source of information regarding the very aspects of
the Marion County Band. We have tried to cover as thoroughly as possible every
facet of the program.
Students, together with parents, should read this handbook carefully and
must sign and return the appropriate forms and agreements in the back. Band
members are expected to understand and abide by all rules and regulations set
forth in this handbook. We look forward to getting to know each of you better in the
coming year and celebrating many successes together!
Sincerely,
Daniel Beams
Program of Studies
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
Choir, Sax Quartet, Brass Quintet, Trombone Choir, Tuba Ensemble, and
many others.
Wind Ensemble The Wind Ensemble is also a performance-based
ensemble that requires an audition, as well as recommendation from the
director.
Jazz Ensemble Depending upon interest, the Jazz Ensemble is comprised
of members from the brass section and other members of the band. In this
ensemble, students are able to perform jazz and other related styles of
music. Membership for the ensemble is determined by the director. Only
students displaying outstanding musicianship and maturity will be allowed
to participate in this ensemble. Auditions will be held at the discretion of
the director. The Jazz Ensemble rehearses on Tuesdays after school in the
spring and gives a concert at the end of the semester.
Grading Procedures
All band members are expected to take band for credit for the entire school
year. Band has curricular requirements just like any other academic
discipline, but also has extracurricular requirements similar to that of athletic
teams and other school sponsored clubs. The combination of both of these
requirements into one performance-based course of study is what
determines the strength and success of the band program. The most
important aspect of the students grade will be his/her preparation
and attendance to rehearsals
A course syllabus will be handed out at the beginning of each nine weeks
and will cover in detail the specific requirements for that class during that
particular semester.
Chair Auditions
Chair auditions are a system of placement for the students in the ensemble.
Chair auditions will be held at the beginning of each semester. Students will
be required to participate in chair auditions regardless of interest in higher
chair. A rubric containing the elements that are considered when auditioning
for chair placement will also be given at the beginning of the semester prior
to the audition. Students will be given an excerpt of music to prepare prior to
the audition and asked to sight read as well as two scales chosen at random
by the adjudicator.
Attendance Policies
All band members are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances.
Students should also be on time for all band functions. Under extenuating
circumstances (serious illness, death in the family), make-up work for missed
performances may be assigned, but the experience of the performance
cannot be made up.
Excused Absences
Excused absences from rehearsal and performances must be approved
by the director. Any absence that is not brought to the directors
attention prior to the rehearsal or performance will be considered
unexcused. Please do not schedule appointments on rehearsal days.
Use the non-rehearsal days when scheduling appointments. In case of
illness, students should call the band office at least one hour prior to
the start of rehearsal. NOTE: After-school employment is not
considered an excused absence.
Unexcused Absences
An unexcused absence from both rehearsals and performances will
affect the students grade significantly. An unexcused absence from a
performance will result in a failing grade for that grading period.
Unexcused absences in general could result in any or all of the
following:
Significant loss in grade
Loss of performance opportunities
Removal from leadership position(s)
Dismissal from the band program
Financial Obligations
Some of the activities both required and elective are funded through student
paid fees. These fees are non-refundable due to the advanced allocation of
funds. Financial assistance is available upon request, and any student
requiring this will need to speak directly with the director or a booster officer.
The alternative arrangements are made between the student/family and the
director and the booster executive committee and are administered with the
utmost discretion and respect for the privacy of the individual(s). Discussions
of personal finances will be kept strictly confidential, and no band member
will ever be denied the opportunity to participate in the organization due to
inability to pay fees. All students who are seeking financial assistance will
participate actively in all fund-raising activities.
The Average cost per child to run the marching band program is over $1000.
Band fees help offset this cost, while the remaining costs will be subsidized
via fundraising. Other ensembles also come with significant costs. Students
will not be admitted into winter ensembles unless all band related fees have
been paid
Since the booster organization is a non-profit organization, we must pay our
bills in a professional and timely manner. It is important that you pay your
fees by the dates listed to provide the needed cash flow necessary for us to
conduct our affairs. If at any time you experience difficulty meeting the
payment schedule, please contact Mr. Beams. It is very important to have
communication between the parent and the band boosters regarding
payment. We will work with you on a payment schedule other than listed
above if that would make it easier. Over the past few years, we have had
trouble collecting these fees. Many booster organizations in other schools
have started using a collection agency to assist in this endeavor. We are
trying to keep from using such agency, but need your cooperation in order to
function fully. When fees become delinquent, the students suffer.
Please contact one of the directors to set up a fee payment plan, if
necessary. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Financial Goals
Every three years the school music programs try to take a trip to display the talents
and hard work of the students. The only way this is possible is if the means are
available financially. Fundraising contributes an incredible amount in this situation.
It would be the goal of the program to raise that money through fundraising in order
to support the trip.
Special Events
Throughout the year, students will have numerous opportunities to
participate in elective activities such as Solo and Ensemble Festival, All-State
Band, District Band, and various other honor bands. Students are
encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities. Students are
responsible for paying the fees that are required for these events. A short
description of each of these activities is found below.
All-State Band: This group is made up of the most elite musicians
from high school bands throughout the state. Members are selected by
auditions held annually in the fall. There is a nominal audition fee for
students wanting to audition. The band department usually pays for
lodging and meals if the student makes the band. Each participant in
the band will receive an All-State Band patch.
District Band: This group is made up of the best musicians from
bands in our district. Membership is also determined through auditions
in the fall. There is an audition fee for this event as well.
Solo and Ensemble Festival: All members of the Middle School Band
are required to prepare and perform a solo at this event. High School
students can play a solo and/or an ensemble for this event.
Honor Bands: Various honor bands are held throughout the year at
various colleges and universities in the state. Membership for these
groups is usually determined by nominations from the director. Anyone
interested in participating in these groups should notify the director.
Private Lessons: Every student in the band program is encouraged to
take private lessons on their instrument. Private lessons are a
tremendous aid in the development of a students musical knowledge
and improve the overall quality of the band. Any student interested in
studying privately should see the director(s) for recommendations. In
some cases, instructors may be available to come to the school to give
lessons. However, if instructors are not able to come to the school,
students may be responsible for transportation to these lessons.
Performance Schedule
School-Owned Instruments
School owned instruments can be checked out to those students who do not own
their own instruments. These instruments consist primarily of percussion and the
more expensive woodwind and brass instruments. Students who need to use school
instruments will be required to pay a $40 dollar rental fee per year. This fee covers
basic wear and tear on the instruments and is due at the beginning of the school
year. These instruments must be returned in the same condition as when they were
issued. Any damages or serious malfunctions should be reported to the director at
once. Damages due to the negligence of the student will be charged to the student.
The student is responsible for any damages and/or lost items from a school-owned
instrument. All instruments should be kept in excellent playing condition and should
be cleaned and polished before every performance. Any student needing to use a
school-owned instrument needs to fill out and return the necessary form found later
in the handbook.
not present. Demonstrate positive morals and have a good attitude in practice.
They will also promote cohesiveness to members.
-Must be a junior or senior
President- Assist the drum major with responsibilities such as displaying proper
etiquette during rehearsal and performances. They will demonstrate a positive
attitude during practices. Also they should demonstrate high skill level in music and
in marching. They will be the bands advocate and promote the activities the band
participates in and the awards they receive during contests.
Uniform Officers Must have organizational skills, be passionate about band, and
demonstrate a positive attitude to band members. They will collect and hand out
plumes before/after the performances. They will record any uniform problems and
turn them into the band parents.
-Must be a sophomore, junior, or senior
Band Boosters
Parents play a very important role in the success of the Marion County Band.
Without the assistance and cooperation of the band parents, the band would not be
very successful at all. Every parent/guardian of a band student is a member of the
Band Booster organization. Meetings are usually held on second Tuesday evening of
each month at 7:00 pm in the Band Room. As a parent, there are many things you
can do to help support the band.
Help your child be prepared and on time for every rehearsal and
performance
Forms
The following pages are forms that need to be completed by both students and
parents. These forms need to be returned to the directors as soon as possible.
Students and parents should read this handbook carefully and must sign and return
the appropriate forms and agreements. Band members are expected to understand
and abide by all rules and regulations set forth in this handbook. You will find these
forms in the following pages:
Handbook Contract
Personal Data Sheet
Medical Release Form
School-Owned Instrument Form
Handbook Contract
We, the undersigned, do certify that we have read and
understand the policies and requirements set forth in the Marion
County Bands Handbook. We agree to abide by these policies and
we understand that failure to meet these commitments can result
in dismissal from the band program.
Student Signature:
________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature:
_________________________________________________
Date: _________________
Student/Parent Commitment
Form
I,__________________________________ (parent/guardian) AND
_______________________(student) have read and understood the 2016/2017. Marion
County Band Handbook. I understand my scheduling priorities and commitments,
and acknowledge/accept my financial responsibilities, the penalties associated with
quitting or dismissal for disciplinary reasons, and know that all decision (regarding
fees and discipline) shall be imposed by the band director after informing the
students and parents of the infraction and giving them an opportunity to respond.
As with student infractions associated with other academic settings at school,
parents may make a written request for further review by the principal.
Student
Name(Print)__________________________________________________________________
Student Signature
____________________________________________________________________
Date
_________________________________________________________________________________
Email Address(es)_____________________________________________________
Fathers Cell Phone: ________________ Occupation: _________________________
Mothers Cell Phone: _______________ Occupation: _________________________
Occupation: _________________________
_________________________________________________________
_____
Date of last tetanus immunization: ________________
Please list any medical history/conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart trouble,
etc.)
______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
______
Any other information that should be known:
___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
___
Family Physician: ____________________________ Phone: _________________
Insurance Company: __________________________ Policy #: ________________
Students Signature_______________________________________
Instrument______________________________________________
Model__________________________________________________
Serial No._______________________________________________
Parents Signature_________________________________________
Date_________________________
Directors Signature________________________________________
Date_________________________
Hospital/Clinic
Preference________________________________________________________
Physicians Name___________________________ Phone
Number________________________
Insurance Company_________________________ Policy
Number________________________
Allergies/Special Health Considerations
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
I give my permission for my child to go on all trips associated with the Marion
County Band and its programs during the 2016-2017 year. In addition, in the
event of an accident or sudden illness while on the school-related student
trip, I authorize school personnel to contact the physician(s) listed on this
form and authorize those physicians(s) to render such treatment as may be
deemed necessary in an emergency, for health of said child. In the event
physician(s), parent(s), or other persons designated by the parent cannot be
contacted or school personnel/assigned chaperone(s) determine
circumstances warrant more expedited treatment school personnel are
hereby authorized to take whatever action is deemed necessary in their
judgment, for the health of said child.
Parent/Guardian Signature ______________________________
Date_____________________
Student) to leave campus during band activities to eat during the 2016/2017
Academic Year. Therefore, I release all members and associates of the Marion
County Public Schools (directors, staff, parents, administration, etc,) from
liability incurred in the risk of allowing my child to leave campus.
Student
Name__________________________________________________________________
Parent
Name___________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
_______________________________________________________
Date_________________________________________________________________________
_
Payment Guidelines
1.
2.
3.
4.
Date_________________________________________________
Event
July 11-15
Guard/Percussion Camp
July 18-22
July 25-29
July 29
Mon, Tues, Thurs,
Fri.
Time
8:00 -4:00
pm
TBD
TBD
7:00 p.m.
3:30-5:30
pm
Saturday, 8/27
TBD
Saturday, 9/10
Southwestern
TBD
Saturday, 9/17
Show
TBD
Saturday, 9/24
Nelson County
TBD
Saturday, 10/1
Casey County
TBD
Saturday, 10/8
FALL BREAK/NO
CONTEST
NO
CONTEST
Saturday, 10/15
Grayson County
TBD
Saturday, 10/22
Saturday, 10/29
State Quarterfinals
State Semi-Finals/Finals
TBD
TBD
Location
Parent
Initial
MCHS
MCHS
MCHS
MCHS
MCHS
Adair
County
Southweste
rn
TBD
Nelson
County
Casey
County
NO
CONTEST
Grayson
Conty
TBD
TBD
The Fall Marching Band Season is only 3-4 months long. Please do not schedule
other appointments, events, etc during marching band rehearsals and/or
performances. Marching band is a team effort and everybody is extremely
important in creating a competitive marching band. When a marching band
member misses a rehearsal or performance that absence affects the entire
marching band.
We do understand that some absences are unavoidable. Please talk to Mr. Beams
before committing to the marching band about the unavoidable conflicts; we want
students who are involved in a variety of activities and are willing to work with
schedule conflicts as long as we know ahead of time!!
I, __________________________________________________, agree to attend all rehearsals and
performances. This means I am committed to the 2016 Marion County Marching Band. I
understand that non-emergency appointments and work are non-excused absences and if I miss
band rehearsal(s) or performance(s) due to a non-excused absence; I may lose my marching spot. I
also understand that if conflict occurs between band rehearsals and other school activities, it is my
responsibility to let Mr. Beams know ahead of time.
Students Signature: _________________________
______________________
Parents Signature: