2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook

!!This handbook will serve as a written record of rules, expectations, and explains what the Tornado Marching Band is all about. Both students and parents should familiarize themselves with this document. Only a member who is fully aware of how the band operates can function within the total framework of our organization. Without organization, chaos would exist. Therefore, this handbook proposes to eliminate the possibility of student and parent misunderstanding by providing a source of reference for all band policies. Here is a list of its contents:

Course Description Marching Band is a musical performance organization that promotes school spirit through instrumental and choreographed performances at football games, parades, and band festivals. Students are required to attend summer rehearsals, including band camp in July, after school practices, and attend all performances. Marching season runs from May through mid-November. Membership is by audition/permission of the band director and is open to students enrolled in concert band.

2014 Season Repertoire with Test-Off Dates (1st date is with music & 2nd is memorized)

Course Description 1

2014 Season Repertoire with Test-Off Dates (1st date is with music & 2nd is memorized) 1

Grading Policy 2

Merit/Demerit System 2

Attendance Policy 2

Marching Band Uniforms 3

Code of Conduct 4

Student Recognition 6

Band Communication 6

Student Roles 8

General Band Camp Information 9

2014 TMB Calendar 11

2014 TMB Handbook Acknowledgement & Vital Information Sheet 12

Traditional Songs Journey Senior Show

GOFA 7/3 7/4 Anyway You Want 7/30 7/31 Take It Easy 9/29 9/30

Alma Mater 7/22 7/23 Open Arms 8/1 8/4 Master of the House 10/1 10/2

SSB 7/24 7/27 Don’t Stop 8/5 8/6

Fight Song 7/28 7/29 Time Out Tunes (TOTS)

Hey Song 8/7 8/8 Twister Tunes TOTS #1-4 8/28 NA

Sloopy 8/8 8/15 What I Like 8/20 8/21 TOTS #5-8 9/4 NA

Go West (only #1 memorized) 8/18 8/19 Twist & Shout 9/16 9/18 TOTS #9-12 9/11 NA

STAF 11/3 11/5 TOTS #13-16 9/25 NA

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band HandbookGrading Policy

Marching Band is a 1st Semester course, but runs from May to November instead of August to January. The band director will keep a regular grade book and assign grades during the season even though the grade won’t appear until later. Grades will be based on five categories:

1) Performance (attendance & participation at all performances) 100 points for each performance. 2) Attendance (attending all required rehearsals) 100 points. 10 points off for each unexcused absence. 3) Participation (rehearsal behavior; being prepared for rehearsals & events) 100 points. 4) Music (knowledge* & performance of music) 10 points per quiz; 30 points per test. 5) Marching (knowledge & performance of drill) 100 points. * Music memorization is a vital part of marching band and all students will be graded on this aspect. Students are encouraged to utilize all the help available to them to learn the music. This includes squad leaders, upperclassmen, and fellow classmates. Break the music into sections and look for patterns. Practice with a friend and/or recordings to make it easier to memorize.

Merit/Demerit System

The Tornado Marching Band will utilize a merit/demerit system to enforce policies set forth in this handbook. Merits can be awarded for going above and beyond the call of duty, helping fellow members in need, and checking off music early and turning forms in early. Demerits will be assigned for the breaking of the policies in this handbook. Merits and demerits will be recorded for each grading period; every member starts a grading period with a fresh slate. If a member receives more than 2 demerits in a grading period, the following loss of privileges will be used:

3rd demerit: member will be required to study their music without socializing during rehearsal breaks for 1 day. 4th demerit: member will be required to study their music without socializing during rehearsal breaks for 2 days. 5th demerit: member will be required to study their music without socializing during rehearsal breaks for 3 days. 6th demerit: member will lose their 3rd quarter privileges for one game. 7th demerit & beyond: meeting with the directors to discuss further discipline, including possible dismissal.

Attendance Policy

The absence of any band member affects the total performance level of the group. Absences also affect our rehearsal time together, which is extremely important if the band is to reach its highest potential. For these reasons, attendance at all rehearsals and performances must be accepted as mandatory; however, conflicts do arise. Absences will be excused in the event of the following:

1. Family emergency 2. Personal illness (please turn in note of explanation signed by parent or doctor upon return) 3. Absences pre-approved by the director based on the circumstances (a reasonable number of absences from

summer marching band practices are acceptable when the student’s summer conflict schedule is turned in prior to any absences)

Some students like to take advantage of job opportunities. Arrangements should be made with the employer well in advance to allow the student’s time for band. Employers have been most cooperative in the past if they know of conflicts ahead of time. Students should not offer job conflicts as an excuse for missing band functions.

Unexcused absences will result in one or more of the following consequences:

1. Deduction in band grade 2. Loss of performance opportunities 3. Removal from leadership responsibilities 4. Dismissal from the band

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band HandbookMarching Band Uniforms

The Tornado Marching Band regularly utilizes three different uniforms during the course of the season:

Summer Uniform

Components: blue TMB summer shirt, black athletic shorts, black socks and black marching shoes. Shirt, shorts and socks ($30) are purchased from the band boosters. Shirt is not tucked in.

Uses: Any performances where the director deems a cooler uniform is needed; typically during the summer time.

Warm-Up

Components: Athletic-style warm-up consisting of a light jacket and coordinating pants and are purchased through the band boosters.

Uses: Warm-ups are to be on hand at all TMB performances and will be worn to away games and contests (unless director announces otherwise). Band will use the warm-up as a performance uniform on occasions where director deems the field or weather conditions will be an issue for the dress uniform. We will wear our black marching band shoes with the warm-ups. Students should wear appropriate shorts and black shirt under the warm-up based on weather conditions.

Dress Uniform

Components: Uniform coat, bib pants, hat, black marching shoes (purchased through the band boosters), black socks, black t-shirt and white gloves.

Uses: Football games, contests, fall parades and indoor concerts.

Inspection Items Uniform inspection will take place before every performance and be performed by the squad leaders. Squad leaders will be inspected by the band director. Items to be checked:

Jacket & Bibs: Clear of mud and other stains. All buttons buttoned and zippers zipped! Check for black t-shirt. Hat: Clean. Brim of hat level with eyebrow. Shoes & Socks: Both should be black! No mud or other blemishes on shoes. Shoes should be shined. Gloves: Clean and free of stains. Flute and clarinet fingers cleanly cut to 2nd knuckle.

Away Games/Performances: Students are responsible for making sure that their uniform is on the trailer for each away game/performance and that the same is unloaded from the trailer when they get home.

After Each Performance: Report any defects or problems with the uniform to the uniform parents in charge. Hang up coat and bibs on hanger provided and put it inside garment bag. Neatly hang the bag in the uniform closet. Wipe out the inside of the hat, place a 'downy' sheet inside and then place the hat inside its box. Take home gloves, black socks, black t-shirt, and shoes. Gloves, socks, and t-shirt should be washed. Hang-dry the

gloves.

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“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

IMPORTANT NOTE: Your hat is the only object allowed in the hatbox.

You may only store the 2-piece uniform (bib and coat) in the uniform bag.

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!Code of Conduct

You are a member of a very fine high school band. Always strive to make a positive contribution toward the future success of your program. Remember that you are a representative of West Muskingum High School; act accordingly. This section covers the rules that we must follow to insure that our band remains a quality performing group.

Note: These rules supplement the West Muskingum High School handbook; Band members and parents should read and be familiar with its policies as well. !

Rehearsal Conduct ★Be prompt and ready to start at the designated time.

★When school is in session, passes are required for tardiness.

★During rehearsal, talking and playing out of turn contribute to negative results and wasted time.

★Chewing gum will not be tolerated in the music room.

★Learn your part thoroughly. Home practice will be a requirement during your band career.

Inspection

★Squad leaders will be responsible for uniform inspection of their squad prior to each performance.

★All parts of the uniform should be in good condition with buttons all in place.

★Hair must not touch the uniform collar.

★Shoes must be clean and free from blemishes.

★Gloves must be white and free of dirt.

★Sunglasses and ball caps are not an acceptable part of the band uniform.

Bus Conduct ★All regular bus rules will be observed whenever we travel by school transportation.

★The bus driver is in charge of the bus- Be courteous and follow their instructions.

★No profanity or loud outbursts will be tolerated.

★Use moderation in singing and talking.

★Reserve the front seats for the band director and instructors; reserve rear seat for chaperones.

★Do not load or unload buses until you are asked to do so.

★Do not yell out the bus windows.

★Always leave the bus the way you found it (or better!)- Clean and with the windows up.

★Band members must ride the bus to and from all band functions unless a parent makes prior arrangements with the band director.

Use of Music Facility ★Everyone is responsible for helping to keep the music room neat and clean.

★The instrument storage room is for instruments only. It is not your personal locker.

★No food or drink (except water) will be allowed in the music room.

★Graffiti on music stands or any part of the music facility will not be tolerated.

!“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!Code of Conduct Continued

Band Stand Conduct ★Good bands look organized at all times. Conduct on the bandstand at football games is a vital portion of the impression we leave with the public.

★Be alert: Watch the game and your director-things happen quickly during a football game.

★Please do not play your instrument unless asked to do so by your director.

★Do not invite your friends to sit with you on the bandstand. Only band members, chaperones, and band alumni may sit in the bandstand.

★Stay in uniform at all times. Hat and gloves may be removed with director’s permission.

★Band members are expected to respect all other performers. Do not talk or otherwise disrupt any portion of a performance by anyone.

★Never leave the bandstand without the permission of the band director.

★Watch your instrument carefully. Much damage can be done to an instrument that is stepped on or dropped from the bandstand.

Third Quarter Procedure ★Make sure your instrument and hat are safe when you leave to get refreshments. You are responsible for your instrument at all times.

★Do not leave the stadium.

★Stay in complete uniform, minus hat and gloves, at all times.

★Public display of affection at any time will not be tolerated.

★You are expected to watch the game clock and to be in your seat ready to play at the end of the third quarter. Tardiness will result in the assignment of demerits.

Instrument Transportation and Care ★Instruments loaded on the bus/trailer should be properly cased and handled by the musicians that play them. It is the student’s responsibility to see that the instrument gets on and off the bus/trailer.

★All instruments must be properly identified.

★Woodwinds should be cleaned out after each rehearsal and performance.

★Clean your mouthpiece each week. Warm, soapy water will kill most germs and remove food particles.

★Brass instruments should be cleaned frequently. Keep valves and slides in good working order at all times.

★Never leave an instrument lying out in the music room; especially before or after school.

★Do not play another student’s instrument. Learn to play yours.

★You are expected to keep your instrument cases securely closed at all times.

Performance Conduct ★The weather or any other circumstance does not cancel a performance; wait for official word from the band directors, an authorized assistant, or student leader.

★Stay focused during all aspects of the performance; don’t let others distract you.

★Be prepared for unexpected changes; live performances can be full of them!

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band HandbookEquipment Use

Personal Equipment

Instruments and cases are the responsibility of the individual before, during, and after band functions. West Muskingum High School and the Band Boosters are not responsible for damage or theft to individually owned instruments or other belongings. Students are responsible for their instrument to be in playing condition at each and every band function. Students should not allow any other student to play their instrument.

School Owned Equipment

Students are responsible for the general care of school instruments; this includes oiling valves, slides, and swabbing the instrument. Repairs are not the responsibility of the student unless damage is due to student neglect. These instruments are quite valuable, so they should be treated with great care. If all instruments are properly used and maintained, their replacement does not become necessary and saves the band money to purchase other needed items. Instruments must be signed out and an instrumental agreement form filled out before they leave the music room.

Student Recognition

Senior Parent Night

Senior Tornado Marching Band members and their parents are recognized annually before a home varsity football game. Prior to Pre-Game, band seniors, along with other fall sport members, are escorted across the field by their parents while a list of their achievements is announced over the public address system.

Season In Review

The Season In Review recognizes marching band members as follows:

8th Grade: Certificate, Service Pin, “Band” Pin Freshmen: Certificate, Service Pin, Class Patch Sophomore: Certificate, Service Pin, Varsity Letter (if a second year marcher) Junior: Certificate, Service Pin, Instrument Pin Senior: Certificate, Service Pin, Senior Gift !Band Communication

In a band as active as the TMB, unforeseen events are bound to occur. As such, there will inevitably be changes in our schedule. The band director will inform students and parents as soon as possible of these changes to insure that all band members are able to accommodate them and participate in the activity. To announce changes, the director will:

1)Announce change in rehearsal. Students must be responsible and make note of the change!

2)Email/text blast via Remind service. See next page on how to join.

3)Post change on band website (http://www.westmschools.org/olc/teacher.aspx?s=79)

4)Keep everyone up to date with the Tuesday Sheet, which will contain event information for the next 10 days.

5)Use the band phone tree for last minute changes. Director will call student leaders and/or booster president. Student leaders will contact their squads. The booster president will activate the parent phone tree, utilizing the first phone number listed on the medical emergency authorization form unless band director or booster president is informed of a another preferred number.

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook

��� “One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!Student Roles

!Band Member

A West Muskingum Band Member is a student who has, by choice, committed and dedicated themselves to the goals and philosophy of the band department. Ones personal objectives should always be to become a successful part of the total unit and to strive to help others achieve the same goal. A West Muskingum Band Member should be synonymous with PRIDE, HUSTLE, DEDICATION, AND DESIRE!

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Squad Leaders

Squad leaders assist the field commander in leading the marching band. They must be willing to put in the extra hours necessary to make the Tornado Marching Band the best it can be. Squad leaders will help the band director with planning, communication, field instruction, and music rehearsal. They are responsible for making sure all members of the band understand marching basics, the field drill, can play and have memorized their music, and will help enforce band handbook policies. They may also assign merits and demerits when appropriate, with the band director’s approval.

Interviews for squad leaders will be held in the spring of each year. Applicants should have a minimum of 2 years marching experience and possess superior musicianship and dexterity. Applicants should have the people skills needed to lead, instruct, inspire, motivate, and discipline their squad and band. Squad leaders are model members of the marching band and will be held to a higher standard.

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“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!

General Band Camp Information Band camp is July 27-August 1, 2014 at Urbana University and the cost is $225 per student.

*Additional siblings are $175* Students who do not attend band camp may be considered alternates. Students may have money in their accounts to cover all or part of these fees.

!Payments should be mailed to the booster treasurer at the following address:

Lori Wood 3170 Corvus Drive

Zanesville OH 43701 Phone # (740) 452-2294 !

Transportation

Students are required to travel by school bus to and from band camp unless a note is received prior to departure for camp. No student will be allowed to have a car at camp.

**Medical forms are to be turned in at this time (if that hasn’t yet been done).

Meals

All meals will be served cafeteria style. ALL BAND MEMBERS MUST ATTEND MEALS. Our first meal will be supper on Sunday and our last meal will be lunch on Friday. Good manners and respect for others WILL be observed at each and every meal.

University Policy

Urbana University cannot be held responsible for personal injury or lost, stolen, or damaged personal property. Please lock your room during the day and use common sense throughout the week. The Band Boosters are financially accountable for missing and damaged University property--YOU will be held responsible for property abused or misused so use common sense in the treatment of University property.

Conduct

Band camp is not only hard (and sweaty) work, but it should also be fun for everyone. Please think before you act and consider how your actions can affect the entire group. Whenever the band travels, we become ambassadors for Zanesville, West Muskingum Local Schools, and the West Muskingum Bands. Make our hosts happy to see us come back--not happy to see us leave!

Rehearsals and Sectionals

Shoes must be worn as well as a good pair of socks. A water bottle should be with you at all times. Students should dress in the proper attire for all marching and playing rehearsals. Hats and sunblock are recommended for field rehearsals because of the sun’s intensity. Each band member is responsible for taking his own equipment to and from each rehearsal and sectional. Chewing gum and candy are not permitted during any of the rehearsals. A pencil is considered part of your equipment.

!!“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!General Band Camp Information continued

General Rules

The following is a list of rules and expectations for the group as a whole. The directors reserve the right to make decisions for the benefit of everyone should a situation arise.

Absolutely no smoking, drinking of alcoholic beverages or the use of illegal drugs will be permitted.

No one may leave the University for any reason without direct approval from Mr. Ruetz. Anyone caught out of the assigned area will be disciplined or sent home.

Absolutely no hazing of any kind will be tolerated.

All students will be present for the evening activities.

Noise levels must be kept at a reasonable level.

All West Muskingum High School policies, procedures, and standards for student behavior are in effect.

The gentlemen’s rooms are OFF LIMITS to the ladies, and ladies rooms are OFF LIMITS to the gentlemen.

Dorm room windows must remain closed at all times.

No tape or other objects are to be placed on dorm windows.

Instruments may not be played before 8am or after 10pm.

Band students are not permitted to have visitors on campus until checkout time on Friday.

The charge for a key that is not returned at the end of band camp is $50.00 per key.

!A Suggested Checklist

This list is not complete or final. Each student will have personal preferences and might need to bring something not on the list. You may wish to coordinate some of these items with your roommate.

Instrument and/or equipment All marching band music

A water jug Sunscreen

Light clothing for 6 days Bed Linens

At least 2 pair of tennis shoes Pillow

Socks, shorts, shirts Sleepwear

Towels & washcloth Alarm clock

Blow dryer, curling irons, etc. Laundry bag

A hat Sunglasses

Insect Repellent Swimming Suit

Spending money (not much) Beach towel

Sweatshirt Jeans

Shoelace, ribbon, or chain for your room key Raincoat and/or umbrella

All toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, etc.)

Cell phone &/or Calling card (be sure to check with your phone carrier for coverage in Urbana)

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook!2014 TMB Calendar

!Please mark these dates on your calendars now. Your attendance at each event is vital to our success!

These dates are accurate as of July 2, 2014. Students must be responsible and be aware of any changes!

Date Day Event (Report)Event Time

June 24-26 Tues-Thurs Full Band Rehearsal 9AM-12PM

July 1-3 Tues-Thurs Full Band Rehearsal 9AM-12PM 4 Fri Independence Day Parade in Gratiot (5:30PM) 6:30PM 15 Tues Optional Music Rehearsal 9AM-11AM 22-24 Tues-Thurs Full Band Rehearsal 8AM-12PM

27-August 1 Sun-Fri Band Camp @ Urbana University All Day

4-8 Mon-Fri Full Band Rehearsal 8AM-12PM 6 Wed Band Pictures 10:00AM 10 Sun MCF Beating of the Skins (Percussion only) (1PM) 2PM 10 Sun Muskingum County Fair Performance (Full Band) (5PM) 6PM 15 Fri Meet the Team (5PM) 6PM 18-20 Mon-Wed Full Band Rehearsal 3PM-5PM 21 Thurs Full Band Rehearsal 8AM-12PM 26 Tues 1st DAY OF SCHOOL (Regular rehearsal schedule is Mon-Thurs 3-5) 26-28 Tues-Thurs 1st Week Rehearsals 3:00PM-5:00PM

29 Fri FB: Philo (Away) (4:30PM) 7PM

September 5 Fri FB: Sheridan (Home) (4:30PM) 6:45PM 12 Fri FB: John Glenn (Away) (4:30PM) 7PM 13 Sat AE: Philo HS (TBA) evening 20 Sat FB: Maysville (Home) (4:30PM) 6:45PM 26 Fri FB: Crooksville (Away) (4:30PM) 7PM 27 Sat AE: Licking Valley (TBA) evening

October 3 Fri FB: Tri-Valley (Homecoming) (4:30PM) 6:30PM 10 Fri FB: New Lex (Away) (4:30PM) 7PM 17 Fri FB: Buckeye Trail (Home) (4:30PM) 6:45PM 18 Sat AE: Marietta HS (TBA) mid-day 24 Fri FB: Caldwell (Away) (4:30PM) 7PM 25 Sat AE: Tri-Valley (TBA) evening 31 Fri FB: Morgan (Senior Parent Night) (4:30PM) 6:30PM

November 6 Thurs Marching Band Season In Review (6PM) 6:30PM 8 Sat Parade: Veteran’s Day (9AM)10AM 11 Tues Concert: Veteran’s Hall of Fame Ceremony (TBA) evening

State Contest Dates: 11/1, 11/2, 11/7, 11/8, 11/9 (If we qualify, we will be assigned one of these dates by OMEA)

Band Booster Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM in the WMHS Music Room !“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

2014 Season WMHS Tornado Marching Band Handbook2014 TMB Handbook Acknowledgement & Vital Information Sheet

Please fill out completely, accurately, and legibly! Section 1: Consent to participate in the WMHS Tornado Marching Band from May 19, 2014 to January 16, 2015

Name of student: Birthdate: Age:

Graduation Year: Student Home Phone# Student Cell #

Student Street Address: City: Zip

Student Email: Parent/Guardian Name:

P/G Email: P/G Cell #

I hereby consent to the above named student participating in the WMHS Tornado Marching Band. This consent includes travel to and from all band activities off school grounds. I have read, understand and accept the policies explained in the TMB Handbook. I have also noted the dates for all required rehearsals and performances during the 2014 season.

Parent/Guardian Signature: Student Signature:

Section 2: Emergency Medical Information

Purpose-To enable parents to authorize emergency medical treatment for student, under the school’s authority, that may become ill or injured while participating in the WMHS Tornado Marching Band and parents cannot be reached.

In the event reasonable attempts to contact me at (phone #) or (phone #) or other parent at (phone #) has been unsuccessful, I hereby give my consent for: the administration of any treatment deemed necessary by (preferred physician) Dr. or (preferred dentist) Dr. or in the event the designated preferred practitioner is not available, by another licensed physician or dentist; and the transfer of the student to (preferred hospital) or any hospital reasonably accessible.

This authorization does not cover major surgery unless the medical opinions of two other licensed physicians or dentists, concurring in the necessity for such surgery, are obtained before surgery is performed.

Facts concerning the child’s medical history including allergies, medications being taken, and any physical impairment to which a physician should be alerted:

Date: Signature of Parent/Guardian:

Section 3: Permission to Publish Additional Student Information to Media Sources

Your permission is requested for the band to publish the following information on/in media sources. Please place a check mark beside each item you are permitting. Please call Mr. Ruetz if you have any questions.

Permission granted to use the following on band website (please check any and all that apply:

School work/project/writing/art work

Student picture

Student name with picture

Section 4: Band Instrument Data

Instrument: Instrument Brand: Serial #

This instrument belongs to: (circle one) me a relative a friend West Muskingum

This form must be signed, detached, and returned to the band director in order to participate in the Tornado Marching Band.

“One band, one sound; we are West M!”

Parent/Guardian Name (please print)

Parent/Guardian Signature:

Date: