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Dorothy McElhinney Middle School 2016 2017 STUDENT & PARENT BAND HANDBOOK Dorothy McElhinney Middle School Crimson Colt Music Department 35125 Briggs Road, Murrieta, CA 92563 (951) 3041885 School Office (951) 3041889 Fax (951) 3041885 x3502 Band Room (lv messg) email: [email protected] Mrs. Linda Gordon, Director of Bands

Dorothy McElhinney Middle School - Murrieta Valley …€¦ · Dorothy McElhinney Middle School ... the program challenges students in areas of personal ... to stay actively involved

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Page 1: Dorothy McElhinney Middle School - Murrieta Valley …€¦ · Dorothy McElhinney Middle School ... the program challenges students in areas of personal ... to stay actively involved

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dorothy McElhinney Middle School 2016-­‐  2017  

STUDENT  &  PARENT  BAND  HANDBOOK    

Dorothy  McElhinney  Middle  School  Crimson  Colt  Music  Department  

35125  Briggs  Road,  Murrieta,  CA  92563  (951)  304-­‐1885  School  Office  

 (951)  304-­‐1889  Fax  (951)  304-­‐1885  x3502  Band  Room  (lv  messg)  

e-­‐mail:    [email protected]      

Mrs.  Linda  Gordon,  Director  of  Bands  

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Dorothy McElhinney Band Program

The DMMS Music Program provides an opportunity for students to develop an appreciation for music and encourages the skills and discipline necessary for achieving musical excellence throughout their middle school experience. Students learn the importance of a cooperative team effort while working with fellow members to accomplish the shared goals of the band program. Music students have fun meeting new friends and traveling to new and exciting places. In addition, the program challenges students in areas of personal growth and musicianship.

A Note from the Director…

Welcome! I am so pleased to have you and your family part of our Band program family this year. From now until June, your student will be part of a dedicated, hard-working, fun-loving team as we learn the skills required to prepare for our many top-level performances throughout the year.

The motto of the DMMS Crimson Colt Music Program is “Discipline in Mind, Dedication in Heart, and Excellence in Performance”. Through the medium of music education, our students learn the concepts of responsibility, teamwork, character, and good citizenship as they experience the world of music.

This Band Handbook information is provided to help you understand the policies of the DMMS Band program. Feel free to refer back to this document to answer any questions about what we are all about and how things run. Hopefully, this will be a helpful guide for defining the goals and expectations that are important for the Dorothy McElhinney Middle School Band Program to continue to develop the quality performance ensembles we have come to be known for.

I invite you, our band parents, to stay actively involved with your student’s musical life. Contrary to what your student may say, we really do want parents on campus! We need Room Parents (Moms or Dads) for each Band Class, tutors, supervisors, music office clerical help/copying, event organizing, chaperoning, library maintenance, and more, here in the Band room. Feel free to e-mail me and let know what you have to offer and share, be it time or talent. I appreciate every bit of help, large or small, and so will our students, trust me. You are also invited to become a member of our Band Boosters organization, our dedicated parent support group that works collectively with me to support and fund our program for your talented student!

If you have any questions or issues throughout the year, please contact me. I am here for you and for your student. Got a problem or a question? I ask you to come to me as Director first, please, so I am aware of any and all issues to work with you on behalf of your student. The band room is always noisy, and I often can’t hear the phone, so I recommend e-mail as the best and most reliable communication option. I attempt to answer e-mails promptly when I am able. My e-mail is: [email protected]

Thank you in advance for your kind support and I look forward to working with each student and each student family to help make this a great and positive year!

Blessings,

Linda Gordon, Director of Bands Dorothy McElhinney Middle School Crimson Colts

 

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   Dear  DMMS  Band  Student  Member:  

                   The  Band  program  at  DMMS  forms  a  vital  and  important  part  of  the  total  middle  school  experience,  and  represents  a  large,  colorful,  visible,  talented,  and  highly  disciplined  segment  of  the  school.    School  life,  and  many  of  the  programs  and  traditions  of  the  school,  would  seem  dull  without  this  presence.    Our  performances  at  campus  rallies,  concerts,  community,  and  civic  events,  add  a  great  deal  of  color  and  life  to  the  community,  and  we  are  very  proud  of  that.              The  goal  of  the  DMMS  Music  Program  is  to  build  people  through  dedication  and  excellence  by  living  by  our  core  values.  We  are  passionately  committed  to  our  culture  of  integrity,  respect,  discipline,  and  musical  excellence.    It  is  the  pride  of  a  job  well  done  and  the  accomplishments  achieved  that  make  the  sacrifices  worthwhile.    The  success  of  the  organization  will  lead  to  the  success  of  the  individual  and  vice  versa.    Band  is  a  win/win  situation!                So,  welcome  to  the  DMMS  Band  Program.  As  a  member,  you  have  the  unique  opportunity  to  create  and  continue  the  tradition  of  high  standards  that  will  pave  the  way  for  excellence  for  years  to  come.    Maintaining  our  culture  of  excellence  requires  us  to  constantly  be  aware  of  multiple  areas  of  responsibility.      

Responsibility  to  Ourselves:    There  are  always  ways  to  improve!  Take  the  initiative  when  given  the  chance  to  interact  with  those  who  have  more  experience  than  you  or  those  who  specialize  in  your  area/instrument.    Do  not  take  constructive  criticism  personally.    Be  critical  of  your  own  performance  and  don’t  settle  for  anything  less  than  what  you  set  out  to  achieve.    Whenever  possible,  you  should  equip  yourselves  with  the  best  possible  quality  instrument  you  can  afford.  Get  tutoring,  or  take  lessons.    The  classroom  lesson  at  school  is  only  able  to  teach  at  a  moderate  level  and  does  not  make  possible  the  one-­‐on-­‐one  instruction  that  is  so  vital  to  musical  growth  and  development.    YOU  have  the  primary  responsibility  for  learning,  developing,  and  contributing  your  talent  to  the  group.  

Responsibility  to  the  School:    As  a  student  of  the  DMMS  music  program,  you  are  a  representative  of  the  DMMS  Band  Program,  the  DMMS  student  body,  and  the  community  as  a  whole.      

Responsibility  to  Music  as  an  Art  Form:    The  performing  arts  have  always  been  a  vital  part  of  humanity.    YOU  possess  a  very  special  talent.    You  now  have  the  obligation  and  responsibility  to  society  to  use  that  talent  for  the  betterment  of  yourself  and  your  community.    If  you  can,  you  must!        Responsibility  to  Each  Other:  You  have  the  obligation  and  responsibility  to  respect  the  rights  and  feelings  of  others.    Always  treat  others  as  you  wish  to  be  treated.    Excessive  talking,  rumors,  and  bad  manners  are  all  examples  of  disrespectful  behavior  and  not  welcome  in  our  Band  Family.    These  behaviors  violate  our  core  values  of  integrity  and  respect.      

Responsibility  for  Promptness  and  Commitment  to  the  Program:  Band  is  a  group/team  activity.      Every  individual  member  is  important  and  essential  to  the  group’s  success.      In  this  activity,  it  is  very  obvious  when  you  are  late  or  not  present.    It  is  suggested  that  you  arrange  your  personal  schedule  to  accommodate  rehearsals  and  performances.    Call  times  are  the  times  that  you  are  to  be      in  your  position,  ready  to  perform.    Call  times  are  not  the  times  when  you  just  arrive.      

To be early is to be on time – to be on time is to be late – to be late is inexcusable.

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   Responsibility  for  School  Instruments,  Equipment,  and  Facilities:  If  you  are  using  a  school  instrument,  you  accept  the  responsibility  for  maintaining  it  and  taking  all  precautions  to  see  that  the  instrument  is  returned  to  the  school  in  the  same  condition  it  was  issued.    In  addition,  any  area  (on  or  off  campus)  you/we  may  occupy  should  be  left  cleaner  than  how  you/we  found  it,  even  if  it  is  not  your/our  mess.    We  have  special,  soundproof  walls  in  the  band  room  and  choir  room:  respect  the  walls.    Do  not  touch,  deface,  mark,  poke  at  them  or  damage  them  in  any  way.    

Responsibility  for  Excellence:  Musical  excellence  on  the  part  of  individuals  affects  the  performances  of  the  whole  ensemble.    Private  instruction  during  the  year  is  strongly  suggested  for  all  students.    Practice  time  is  required,  with  regular  testing  for  comprehension.    Daily  practice  makes  excellence.  It  is  recommended  that  ALL  instrumental  students  have  their  own  metronome  tuner  with  tuner  clip.  We  will  be  using  this  is  class  almost  daily.    

Responsibility  for  Attendance:    You  have  made  a  commitment  to  be  in  the  music  program.    In  order  to  have  a  successful  rehearsal  and  a  successful  performance,  it  is  essential  that  we  have  full  attendance.  Attendance  at  all  scheduled  rehearsals  and  all  scheduled  performances  is  required.      

         All  rehearsals  and  performances  are  graded  and  mandatory  as  per  MVUSD  School  Board  

Attendance  at  Performances                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              It  is  impossible  to  “make-­‐up”  the  experience  of  a  performance.    Furthermore,  the  other  members  carry  an  extra  burden  because  of  someone  else’s  inconsideration.    As  a  member  of  the  DMMS  Performing  Arts  Department,  understand  that  the  performance  culminates  everything  we  work  so  hard  for  during  the  year.    It  is  therefore  essential  to  your  fine  arts  education  that  you  experience  the  performance  of  your  art.    

Absences  from  performances  are  only  permitted  in  the  event  of  an  emergency:    SEVERE  PERSONAL  ILLNESS  OR  DEATH  IN  THE  FAMILY.    ALL  requests  for  excused  absences  must  be  presented  on  the  “Absence  Excuse  Form”  to  the  Director  as  soon  as  the  schedule  for  the  semester  is  received.    Any  absence  after  the  schedule  is  presented  would  have  to  fall  under  the  “emergency”  category.    All  other  absences  will  be  considered  “Unexcused.”      

“Absence  Excuse  Forms”  can  be  found  on  the  band  website  on  the  “Forms”  page.    Verbal  approval,  email,  or  handwritten  notes  are  not  sufficient  –  the  “Absence  Excuse  Form”  MUST  be  filled  out.      

*Unexcused  Absence  from  Performance:        Being  absent  from  a  performance  or  leaving  early  due  to  homework,  sports  practices/games,  birthday  parties,  other  non-­‐essential  school  activities,  non-­‐emergency  doctor  appointments,  tutoring,  and  vacations,  is  a  not  excused  absence.    An  unexcused  absence  from  a  performance  is  unacceptable  and  will  result  in  the  student’s  grade  being  lowered  to  an  “F”  for  that  grading  period.  Further  consequences  may  occur.    

*Attendance  at  Rehearsals:  (This  includes  SymB  and  ConB  parade  rehearsals  and  performances)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            These  rehearsals  dates  and  times  are  already  on  the  DMMS  Band  calendar  (DMMS  website/Teacher/Gordon,L/Calendar).  Absences  from  rehearsals  are  only  permitted  in  the  event  of  SEVERE  personal  illness,  death  in  the  family,  or  other  special  circumstances  that  are  PREAPPROVED  by  your  Director.  If  there  are  problems  with  leaving  early  or  unexcused  absences  from  a  rehearsal  or  performance,  the  appropriate  consequences  regarding  performing  opportunities  will  be  enforced  by  the  director.    Families  should  schedule  appointments  and  other  events  on  non-­‐rehearsal  days.      

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   *Unexcused  Absence  from  Rehearsal:    An  unexcused  absence  from  a  rehearsal  is  unacceptable  and  will  result  in  the  student’s  grade  being  lowered  one  letter  grade  per  infraction,  for  that  grading  period.    Excessive  absences,  even  for  the  above  reasons,  will  cause  severe  problems  and  could  result  in  loss  of  position  or  rank  within  the  organization.  

Tardiness:    Rehearsals  and  performances  are  scheduled  at  specific  times  and  it  is  expected  that  you  are  there  before  the  required  time.    Attendance  will  be  taken  promptly  at  the  scheduled  time.    If  there  are  problems  with  tardiness,  the  appropriate  consequences  regarding  performance  opportunities  will  be  enforced  by  the  director.      

                         To  be  early  is  to  be  on  time  –  to  be  on  time  is  to  be  late  –  to  be  late  is  inexcusable.    

In  case  of  an  emergency  or  sudden  illness  just  prior  to  an  after  school  rehearsal  or  performance,  please  call  the  school  office  or  Band  Room  Office  and  leave  a  message  with  the  Director.                                                                                              E-­‐mails  prior  to  the  event  are  also  acceptable  for  emergency  excusing  only.  

Linda  Gordon,  Director  of  Bands    (951)  304-­‐1885  ext.  3502  (leave  message)  Best  contact:      [email protected]  

Band  Materials     All  Band  students  will  need  a  black  1”  or  larger  3-­‐ring  “view  binder”  notebook  for  band  class  use  only.                It  is  important  to  have  a  music-­‐specific  binder  that  fits  easily  in  the  backpack  for  safe  school-­‐owned  music  storage  and  transportation  between  school  and  home.    The  view  binder  will  house  all  homework  assignments,  study  sheets,  method  book(s),  and  DMMS-­‐loaned  sheet  music.    There  WILL  be  regular  notebook  checks  to  see  if  notebook  is  neat,  unmarked,  organized,  and  all  handouts  are  present.      

The  Black  View  Binder:    1”  –  1  1/2”,  vinyl,  not  poly,  3-­ring  binder  with  clear  view  front    

• 5  index  tab  dividers:  don’t  label  yet,  we’ll  do  that  in  class.  

• 20  –  25  sheets  of  regular  lined  notebook  filler  paper    

• 3-­‐ring  pencil  Pouch,  fastened  securely  on  the  3-­‐rings.  NO  boxes  or  separate  containers.  

• No.  2  Pencils,  sharpened,  OR  mechanical  pencil,  with  extra  lead.  NO  PENS  in  band  class!  

• Pink  Rubber  Eraser-­‐  Large  

• 1-­‐2  Highlighters,  2  different  colors  preferable  for  music  marking    

• small  package  of  colored  pencils    

 

 

 

 

 

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   Binder  Guidelines:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

All  binders  should  be  labeled  with  your  name  and  your  class  on  the  inside  cover  left  corner.                                                        Binders  should  be  kept  clean,  undecorated  and  stage-­‐ready  at  all  times.                                                                                                        Binders  count  as  a  materials  grade  each  class  period,  along  with  fully-­‐functional  instrument  and  band  book.    Always  know  where  it  is,  always  have  it  with  you.    Replace  it  when  it  falls  apart;  ripped  up,  mangled,  or  marked  up  notebooks  lose  points.    Binders  return  to  back  pack  after  rehearsal.                    Binders  in  Lost  &  Found  WILL  lose  materials  points.  

Band  Books:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

The  following  method  books  are  used  daily  in  class.    Please  ensure  that  you  get  the  appropriate  book(s)  for  your  student’s  class  and  instrument.  It  is  recommended  that  you  purchase  the  “Comprehensive”  edition  of  your  book;  this  has  a  DVD  with  it.    Initial  your  DVD  with  your  initials,  or  better  yet,  leave  it  home  to  use  with  your  at-­‐home  practice  routine.  

Beginning  Band  (BB):  Don’t  purchase  the  book  until  the  instrument  unit  is  completed  and  choice  has  been  made  on  your  student’s  instrument.      

Cadet  Band  (CB):      “Standard    of  Excellence”,    Book  1  (red  book)  

Cadet  Band  Advanced  (CBA):  “Standard  of  Excellence”  Book  1  (red)  &  Book  2    (blue)  

Concert  Band  (ConB):  “Standard  of  Excellence”,    Book  2    (blue  book)  

Symphonic  Band    (SB):  “Standard  of  Excellence”  Book  2  (blue)  to  start.  Next  book  TBA.  

*All  Percussionists:      Must  have  BOTH  the  Drum/Bells  part  and  the  Timpani/Accessories  Books.  

Sheet  Music  Loan  Program:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Upper  level  Band  students  will  be  given  DMMS-­‐owned  music  to  use.    Music  will  be  checked  out  to  the  students.  Students  will  be  charged  for  lost  or  damaged  sheet  music.    All  music  is  to  be  stored  in  the  music  section  of  the  view  binder  within  the  non-­‐glare  protector  pages.      

Concert  Season  Dress  Code:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              The  Director  will  advise  all  of  the  performing  groups  of  the  appropriate  dress  prior  to  each  event.                Students  are  required  to  come  to  each  event  or  performance  properly  groomed  and  dressed.                                                The  dress  code  for  our  concert  ensembles  is  as  follows:  

Concert  &  Symphonic  Band:    “Black  from  neck  to  toe”  

Ladies:      Black  Music  Dept.  V-­‐neck  polo;  Long  black  Music  Dept.  formal  skirt;  black,  plain  “ballet”  flats  

Men:              Black  Music  Dept.  button  polo/tucked  in  ;  dress  pants  (no  jeans!)                                    black  socks,  black  dress  shoes  (no  sneakers/all  black  “Vans”  ok)  ,  plain  men’s  dress  black  belt.      

Parades:    (select  bands)  Veterans’  Day  Parade:  black  Music  Dept.  polo,  black  dress  pants,  black  over-­‐the-­‐ankle  socks                  With  all  black  ties  on  sneakers,  flexible/bendable  black  tie  on  shoes,  or  black  marching  shoes.    Temecula  Lighted  Parade:    Costume  above  waist  TBA;  black  dress  pants,  black  over-­‐the-­‐ankle  socks              with  all  black  tie-­‐on  sneakers  or  flexible/bendable  black  tie  on  shoes,  or  black  marching  shoes.      

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   Beginning  Band  &  Cadet  Band:        

Young  Ladies:    Black  Music  Dept.  polo  shirt  with  “dressy  black”  below  the  waist;                                  can  be  black  skirt  over  black  tights,  or  dress  black  pants  or  long  black  skirt,  black  footwear                                Note:  jeans,  jeggings/leggings  are  not  acceptable  concert  wear.    Dress  up!      Young  Men:    Black  Music  Dept.  polo  shirt  (tucked  in),  black  dress  pants  (no  jeans)  

   Over  the  ankle  men’s  dress  black  socks,    black  dress  shoes  (no  sneakers/all  black  “Vans”  OK)      plain  black  belt..  

 

Black  Music  Dept.  uniform  polos  are  available  for  purchase  at  Registration,  Back  to  School  Night,  and  one  day  per  week  at  breaks  and  lunches  in  the  Booster  room  by  the  lunch  lines.    Polos  are  $25.00.    Note:  It  is  the  policy  of  this  Music  Department  to  provide  assistance  to  students  of  families  in  need.  If  you  have  a  financial  hardship,  please  see  the  Director  for  help  regarding  obtaining  any  of  the  items  we  require,  including  the  polo,  uniform  parts,  band  book,  or  instrument.  Everything  will  be  done  within  our  capabilities  to  help  meet  your  need.  Polos  may  be  rented  instead  of  purchased;  see  the  Band  website  for  the  rental  check  out  form  (DMMS/Teachers/Gordon,L/Forms)  

Band Room Rules: There  are  a  lot  of  students  that  pass  through  the  band  room  every  day,  and  for  everyone  to  co-­‐exist  there  must  be  guidelines  and  procedures.  The  DMMS  Band  program  adheres  to  the  school  rules  posted  in  the  front  of  the  Student  Planner  distributed  to  all  students  at  the  beginning  of  the  year.      

Daily:  Entrance  to  the  Band  room  is  strictly  through  the  hallway.                            Exit  is  through  the  back  band  room  door  or  the  door  nearest  the  school  driveway.  

Backpacks  are  to  be  neatly  lined  up  and  stacked  under  the  “Events”  board  in  the  band  room  during  band  rehearsal  time,  as  per  the  Fire  Marshall.    

Band  Lockers/Cage:    All  instruments  “live”  in  the  band  room  during  the  school  day.    Arrive  early  enough  to  drop  off  your  instrument,  band  binder  and  band  book  to  your  personal  locker  cage.    Even  if  you  arrive  on  campus  later  in  the  day,  drop  of  your  horn;  it’s  ok  to  quietly  walk  in  during  another  class  to  do  this.  Likewise,  if  you  have  to  leave  campus  early,  quietly  come  pick  up  your  items  to  take  home.  Do  not  leave  your  instrument  or  band  items  anywhere  on  campus  other  than  your  personal  locker  cage.    All  horns  go  home  every  night;  there  is  practicing  homework  every  night.    

When  in  the  band  room,  do  NOT  leave  your  instrument  on  a  chair.  Hand  it  to  your  neighbor  or  take  it  with  you,  carrying  it  vertically  in  front  of  you.    

Instrument  Assembly/Disassembly:    Always  place  your  instrument  case  back  in  your  locker  cage.  Do  not  leave  it  on  the  floor  or  in  the  aisles.    

Locker  Cages:  Every  student  will  have  an  assigned  area  for  instrument  storage,  whether  it’s  in  a  locker  cage,  or  Room  #2  for  large  instruments  and  rolling  racks.      

       

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   Band  Room:  We  are  blessed  to  have  a  well-­‐appointed  beautiful  acoustic  band  room.  It  is  imperative  that  all  band  students  respect  the  room  and  the  equipment  we  own.      

1)  Do  NOT  touch  the  acoustic  fabric-­‐covered  walls;  the  special  fabric  is  delicate  and  will  wear  out  and  get  dirty  quickly.  Do  NOT  throw  your  backpacks  up  against  the  walls;  line  them  up  neatly  in  the  backpack  area.  2)  Keep  the  sink  area  clean;  wipe  down  the  counter,  store  cleaning  supplies  in  the  provided  basket.    3)  Make  sure  there  is  a  wastebasket  under  the  soap  dispenser  before  you  use  it.    4)  Put  all  trash  in  the  provided  containers.  5)  DMMS  is  a  NO  GUM  CAMPUS,  which  includes  the  band  room.  Students  chewing  gum  will  receive  consequences.  Gum,  food,  drinks,  slushies,  etc.,  are  not  permitted  in  the  Band  Room.    6)  Water  bottles  are  permitted  within  the  band  circle  during  rehearsal,  as  long  as  they  are  securely  closes  with  a  cap.    Water  bottles  that  come  in  MUST  be  taken  out;  classes  that  leave  water  bottles  behind  will  lose  their  water  bottle  class  privilege.    7)  No  horseplay.  No  running.    No  throwing  objects.  There  is  expensive  equipment  we  need  to  protect.    8)  Practice  rooms  and  pianos  are  to  be  used  by  appointment  only  with  the  Director.    9)  Do  not  cut  through  the  chair  rows  when  leaving;  walk  to  the  ends  and  then  out.  Follow  procedures.  10)  Do  NOT  touch,  move,  or  use  other  people’s  instruments  or  remove  items  in  their  personal  cages.  11)  Keep  the  room  and  your  section  clean.  No  spit  valves  emptying  on  the  carpet;  use  a  lap  rag  or                    the  designated  “SPIT  BUCKET”  only!    12)  Ask  the  Director  before  using  the  telephone  or  leaving  the  room  for  any  reason  

Restroom  use:  Breaks  and  lunchtime  breaks  are  the  times  to  use  the  restroom,  not  class  time.                                            If  it  is  necessary  to  use  the  restroom  in  a  class  not  following  a  break  or  lunch  time,  report  to  the  Director  in  the  music  room  before  leaving  for  the  restroom  before  class  starts.    All  others  are  expected  to  use  their  break  times  for  this  activity.    

Cell  phones  and  other  electronic  devices  must  be  set  to  “silent”  or  “off”  while  in  the  Band  Room.                                                                          Cell  phones  may  NOT  come  into  the  band  circle  without  permission.  Keep  them  safely  hidden  in  the  lower  part  of  your  backpack.    Students  may  NOT  take  pictures  in  the  band  room  with  permission.                                                                                                                                                                                            Confiscated  cell  phones    will  be  turned  into  the  office,  where  they  will  have  to  picked  up  by  a  parent.    

Consequences  for  failure  to  adhere  to  the  policies  of  the  Music  Department:  

1. Verbal  warning  –  Your  opportunity  to  SELF-­‐CORRECT  and  make  a  BETTER  CHOICE  

2. Loss  of  participation  points  

3. Held  after  class  or  removed  from  class  

4. After-­‐school  detention  or  lunch  detention  assigned  

5. Parent  contact/notification  

6. Referral  to  administration  

7. Saturday  school/removal  from  the  band  program  

 

 

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   Grading  Policy:      Band  is  a  participatory  activity.  Students  that  are  absent  will  not  earn  a  daily  grade.  Don’t  be  absent!    

Practice  Record:  a  weekly  or  monthly  assignment  calendar/journal  to  be  completed  daily,  documenting  homework  assignments  and  student’s  at-­‐home  practice  times.    Students  are  to  keep  this  in  the  front  of  the  black  Band  View  Binder  at  all  times,  and  use  it  daily  to  record  at-­‐home  practice  minutes  and  daily  homework  assignments.    Note:  Symphonic  Band  and  Concert  Band  may  or  may  not  be  required  to  complete  the  monthly  Practice  Record  as  a  monthly  assignment,  but  if  practicing  appears  to  be  lacking,  the  Practice  Record  may  be  added  back  into  graded  use  at  the  Director’s  discretion.  Big  picture:  PRACTICE!!    

Parents,  you  can  check  your  student’s  homework  side  to  see  what  they  should  be  practicing  at  home.      How  the  Practice  Record  works:  Here  are  the  instructions  for  using  the  Practice  Record  properly:    HOW  TO  GET  FULL  POINTS  on  the  Practice  Record:    BEGINNING  BAND  &  ALL  CADET  BANDS:  150  weekly/25  minutes  daily  /  6  days  per  week.    CONCERT  &  SYMPHONC  BANDS:  180  minutes  weekly/30  minutes  daily/  6  days  per  week.          You  may  take  ONE  BUSY  DAY  OFF  PER  WEEK.            Do  not  miss  two  days  in  a  row/week  without  practice  or  the  week  doesn't  count.          Add  up  weekly  minutes,  write  total  on  Saturday’s  box.    *IF  YOU  ARE  ILL  OR  TRAVELING  AND  CANNOT  PRACTICE:  Parent,  write  a  note  on  the  missing  days,  explaining  the  reason  for  not  practicing.  Have  your  student  make  up  minutes  either  before  or  after  the  missed  time.            How  to  SUCCEED  at  MUSIC  AND  ACADEMICS.    Parents  in  the  know  know  that  music  education  helps  students  STUDY  SMARTER  and  be  MORE  SUCCESSFUL  IN  ACADEMIC  CORE  SUBJECTS.    Music  education  connects  the  synapsis  of  the  student  brain  quicker,  enabling  students  to  do  homework  faster  and  more  effectively  Here’s  how  to  tap  into  SUCCESSFUL  HOMEWORK:    Daily,  have  your  student….  1)  Sit  in  a  quiet  place  with  no  distractions.  Give  your  student  a  small  kitchen  timer,  teach  him/her  how  to  set  the  timer  for  ten  minutes.    2)  Play  the  assigned  band  assignment  until  the  timer  goes  off.    3)  Go  immediately  to  your  MATH  or  SCIENCE  homework  FIRST.    Take  a  small  break  AFTER    done.              Daily  Routine:  10  min  music,  then  do  math;  10  min  music  then  do  science;  10  min  music/LA;              10/other  homework.  4)  RECORD  YOUR  TOTAL  MINUTES  ON  YOUR  RECORD  IMMEDIATELY!  5)  At  the  end  of  the  week,  add  up  all  your  minutes  for  the  week.  6)  Parent  and  Student  sign  off  that  the  minutes  are  actual  and  factual.              (PS..  you  can’t  fake  practicing.    The  Director  knows  if  you  have  practiced  or  not,  so  inflated                minutes  will  not  equal  poor  performance  in  class.  )  How  to  Practice:      Don't  practice  mistakes,  fix  them.  Listen  to  what  you  are  playing;  does  it  sound  right??  If  not,  stop:  check  key,  rhythm,  etc.  Play  again,  use  your  band  book  CD  for  assistance.  Still  don’t  get  it?  Call  a  band  friend,  ask  Mrs.  Gordon  before  school,  ask  your  section  leader…  if  you  need  help,  ASK  FOR  HELP!    

                                   WE  WANT  YOUR  STUDENT  TO  BE  SUCCESSFUL  IN  MUSIC  &  IN  ALL  SCHOOL  SUBJECTS!        

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   Beginning  and  Cadet  Bands:  

• 15%  Daily  Materials:  Have  everything  with  you;  view  binder,  band  book,  instrument.  

• 20%  Daily  Participation:  Do  your  best,  be  prepared,  stay  on  task  and  focused.  

• 50%  Performances,  Tests  &  Quizzes:  These  are  a  BIG  DEAL.    

• 15%    *Practice  Record,  Assignments  or  additional  homework  (written  or  playing)  

Grading  for  Concert/Intermediate  and  Symphonic  Bands:  

• 15%    Daily  Materials:  Have  everything  with  you;  view  binder,  band  book,  instrument.  

• 25%    Daily  Participation:  Do  your  best,  be  prepared,  stay  on  task  and  focused.  

• 60%    Performances,  Tests  &  Quizzes:  This  is  a  BIG  DEAL.  DO  all  these  at  100%!  

• 10%    Memorized  Scales  (  all  are  required  to  be  memorized  “12  or  Nothing”)  

Performance  Grading  Policy:

Performances  will  count  as  a  heavily-­‐weighed  test  grade  and  will  be  graded  as  follows:  

•  On  time,  prepared  and  on  task:  100%  points  awarded  

•  Late:  subtract  30%  –  100%  points  off,  depending  on  how  late.  

•  Unprepared/off  task:  subtract  10%  or  more  off,  depending  on  severity  

•  Unexcused  or  unacceptable  absence:  no  make-­‐up  opportunity:  0%  awarded  

•  Dressed  Inappropriately:  subtract  up  to  50  %  points.  (Student  may  or  may  not  perform.)  

Extra  Credit:      Extra  Credit  may  be  given  to..  

1.)    Any  student  who  takes  private  lessons.  Tell  the  Director.    2.)    Student  auditions  and  shows  proof  of,  the  actual  audition  to  a  city,  county,  college,  or  regionally  sponsored  (i.e.  SCSBOA  All-­‐Southern  Jr.  High)  Honor  Band,  and  district  Honor  Band,  or  participation  in  an  SCSBOA  Solo/Ensemble  music  festival,  which  is  above  and  beyond  the  band  curriculum.  Participation  in  community  bands  is  excluded.  Honor  Band  is  defined  as  a  group  specifically  set  up  for  a  specific  age  group,  time  frame,  with  a  performance  concluding  the  honor  band  commitments.    3.)    Awarded  arbitrarily  to  students  who  are  music  mentors  or  peer  tutors  to  fellow  students.  4.) Attend a concert? Tell the Director or the class about it and receive credit for the experience. 5) RECYCLE SATURDAY fundraising, 5 to 10 points for participation and service.  Seating  Placement  Tests:  Cadet,  Concert,  and  Symphonic  Band  students  should  be  ready  to  be  quizzed  on  their  knowledge  of  assigned  music  to  determine  chair  order,  i.e.,  first  chair,  second  chair,  etc.  Always  aim  for  Chair  #1!  Random  tests  throughout  the  year  will  be  done  on  scales,  previous/current  music  and/or  exercises  being  studied  in  class.  A  sight  reading  exercise  may  be  used  in  case  of  a  tie.    Individuals may challenge the person immediately above them. Forms are on the “Events” board.

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Instruments and Equipment: School  District  Owned  Instruments:    A  small  number  of  school  instruments  may  be  available  for  yearly  rental,  to  students  who  have  a  financial  or  personal  need.    Acquire  more  information  on  availability  and  forms  from  the  band  office.    If  using  one  of  our  school  instruments,  you  accept  the  responsibility  for  maintaining  it  and  taking  all  precautions  to  see  that  the  instrument  is  returned  to  the  school  in  the  same  condition  it  was  issued.    Any  student  using  a  school  instrument  will  need  to  complete  the  “Music  Instrument  Use  Agreement”  form,  located  on  the  website,  or  from  the  Director.      

Instrument  and  Material  Storage:    Every  student  will  be  assigned  a  locker  cage  in  the  band  room  or  band  storage  room  that  is  the  appropriate  size  for  their  instrument.  View  binders  may  be  stored  here  during  the  day  but  are  expected  to  go  home  every  night,  with  the  instrument,  for  required  nightly  practice.                                                        

Cage  Safety  Issue:    All  instrument  cages  must  be  closed  and  locked  once  an  instrument  is  removed  to  prevent  the  gates  being  left  open.    Open  cage  doors  lead  to  injuries  as  students  may  run  into  an  open  gate.      Percussionists:  You  are  required  to  have  a  keyboard  instrument  of  some  kind  (bell  kit,  piano  or  keyboard,  xylophone,  etc.)  Pianos  and  electronic  keyboards  with  at  least  30  keys  are  acceptable.  Do  not  bring  your  drum  to  the  classroom  unless  asked  to.  Percussion  students  store  their  notebook,  band  room  and  sticks  in  their  backpack  when  not  in  use  during  the  school  day.  Label  everything  and  store  it  in  your  cage.  Do  NOT  leave  items    (sticks,  music)  on  the  percussion  cart!  

Instrument Repair: If an instrument doesn’t work, students can’t participate. Not having a good quality, functioning instrument is frustrating. If your student’s instrument is not working properly, show it to your Director. (A)  Instruments  rented  from  an  outside  music  shop:    If  your  Director  cannot  spot  the  issue,  it  must  be  taken  to  a  qualified  repair  shop  ASAP!      Always  inquire  about  getting  a  “loaner”  from  the  music  store  while  instrument  is  in  repair.    Parents,  please  inform  the  Director  that  an  instrument  is  in  the  shop,  either  by  email  or  note.  Students  will  still  need  to  bring  their  view  binder  to  class  to  receive  daily  points.    (B)  MVUSD  School-­rented  instruments  and  privately-­owned  instruments:    Mr.  Frank  Reilly,  “Mr.  Frank”,  from  Shamrock  Music  services  our  school  every  Tuesday  to  pick  up  and  deliver  repairs.  Process  for  getting  your  instrument  repaired:  1.  Show  your  Director  first  to  determine  the  issue.  2.  Pick  up  a  REPAIR  form  on  the  “Events”  in  the  band  room.  Take  it  home  to  have  it  filled  out  by  a  parent.    Repair  forms  must  be  parent-­‐signed  before  any  repair  will  be  released  to  Mr.  Frank.  3.  Put  the  form  into  your  instrument  case  with  the  instrument.  Remove  all  personal  items.  Leave  mouthpiece.  4.  Take  a  strip  of  orange  ribbon  and  tie  it  to  your  instrument  case  handle.    5.  Place  the  case  by  the  side  or  under  the  Director’s  desk  before  9:00  am  on  Tuesday  mornings  for  repairs.  Repair  costs  for  MVUSD  instruments  and  private  instruments  are  the  responsibility  of  the  student’s  family  as  part  of  the  required  maintenance.  Parents  will  be  emailed  when  it  arrives,  with  the  repair  cost.    Send  in  cash,  or  check,  made  out  to:  Shamrock  Music.    Once  received,  I  will  release  the  instrument  back  to  your  student.    Read  and  follow  the  instrument  care  guidelines  listed  the  DMMS  Band  website.    

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Travel Procedures: Field Trips, performance expectations, etc.  1.    A  FIELD  TRIP  &  MEDICAL  RELEASE  FORM  must  be  signed  and  on  file  with  the  Director  before  any  student  may  participate.    Special  health  problems  should  also  be  noted  so  that  adequate  care  can  be  provided  when  away  from  home.  Update  the  form  during  the  year  as  necessary.    Notify  the  Music  Dept.  of  any  e-­mail  changes  immediately.    2.    ADULT  SUPERVISION  is  provided  on  all  Band  trips.  Students  traveling  to  an  event  with  the  performance  group  must  return  in  the  same  manner,  with  the  following  exception:  only  in  the  event  of  a  family  emergency.    In  such  a  case,  students  may  return  with  their  own  parents  or  guardian  if  a  note  has  been  given  to  the  Director/s,  relieving  the  District  and  the  Director/s  of  all  responsibility  and  liability.    3    PUBLIC  DISPLAY  OF  AFFECTION:  All  rules  regarding  PDA  apply  to  riding  the  bus  as  well.    PDA  will  not  be  allowed  at  any  time.  The  Band  staff  or  chaperone  may  ask  you  to  change  seats  or  buses  if  they  feel  the  need  to  do  so.      4.    BUSES:  All  students  will  be  assigned  a  specific  bus  prior  to  departure.    Switching  buses  is  NOT  permitted.    Return  to  your  seat  quickly  so  that  attendance  may  be  checked.  You  are  required  to  obey  the  driver,  staff  member,  chaperone  or  person  in  charge  of  the  bus  in  a  courteous  manner.  NO  yelling  or  screaming  at  any  time.  All  body  parts  inside  the  bus.    Moving  from  seat  to  seat  is  not  permitted.    Quiet  talking  is  permitted.    No  screaming.    No  flash  photography.    5.    VALUABLES:    The  Music  Booster  organization  or  Director(s)  assume  no  responsibility  for  any  personal  items.      6.    QUIET  ZONE:  Talking  is  allowed  only  while  the  bus  is  traveling  on  the  freeway;  students  must  be  silent  when  the  bus  is  on  surface  streets  or  upon  entering  any  parking  lot.  7.    CLEANING  THE  BUS:  Buses  are  to  be  cleaned  and  free  of  trash  at  the  end  of  all  trips.    Roll  up  all  windows.          Thank  your  bus  driver  on  exiting  the  bus.    8.    LOADING  EQUIPMENT:    Students  are  responsible  for  loading  and  unloading  their  own  equipment,  personal  belongings,  and  instruments  before  and  after  all  events.    

PICK-UP TIMES: At the conclusion of all events, students should arrange to be

picked up at school promptly at the designated pick-up time.

Pick-up times are listed on travel itineraries that are sent home or emailed prior

to the event.

Students are expected to be off campus within 15 minutes of arrival

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Dorothy  McElhinney  Middle  School  Crimson  Colt  Music  Department  

35125  Briggs  Road,  Murrieta,  CA  92563    

STUDENT/PARENT  HANDBOOK  AGREEMENT  ACKNOWLEDGEMENT  

I/We  (parent  and  student)  have  read  the  Band  Handbook  and  I/we  are  aware  of  the  expectations  of  

this  class.    

I/We  are  aware  this  is  a  performance-­‐based  class,  which  requires  attendance  at  all  schedule  

rehearsals  and  performances.  I/We  realize  attendance  at  all  rehearsals  and  performances  is  graded,  

and  missing  a  rehearsal  may  prevent  my  student  from  participating  in  the  performance,  thereby  

losing  test  points.  

I/We  are  aware  there  may  be  extra  rehearsals  called  as  needed  for  performances,  mostly  for  the  

upper  level  bands.    I/We  also  realize  that  the  nature  of  rehearsal  and  performance  planning  can  

change  at  any  given  moment,  so  we  will  try  to  be  flexible.  

I/We  will  provide  the  required  materials  as  required,  including  a  quality,  functional  instrument,  

books,  and  supplies  as  outlined  in  the  handbook.  We  will  keep  the  instrument  in  good  repair.    

I/We  are  aware  that  music  may  be  loaned  to  our  student,  which  must  be  returned  in  same  

condition.  Lost  or  damaged  music  will  be  charged  to  me/us.  

I/We  are  aware  that  our  student  may  be  issued  uniform  pieces  that  are  to  be  worn  only  for  specific  

performances,  in  a  specific  way.    These  uniform  parts  are  to  be  returned  in  same  condition  in  a  

timely  fashion,  and  will  be  subject  to  replacement  or  repair  costs  if  warranted.  

I/We  will  abide  by  the  rules  of  the  school  and  the  music  room  to  the  best  of  our  ability.    

I/We  realize  that  Band  information  and  events  will  be  posted  and  communicated  through  the  

DMMS  Music  Department  website:      MVUSD/DMMS/Teachers/Gordon,L.    

 

________________________________________                      _______________________________________________  Student's  Name  (Printed)                                                                    Student's  Signature    

_________________________________________                  ______________________________________________  Parent/Guardian  Name  (Printed)                                      Parent/Guardian  Signature_    

_____________________________________                                ___________________________  Parent/Guardian  Phone  Number          Date