Granite Falls Middle School Bands Student Handbook 2014-2015
Dear Students and Parents, Welcome to the Granite Falls Middle School Band Program! The purpose of this handbook is to let you know the expectations for every member of the program. The book will also answer several questions you may have regarding things such as grading, attendance requirements, concert dates, and instrument/equipment requirements. Please review the following pages carefully. On the last page of this handbook you will find a form to be signed by both the student and parent. Please return this form to Mr. Sessink by Friday, September 12th. Here's to a great year ahead! Jared Sessink Director of Bands jsessink@gfalls.wednet.edu 360-283-4391 Table of Contents Grading Policy - Page 2 Attendance Policy - Page 3 Band Rules and Procedures - Page 4 Field Trips and Travel - Page 6 Fundraising - Page 7 Concert Attire - Page 7 Ensembles - Page 8 Band Boosters - Page 9 Calendar of Events - Page 9 Parent/Student Information and Contract- Page 10 1
GRADING POLICY Band at Granite Falls Middle School is a credit-granting course of study. This means that band contributes to students' grade-point averages. Grades in band are awarded according to each student's individual performance habits, demonstration of skills, personal growth, and general attitude and effort throughout the year. Students are not graded based on how "good or bad" they are in comparison to other students! Your grades will be determined by: Attendance and Participation (Teamwork) - 60% of grade This Includes: Preparation for class (knowing your part) Concert attendance Being on time Having all required equipment/materials daily Punctuality Behavior Practice habits Musical and technical growth Achievement of Academic Goals (Competency) - 40% of grade This includes: Playing tests* Written tests (theory and writing skills) * Playing tests may be given at any point in the semester. The grading rubric for all playing tests is available in the Band Room. Students are allowed to retake any playing test one time if they are not satisfied with their grade. This rule does not apply to any written tests. Pep Band Participation The High School Pep Band (Marching Band) is sometimes the only ensemble the community sees in action. It is vital that we have as many students involved as possible so that we can proudly represent the school and music program. Middle school students with at least two years of instrument training are encouraged to participate in the pep band. Students wishing to participate must first gain permission from Mr. Sessink and complete an audition. 2
ATTENDANCE POLICY Much like in team sports, the band is powered through its group efforts. If the quarterback of the football team doesn't show up for the game or never learns the plays, the whole team suffers. The same thing happens in band when someone doesn't show up for a concert, doesn't learn their part, or has a negative attitude. Absences from performances are detrimental to the success of the band. It is recognized that extenuating circumstances sometimes arise, and must be treated with compassion and understanding. Each absence will be treated individually by Mr. Sessink, and will be evaluated using the following guidelines. Excused Absence Criteria for excused absences from required rehearsals and performances are as follows: A. Death in the family B. Severe illness of the student C. Conflicts with other school activities (these cases are resolved by the teachers/coaches involved) Conflicts with student jobs do not qualify. Appropriate planning involving teachers, student, parents and employers should be able to resolve all conflicts. Personal vacations or family trips do not qualify. Because band performances cannot be "made up" on a different date like a math/science test, students will not be excused from required performances for family vacations unless they have been approved in advance. To apply for an excusal from a required performance, please refer to the pre-excuse application. All requests are subject to approval by Mr. Sessink. Unexcused Absence Unexcused absences from required performances may drop your grade up to two letters. Pre-Excuse Applications If it is known at the beginning of the semester that a required rehearsal or performance date will conflict with pre-arranged plans, the student and a parent should fill out a Pre-Excuse Application. This form is also used to indicate conflicts with other school activities or sports. Please refer to the application for more specific guidelines. Pre-Excuse Application Deadline for Fall, 2014: Friday, September 19th Exception - Students who are in other school activities should fill out this form as soon as they know what their team/group schedule will be 3
BAND RULES AND PROCEDURES Gum Policy Gum is NOT allowed in the band room, practice rooms, or storage rooms at ANY time Food and Drink Policy NO food or drink (besides water) is permitted anywhere in the band room (practice rooms, storage rooms, band room) Water is acceptable if it is in a clear bottle that can be sealed Students who have special medical reasons for having food or drink with them should have their parents write a note to Mr. Sessink specifying those needs Cell Phones Cell Phones and other technology devices may not be used in band Keep these devices out of sight or they will be mine for the day! =] Organization and Cleanliness Policy All students are responsible for their own equipment Instruments, folders, and other materials are to be stored in assigned lockers when not in use During band, all cases are to be left in the storage room in their assigned locker Students are required to keep all band music in their folder When not in use, all percussion equipment must be returned to the assigned locations Practice rooms must be cleared of personal belongings when not in use Students must ask for permission to write or draw on the whiteboard Chairs and stands will be set for each band, and additional chairs and stands must be put away if they are used outside of class Students may hang posters and flyers with permission from Mr. Sessink Rehearsal Procedures and Expectations Students must bring the following materials to class daily: Instrument, music folder, pencil Woodwind instruments must have at least 3 reeds on hand at any given time Any maintenance supplies that may be needed during class (oils, grease, swabs, etc.) Students are expected to come to rehearsal with all of their equipment in working condition as if it was a concert performance! That means valves oiled, reeds soaked, and sticks/mallets out and ready. Failing to do so may lower the participation grade. 4
Equipment Requirements Students are asked to supply themselves with the following equipment. Students using schoolowned instruments are still asked to purchase the additional items such as reeds, oils, mutes, etc. Students who need cannot afford these items must fill out a Band Booster Scholarship form. Brass: Personal or school-owned instrument that is in strong working condition and can play within the range needed for the concert music Valve oil, slide grease, cleaning brush Straight mute (trumpet and trombone) Woodwind: Personal or school-owned instrument that is in strong working condition and can play within the range needed for the concert music Cork grease, swabs, reeds (a minimum of 3 at any time) Mr. Sessink suggests buying reeds by the box, as they are less expensive in bulk Percussion: Personal stick bag Pair of 2B sticks, pair of 5A sticks, pair of medium yarn or felt mallets Other mallets/sticks as needed Suggested Retailers: There are local shops that can supply this equipment, although it is typically more expensive than purchasing online. The following websites are great for purchasing reeds, cleaners, and percussion equipment: Woodwind & Brasswind - www.wwbw.com Musician's Friend - www.musiciansfriend.com Amazon Band & Orchestra - www.amazon.com (search band and orchestra) Steve Weiss Percussion - www.steveweissmusic.com (GREAT deals for percussionists!) Drum World Percussion Equipment - www.drumworld.com Vandalism and Misuse Policy Students who throw pencils at the ceiling, tear/write/damage practice room walls, write graffiti, or damage any area of the band room will be punished in accordance with the school discipline policy. These students may be responsible for the cost of repairing any damaged equipment or materials that are misused or purposely damaged. The school-owned instrument contract states that students are responsible for damages caused by misuse or poor maintenance. Students will be held responsible for the cost of repairs outside of those caused by normal "wear and tear". This year, concerts will be held at the High School Performing Arts Center. All rules listed above also apply to the high school facilities. All rules that are posted here are an addition to student rules published by Granite Falls Middle School, the school district, the city of Granite Falls, and the State of Washington. Please refer to the Granite Falls Middle School Handbook for additional school rules and procedures. 5
FIELD TRIPS AND TRAVEL Our musical ensembles have various unique travel opportunities each year. One of the benefits of being in band is that we can share our talents with others outside of our own community! Traveling provides students with excellent educational and cultural experiences. This year there will be at least one concert tour in February for High School bands (dates to be announced). Middle School students with at least two years of instrument experience may audition to be including in these events. In the years to come, Mr. Sessink hopes to fundraise enough money to take the band on a more large-scale trip, possibly to Disneyland. Disney provides an exciting musical experience that is hard to top. Students have the opportunity to perform on stage for a live audience, spend several hours in a guest clinic workshop, and record a famous Disney soundtrack that is later synced with the movie. On top of all of that, the students get to spend the rest of their day at one of the theme parks. Stay tuned for more information! Below is a timeline of how trips are scheduled: Chaperones Initial discussion by the band/parents to establish educational purpose of the trip, assess interest, and establish potential date(s) and times Discuss any fundraising or other commitments needed to accomplish the trip Students check with parents, employers, coaches, etc. for potential conflicts Letter to parents is sent Student commitment in writing for the trip Obtain necessary permission from administration, ASB, boosters, etc. to proceed FINAL commitment - becomes a required performance on the schedule (see grading) Proceed with preparations - Parental Permission Forms turned in, teacher notification, fundraising, establish itinerary, and prepare music! Band trips cannot happen without chaperones! Parents are encouraged to show their interest for chaperoning on any band trip. Towards the beginning of the semester, Mr. Sessink will send students home with a schedule and chaperone interest form. In the interest of bus space and funding, not every parent will be able to ride along on trips. Chaperoning will be based on seniority (number of years in the program) and on a first come first serve basis. Rules and Policies: For each trip the band takes, a list of rules and procedures will be included. Along with those, students will be expected to follow all rules and procedures included in this handbook and in the Granite Falls Middle School Handbook. 6
FUNDRAISING When the band chooses to participate in optional activities or field trips not funded by the school district, additional funds must be raised. It will be collected and distributed according to the rules of the district. Each student involved in the trip will be responsible for contributing his or her fair share to fundraising projects. Most of our fundraising will be through music. There are several musical fundraising opportunities including: Band Camp Workshops - These workshops are for Concert, Jazz, and Orchestra, and are open to students grades 6-12 during the summer Holiday Small Ensembles - During the holidays, the band breaks up into small groups and performs in town at local businesses for donations Jazz Night (in planning) - Dinner, dance, and dessert featuring the High School Jazz Band and a silent auction The Band Boosters group of parents also help to contribute to the fundraising effort. In the past this has included things like dessert sales at band concerts. If you have suggestions for fundraising possibilities, please contact Mr. Sessink. jsessink@gfalls.wednet.edu For Both Bands: CONCERT ATTIRE Men White collared dress shirt, black slacks, black socks (cover ankles), black shoes. Women White blouse, black slacks or long skirt, black socks, black shoes. Pep Band and/or Marching Band If a middle school student auditions and is accepted into the High School Pep Band, they will need a Band T-Shirt and Band Jacket for Marching appearances. Black slacks and black shoes complete this uniform. Purchase forms will be available at the start of school. 7
MIDDLE SCHOOL ENSEMBLE OPPORTUNITIES High School Pep Band (Marching Band) The Pep Band is an athletic support and school spirit ensemble, which performs for rallies, parades, and games played by the football and basketball teams. Over the next few years, the Pep Band will be involved in more marching opportunities. This ensemble rehearses mostly during the school. Pep Band is open to all High School students who are enrolled in concert band. It is also open by audition to middle school students with at least two full years of instrument experience. Jazz Band This year, we will attempt to form a middle school jazz band that will rehearse outside of the school day (before or after school). Interest will be gathered at the beginning of the school year, and the group will be open to all students with at least one year of instrument experience. Vocal Ensemble This year we will attempt to start a Vocal Ensemble that will perform arrangements of popular music. This ensemble will be comprised of students grades 7-12, and will rehearse outside of the school day. More information will be coming soon! Small Ensembles All middles school students have the opportunity to form small ensemble groups. This includes duets, trios, and chamber groups. These ensembles will perform at events in the community and at solo and ensemble events. Community Orchestra Granite Falls Community Orchestra rehearses weekly at the High School after school. The experience level varies from beginner to intermediate, and is open to members of the Granite Falls community and schools. Additional information regarding Orchestra will be available early this Fall. Solo and Ensemble The Solo and Small Ensemble event is held in May. Participants perform for an adjudicator and usually a small audience. Students are given verbal and written feedback regarding their performances. There is a small entry fee and a fee for an accompanist. Honor Bands There are regional and all state honor band opportunities available for outstanding band students. All State Band students are picked through recorded auditions. For audition materials and information see www.wmea.org. Mr. Sessink will provide additional information in the Fall. 8
BAND BOOSTERS The Band Booster club is comprised of parents and adults in the Granite Falls Band Program Community. The Boosters are designed to support the band program in the Granite Falls School District. They organize and implement fundraisers, provide scholarships, and are involved in the planning of band trips and instrument purchases. The role of the Band Boosters will be growing in the coming years. As of right now, membership is open to any parent who has a student in the band program. Eventually, Mr. Sessink would like to have select elected officials in the Booster group. The Band Boosters meet once a month. Location and times are TBA. For more information, please email Mr. Sessink jsessink@gfalls.wednet.edu Granite Falls Middle School Bands Master Calendar Date Event Time Location Type October 4 Railroads Day Parade TBA TBA REQUIRED December 11 Band Concert 7:00 PM High School PAC REQUIRED TBA Band Night (all bands) TBA High School Gym Optional March 5 Pre-Festival Concert 7:00 PM High School PAC REQUIRED March 10 -or- 11 Band Festival TBA TBA REQUIRED May 16 Solo and Ensemble TBA TBA Optional June 4 Band Concert 7:00 PM High School PAC REQUIRED * Other Optional and Required rehearsals and performances will be announced in advance as they are scheduled. This schedule is tentative and subject to changes. All concerts start at 7:00 PM with a report time of 6:15 PM. High School Pep Band Dates: Fri, Sep 5 Bellevue Christian Fri, Sep 19 Sultan Fri, Oct 3 Cedar Park (Bothell) Fri, Oct 10 Archbishop Murphy Fri, Oct 24 Cedarcrest (all 7:00 PM games) * The Pep Band also performs at all Friday night high school basketball games. Dates TBA. 9
Granite Falls Middle School Band Student Information and Agreement Form Please return no later than Friday, September 12, 2014 Student Name Grade Parent/Guardian Name(s) Address Home Phone Mother Cell Phone Father Cell Phone Preferred Email - used for music department communication only Mother Email Father Email Student Acknowledgment Student and Parent Agreement I have read and understand the policies, rules, and expectations described in the Granite Falls Band Handbook. I agree to abide by all policies, rules, and expectations in this handbook, along with the policies, rules, and expectations described in the school district handbook. I understand that my grades in band are heavily determined by my participation in rehearsals and performances. I further understand that my grade will be lowered if I fail to attend a required event without an approved absence. Student Signature Date Parent Acknowledgment I have reviewed the materials laid out in the 2014-15 Granite Falls Band Handbook and understand its contents. I have read and understand the attendance and grading procedures. If my son/daughter is renting a school instrument, I understand that we will be held responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. I hereby agree to cover the cost of those repairs if evidence of poor instrument care can be proven. Parent Signature Parent Signature Date Date 10