ROCK BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL BAND HANDBOOK 2003 Edition Mr. Steven E. Williams, Director of Bands Ms. Kim Fulkerson, Assistant Band Director Color Guard Coordinator Mr. Tim Baker, Percussion Coordinator - Battery Mr. Josh Bryan, Percussion Instructor Front Ensemble Mr. Jeff White, Drill Designer Stephen Dunkin, Head Drum Major Charlie Childers, Andy Smriga, Jon Jackson, Drum Majors Marching Band Show: Colours, by Roger Cichy arr. by Steve Williams, Tim Baker, and Josh Bryan Rock Bridge High School 4303 South Providence Road Columbia, MO 65203 Band Office Phone Number: 214-3131 Band Office FAX: 214-3152 E-mail: stwillia@columbia.k12.mo.us Band Web Page: www.columbia.k12.mo.us/rbhs/activities/band/band.htm Forward
The purpose of this handbook is to provide valuable information about the band program. To consistently achieve and maintain the high standard of excellence desired by this organization, members should familiarize themselves with the regulations, procedures, and traditions of the band. Hopefully many of the questions you have about band will be answered in this handbook. If a problem or question not covered should arise, please feel free to consult the band director. Marching Band The marching band is a musical marching unit organized during the fall semester for the duration of the football season. Membership is by audition with the Director of Bands in the spring prior to the upcoming season. Students sign up for course number 838 Band. The marching band provides entertainment for home football games and several other school events throughout the season. It performs before thousands of spectators at numerous football games, parades, pep rallies, and competitive marching festivals. The marching band rehearses Monday through Friday morning beginning at 7:00 a.m. On days in which band meets as a class, rehearsal lasts until 9:25, the end of first block. On days when band does not meet as a class, the rehearsal ends at approximately 7:40 a.m. in order to allow students to make their first block class. Percussion and color guard members have additional regularly scheduled rehearsals after school. Color Guard Auditions for the Color Guard are held in the spring semester prior to the upcoming season. It is recommended that Color Guard members not be performing musicians in the band. Color Guard members sign up for course number 866 Danceline. If color guard members are also instrumentalists who will continue with concert band, they should sign up for course number 838 Band. Pep Band 2
Participation in pep band is required of all band members. Each band student must perform in pep band at least three times during the basketball season. Pep Band performances are counted as a grade during 2 nd and 3 rd quarter. A t-shirt is provided which students must wear. Pep Band is not a class, and there is no need to register for it. The Wind Ensemble The Wind Ensemble is the select concert organization comprised of advanced wind and percussion instrumentalists whose musical commitment is the performance of the finest wind oriented chamber music. Membership is by audition with the Director of Bands at the conclusion of the marching season, usually around late October. Audition music will consist of current Missouri All-State Audition material. The Wind Ensemble performs significant literature that includes original works for wind band and significant historical literature. The Wind Ensemble, which rehearses in the Choral Room, meets concurrently with the Symphonic Band, which rehearses in the Band Room. Symphonic Band The Symphonic Band is the larger of the two concert ensembles. Members are chosen by audition at the conclusion of the marching season, usually around late October. Audition music will consist of current Missouri All-State Audition material. The Symphonic Band, which rehearses in the band room, meets concurrently with the Wind Ensemble. Jazz Ensemble There are two Jazz Ensembles that are grouped by ability level. Auditions are held in the spring prior to the upcoming year. Members of the Jazz Ensemble must also be enrolled in Music 838 Band unless exempted by the director of bands (ex: A guitarist who does not play a concert instrument is not required to be enrolled in band). The Jazz Ensembles are an integral part of the complete band program. Multiple performances at jazz festivals and community events provide a large degree of public exposure for the band program. Attendance Policies 3
Band members are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. The directors strive to communicate rehearsal and performance dates well in advance so that students and their families may plan. CALL TIME means the exact time the students must be ready to warm-up or otherwise begin rehearsal. If call time for a certain event is 6:30 p.m., for example, the student MUST be in his or her designated position, with instrument, in appropriate uniform, and ready to start. Students who are not ready (i.e. out of uniform, instrument not put together, coming into the room, etc.) are considered tardy. A. Excused Absence from Rehearsal Except in cases of emergency or illness, band members will not be excused from regularly scheduled rehearsals. If you know that you are going to be unable to attend a rehearsal, call the band office at 214-3131 to let the directors know in advance about your absence. Since band is a performance class, it is imperative that students attend all rehearsals. Please make an effort to schedule routine medical and dental appointments so that they do not conflict with rehearsals. A note from a parent does not automatically excuse an absence. For example, if you oversleep, a note from your parents stating your alarm didn t go off is not an excuse to be absent. That kind of absence is considered unexcused. B. Unexcused Absence from Rehearsal When a student is absent from a rehearsal, and that absence is designated as unexcused by the main office, his or her grade will be lowered according to the Band Grading Policy. C. Tardy to Rehearsal Attendance is taken at the beginning of every rehearsal. For each tardy, the student s grade will be lowered according to the Band Grading Policy. Students with numerous tardies will be penalized according to the RBHS attendance policy. Call time for marching rehearsals is 7:00 a.m., and students arriving late will be subject to tardy policies. Tardies due to car problems, oversleeping, missed rides, etc. will not be excused. D. Absence from Performance Students are expected to attend all performances of the band. Each and every member makes a valuable contribution to the band, and we do not consider you optional. As noted in the Band Grading Policy, an absence from a performance will negatively impact your grade. Students may be removed from Jazz I and Wind Ensemble if they miss a performance of that group. 4
Rehearsal and Performance Procedures A. Rehearsal Procedure (Marching Band) Marching Band rehearsals begin at 7:00 a.m. every school morning during marching season (usually August through the end of October or early November). Students must be on the field in their attendance block at 7:00 a.m. sharp. Students arriving after 7:00 a.m. are counted tardy. Some rehearsals will be held in the band room instead of the field, and this is at the discretion of the directors (often contingent upon the weather). Band members must be prepared for rehearsals. By following the guidelines below, students can contribute to a successful marching rehearsal: Wear tennis shoes and socks. Sandals and open-toe shoes are not conducive to correct marching. Always have your drill book/coordinates in your possession. Always have music and flip folder available, even if the music is memorized. Always have a pencil to make corrections and notes. Be prepared for rehearsal by getting plenty of rest the night before. Come to rehearsal with a winning, positive attitude! Always have extra reeds and other accessories necessary to perform. B. Performance Procedure Friday Night Football Games Call time for football games is 6:30 p.m. The following procedure will be followed every time: 5:45 p.m. Uniform room opens and students can check out uniforms Get dressed in uniform, and be prepared to change in the room (wear boxers and t-shirts to change in the open or you may use the restrooms at the end of the hallway) Put street clothes in your uniform bag and return to the band mom to place in the uniform closet. Get your instrument out and be ready to play at 6:30 6:30 p.m. Begin warm-up and announcements. 7:00 p.m. Line up outside band room for the march to the stadium. 7:20 p.m. Begin on-field Pre-Game Show 7:30 p.m. Football game begins During the game, band members are required to sit in assigned rows in the stands by section (i.e. trumpets sit together, altos sit together, etc.). Students will remain in uniform and perform pep band music during the first half under the direction of the drum majors. Our full and vigorous support of the football team adds a great deal of excitement to the games. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of the marching band, and you will have a much better experience if you participate fully. 5
Friends and former band members may sit next to the band, but not within the band block. It is absolutely forbidden for anyone to play another persons instrument. After the half-time performance, students get Third Quarter off. The Booster Club provides free drinks to the band after half-time. Students are free to visit with friends in the stadium, but may NOT leave the stadium and go to the building or parking lot. EXCEPTION: percussion students will return auxiliary equipment to the band storage area or load onto the truck for a performance the next day. These students will be supervised by staff and parents. Band students caught in the parking lot or school without prior permission from the band director will be considered truant, and will be disciplined according Rock Bridge High School discipline policies. Rationale: A few students have abused the Third Quarter break in the past, and have been accused by district patrons of engaging in questionable activities. The good name and honor of the band program is at stake, and students will be expected to act with dignity and pride while in unifor m. Students are to be back in their seats in the stadium at the beginning of the Fourth Quarter to continue performing pep band music. After the game, we will play the school fight song and march back to the band room as a group. Our post-game march home has become a tradition that our fans enjoy, and it shows our full support for the athletic program at Rock Bridge High School. Once back in the band room, students will check out their uniform from the band moms, and change back into their street clothes. No school uniforms go home. The band moms will inspect the uniform to see that it is properly hung up in the bag, and will replace it in the uniform room. No student may leave until dismissal. When all uniforms and instruments are put away properly in their assigned spot, students should clean the room of any trash. Upon the director s command, students will form a circle around the perimeter of the band room for dismissal. Travel Policies The band travels numerous times during the year. All students must have on file a completed, notarized Travel Release and Medical Consent form before they can travel with the band. No student may drive to a sanctioned music event. School district policies do not allow students to transport themselves to any event in which their groups participate. Students who do not use school transportation to band events must get prior 6
approval from the band director. If such approval is granted, only a parent or their designee may drive the student. No other students may ride with this parent, unless their parents give written consent prior to the event. When traveling with the band, the following rules apply: All luggage, instruments, and carry-on bags must be clearly marked with the students name and address. School policies regarding behavior and discipline apply. Students are to be courteous and respectful to the driver at all times. No stereos are allowed on buses. Only personal CD players with headphones may be used. Bus lists will be posted prior to each trip. Students may NOT switch buses unless permission is granted by the director. Students may be taken home after a performance by a parent. Prior to the event, the parent should provide written documentation of their intent to drive their student home. This should also include the location where they will be picking their student up. In accordance with school policies, students are not to consume alcohol or use tobacco in any form while on a school trip or in uniform. Students are to keep buses clean and free of trash. Student bus captains will inspect each bus after we return to school and see that they are clean. Medical Release Forms All students are required by the school district to complete and return a Medical Release Form. This form provided information about the student s health status, current prescription drug requirements, and insurance and contact information. The director of bands carries these forms to all out of school events. These forms must be notarized, and contain a Consent to Treat clause that gives to the director of bands or his designee permission to consent to medical treatment if that student was in need of emergency treatment. Students who do not complete a notarized Medical Release Form will not be allowed to travel with the band. Practice Rooms Several practice rooms are available for student use in the music suite. Practice rooms are only to be used for music rehearsal, not for study, sleeping, or hanging out. No food or drink is allowed in the practice rooms, and students are expected to keep the rooms clean, orderly, and free of trash. Only approved instruments are stored in practice rooms (such as tubas, drum sets, and marching percussion). All student instruments must be stored in instrument lockers. 7
Uniform Policies and Procedures A marching band uniform is provided for members of the band. Often, color guard members must purchase their own uniforms. The marching band uniform will be assigned during band camp. Students check out the uniform from the uniform closet prior to marching band performances, and return it after the performance. Uniforms never go home with students. Band moms will clean the uniforms periodically during the season and again at the completion of the marching season. Students are financially responsible for all parts of the uniform, and are to keep their uniform clean and neat. They should notify a band mom if their uniform needs repair or alteration. For concert band, a green jacket is provided for men to wear. They must purchase their own black pants, black shoes and socks, black bow tie, and white tuxedo shirt (studs and cufflinks are optional). Ladies must provide their own all black dress or pant suit. Ladies attire should be modest, with covered back and arms. If wearing a dress, ladies should wear black hose. Men can check out their jacket prior to concert band performances. The jackets never go home with the students. Student Information Forms Student information forms contain all contact information, medical information, and instrument serial numbers. Students fill these out before band and they are kept on file in the band office. Instrument Usage Policies Certain instruments are available for student use, including marching percussion instruments, sousaphones, bell front marching brass, large saxophones, oboes, bassoons, piccolos, and pianos. Students using school-owned instruments will be accessed a one-time fee of $25.00 to cover maintenance and repair costs associated with use. Personal Instrument Storage and Identification Lockers are available for students to store their personal instruments. All instruments must have a nametag on them, which clearly states the student s name and address. No instrument may be stored without proper identification. Upon assignment of a locker, a record will be made of each student s instrument serial number for identification and security purposes. 8
Music Festivals and Contests Band members participate in several festivals and contests each year. Students should consult the band calendar or website for complete information. Pre-Season Marching Band Camp Pre-season marching band camp is required of all marching band members (color guard members are members of the marching band). Camp is usually two weeks in duration prior to the beginning of the school. For camp sessions not held at Rock Bridge High School, a fee is assessed to cover expenses. FEES The following fees apply to participation in band: Pre-Season Band Camp (Fredericktown, MO)... $225.00 Instrument Usage Fee... $25.00 Drillmaster Brand Marching Band Shoes... $25.00 Uniform Cleaning and Maintenance Fee... $25.00 Charter Bus Fee (when a charter bus is utilized)... $5.00 Students must pay their own audition fees for All-District Band and Jazz Band ($9.00) and and All-State Band and Jazz Band ($9.00). Also, students participating in solo and ensemble festival in the spring must pay their own fees. All-District Band & All-State Band Exceptional musicians have the opportunity to audition for All-District Band and All- District Jazz Band. These auditions usually place the first week of November. Students must pay their own audition fee. Performances of these select bands usually occur in the spring. Check the band calendar for specific dates. Students who successfully make All-District can audition for All-State Band and All-State Jazz Band. Auditions are held the first Saturday in December in Columbia. District and State Music Festival 9
In March, students may participate in District Solo and Ensemble Festival, held at Mexico High School. Participation is voluntary and requires extra practice. Students who earn I ratings at District are eligible to participate in State Solo and Ensemble Festival held on the MU campus in late April or early May. Students must pay their own entry fees. Awards The John Philip Sousa Award is given to the outstanding band student. This award is given annually to seniors across the nation, and represents a high level of commitment to the band program. The recipient should be an exemplary musician, and should also exhibit leadership skills and dedication to other individuals. The recipient is chosen by the band directors. Additionally, the Outstanding Student in Band is given by Rock Bridge High School. Awarded during the Departmental Awards portion of the Flashback Assembly, the Outstanding Student represents the qualities of an exceptional band student. The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award is presented to the outstanding senior jazz musician. This award is given annually to seniors across the nation. Band Website The band department maintains a comprehensive website that contains much useful information. Usually, any letter or form that is sent home with students is placed on the website in.pdf format. Check the website often for updated information. The address is www.columbia.k12.mo.us/rbhs/activities/band/band.htm. Medical Release and Consent to Treat All students are required to fill out this form and cannot travel with the band without it. This form can be downloaded off of the band website. No physical is required, but we need information about student health conditions and insurance. We have had to seek medical treatment for students in the past, and these forms are very valuable. 10
Rock Bridge Band Attendance and Grading Policy Class participation, performance attendance, performance ability, and musical knowledge are all important factors contributing to your success in band. Your grade will be based on, and divided into, the following areas: I. PERFORMANCES (40%) Deductions will be taken from performance attendance for the following: A) Tardy to performance B) Inappropriate behavior while representing RBHS C) Not prepared for performance (missing instrument, inappropriate attire) II. DAILY PARTICIPATION (35%) Deductions may also be taken from your daily participation points. Every student will begin each quarter with 100 participation points, and deductions will be taken off for each of the following offenses, for each time they occur: 1. Excessive talking (each occurrence) 2 2. Tardiness 2-4 3. Lack of participation 2 4. Classroom disruption 2-10 5. Disrespect to teacher(s) or other students 2-10 6. Misuse of school equipment 2-10 (including taking care of the band room) 7. Eating/drinking during rehearsals 2 (including gum, excluding water) 8. Failing to have proper materials for class 2 (pencil, sheet music, etc.) 9. No instrument/not playable 5 (no reeds, sticks, etc.) Obviously, no points will be deducted for legitimate reasons for not having instruments (i.e., instrument in shop). However, we will ask to see receipts from the repair to verify. III. TESTS/QUIZZES (25%) This will include playing tests, pencil checks, written assignments, etc. 11
Band Agreement The band directors have thoroughly planned for the coming year and have informed you of your responsibilities. Every member of the band is important, and every member is expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. The Rock Bridge High School band has a long and proud history, and your conscientious effort and positive outlook is absolutely necessary to continue that tradition. Please read and the sign the following statements. Return this page to the band directors at Student Orientation on Monday, August 4. For the Student: I have read the Band Handbook and agree to abide by the policies contained herein. I understand that missing a performance will seriously impact my grade. I am aware of the band performances this year, as outlined in the Band Schedule, and will make every effort to avoid conflicts on these dates. Student Signature Date For the Parent: I have read the band handbook. I am aware of the time and effort required of my student. I understand that if my student misses a performance, his or her grade will be negatively affected. I am aware of the band performances this year, as outlined in the Band Schedule, and will assist my student in avoiding conflicts on these dates. Parent Signature Date 12
Rock Bridge Band Schedule 2003-2004 August 6 10 August 11-15 August 15 (Fri.) August 18 22 August 22 (Fri.) August 25 (Mon.) August 26 (Tue.) Pre-Season Band Camp Fredericktown, MO Required of all marching band members Pre-Season Band Camp Columbia, MO Times TBA (to avoid conflicts w/ athletic practices) Marching Band Preview at Bethel Park (evening) Potluck Dinner w/ a demonstration show by the band Sectionals (more information later) Burgers & Brats (tentative) First Day of School No morning band rehearsal! 7:00 a.m. Band Rehearsals Begin Sept. 12 (Fri.) Home Football Game #1 Sept. 26 (Fri.) Home Football Game #2 October 4 (Sat.) October 10 (Fri.) October 14 (Tue.) Marching Festival Washington, MO Home Football Game #3 Homecoming Tournament of Champions Marching Festival (St. Joseph, MO) October 24 (Fri.) Home Football Game #4 October 25 (Sat.) October 29 (Wed.) Nov. 8 (Sat.) Dec. 6 (Sat.) Dec. 12 (Fri.) Dec. 16 (Tue.) Feb. 20 (Fri.) March 18 (Thu.) April 19 (Mon.) May 20 (Thu.) June 5 (Sat.) Greater St. Louis (GSL) Marching Festival St. Louis at Dome Band Breakfast 7:50 a.m. (no more 7:00 a.m. rehearsals) All-District Band and Jazz Band Auditions Moberly HS All-State Band and Jazz Band Auditions Hickman HS Holiday Taping during School Band Concert 7:00 p.m. (Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Jazz Band) CAPERS 7:00 p.m. Band & Choir Pre-Contest Concert (Large Groups and Solos/Ensembles) Jazz Nite 7:00 p.m. Spring Band Concert and Awards Banquet Graduation 13
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