7th & 8th Grade Band
This manual has been written as a supplement to your School Handbook. It contains information regarding the various phases and activities of the instrumental music department of Marshfield Schools. This manual also contains the policies and regulations of the Band.
All Band members and their parents are urged to read the entire manual carefully to help avoid conflicts with policies and rules stated herein. Please note the commitment contract included in this manual.
If at any time you have questions, feel free to consult with the directors, Kevin Crowley, Lori Hutton or Jeremy Meyer in one of the following ways:
· Band office phone: Jr. High 859-2120 ext. 2311 High School 859-2120 ext. 2221
· E-mail Mr. Crowley – mailto:kevcrow@centurytel.net
· E-mail Ms. Hutton – bnjazzy@centurytel.net
· Email Mr. Meyer – drumbud_97@hotmail.com
· Band Web Site – www.marshfieldbands.com
Communications
Communication is very important in the Marshfield Band Program, especially with the number of students and the amount of activities. It is important that parents keep this manual and the calendar of events handy throughout the year for reference. Also, please use the band web site to get up-to-the-date information throughout the year. We will be posting reminders, event information, times, etc. on the site throughout the year. Also, we will be posting information in the band room with information about upcoming events.
Students who audition/enroll as members of the instrumental ensembles in the Junior High School are involved in an educational adventure which holds extremely high standards of performance, discipline, and tradition. Band students are expected to be active participants in a continuous quest for musical excellence, and additionally, to display a genuine regard for high academic standards and achievement. Only through intense personal commitment, thorough preparation, and insightful performance can the goals of the ensembles be met. Through curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular participation, the student is encouraged and expected to develop real ownership in the instrumental program as well as in his/her own personal and musical growth.
Grading Policy: It is important to understand that the grading policy is intended to measure achievement and progress.
Students will be graded according to sight-reading tests, instrumental playing tests, practice cards, written tests, behavior/responsibility, performance attendance and daily musical performance. Since the Junior High ensembles are performance based and oriented, attendance at all activities are required. An unexcused absence from a performance will result as a zero for that performance. Please keep in mind that just by telling the directors ahead of time does not necessarily make it an excused absence.
Attendance: The student who fulfills his/her responsibility for communicating with the director(s) will rarely have a problem with the attendance policies of the band. See your School Handbook for class attendance policy. Students are expected to be present for all rehearsals, performances, and appointments. If circumstances preclude a student’s attendance, it is the responsibility of the student to communicate with the director(s) before the event.
Tardies: It is impossible to run an effective rehearsal when people are consistently tardy. A tardy is defined as not being in your seat with the proper materials when the bell rings. Class begins promptly when the tardy bell rings.
Commitment: The Marshfield Band Program has set very high standards and strict discipline. We want band members to be responsible, accountable, dependable, and committed to each other as we continue the tradition of being one of the best. Performances take priority over practice. Practice takes priority over work. We must all make sacrifices at times to contribute to the success of the group.
The MJH Band program operates like a big family, on pride and self-discipline. Neither the band members nor the directors will tolerate any behavior that reflects negatively on the band. Everyone is expected to be in the right place, at the right time, with the proper equipment and with the attitude that we will do our very best at all times and will improve our performances each day!!!!!
Discipline: All students should and can behave appropriately in the classroom and rehearsals. In order to guarantee every student the learning climate they deserve, no student will behave in such a manner as to deprive other students from learning. To help establish and maintain this learning climate, the following plan will be used:
1. Be instantly quiet when the director steps on the podium.
2. Follow directions.
3. Stay in seat during class unless otherwise directed.
4. Be punctual with instrument and music.
5. Start rehearsals at the tardy bell.
6. Not use inappropriate or disgraceful language or gestures.
7. Keep hands, feet and other objects to yourself.
8. Raise hand and be recognized to speak while a director is on the podium.
1st time: Warning.
2nd time: Private conference with student.
3rd time: Move to last chair.
4th time: Phone call/email to parents.
5th time: Principal’s office.
Serious offense: Principal’s office.
Students are expected to conduct themselves on trips in such a way as to enhance the reputation of the students, parents, band, school, and community of Marshfield. Individuals who do not do this will be dealt with appropriately with the advice and consent of the principal.
Drug Testing: Starting the 2003-2004 school year, all students 7-12 are required to sign-up for random drug testing to be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities. Band falls into this category. If a student does not sign-up for random drug testing, but are in band, they will not be allowed to perform at any performances. Since attendance is required for their grade, the following is required to make-up a missed performance grade, whether it’s because a student is not in the drug pool or if a student has been suspended from activities for failing a drug test:
1. Students will attend all scheduled performances for set-up and break-down. The student will also stay the entire time with the band and will help in whatever way the director needs them.
2. The student will also take a playing test over the material that is being performed at the missed performance(s).
3. The student will also take a written test over the material that is being performed at the missed performance(s).
Please note that this is the method for making up missed performances only for those with drug pool violations. If anyone misses with an unexcused absence, they receive a zero on that performance.
It is highly recommended that ALL band students sign-up for the random drug testing.
Transportation: In accordance with school policy, students who travel with the band do so only in school-approved or school-provided vehicles. Other arrangements will be made only if special circumstances are involved.
Instruments: Each student is responsible for the proper function and maintenance of his/her own instrument at all times. The care and maintenance of school-owned instruments will also remain the responsibility of the individual to whom those instruments are loaned. It will be expected that all such instruments be returned in the same condition in which they were issued. All students using a school owned instrument will be required to fill out a contract. All instruments are to be stored properly with the cases closed and secured.
Percussion: Percussionists are the only students allowed to play any of the instruments in the percussion family. Do not play with any equipment unless you have special permission to do so.
Percussionists are expected to keep the area and equipment in order at all times. Put things away daily after each rehearsal.
Music & Folders: Each student is responsible for having a music folder in class each and every day and a pencil. Each student is responsible for their own music. Do NOT lose your music!
Cleanliness: Everyone is expected to help keep our music facilities (and hallways) clean and in order at all times. If you get it out…put it away. No food, drink, or gum is allowed during class.
Curriculum
Curricular: This is the academic portion of our band program. It is all of our band classes that are scheduled as part of the normal school curriculum and are held during the normal school day.
Co-Curricular: These are the educational activities that are an extension of the academic portion of the curriculum. These activities are in connection with the classroom, such as concerts, small ensembles & solos, & the Marshfield Jr. High Band Festival, but are usually held outside of the normal school day.
Extra-Curricular: These are the activities that are held outside the normal school day, have little educational value, and can tend to exploit our students’ talents if not carefully selected. These activities are considered entertainment or public relation activities.
We feel that the MJH Band has a good balance of the three types of curriculums listed above. We will continue to do our part in an effort to promote school spirit and community pride.