Dedication€¦ · Blueprint For Excellence -3- i BLUEPRINT FOR EXCELLENCE 2019-2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS Tip: go to “view > Show Document Outline” for easy navigation! Dedication

Blueprint For Excellence -2-i

Dedication

This handbook Is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Eric Hammer.

Onward.

B.A.N.D. Handbook 2019-2020i


BLUEPRINT FOR EXCELLENCE 2019-2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Tip: go to “view > Show Document Outline” for easy

navigation!

Dedication 2

Welcome From Mr Maddox 5

BANDS Schedule 6 Cottonwood Creek School 6 Amador Elementary School 7

Mr. Maddox’s Starter Guide: Things to Know so Your Family is Setup for Success 8 How registration works 8 The Waitlist 9

“Okay, So I have signed up for Band and Strings... Now what?” 9 Get the Instrument. 9 What are the instruments? 9 Just for Strings: Violin Size chart 10 Get the Book* 10 The Books 11 Violin Size Chart 11 Essential Equipment 12 Set a practice schedule. 12 Other Notes. 13

BANDS FAQ 14 What Does BANDS stand for? 14 Q: Should I buy or rent an instrument? 14 Q: What brands should I buy/rent? What brands should I stay away from? 14 Q: Will students need their instruments on the first day? 14 Q: Will I get my first Choice of instrument? 15 Q: What if my student needs to switch instruments? 15 Q: What stores do you Recommend? 15 Violin/Strings only FAQ 15 Q: What Size should my violin be? 15

The M.U.S.I.C.A.L. Rules 16 Additional Rules 16

National Standards for Music 17

Learning Objectives: Our Music Is Our Curriculum (OMIOC) 18



Standard 1: Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music 18 Standard 2: Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music 18 Standard 3: Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments 18 Standard 4: Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines 18 Standard 5: Reading and notating music 18 Standard 6: Listening to, analyzing, and describing music. 18 Standard 7: Evaluating music and music performances. 19 Standard 8: Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts 19 Standard 9: Understanding music in relation to history and culture. 19

Course Descriptions 20 Beginning Band 20 Advanced Band 20 Elementary Strings 20 Wells Middle School Strings (NEW!) 20

Outcomes and Expectations 21 Elementary Band & Orchestra 21 Wells Middle School String Orchestra 21

Essential Equipment 22 Required materials for ALL BAND students: 22 Required materials for ALL STRINGS students: 22 The books you need 22

More Resources 23 Awesome Apps 23 Wonderful Websites 23

What Are We Doing Today? Mr. Maddox’s Agendas 23

Attendance Policy 24 Elementary programs 24 Wells Middle School Strings 24

Concert Attire 25

Practice Makes… Better! 26 Elementary Practice Guidelines 26 Wells Middle School Strings Practice Guidelines 26

Parent Student and Teacher Accord of Understanding 28



Welcome From Mr Maddox To all students and families,

I want to take this opportunity to welcome you to another exciting musical year at Dublin

Unified. The 2019-20 year is already shaping up to be a success, and I am eager to

make some great music with all of you.

This handbook outlines the expectations and procedures for

students of BANDS (band and strings), and is full of information on

the courses I teach, policies, and many other details for students

and their families. May the information and resources contained

here serve you as a Blueprint for Excellence. If you are in a crunch

for time please head Mr. Maddox’s Starter Guide: Things to Know

so Your Family is Setup for Success.

Should you have any questions or comments do not

hesitate to contact me using the information below.

Please also stay tuned for communication regarding

student performances!

I am Looking forward to building something excellent

with you!

Onward , Jay Maddox Instructor Wells Middle School Strings Amador Elementary Band & Orchestra Cottonwood Creek Elementary Band & Orchestra



BANDS Schedule Wells Middle School Strings: Every Morning 8:35-9:35 except Wednesday (8:35-9:15)

Cottonwood Creek School

Cottonwood Creek

Lvl Inst

Flutes Clarinet Sax Trumpet

Beginning

Beginning Flutes

Wednesday 1:00 - 1:30

Beginning clarinets

Friday 1:30 - 2:00

Beginning Saxophones Wednesday 10:30 - 11:00

Beginning Trumpets

Tuesday 1:00 - 1:30

Advanced

Advanced Flutes

Wednesday 1:30 - 2:00

Advanced Clarinets

Friday 1:00 - 1:30

Advanced Saxophones Wednesday 11:00 - 11:30

Advanced Trumpets

Wednesday 11:30 - 12:00

Lvl Inst

Trombone Percussion Violin

Beginning

Beginning Trombones

Tuesday 11:30 - 12:00

Beginning Percussion

Tuesday 10:30 - 11:00

Beginning Violins

Friday 10:30 - 11:00

Advanced

Advanced Trombones

Tuesday 12:00 - 12:30

Advanced Percussion

Tuesday 11:00 - 11:30

Advanced Violins Friday

11:00 - 11:30



Amador Elementary School

Amador

Lvl Inst

Flutes Clarinet Sax Trumpet

Beginning

Beginning Flutes

Thursday 1:00 - 1:30

Beginning clarinets


Beginning Saxophones

Monday 10:30 - 11:00

Beginning Trumpets Monday

11:30-12:00

Advanced

Advanced Flutes


Advanced Clarinets


Advanced Saxophones

Monday 1:30 - 2:00

Advanced Trumpets

Monday 1:00 - 1:30

Lvl Inst

Trombone Percussion Violin

Beginning

Beginning Trombones Thursday

10:30 - 11:00

Beginning Percussion

Monday 11:00 - 11:30

Beginning Violins

Monday 2:00 - 2:30

Advanced

Advanced Trombones

Thursday 11:00 - 11:30

Advanced Percussion

Monday 11:00 - 11:30

Advanced Violins

Thursday 11:30 - 12:00



J. MADDOX Music Educator - Producer - Composer

Mr. Maddox’s Starter Guide: Things to Know so Your Family is Setup for Success Hello there! My name is J. Maddox, and I am the grade 4-5 band and strings teacher at Amador Elementary and Cottonwood Creek School, plus I teach strings at Wells Middle School. I'm very excited to get your students started with some great music making, and I want to share some details sothat your students are setup for success . I have prepared a handbook outlining the expectations and procedures for Students, and it is full of information on the courses I teach, policies, and many other details for students and their families. It also includes the schedule for band & Strings. You can access the document on my website: http://bit.ly/mr-maddox After reading the Handbook over with your child please sign and date the enclosed Parent Student Teacher Accord of Understanding and have your student bring it to their band classes by September 13th. You may also drop the signed forms off at the school front office.

How registration works Lots of parents have asked about registration and I am happy to clarify. When signing up you’ll see questions about Instrument first choice and Instrument Second Choice. The first choice is AUTOMATICALLY YOUR CONFIRMED INSTRUMENT unless I reach out to you within 48 hours saying that class is full. Usually I will close that option on the online form for first choice instruments and that means that class is closed. If a class has closed, taking that option as your Second Choice puts you on a Waitlist for that instrument. Example: Tori wants to play violin but it’s not listed under Instrument first choice Indicating that the class is full. She lists it as a Second Choice which puts her on the Waitlist, and because Tori signed up early she’s at the top of the Waitlist. After band a student switches from violin class because they are leaving the district Tori’s spot is secured and she has the option to switch.


http://bit.ly/mr-maddox


The Waitlist People on the waitlist will get an email saying there are spots available in a class if people unenroll or switch up to 8 weeks after classes start. Parents are contacted on a first come first serve basis. Those students can switch or remain in their current class, if they don’t switch the next will be contacted and so on.

“Okay, So I have signed up for Band and Strings... Now what?” After registering online there are couple of things to do to make sure you're off to a good start. Get the Instrument. In music having the right equipment is essential for student success. After selecting your instrument on the registration form the next step is renting or purchasing an instrument. Renting an instrument is highly recommended, as it will usually gain you access to a higher quality instrument and grows the business of our local merchants. If you plan on purchasing an instrument, please make sure that it is good quality and suitable for beginning students. Sometimes reading reviews for instruments can be help. I highly recommend, East Bay Music in Concord. This store has some of the best rental instruments in the Bay Area, and at great prices. You are also encouraged to purchase instruments from any local vendor you see fit. A SPECIAL NOTE : If purchasing please stay away from low-quality brands such as Mendini, Cecilio, or similar brands. Students don’t need a pro-quality instrument but it’s crucial they have an instrument that is well made and that is as easy as possible to play on; Playing on a low-quality instrument is not fun! More info available in the FAQ. What are the instruments? The Fantastic folks over at DK Books have a great resource for families hoping to find out more about instruments and what each are. Their website has interactive instrument guides which could be a great activity to do with your son or daughter. Click the image below and select brass, woodwind, percussion, or strings


https://www.dkfindout.com/us/music-art-and-literature/musical-instruments/


Just for Strings: Violin Size chart Please consult the handy chart on the following page to determine which violin you should obtain. Note: the “chart method” works but going to a music store to be measured is optimal! Get the Book* 1

BAND (flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, trombone, percussion) ○ You’ll need to buy a copy of Yamaha Advantage Book 1. This can be done

online or at a local music store (most stores should have plenty in stock if purchased early!) We sometimes use a digital copy in class, but having one for practice and writing in notes and assignments at home is essential.

VIOLIN (Strings) ○ Violins have their own method book, Essential Elements 2000.

1 A quick note about stores: if possible please patronize our local music stores; going to a store gets you hands-on help, and helps build community. The

amazon links above are provided for convenience and I recommend using online

retailers only if you must!


https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Yamaha+Advantage+Book+1&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Elements-Strings-Book-Violin/dp/0634038176/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=essential+elements+2000+violin&qid=1566412547&s=gateway&sr=8-1


The Books

Violin Size Chart



Essential Equipment In addition to the instrument and book you’ll need this stuff. Note: Some stores may have “starter packs” or packages that contain all of the goodies here and more! Purchasing these is recommended if your family finances allow for it.

● Flute – instrument, Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for flute, cleaning rod, cleaning cloth. Optional: slide grease, polishing cloth.

● Clarinet – instrument, Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for clarinet, at least 3 reeds (number 2 or medium soft), a cleaning swab, cork grease.

● Saxophone – instrument, Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for saxophone, at least 3 reeds (number 2 or medium soft), cork grease, cleaning swab, neck strap (it’s very important to have a good neck strap, any neck strap with neoprene or a similar material will keep the instrument comfy. Neotech is a great brand!).

● Trumpet – instrument, mouthpiece (size 7C recommended), Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for trumpet, trumpet cleaner snake, valve oil, slide grease, a soft cloth.

● Trombone – instrument, mouthpiece (size 6 ½ AL recommended), Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for trombone, Yamaha Trombone slide cream (in the purple and white bottle), a soft cloth.

● Percussion – Drum Sticks, hard rubber mallets (for xylophone and bells), Yamaha Advantage Book 1 for COMBINED PERCUSSION, practice pad (Renting or purchasing your own drum is optional).

● Violin and other strings - Rosin, Bow, Extra Strings , a shoulder rest and finger tape for a violin or a similar guide

● ALL STUDENTS - A clip on tuner for your instrument (optional but highly recommended especially for strings!)

Set a practice schedule. Regular practice at home is essential for student success. the good news is that just 30 minutes per week works! More is always great though... Set some goals with your student to ensure they are striving to do their best, keeping in mind that students do best with a steady routine. Students will be sent home with practice logs for you to sign/initial authorizing the work that they’ve put in for the week. Do Your Best and Forget the Rest!

● The work students do in band & strings can be challenging, and some may think that it’s too difficult or that they aren’t seeing the results they want. Music, just like a language or a technical skill, can be difficult to learn at first but it will reward people who stick with it! I will also reward students with encouraging praise and, sometimes, fun treats!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODLBMQtZW_U


Other Notes. ● Class will not be held during DUSD School holidays. Minimum days will also be

observed. Please consult the school calendar to plan your child's schedule. ● While the program is a free service provided by DUSD I realize that assembling the

materials outlined here may create an unwelcome financial burden for some families. If this is the case please let me know and we will work together to make things work!

● Did you know I have a DUSD website? Please check out http://bit.ly/mr-maddox Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you! Onward, J. Maddox Instrumental Music Teacher Amador Elementary Cottonwood Creek School Wells Middle School


http://bit.ly/mr-maddox


BANDS FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

What Does BANDS stand for? ● Band & Strings!

Q: Should I buy or rent an instrument? ● Personally, I prefer when students rent, and here's why: depending on the store

families can rent to own an instrument, plus if you are 3/4 or 1/2 size those stores will transfer your equity to a larger size as your child grows up. It's a sweet deal, and lots of stores have good brands for you to rent. I love Rockin' Robbies East Bay Music because they have good brands and do the equity/rent to own program and while they are a bit far away (Concord) they do deliver instruments!

Q: What brands should I buy/rent? What brands should I stay away from?

● A: The old sayings “let the buyer beware” and “you get what you pay for” definitely apply when buying or renting. Here’s a handy chart:

Type Yay Nay

Band Selmer, King, Conn, Yamaha, and many

others. Refer to this article for more brands!

Mendini, Cecilio, and other brands with prices

“too good to be true”

Strings (Violin, viola, cello, bass)

Cremona, Stentor, Knilling or anything similar.

violinio.com has good reviews of violins and lists them by brand and has a

link for buying online!

Mendini, Cecilio, and other brands with prices

“too good to be true”

Q: Will students need their instruments on the first day?

● A: instruments are recommended the first session but not required. We'll be going over rules, procedures, and students will learn about the parts of their instrument and how to use their books and other materials, so anyone who doesn't have one can learn from an instrument their peers have or the ones I'll be bringing.


https://thehub.musiciansfriend.com/band-orchestra-buying-guides/best-student-band-instruments-for-beginners-buying-guide

https://violinio.com/


Q: Will I get my first Choice of instrument? ● A: If you have registered for an instrument and have not heard about the sections

being full within 24 Hours please assume your first choice is your instrument. Really! I will close the full sections on the registration form so rest assured that you are in the class you signed up for unless I reach out to you via email.

Q: What if my student needs to switch instruments?

● A: Switches are handled on a case by case basis so please contact me if the instrument your student is playing is not a good fit. Instrument switches are best handled early, so if a switch needs to be made please contact me as soon as there is an issue. Switching late puts your student at risk of being overwhelmed by the technical demands of learning an entirely different instrument

Q: What stores do you Recommend?

Mr. Maddox’s Preferred Music Stores

Store Location

Rockin’ Robbies East Bay Music Concord, CA

Ingram & Braun’s Pleasanton, CA

JAMS Dublin, CA

Lamorinda Music Lafayette, CA

A & G Music Oakland, CA

Violin/Strings only FAQ Q: What Size should my violin be?

● A: For violin sizing you can see what size they'll need by referring to the chart here though you'll need a tape measure or a yardstick. If you head to a music store they can also do it for you, or I can measure the student real quick before or after class.



The M.U.S.I.C.A.L. Rules

●M ake yourself better than you were yesterday

●U nderstand to the best of your ability, and always keep an open mind

●S trive to do your best everyday; make each day a success

● I nvolve yourself intensely and intelligently in all activities; work together with fellow musicians both on and off stage

●C ome to all rehearsals and performances prepared

●A lways be respectful of facilities, other people and their property

●L isten critically to the instructor and your fellow students

Additional Rules

● Students will always be expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the level of excellence associated with the DUSD Instrumental Music Programs

● Students will be positive and professional ambassadors of their school and their craft at all times.



National Standards for Music 1. Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of

music. 2. Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a

varied repertoire of music. 3. Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments. 4. Composing and arranging music within specified

guidelines. 5. Reading and notating music. 6. Listening to, analyzing, and describing music. 7. Evaluating music and music performances. 8. Understanding relationships between music, the other

arts, and disciplines outside the arts. 9. Understanding music in relation to history and culture.

The National Association for Music Education is the arts advocay program that develops the National Standards for Music.



Learning Objectives: Our Music Is Our Curriculum (OMIOC)

The Objectives for each course adhere to the standards outlined

in the National Standards for Music Education

(BOLD text denotes a National Standard in Music) ● Standard 1: Singing, alone and with others, a varied

repertoire of music

○ Students will frequently sing and/or audiate music to best understand the melodic contour and duration of their curricular music

○ Students will sing other section/student parts to accompany them and reinforce their understanding of pitch and rhythm

● Standard 2: Performing on instruments, alone and with

others, a varied repertoire of music

○ May have an opportunity to study one’s instrument with an emphasis on technical achievement and mastery of basic musical concepts.

○ Play varied repertoire of literature from various cultures and genres. “Western” as well as “Eastern”

○ Develop ensemble skills: pitch matching, watching a conductor ○ Identify and perform major and minor harmony and scale patterns. ○ Play music in1, 2, 3, and possibly 4-part harmony (chorales, hymns, canons,

rounds) ● Standard 3: Improvising melodies, variations, and

accompaniments

○ Students will have the opportunity to improvise using “fragments”, or a short series of notes to create an extemporaneous melody

○ Students will listen to and apply variations to a simple melody ● Standard 4: Composing and arranging music within specified

guidelines

○ Students may have the opportunity to create short compositions highlighting concepts they are learning in Essential Elements or the Yamaha Advantage

● Standard 5: Reading and notating music

○ Explain, read, and perform standard notation symbols for pitch, rhythm, dynamics, tempo, articulation and expression

○ Demonstrate the ability to read an instrumental score of up to four staves. ○ Sight read melodies accurately and expressively

● Standard 6: Listening to, analyzing, and describing music.

○ Students will listen to professional reference recordings of music they are learning



○ Students will apply best practices of musical artistry from the recording to the music, including, but not limited to, Articulation, dynamics, intonation, tone quality, balance, and pitch

○ Students will occaisionally have the opportunity to share favorite recordings meeting school guidelines with other students, as an expressive tool that shares personal heritage and background

○ If you are reading this, wow I’m impressed ● Standard 7: Evaluating music and music performances.

○ Evaluate individual and ensemble performance using the “I like, I wonder, Next Step” feedback process and other constructive and positive critical responses

○ Evaluate a performance, composition, or arrangement by comparing it to similar or superior models

● Standard 8: Understanding relationships between music, the

other arts, and disciplines outside the arts

○ Identify the application of music skills and understandings relevant to a variety of careers

○ Identify ways in which the elements and principles of music are interrelated with other disciplines

○ Identify ways in which the subject matter of music and other disciplines are interrelated. Identify various uses of music in daily experience Identify various uses of music for personal expression

● Standard 9: Understanding music in

relation to history and culture.

○ Perform and listen to music from various historical periods and genres ○ Perform and listen to band and strings

litereature from various cultures



Course Descriptions Beginning Band

This band is for students with little or no previous experience in music. We will enjoy making music together and in small groups, meeting once a week in like instrument sessions called Sectionals. Sectionals will allow the student to have small group instruction with all the students on their instrument, which will set them up for success in their long term music making. Students will have the opportunity to perform 2-3 times per year in concert with the other Dublin Unified Music ensembles. Instruments offered:

● Flute ● Clarinet ● Alto Saxophone ● Trumpet ● Trombone ● Percussion (Limited to 4 first come first serve students)

Advanced Band

This group is open to all Students with at least one year of experience (no audition required). The Advanced Band explores advanced instrumental techniques in a variety of musical styles. The Group will give 2-3 performances in the 2019-20 school year (please see the performance calendar for more information). Elementary Strings

Elementary Strings are for beginning to intermediate students on violin (other students with experience on Cello, Viola, and Bass are encouraged to join as well!). We will enjoy making music together, learning the language of music as well as learning how to play their instruments. A key feature of the String Orchestra is learning music from around the world, but also American folk songs and fiddle tunes from the Americana tradition. Students will have the opportunity to perform 2-3 a year in concert with the other Dublin Unified ensembles. Wells Middle School Strings (NEW!)

The Wells Middle School Roadrunner Strings is a brand new expansion class giving students a chance to hone their abilities and explore exciting string literature! The Roadrunner strings will expand student knowledge of string technique through the use of advanced keys/scales, challenging repertoire, and frequent performances throughout the school year



Outcomes and Expectations Elementary Band & Orchestra

● Be in 4th or 5th grade ● Understand that IM is a year long commitment ● Maintain good academic standing at all times, complete all homework, demonstrate

good behavior in IM and their classroom ● Keep all instruments, sheet music, and other materials in good condition. Students

and their families will be responsible for any damages ● Attend all rehearsals and performances (attendance will

be taken at all rehearsals) ● Will match the time they spend in their band classes

practicing ● Follow the MUSICAL rules to the best of their ability ● Be excellent ambassadors of their program and

community

Wells Middle School String Orchestra

● Be a student at Wells Middle School ● Understand that String Orchestra is a year long

commitment ● Maintain good academic standing at all times, complete

all homework, demonstrate good behavior in IM and their classroom ● Students will practice and prepare their parts at home in a manner consistent with

the excellence of the Wells Music Program ● Keep all instruments, sheet music, and other materials in good condition. Students

and their families will be responsible for any damages ● Attend all rehearsals and performances (attendance will be taken at all rehearsals) ● Follow the MUSICAL rules to the best of their ability ● Be excellent ambassadors of their program and community



Essential Equipment The following materials will be used in the instruction of each course. A complete list of further resources follows to further enhance the understanding of each student out of the classroom. Afterward is an excerpt from Mr. Maddox’s Starter Guide: Things to Know so Your Family is Setup for Success Required materials for ALL BAND students:

● Flute: instrument, cleaning rod, cleaning cloth. Optional: slide grease, polishing cloth ● Clarinet: instrument, at least 3 reeds (number 2 or medium soft), a cleaning swab,

cork grease. ● Saxophone: instrument, at least 3 reeds (number 2 or 2 ½ or medium soft), cork

grease, cleaning swab, neck strap. ● Trumpet: instrument, mouthpiece (size 7C recommended), trumpet cleaner snake,

valve oil, slide grease, a soft cloth. ● Trombone: instrument, mouthpiece (size 6 ½ AL recommended), slide oil, a soft cloth. ● Percussion: Sticks, hard rubber mallets (for xylophone and bells), practice pad.

Required materials for ALL STRINGS students:

● Violin with case ● Bow ● Rosin for your bow ● Cleaning cloth ● Optional: Clip on tuner from SNARK pictured here. ( highly

recommended) Important note: If ordering Materials online: Please allow time for the instruments to arrive! The books you need

● Band ○ Yamaha Advantage Book 1

● Violin and other Strings ○ Essential Elements 2000

● More information here



More Resources Awesome Apps

● Tonal Energy Tuner ● The Amazing Slow Downer ● Fingerings ● iRealPro

Wonderful Websites ● Tonedeafcomics.com - Funny band comics and jokes ● MusicRacer.com - A great tool for learning your notes! ● Elementary Band Warmups, - scroll down to find your instrument. He has lots of other

great warmups too! ● Percussion only: Vic Firth 40 Essential Rudiments

What Are We Doing Today? Mr. Maddox’s Lesson Plans I use Google Slides for my agendas. They’re easy to present and they make it possible for parents to check out their student’s awesome work and for students to review anything we’ve done throughout the year! Forgot what to practice or the songs we worked on for the day? I’ve got you covered; Click the link for your class below. Wells Strings Elementary BANDS (Beginning) Elementary BANDS (Advanced)


https://tonalenergy.com/

https://www.ronimusic.com/

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fingering/id353809211

https://irealpro.com/

http://tonedeafcomics.com/

http://musicracer.com/

https://www.johnmcallistermusic.com/uploads/2/4/7/2/24727629/beginner_warm-ups_-_set_1.pdf

https://vicfirth.zildjian.com/education/40-essential-rudiments.html

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/13W0hC92uzEfl0dtbL_4pjCGUuZ7ZBX0i54QGps54w3g/edit?usp=sharing

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1fbEXDvNIfj3VT_rCHktWO_y6n4Kysx46ac-QC83sFWU/edit?usp=sharing

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1iYRCo3Hy8e-K96OAyybeZPBWCT-mnLXYiFUgmTGp6Zo/edit?usp=sharing


Attendance Policy Elementary programs

● Regular attendance at sessions is very important! ● Students fall behind when they miss out on sessions, and unfortunately students that

fall behind don’t feel a part of the team. ● If your child is absent for any reason ● please contact me at [email protected] ● After 4 unexcused absences students/parents will be warned via email. Additional

absences may result in removal from the team! ● Forgetting your instrument counts as an absence! ● If your child forgets their instrument may be dropped off at the “I Forgot” table at your

own risk. The school and/or instrumental music program are not responsible for any lost, damaged, or otherwise distressed property

● Performance attendance policy ● While participating in performances at the elementary level isn’t required it is highly

recommended; we love sharing our music with the community! ● Concert letters with details will be sent out 4-6 weeks in advance of the concerts.

Parents and students will sign and return the bottom portion of the letter so that Mr. Maddox can plan seating and other logistics.

Wells Middle School Strings

Since the WMS Strings program is bundled into the school day regular attendance is expected. Conflicts (excluding family emergencies) must be brought to Mr. Maddox’s attention in writing 90 days before the date of each event. Events such as field trips, sporting events, social functions etc. are NOT excused!

Students will be expected to show up at least one half-hour before the start of each performance dressed in the attire outlined in the description for each ensemble



Concert Attire Ladies* Gentlemen*

Elementary Programs

● Black skirt of appropriate length or Black dress pants (please no jeans)

● White dress shirt/blouse ● Black dress Socks (optional) ● Black dress Shoes

● Black dress-y pants or slacks (please no jeans)

● White dress shirt (no colors or patterns)

● Tie (optional) ● Black Socks ● Black dress Shoes

Wells Middle School Strings

● Black skirt of appropriate length or black dress pants (please no jeans)

● White dress shirt/blouse (no patterns)

● Black dress Socks ● Black dress Shoes

● Black Slacks (please no jeans) ● A white dress shirt (no

patterns) ● A black Necktie to complement

your shirt ● A black Belt ● Black Socks ● Black dress shoes

Remember: keep all dress classy and formal . We are

representing our program, schools, and our craft!

* In the spirit of openness and inclusion embraced by DUSD as well as my own personal values Mr. Maddox

recognizes that some students may not identify with a single gender and its assigned attire. Please reach out to me if you have concerns or wish to arrange for alternate concert attire for your child



Practice Makes… Better! Mr. Maddox’s Practice Policy

Practice is an essential part of what it takes to be a successful musician, and student preparation is required to make the most of the music curriculum. Purposeful practice will also setup students for success in future ensembles as well as give students the work ethic they’ll need to succeed in academic and professional life. A practice log for your use is on the following page or you may use the log on the inside cover of your book. Elementary Practice Guidelines

All students must practice a minimum of 30 minutes per week. More is even better! Students may use the practice log on the following page to document their practice or the inside cover of their book (The Yamaha Advantage). Mr. Maddox will check practice logs weekly for evidence of practice, and logs are only valid with a parent signature. Wells Middle School Strings Practice Guidelines

All students must practice a minimum of 45 minutes per week. More is even better! Students may use the practice log on the following page to document their practice. Mr. Maddox will check practice logs weekly for evidence of practice, and logs are only valid with a parent signature.



The practice log used by the elementary programs. Students will receive one but you can print one here!



Parent Student and Teacher Accord of Understanding


Documents

Dedication€¦ · Blueprint For Excellence -3- i BLUEPRINT FOR EXCELLENCE 2019-2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS Tip: go to “view > Show Document Outline” for easy navigation! Dedication