Derenne middle School Band program

HandBook Year: __2013-2014

Middle school director:

Karen Daniels

1009 clinch street Savannah, ga. 31405

912-395-5900 Karen.daniels@sccpss.com

Note from the Band Director

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to the 2013-14 Instrumental Music Program. I am Karen Daniels, Director of Bands

and I am excited to have you as part of our program. As school begins, there will be many new

opportunities, challenges and rewarding experiences that await you.

Please take some time to read over the Band Handbook. This will prepare you for your work

and responsibilities as a member in Band. If a problem should arise, consult the handbook first.

If you still cannot find the answer, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Students that take part in the Band program in DeRenne are challenged to grow musically and

are encouraged to achieve their highest potential. In order for this to occur, students must

respect their Director, fellow musicians, their instruments, the music they perform, any guest,

and all of the work that they put into the Band program.

Parents, you have an important role as well. Please allow your child a quiet place to practice in the home daily. You too are encouraged to attend all our concerts/performances. Success begins with encouragement from home. So let us motivate our young musicians and get started. By adhering to the rules as laid out in this handbook and in class, your reward will be awesome.

You will feel pride, a sense of accomplishment, self-satisfaction, and FUN!!!

I am looking forward in stimulating your musical skills to its highest potential. Let us get started. Musically, Karen Daniels, Director of Bands

Mission Statement/Philosophy

The mission of the DeRenne Middle School Band is to team with parents, students, and school

administrators to create an atmosphere conducive for learning and performing on musical

instruments at our highest potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are taught in Band?

Instruments taught in band are flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, trumpet, French horn,

trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion.

Can I play my own instrument?

Yes. We do encourage students to rent/purchase their own instrument for better quality and

performance experience. Brass players are asked to purchase their own mouthpiece.

Can a students use a school instrument?

Yes. Some instruments are very expensive to purchase and, therefore, are available through a

check out procedure from the school. These instruments include Alto Saxophone, Tenor

Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone and Tuba. Unfortunately, there

are only a limited number of these instruments available. The school provides percussion

instruments for the band however; the student will need a “bell/snare kit” as well as a stick bag

package for class and practice at home.

What instrument should I play? (If you have not been tested, please see Ms. Daniels for best

selection.)

By now, you should know what instrument your child would be playing. If not, there is still time

to ponder and discuss before your final decision. All students are asked to have their

instrument and supplies by August 23, 2013. A list of instrument brands and accessories is

provided in this packet.

Where to rent/purchase my instrument?

Portman’s Music Superstore Georgia Music Warehouse

7650 Abercorn Street 2424 Abercorn Street

(912) 354-1500 (912) 358-0054

Is Band a connection class only?

No. Band is a full year commitment. Students are expected to participate in band throughout

their enrollment in middle school. Chatman County music department encourages their

directors to keep students enrolled in band in order to join the high school programs.

Scholarships for colleges are awarded to outstanding student achievements.

Are afterschool rehearsals and concerts mandatory?

Yes. I realize some students may not be able to attend some after school rehearsals due to

transportation or other reasons. However, this is the only way we can have full band

participation. Most classes may not have all instrumental parts and it is important that all

students are present.

Concerts attendance is especially important. A concert is the culminating experience of our

daily rehearsals. Because concerts are so important, absences are penalized by a reduction of

grade. Of course, there are rare instances of legitimate unavoidable conflicts.

Can I leave my instrument at school?

No. Instruments need to be taken home daily for at home practice. Some larger instruments

may not be able to be taken home but those students need to make necessary arrangements

for extra practice.

Will SmartMusic be used in class?

Yes. We use SmartMusic as a teaching tool to record the students’ progress. It is a great tool to

use at home as well. Students have fun playing along with the computer and correcting their

own mistakes and progress. More information on SmartMusic is provided in this packet.

What is expected for Adults to do? As teachers, parents, and administrators, all of our actions must be geared towards creating a positive experience for these young students. A positive experience must begin with an understanding of the expectations for those who participate in the DeRenne MS Band Program. This handbook will help explain those expectations.

Band Expectations

1. Be On Time – “On Time” does not mean in the general vicinity or socializing. It

means to be in your seat and ready to begin. Tardiness will not be tolerated. “Hanging

out” in the instrument storage room, hallway or restroom is not allowed. 2. Be Prepared for Class -Have your instrument, music/folder, method book and

pencils at all rehearsals.

3. Do Your Best- Always concentrate and try to sound your best! A band is only as good

as its weakest member!

Description of Classes Taught

Band has a rotating schedule of A Day and B Days. That means I will see your student either

two or three times per week. Each class period is 90 minutes long.

Concert Band -is open to all 6

th, 7

th, and 8

th grade beginning band students who wish to extend their

knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of music by learning how to play a wind or percussion

instrument. They will learn basic music fundamentals, technical achievement, and acquisition of

performance and rehearsal skills through exposure to a variety of literature.

Wind Ensemble - is an honor group. It is open to outstanding musicians (6th

, 7th

& 8th

grade) who

are proficient on their instrument and attend all rehearsals.

Outside Activities

GMEA All-State Auditions – Students are motivated to audition for All-State Band. They will play 4 major scales, chromatic scales from memory, a prepared piece and sight-read. Solo & Ensemble is encouraged for all 6th, 7th, & 8th graders. Students may choose to either play a solo for a judge, or play in a small ensemble. Judges offers constructive criticism and Parents provide student transportation. GMEA Festival is mandatory for 7th & 8th graders. Students travel to an area school and perform as a Band for 4 judges. The specific dates are not solidified until a few weeks before the event, so please keep both days open. District Honor Bands – Students are encouraged to participate in auditions for District Honor bands. More on this as the year progresses. Extra Credit is available by going to other concerts and/or playing in other ensembles outside of school, including HS and MS Band, or on the morning news for the Musicians Corner Showcase. Musician’s Corner Showcase – Students perform a prepared piece on the school’s morning news every Friday.

Band Grading Procedures

A student’s grade in band is a balanced reflection of musical achievement, technical skill on an instrument, participation in band activities, and effort both within class and at home. The grade is made up of four different factors: Rehearsal Grades, Playing Tests and Quizzes, Performances and Practice Charts.

Rehearsal Grade (40%) Each week you will receive a rehearsal grade that is based on the following: 1. You are prepared: you have your instrument, music, pencil, book, and you have Rehearsed your music 2. You participate appropriately 3. You are in class and in your seat for tuning

Playing Tests and Quizzes (20%) Playing tests will consist of students playing music on their respective instruments for grades. These are done in order to chart students’ musical progress on their instruments. There will be an average of 4 major playing tests during each marking period. (Some test on SmartMusic). Several written quizzes and tests are given periodically throughout each semester in order to test students’ understanding of musical concepts, vocabulary, and rules.

Performance Points (30%) Concerts constitute up to 30% of students’ grades. Students will be graded on how well they are able to play their concert music. They must be in proper concert attire. There will be more on this subject later in the handbook.

Practice Charts (10%) Practicing is the most important thing you can do to improve your musicianship. Through practice, you will gain confidence, learn the importance of self-discipline, and eliminate weaknesses in your playing. Practicing is a necessary part in the development of our Band. Students are encouraged to take private lessons if possible.

Practice Chart Requirements 6th Grade - Each student needs to practice 5 times per week for a minimum of 15- 20 minutes per day to earn an A. 7th and 8th grade – Each students needs to practice 5 times per week for a minimum of 30-40 minutes per day. The frequency of practice is more important than the number of minutes practiced. Practice chart grading for all grades will be based on the number of times practiced per week (for at least 15 minutes), and will break down as follows: More than 5 times per week = 100+ (A +) 5 times per week = 100 (A) 4 times per week = 90 (B) 3 times per week = 80 © 2 times per week = 70 (D) Less than 2 times per week = 0 Practice charts will be checked twice per marking period. Students may hand in their practice chart at any time during the week designated. Each practice chart must have a Parent or guardian’s signature on it for it to be accepted. You will find a copy of the practice chart for the first marking period of the school year, which you are more than welcome to use. Students fill out the number of minutes practiced each day and write down the total for each week.

Concert Procedures

ALL BAND CONCERTS ARE MANDATORY!!!!!!!!!!! Band is a performing arts organization. Give 100% of your talent. Performances at the Middle School are a culmination of what is learned in class, just like taking a test at the end of a unit in math or science.

Concert Absences There are two types of absences for a concert: Unexcused and Excused.

Unexcused Absences: (1) An unexcused absence is when Ms. Daniels does not have at least four weeks prior notice for a performance. Excuses such as “I could not find a ride”, “I lost my band polo shirt”, “and I forgot what day it was”, etc. will not be tolerated. (2) Grades for unexcused absence cannot be made up. This loss in points will result in a significant reduction in a student’s grade. (3) It will count as an unexcused absence if you do not stay for the duration of the concert. Remember it is important that we support each other. Please plan ahead to stay for the entire concert. Excused Absences: (1) If there is an unexpected Family or emergency, death in the family or illness. In those cases, please contact Ms. Daniels in writing prior to the concert. (2) In the event of an excused absence, points will be made up through a “make-up” assignment that will be handed out in class. It is the student’s responsibility to see the teacher for make-up work. Work must be turned in one week after the assignment is given. A tentative performance schedule is included in this packet. Please look this over and let me know if there is any conflict prior to the dates.

Concert Attire Concerts are formal events. As a result, every student is required to be in proper band uniform for all performances. Any student not wearing the regulated uniform (unsoiled and pressed) at the time of a performance will not be permitted to participate in the performance. We have two band uniforms: (1) Band Tee Shirt ($7) and (2) Band Polo Shirt ($20). Khaki pants, black or dark dress shoes and socks. No jewelry, headbands, sneakers, or color wristbands. See Ms. Daniels for purchase of uniform.

Band Parent Club

A Band Parent Club can be an excellent means of moral and financial support. Parents are encouraged to volunteer their time as chaperones for fieldtrips, ball games, concerts, and receptions for special guest. Meeting are held once monthly on Wednesday evenings from 5:00pm – 6:00pm. Dates and times may vary in the year; watch your calendars for changes.

REQUIRED MATERIALS

The following materials are to be with the student’s instrument at all times: Flute: cleaning rod, cleaning cloth or handkerchief. Clarinet: swab, cork grease, 4 good reeds-Beginners strength 2, Intermediate/Advanced 2 ½-3, Rico, Vanduren or Mitchell Lurie brand reeds are recommended Oboe, Bassoon: swab, cork grease, two good (Gower) reeds, seat strap for bassoon (Oboe/Bassoon players are encouraged to take private lessons) Saxophone: cork grease, neck strap, 4 good reeds- 2 ½ - 3 strength Vanduren brand reeds are Recommended. Trumpet, Baritone, Trombone, and Tuba: valve oil, tuning slide grease, and lint-free cloth, mouthpiece brush, slide oil, tuning slide grease, and snake for cleaning the inside of the instrument. French horn: rotary oil, tuning slide grease, lint-free cloth Percussion: bell/snare kit, stick bag, Vic Firth SD 1 Jr. snare drum sticks, hard bell mallets, timpani mallets, suspended cymbal mallets. Drum pad. ***Instrumental loan forms will be issued to students who cannot purchase an instrument. These forms must be signed and returned to me before I can issue the instrument. It is strongly suggested that you rent or purchase your child’s instrument from the local music stores in town. Please see Ms. Daniels concerning name brands of instrument purchase.

Materials Needed For Class Tradition of Excellence Book, Alfred Note Speller, and Foundation for Superior Learning are the essential method books we will use in class. Each student needs all three books.

1. Instrument in good working order! 2. Three Ring Binder with Pockets – Sheet Protectors (opt) - Notebook Paper/Pencils 3. Parent Information – Communication with parents in this area 4. Band Handbook – Practice Charts – Band Calendars 5. Method Books, Warm-Up Exercises – Scales – Etudes – Music and Folder 6. Instrument accessories – valve oil, slide grease, cleaning snake, mouthpiece brush,

mouthpieces, swab, tuning rod, 3 good reeds daily, cork grease, neckstrap, ligature, 7. Percussions – stick bag with yarn/rubber mallets, practice pad. 8. Music Wire Stands – for off campus and at home practice/performances.

ALL INSTRUMENTS CASES MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED WITH THE STUDENT’S NAME!!!!!

After-school rehearsals and Sectionals: All after school rehearsals are mandatory! This is an

essential time in which students are able to rehearse with every member of the band.

Monday’s & Wednesday’s - 2:45pm – 3:45pm

Due to the nature of the schedule with our athletics, arrangements are approved that all athletics

attend band from 2:45pm-3:30pm during your schedule time. Please pick your student up within

15 minutes after band dismissal.

Band Calendars

A color-coded calendar is issued at the beginning of each month so students are aware of their A/B Day connection class and any other performance events for that month.

Class Procedures

Upon arrival to school, students may bring their instrument to the band room and place

them in the storage room or lockers.

During class time, all cases must be place underneath your seat; larger cases may be

placed near the back of the room.

Upon dismissal from class, students will pack up their instruments and music, clean area

and remain in seat until instructed to line up at the door.

At the end of the day students may pick up their instruments before boarding bus or

riding home. The school will not be responsible for instruments left overnight.

Remember: IF IT IS NOT YOURS – DON’T TOUCH IT!!!!

Classroom Procedures:

Enter room in an orderly fashion (no running, skipping, yelling, etc)

Have instrument, music and other materials in place and go to your assigned seat/section

(Restroom breaks will be given at appropriate times)

No gum, food, sunflower seeds, candy or drinks in class

Respect Director and other players property – do not play on other instruments

All talking, walking must stop when Director in on podium

Follow the School Code of Conduct and SWIM rules

Classroom Rules

1. Follow directions the first time given.

2. Keep hand and feet to yourself, on fighting, pushing/shoveling or foul language.

3. Raise your hand to get out of your seat and my attention.

4. Respect your Director and classmates.

5. Always encourage your classmates. Show your SWIM rules.

REWARDS FOR APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR:

1. Verbal praise, positive notes home (random)

2. Gotcha’s tickets.

3. Recognition for outstanding achievement and improvement.

4. Honor Award at end of year.

CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR:

First Time: Infraction notice and verbal warning.

Second Time: Class writing assignment, detention for 30 minutes after school, parents called.

Third Time: Detention for 45 minutes, parent/student conference.

Fourth Time: Parent called, Office referral, student sent to office.

Severe Disruption: Any student, who severely disrupts the band classroom, prohibits the

director from teaching, or others from learning, will immediately be sent to the office with

possible dismissal from the band program.

Lockers and Locks

Students are allowed to bring their own lock for their lockers. However, use of lockers will only

be during class time.

Parent Responsibility

One of your primary responsibilities is to provide a time and place for your child to practice at

home. In most cases, children will not practice unless they are encouraged to do so. A few

encouraging words to your child about his/her progress will go a long way.

You are responsible to sign a practice journal during each nine weeks verifying that your

child has practiced.

You are responsible to provide or arrange transportation for your child to and from after-

school rehearsals and all performances. (Within 15 minutes after rehearsal/concert time.)

You are responsible to maintain a calendar and notify the director of potential conflicts at

least one week in advance of the event.

You are responsible to make sure that your child takes care of his or her instrument and

that all repairs and supplies are provided for (reeds, valve oil, slide cream, etc.).

Fieldtrips/Fund Raisers All school rules and policies apply to band members when students travel with the band before, during, and after school on and off campus. Students must maintain a passing average in band and acceptable classroom behavior. Violations of those policies will be handled as outlined in the DMS Band Handbook.

1. There should be at least two adult chaperones per bus. Students must obey adults. 2. Only our students, school personnel, and chaperones are allowed on the bus. 3. Students will return on the same bus they go on. Students may return with parents with

proper advance written notice. 4. Loud, boisterous, profane language or indecent behavior will not be tolerated. 5. No food/drinks allowed on bus to bring back to school. 6. No cell phone use while in performance. It will be taken up. 7. Upon arrival at a destination, students remain seated until given permission from

director. 8. At the conclusion of the trip, all students need to clean their areas of the bus.

All students must participate in any Fund Raiser activity. This is how we can purchase music, have food items for receptions and take fun trips. It can also help with purchase of uniforms.

Band Officers Students are selected by Ms. Daniels for band officer positions. Each class has a Librarian, clean-up committee, A/B Sign changer (6th grade only), and hostess committee.

Please do not hesitate to communicate your questions and concerns. I want to work with you to provide a quality band program for our students. Thank you in advance for your continued support. Please visit our band web-site at: _______________________________________________________. Karen S. Daniels Director of Bands

(912) 395-5900 Karen.daniels@sccpss.com

DeRenne Middle School Band Fees

The DeRenne Middle School Band is a Performing Arts Organization. We are the

Ambassadors of our School. It is imperative that we look our best, sound our best and have all

supplies and equipment necessary for an outstanding organization.

Every student must purchase a Band Uniform Polo Shirt and Band Tee Shirt for all concert

performances. Below is a list of fees needed to support our band program and activities. Prior

notice will be given for activities that require extra fees (most are optional) such as GMEA

Festival, Solo & Ensemble, All-State Auditions, District Honor Band, fieldtrips or extra

activities. Please contact Ms. Daniels at 912-395-5900 or email: karen.daniels@sccpss.com

about payment plans.

-------------------------------------------------Detach-------------------------------------------------------- (Please return this portion with your payment by August 30, 2013)

( Make all checks payable to DeRenne Middle School Band)

Band Expenses

The estimated per-student expenditure for the DeRenne MS Band (activity account) will be

$65.00 for the 2013-14 year. This fee will help purchase their 3 method books, uniform polo and

band tee shirts, band music, Solo & Ensemble, All-State auditions, and much more. Feel free to

send cash, check, or money order (per child, made payable to DeRenne Middle School Band) for

$65.00. Please include your child’s name on all checks or envelops.

Required fees/supplies for all students

_____Band Method Books …(all 3 books)……………………………………………….$25.00

_____Band Fees (Helps to cover transportation fees, all-state auditions, sheet music, and much more. $13.00

_____Uniform Shirt (If your still have one from last year you do not need a new one)……………. $20.00

_____Tee Shirt (New order this year)…………………………………….……………………..$ 7.00

Polo Band Uniform Shirt and Tee shirt Size:

_____Youth M _____Adult M _____Adult 2X L

_____Youth L _____Adult L _____Adult 3XL

_____Adult S _____Adult XL

(Note; please add $2.00 more for X large and above) Please return this page to the

Director. DeRenne MS Information/Agreement Form

Student Name______________________ Student ID#:__________

Homeroom Teacher __________________ Locker #:______ Grade:_________

Home Address:________________________________City:_________________

State:____________ Zip:________________

Parent/Guardian Names:____________________________________________________

Home Phone_____________________________Cell Phone:________________________

Work Phone:______________________________________________________________

Emergency Contact Name:_______________________________Cell:__________________

When & where is the best time to reach parent/guardian?_____________________________

List any medical problems you may have that the director needs to know about. ____________

Instrument__________________________Brand Name:___________________________

Serial Number:______________________School Horn_________Personal Horn_________

Please read the band handbook completely and carefully. Return this form to the band director ASAP. I have read the band handbook, including the rules and regulations set forth and will do my best to comply with them. I will act as a responsible, committed band member and citizen while representing our school, community, city, and state. Band Member:____________________________________________Date:_____________________ Parent Signature;__________________________________________Date:_____________________

STUDENT CONTRACT FORM

I, _________________________________, certify that I have read, understand and will

abide by the policies in this handbook. I understand that any unauthorized deviation from

these policies will result in disciplinary actions stated herein. I understand that I must

participate in band class daily to maintain good grades and develop into a great musician.

Failure to do so will result in me not being allowed to any field trips or activities with the

band.

It is my responsibility to be prepared for class with all my supplies, be on time and in my

assigned seat and this includes not having gum/sun follower seeds, candy in my mouth or

horseplaying in the band room. I also understand that if I come to any band event

inappropriately dressed, I will not be allowed to perform.

I understand that it is my responsibility to maintain my instrument in playable condition

and have all the necessary supplies I need for band. It is my responsibility to uphold a

positive attitude and always be dedicated to the ideals of cooperation, dependability,

respect, repunctuality, responsibility, and self-confidence.

Students signature:_____________________________________Instrument

Print Name:___________________________________________

Parent Contract

I(We), _____________________________________certify that I(we) have read, understand and

will abide by the policies in this handbook as governs my child’s involvement in the Band

Program. I understand that any unauthorized deviation from these policies by my child will

result in disciplinary stated herein. I also understand that it is my responsibility to help maintain

my child’s instrument and make sure they have all supplies needed for band.

I understand that band fees and shirt orders are necessary and are due by August 30, 2013. I will

help my child as he/she participates in the arts, guiding him/her to develop into a mature, well-

rounded young musician.

Parent Signature:_________________________________Cell Phone:__________________

Email Address:________________________________________________

Emergency Phone Numbers:_____________________________,______________________

Parent Work Phone:____________________________Guardian Phone:_________________

Please list below anyone who your child can be released to on field trips, after school rehearsals.

Prior written note required unless an emergency situation. ID will be required.

1._____________________________2._____________________3._____________________

PLEASE HELP US BY SENDING TWO SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPES WITH YOUR

WITH POSTAGE STAMPS ON THEM.