Concert Band (gr. 9) | Symphonic Band (gr. 10-12)
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Each student is expected to:
- Attend all rehearsals & concerts unless ill (absent from school) or excused by the Director.
- Attend a weekly, rotating lesson. If you cannot attend because of a test, lab, or other activity, you must inform Mr. Ritter BEFORE the lesson.
- Make up lessons are highly encouraged. Check the lesson schedule for available make-up times and obtain a pass from the director.
- Learn his/her part as to make a positive contribution to the ensemble.
- Be responsible for all materials used during the school year.
- Supply an appropriate lesson book and necessary equipment for your instrument.
CONCERT BAND POLICIES
Required Equipment: In order for each student to progress smoothly on his/her instrument, he/she must have the necessary supplies and good working equipment. Music supplies are available from local music stores. It is highly suggested that all HS musicians purchase:
- A folding Music Stand
- A tuner
- A metronome
- All woodwind players need reeds, a reed guard, a cleaning swab, and cork grease.
- All brass players need appropriate valve/slide oil for their instrument.
Homework: The individual proficiency level of each band member is a result of time & effort devoted to home practice. The degree of excellence of the entire band reflects the efforts of its individual members. One half hour of practice on a daily basis usually ensures smooth, steady progress.
Extra Help: practice rooms are available for student use. Food, drink and gum are prohibited in these rooms! If additional assistance is desired, students may request an extra lesson with the instructor. Available time depends on the schedule of both student and teacher.
Dress Code: all members of the ESHS South Band program are required to wear the following uniform. Information about ordering uniform components will be distributed to band members in the first 2 weeks of school.
Men: tuxedo jacket, black pants, white tuxedo shirt, black shoes and socks.
Women: black concert gown, black shoes
BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
Students are expected to:
1.) Enter the bandroom and be in their seat with their instrument by 7:37/9:12 am.
2.) Listen to directions and respond to suggestions for improvement.
3.) Cooperate with the teacher and with each other at all times.
4.) Respect the equipment used by all band members.
5.) Respect the many levels of ability among high school musicians in a large group situation.
6.) Put away instruments and folders after every lesson & rehearsal.
7.) Provide a pencil and other necessary equipment for each class.
8.) Hats, gum, food, drinks, or electronic devices are not permitted in the bandroom.
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Private Instruction: is highly recommended. There are many qualified teachers In the area. Contact Mr. Glaser for more information.
Honor Band/Orchestra: auditions are held in early December. Interested students should see Mr. Glaser for audition material. Students are responsible for registration fees and audition music.
Jazz Ensemble: is a select group of instrumentalists that rehearse once or twice a week. The group performs at various festivals and concerts in the Spring.
Honors Band: is a weighted course that places more performance requirements on students. Specific Honors Band requirements will be provided during the first marking period.
Seating & Challenges: All parts are important in band. Wind instrument seating will be based upon ability and the needs of the group as a balanced ensemble. In some cases, seating will be reorganized after playing exams. Challenges for seating will also be offered during the course of the semester.
Grading System: At the beginning of each marking period, your child will receive a Grade & Progress Report outlining the course requirement for Band. Some of the criteria may include:
- Lesson Participation- attending a weekly, rotating lesson.
- Playing Exams- exams will be given during the last week of the marking period. The exam material will be given 1 week prior to the exam.
- Effort & Responsibility- points will be awarded for completion of homework, as well as effort shown in lessons and rehearsals.
Concert Participation: students are expected to participate in all concerts; an unexcused absence, without a written note 3 weeks in advance from the parent/guardian will reduce the student's grade.
Skill Exercises/Music Check Off: points will be awarded for completion of playing assignments.