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Band Handbook 2009-2010
This handbook is intended to be used by the students, parents, administrators, staff, and directors as a convenient source of information regarding the policies, expectations, and other varied aspects of the Wewoka Band program. This is a supplemental document to the Wewoka Student Handbook and therefore band members are expected to comply with both. Students and parents must read this handbook carefully and sign and return the agreement form located included with this handbook. Band members are expected to abide by and understand all rules and regulations set forth in this handbook. Remember, we must all maintain a strong commitment to excellence, act and behave to a higher standard, and to be “The best we can be!”
Ashley Flowers is the director of Wewoka Public Schools band program. Her duties include teaching and conducting the marching and concert bands, Middle School bands, and high school music program. Ms. Flowers is a graduate of the Oklahoma Baptist University with Bachelors in Music Education.
Dear Parents and Students, Welcome! I hope that your summer was filled with as many exciting opportunities as mine and looking forward to a new school year. I want to mention an opportunity to join the Band Booster organization that will meet on the fourth Monday of every month. This organization is the backbone of the band program and promotes awareness of parents as to the activities and general goings on of the Wewoka Band program. I encourage all parents to become involved and fulfill commitments as they can. This next year is shaping up to be an exhilarating learning experience. I am looking forward to getting first hand knowledge of the Wewoka band, its members, parents, community, and school. If this next year takes off half as well as I imagine, then it will be a great year. So again, let me join the faculty, board and support staff in saying: Welcome to a new beginning, a new year and new opportunities and let us make the most of it! Wewoka Director of Bands Principal Superintendent
Ashley Flowers Garrett
Davis Sam McElvany
After silence, that which
comes nearest Throughout history mankind has shown that it will create: to express personal thoughts, perceptions of the world, and mostly to just say, “I am here!” These expressions have been represented through many mediums such as; murals on cave walls, ceremonial drums, sculpture, literature, and symphonic representations of historical or personal events. Music, the art of sound, is unique in its use of objects or the human body to produce sound. Everyone can make a sound, but it takes education to develop the ability. The basis of music education is that every child has the right to a musical experience and that each child, not limited by their talent or physical ability, can use music as a meaningful medium for expression of thought, feeling and vision to connect to the human spirit Music is a process of building upon skills by applying the fundamentals of music to the expressive intentions of the composer. A logical and sequential curriculum will allow for personal and musical growth. In opposition to a general music education the performance groups such as choir, orchestra and band will result in higher levels of skill and the ability to perform literature for that specific discipline. In contrast to the other arts, the concepts of musical literacy and musicianship can be uniquely developed through group participation. In a performing group, excellence is based not only on individual talent or skill level, but interaction of the whole ensemble and the complete group dynamic. There are no substitute players in music, making personal accountability and responsibility an integral part of the experience. A comprehensive music education enables students to develop skills such as, but not limited to, listening skills, analysis of music literature, interpretation of thought and performance, understanding composition and form, history and development, basic to moderate theory, appreciation of music in all its forms, and application of skills in an array of disciplines. The primary goal of music education is to build an appreciation and personal relationship with music. A quality music education will benefit the students enrolled, the students that are not enrolled by way of exposure and the community in which it interacts. By the very nature of music it enables personal satisfaction, self-awareness, fulfillment and personal growth for the educational years and in the continuation of life.
The mission of Wewoka Pride Band: 1. Provide a musical performance outlet for all students enrolled. 2. Allow students to grow musically, socially, and intellectually using the objectives of cultural education, music education, school, and community service. 3. To better understand the rewards of dedication and commitment to a common goal of excellence as a group, realizing that the process is of equal value to the product.
If every student aspires to achieve their best then we, The Pride of Wewoka, will achieve Excellence!
It is the policy of Wewoka Public Schools to require drug testing of all students participating in extracurricular activities. Therefore, it is mandatory for all band members to submit to a drug test before being able to participate in band and subject to random test throughout the school year.
Band is a full year class commitment. Students are required to participate in marching and concert ensembles. Students that have not been involved in an instrumental music program prior to high school must receive permission from the director. Students who leave the organization for one reason or another must have permission prior to re-enrollment in the program. A student, parent, principal and director meeting will be scheduled before enrollment inclusion.
To be a member of the Wewoka Pride Marching Band, which is a competitive marching band involved with the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activity Association (O.S.S.A.A.) guidelines, each member must be enrolled in the class that meets during the school day. The students agree to attend summer rehearsals and band “boot” camp. Each member must meet all financial obligations, must attend all rehearsals, and performances of the group. Exceptions must be cleared through the director well in advance. Fundraisers will be available to help meet the financial obligations. Very high expectations are held by each marching band member. A commitment to excellence means a commitment to be present at every marching band rehearsal. The SWOSU summer band camp helps with marching techniques and leadership skills and is recommended to further the program, but not required.
Wewoka High School has concert band that starts as soon as the competitive marching band season is over. Each member of the band must be enrolled in class that meets during the school day. The students must attend before and/or after school rehearsals and performances of the group. Exceptions must be cleared through the director well in advance.
These ensembles are extracurricular and normally begin once Marching Band is over. The Jazz Ensemble is and will continue to be a part of the Wewoka band program, but at this time it is not competitive, yet may be in the near future. Participation in competitive solo and ensemble contest in the spring gives the students the opportunity to perform in small groups and demonstrate their talents and interest.
These Ensembles can be formed as student interest and instrumentation allows. They will be extracurricular and can be potentially competitive.
The Wewoka School District provides instruments and basic support to their band programs. We are fortunate that our community hold the arts in high regard and support them as an academic subject that provides our students opportunity to excel in this art form. However, since the financial investment to maintain the level of excellence in our band program is great, our band booster organization must supplement the school systems support of our band program. Fundraising events are scheduled throughout the year to help our band program maintain a high level of success. These events are designed to help individual students offset any costs related to band events. These expenses include band trips, band banquets, equipment, and other costs related to the band. If a band family experiences financial difficulty, please notify the director for assistance. Fundraisers and payment plans will be available to ensure that all students who wish to participate in the Wewoka Band will be given the opportunity to do so. Please note that if this case arises, the director must be notified. Such cases will be treated with strict confidence.
One Sound, One Vision, One Heart A musician is innately a teacher either by example or instruction. Those that are exceptional have the choice to stick out or to lead. To stick out is to forget the concept of band or music in general because it ruins the balance of the ensemble. It is not the right of the individual to put down the efforts of others, but their responsibility to encourage them to be stronger musicians. In music it is better to lead from behind by pushing others toward a better band. There are no bench warmers in band only starting players and the band is only as strong as its weakest player. Everyone has their strengths and their weaknesses and it may be surprising to find that helping build their weaknesses might help build a weakness from within. Those students who have a positive mental attitude, regardless of their individual skills, will always have a place in the Wewoka Band. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive, if you are not doing your personal best to make the group successful, you should not be a part of this organization. In fact, students who do not project an attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to change their personal perspective or else leave the organization. Those who have pride in themselves will usually project a positive mental attitude. Characteristics of a positive mental attitude include a generally cheerful outlook towards rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and maintenance of equipment and facilities, and an eagerness to do whatever is necessary to be successful. In short, the total band member is someone who is always willing to give their best for the good of the organization. While we wish that no student is excused from this organization. Instances may arise when just that may happen. Students, parents, director, and school officials must meet to come to an agreement concerning the implementation of a behavioral contract or actual dismissal from the organization. Blatant violation of school policy or Wewoka Band handbook policy would result in behavior modification of some nature. Always be sure to make smart choices.
The band office is the business office of the Wewoka Band Director. Please treat the office as such. The telephone is available to students in an emergency before and after school. During school hours students must us the office phone. No Exceptions. All rehearsal times are published well in advance, so parents should not need a phone call to verify that we have dismissed on time. On occasions where the band is arriving at an unspecified time, the phone will be made available. If there are questions regarding the band program, do not hesitate to call the band office. You may leave a message with the front office during the school day and the director will return your call as soon as possible. The band office will be unreachable by telephone after school office hours. The phone number is 257-5473. Another way for effective communication is via e-mail. You may reach me at the following e-mail address wewokapride@yahoo.com. Please remember that all official scheduling will be through the band office, and then posted within the band room, newsletters, and e-mails for those that provide addresses.
All band members must be sensitive to the security of the band room. Do not leave valuables, bags or any personal belongings unsecured in any room. The Wewoka Band will not be responsible for any personal property losses. Band members should have the courtesy and respect of others to not allow non-band members access to the band room at anytime. Students that are not band members will not be allowed in the band room unless invited by the director. If you would like siblings to visit and see the band room, then prior permission must be given by the director. Access to the band room after school hours should only be permitted when the director is present. At no time should a locked door be propped by a student to allow access at a later time. Once a locked door has been closed there is no admittance until the next rehearsal or school day.
Paid professionals, technical assistants, and guest artists are a vital part of the band program. Without their help, the Wewoka Band would not be able to achieve the standard to which we aspire. They must have the respect of all students and parents. Staff members are chosen by the director and are directly responsible to the director. Students should give these staff members the same respect they give any member of the Wewoka faculty. Any problems should be brought directly to the director. Do not confront the staff member directly.
Students are expected to be in their assigned place with instruments and the necessary materials to be a productive member of the band. There will be silence in the band room when the conductor steps on the podium. Warm up is a crucial time in each rehearsal for focus, preparation to play, and fine tuning the fundamentals of playing so that improvement as a group and as individuals may happen. Brass players should have all necessary mutes and valve oil. Reed players should have two spare reeds at the seat during rehearsal. Ideally, two would be the minimum of “good” reeds that are rotated from day to day. The reeds last longer and give a better sound if the same reed is not used all of the time. Percussionist should make sure that all of the required equipment needed to perform on the assigned instrument for a given piece. Cases should be out of the rehearsal area as they are an unnecessary obstruction. At the end of rehearsals, make sure that all equipment is put away. Everything has a proper place and must be returned at the end of each rehearsal. Instruments must be returned to the Instrument room and left there until time to take them home for practice each evening and weekends. All percussion equipment is to be put away at the conclusion of each rehearsal. Problems of an individual nature (missing music, instrument problems, etc.) should not take up class time. These issues should be dealt with either before school, after school, or just before class as a last resort. Talking during rehearsals should be kept to a minimum. Any necessary talking should be about the music we are studying and should never be a distraction to the conductor or other students. When the conductor is on the podium, there should be no talking. When the conductor steps off the podium, conversing quietly as necessary is permitted.
This would include band members, guests, director, staff, parents, faculty and anyone else that may be in the band room. Use polite and appropriate speech and body language.
This means no talking or disruptions during instruction. Take care of personal needs before class. Come to class on time and remain in assigned seat to not be a disruption to others. Follow directions immediately!
Come to class prepared and be ready to rehearse with the ensemble. Have all materials needed so maximum self success is obtainable. Put forth the best effort at all times and never set limits by not attempting something that is new or seems difficult. Never cheat or take credit for something that was not your creation.
Never leave trash behind in the band room and always leave it better than you found it. The band room belongs to its members, but it is on loan to you by the band members of tomorrow. Make sure that it is something that they can respect when they arrive. This goes for the equipment, instruments, and everything that makes the band room what it is. IT IS NOT A GYM!
Printed music should have a home, not crumpled in a cramped case, bunched in the instrument cubbies or stranded on the band room floor. Sheet music is not a doodle pad, place for graffiti or way to pass notes in class. It is impossible to determine good music if it has not been played and played well. Learn all that can be learned while the opportunity is available. For the love of music help others do their best, by being a mentor.
In order to maintain an orderly educational environment, the following discipline policy will be implemented.
Severe Discipline Clause In the event that a student blatantly and/or maliciously causes a serious classroom disruption, the severe disciplinary clause may take effect and the student m be taken to the principal’s office and will serve the fourth offense consequence. Most band members are expected to provide their own instruments. The director is in charge of school owned equipment and instrument inventory. All questions relative to equipment and instruments should be directed to the band director. ONLY THE DIRECTOR may issue a school owned instrument. In special cases such as percussion, color guard, low brass or other larger instruments, school owned instruments may be available for use. If there is a special need for any other instrument to be provided, every effort will be made to acquire an instrument for student classroom use. School owned instruments and equipment become the responsibility of the student to whom the equipment or instrument is issued. Any damage other than what would be considered normal wear and tear will be the individual student’s responsibility to have repaired and the student will be responsible for the cost of said repairs. Individual instruments should always be maintained in top playing condition. Instruments in poor playing condition will have a negative impact on the ensemble. Remember that horseplay can cause damage to instruments and equipment. Never play around with or play on someone else’s instrument. Be sure to fill out the instrument check out form at as soon as possible. Parents are encouraged to provide the best possible instrument for their child. If interested in purchasing a “step up” instrument, please speak with the director prior to the purchase. Many times there are opportunities that the director is aware and it is always best to obtain a price from more than one source prior to such an investment.
Band rehearsals and performances are mandatory. Any request for an exception must be submitted in writing and approved by the director. Two weeks in advance of conflicting dates, except in emergencies. Work is not an acceptable excuse for missing rehearsals or performances. Our schedule is announced far enough in advance to avoid conflicts. Parents, please make every effort to make regular doctor’s appointments around the band schedule whenever possible. Also, please be advised that participating in other extracurricular activities, schedules must be checked in advance and work with the director with any conflicts. Prior notice is the only acceptable notice! Students are responsible for arriving at each rehearsal and performance on time (early) and prepared (properly dress, instrument, and music ready). Parents are urged to see that their children take this responsibility seriously. Please read the following for excusable and inexcusable absences from a rehearsal or performance. Excusable Absences:
Inexcusable Absences:
I DO NOT GIVE GRADES! Each student is responsible to earn their grade. The point system following is used to determine the grade each student has earned. Course grades are based on attendance, participation, performance, rehearsals, practice, tests, and any outside assignments. Throughout each nine weeks the availability of points may differ. The grade is computed by taking the total number of points earned divided by the total number of points possible in each category and then each category is assigned a percentage of the final grade. Daily Work Habit 10 points per day (10%) Behavior 5 points Prepared 5 points
Music Progress (15%) Quizzes /Play Tests 50 points each Outside Assignments 50 points each Weekly Practice Records 100 points possible per week 120 minutes = 100 points 90 minutes = 80 points 60 minutes = 60 points 30 minutes = 40 points >120 minutes = Extra Credit with Play Test
Rehearsals (outside of class) 20 points possible (25%) Prepared 5 points Punctuality/leave early 5 points Attitude 5 points Behavior 5 points Performances 200 points possible (30%) Punctuality 50 points Prepared 50 points Attire 50 points Attentiveness 50 points Final Exam 100 Points possible (20%)
As with any performance-based class it is impossible to “make-up” classroom instruction time lost due to the nature of the ensemble-oriented instruction. Attendance plays a vital role in the success of performing with an ensemble and therefore is required of all members. If an absence is necessary, contact the director for any make-up assignment. It is the responsibility of the student to complete any make-up work in a timely manner. Absence from announced rehearsals and/or performances must be avoided if at all possible. There will be assignments available to make up the points missed at these events if the absence is excused; however this is in no way equal to the activities and interactions which naturally take place during ensemble rehearsals and performances. Again, it is the student’s responsibility to complete any requirements. Every effort for advanced notification of any absence from rehearsal or performance must be made in order for make-up work to be given for full credit. Make-up assignments will be accepted for unexcused absences from rehearsals and performances for partial credit. Make-up work may include
Eligibility for high school extracurricular activities is determined by regulations of the O.S.S.A.A. Scholastic eligibility for the beginning of each semester will be determined by the rules currently in effect. School policies will be enforced concerning grades and probationary issues. It is important that all members of the ensemble are present during any performance so that the balance, sound and consistency of the music does not change. Ineligibility hurts the ensemble as a whole and shows a lack of dependability to all the members. If a student has a grade that would create ineligibility issues, the student is required to seek tutoring or extra credit work to remedy the problem. Ineligibility will force a student to be absent from rehearsals and/or performances and will adversely affect their grade as this is not an excused absence.
The key to effective rehearsal… FOCUS Required equipment for marching band rehearsals:
Good Rehearsal Habits:
Water Breaks All students must have their own personal water bottle at all times during rehearsals. Water bottles should be clearly labeled and placed in a designated spot just off the practice field. At break time, each student will quickly go get water and return to rehearsal well hydrated and ready to continue. Water bottles are required. Long rehearsals in the hot sun are dangerous, and keeping fluids in the body is the best way to protect from heat exhaustion. Wearing sunscreen and a hat are also recommended. No one should share water bottles. Water breaks will happen every 20 minutes. Be prepared, hydrate quickly and move back to the practice field. At no time will a student be allowed to just sit on the sideline. Students will report to their section leader when leaving the practice field. Times off and on will be documented. Students abusing this, without documented notifications from a physician, will note a remarkable drop in their marching band grade.
Jogging and jumping jacks will be done at the beginning of every rehearsal. This will help to build endurance, because we are doing a physical show. “We are athletes from the waist down and musicians from the waist up”. If running/jogging is a problem then please see the director for alternative exercises.
Marching band uniforms will be issued by the uniform committee during band camp or at the beginning of the year. Uniform fitting will take place beginning with seniors and returning marchers. Marching shoes will be fitted at this time. The cost is $21.95. Uniforms will be kept at school in the uniform room. Uniforms are checked out prior to each performance and returned after each performance. The student is responsible for having uniform cleaned. The student can check the uniform out for the cleaning process, but is responsible to obtain uniform prior to performance. It is mandatory to have uniform cleaned prior to contest and check-in. It is recommended to have uniform cleaned as often as possible for hygienic or personal preference. The marching band shirt is the required shirt to wear under the uniform. Be sure to have it ready for all performances. It is advisable to wear shorts under the uniform pants. At no time should any clothing be seen from under the uniform. Black socks and marching shoes must always be worn with the uniform.
The proper concert attire is mandatory and is as follows:
Will not accept:
Any disregard towards the concert attire guidelines may result in removal of student from performance and may negatively affect the performance grade. It is a parent and student responsibility to obtain a proper concert uniform. If there are difficulties in finding a proper uniform, please contact the director for any ideas and possible solutions.
Uniform and instrument inspections will be held prior to each uniformed performance. These will be conducted by the band staff before each game and prior to loading bus for contest, and prior to performance at contest. Drum Majors will inspect section leaders who will then inspect their sections. All problems will be noted during inspections and reported to the Director who will then determine if the student will be allowed to perform. After the inspection, students may rent items if said item is available. The items will be returned immediately after the performance. Please refer to marching band uniform information and other areas for details on the marching band uniforms.
Contest, Festivals, and other adjudicated events are important elements of the Wewoka Band Program. It is through these activities that we obtain feedback about our progress as individual musicians and as an ensemble. Although, we never “live or die” by any one judge’s or panel of judge’s opinion of our performance, it is important that we learn the value of giving maximum effort and stand by the results as our best possible effort on that day. Competitive performances are packed with emotion. Because of the amount of time, work, and discipline required to produce an award-winning performance, we develop great camaraderie within the organization. We share hardship, discomfort, fatigue, heat, cold, disappointment, fears, tears, joys, and success. Along with these emotions goes a high level of tension which can often cause students to react immaturely, We learn to avoid these normal pitfalls and to channel our energy and attention toward the goal of performance, excellence, and the ultimate success that will follow. The Wewoka Band will stand with silent pride as scores are announced and graciously accept the results, regardless of outcome. We show our appreciation and respect for those who have earned the right to score ahead of us and gracefully accept our own successes. Many of our competitors will not understand that we are able to congratulate those who are ahead of us and appreciate their performance. These are the people who will not ever know the true reason for participating in a competition, but will mistakenly equate winning with coming in first. We will come in first when we deserve to, based on our performance. Until then, we know that “winning” is the state of every individual having endured the hardships, take the chance of competing, and have done their personal best in their own “commitment to excellence”. The bands image is based on each individual. Our public reputation is based upon our appearance, our actions, and our projection of pride. It is the responsibility of each band member, parent, and staff member to insure that we present the best possible image at all times.
The Oklahoma Music Educators Association Convention is held in the spring. This is one of a number of events designed to help individual students excel. Students may audition for the preliminary round and the All-District Honor Band (CODA). Students qualifying for the second round of All-State will audition for placement in an All-State musical organization. These honor groups are highly encouraged and the specific audition dates and clinic times will be provided. Solo and ensemble contest is held every year and students are encouraged to perform solos and participate in small ensembles of three or more as they choose or are assigned by the director. This is a preliminary round to the State Solo and Ensemble Contest, held later in the spring. Fees for all of these events will need to be subsidized by the student and parent. The band fund or booster organization will pay for large ensembles entered by the director. The band or booster organization will also help defray the individual student costs for participation in the All State Organization.
The Wewoka band travels frequently during the year, including out of town and possible out of state trips. Be aware that travel is very expensive and it is a privilege, not a right. The Wewoka band boosters provide help in transportation to all out of town events. In the occasion of an overnight trip travel plans and the itinerary will be distributed to all students and parents. Remember that all school district and band rules apply for the duration of the trip. Each time we travel we are representing the Wewoka school district, Wewoka High School, The Pride of Wewoka Band, and the Wewoka community. We will do our best to maintain a high standard of performance and behavior at all times.
BAND MEMBERS ARE EXPECTED TO BE AT THE RIGHT PLACE, AT THE RIGHT TIME, WITH THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT, AND READY TO GO ON ALL BAND TRIPS! ADHERING TO THE PRINTED ITINERARY IS VITAL FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE TRIP. ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT THE WISHES OF AN INDIVIDUAL NEVER OVER-RIDES THE COMFORT OF THE GROUP. BAND TRIPS ARE JUST THAT “BAND TRIPS”. DO NOT CONFUSE THEM WITH FAMILY VACATIONS WHERE PLANS MAY BE CHANGED ON A WHIM!
Traditionally the Wewoka band boosters host an Awards Banquet at the end of the year. The banquet is held to recognize the achievements, both individual and group, made by the Wewoka band throughout the year. Every student in band will receive some type of recognition at the banquet and all students and parents are urged to attend the celebration. Band Letters, merit Awards, and special recognitions are all a part of the banquet. Also, a special tribute to the senior class will be made.
Band Letters are earned through exemplary participation in band for the entire school year. In order to be considered for a Band letter, a student must be enrolled in band for the entire year. (color guard is the exception). Band Letter Criteria: · Remain academically eligible throughout the course of the school year. · Be currently enrolled and participate for an entire school year · Attend and perform ALL public performances. · Audition for CODA, All-State or other regional honor bands · Participate in Solo and Ensemble contest. · Maintain a positive attitude and work ethic throughout the entire school year. · Have no unexcused absences. For students that do not participate in honor band auditions and want to letter, please see the director for alternative service options. Jazz Band Lettering Criteria: Members must be currently enrolled in the Wewoka band program. Rhythm players may or may not be currently enrolled to satisfy the ensemble needs of the organization. Exceptions to policy will be made by the director only.
Color Guard Lettering Criteria:
Please remember that color guard participation has nothing to do with band lettering.
There is so much more to music than what can be covered in the classroom and all students are encouraged to take the concept of learning music to heart. With this in mind a new concept is being introduced this year and will be implemented into the grading system, lettering system and other areas over the next few years. Students can earn “stripes” by demonstrating to the director a mastery of musical concept, skill or technique. Students may earn as many stripes as they limit themselves. The skills in which a student may demonstrate mastery are listed below, but not limited by this list:
· Scales (major, minor, chromatic, pentatonic, blues, modes and arpeggios etc.) · Interval Studies · Articulation Techniques · Rhythm Techniques · Fingering Techniques · Sight Reading · Dynamic Studies · Memorization · Music Language · Music History · Music Improvisation · Music Theory · Music Composition · Music Arrangement · Music Analysis · Music Interpretation and Expression · Music Appreciation · Instrument History · Cultural Music Study
Drum Majors are selected by competitive audition each spring. They have duties in three primary areas: General - maintain a positive attitude throughout the ensemble - make comments when necessary – always listen to comments - be available to help with sectionals – volunteer often - keep close contact with staff and leaders - run leadership meetings when called upon - be responsible – know the show, fix errors (director first, self second) - know sets as they relate to measure numbers - be the example of an exemplary member – both on and off the field
Rehearsals - set up podiums prior to rehearsal - begin rehearsal in the morning – physical and musical warm-up - be prepared to conduct all warm-ups and show music - work closely with the percussion, primarily lead snare - be 20 minutes early to rehearsals - help teach drill during the learning phase - conduct as a show during coordination rehearsals - help identify problems and offers suggestions for solutions
Game Day/Contest - help with game day/contest inspection - warm-up band – get performance attitude and motivation going – put on performance face - Get band prepared to march to game/performance stadium and back to school or buses in block formation - Get the band moving from the stands to the field and back in formation - Be responsible for the performance of the marching band during games, parades, and competitions.
Marching Section Leaders Marching Section Leaders have these duties:
- tardy - on/off field check in/out
- music - instrument - coordinate chart - ear plugs - water bottle
- posture - hip switch - horn angles - toe height
- slides - hip switch - pivots
- uniform check - instrument check Color Guard Captain The Color Guard Captain is chosen by a popular vote from the other color guard members. The Captain’s general duties are:
- tardy - on/off field check in/out
- flags - props - coordinate chart - ear plugs - water bottle
- posture - choreography - jazz/ballet toes
- uniform check - equipment check
Concert Section Leaders Concert Section Leaders have duties in four primary areas: Communication
- expectations and standards – to include musical, visual and behavioral - relay schedule (sectionals, changes in regular schedule, on trips) - take attendance - confirm that members have all materials needed for rehearsal - rookie/vet alternation, change as necessary during section leader meetings - assist struggling members- assign tutors (rookie/vet system)
- weekly team meetings - communication with drum majors - communication with techs - immediate notification to the director when problems arise - immediate notification to the director when positive element needs attention
- leadership meeting attendance and sharing of ideas - identification of solutions to problems - willingness to listen and incorporate new ideas Education
- marching technique – cleaning and maintaining standard - tone quality- basic guard technique – basic stroke technique - intonation – maintain instrument adjustment – put them on meter
- standard of excellence – performance demeanor - music instruction and memorization - uniform and instrument inspection
Mentor (Role-model) - have a sense of humor - be approachable - be available for help or to aid in finding help - convey genuine interest in other members - practice what is preached – leaders live in a glass house - devote time to all members of the section – avoid favorites - help rookies become part of a social circle - be willing to spend extra time - be a servant
Provide A Vision - work effectively with the section - provide a vision and inspiring commitment and trust among the section - help to shape the identity of the section - help that identity fit into the ensemble as a whole
Music Leaders:
Student Leaders Student leaders are chosen by the director and students yearly. To be eligible, candidates must be full participants in the band program, exemplary in attitude, loyalty, dedication, and willing to give of their personal time for the betterment of the Wewoka Band. One of the primary responsibilities of the student leaders is the morale of the band. Student leaders will carry out policy of the band, director, the school, and administration to the best of their abilities. If a disagreement occurs with specific instructions from a student leader please avoid confrontation and discuss the problem with the drum majors and ultimately the director at the earliest convenience. Student Leaders cannot give permission to miss a rehearsal or performance, be tardy, or leave an event early. Student leaders should be positive and work towards the best interest of the Wewoka Band.
The Band Council is a special group of leaders within the band and they are chosen by their peers to serve for the entire school year. These students will naturally want to serve other band members. If a vacancy occurs in mid year a new student will be chosen by the director, drum majors, and existing council members. To hold the office of president you must have served as one of the other positions in a previous year and be a junior or senior. If there are no students who meet this requirement then the director can make an exception. The Band Council member’s responsibilities are:
President
Vice President
Secretary/Treasurer
Historian · Responsible for pictures and video of band events for end of the year slide show · Produce albums throughout year of different events · Display albums/posters at concerts for public relations · Produce a “year in review” album for band banquet · Motivate band members · Be an example of “Pride in Excellence”
All council members are responsible for: · Support Band Boosters in planning the Awards Banquet · Organize concessions and personnel · Assist in selection of outstanding achievement awards · Coordinate Coronation of Band Royalty
If at any time a council member fails to meet the responsibility of the office, then at the director’s discretion a member may be removed for a specified time or indefinitely. Music Librarian The Music Librarian is a student that is chosen by the director to assist in organization and maintenance of the music library the student must have exceptional organizational skills and has demonstrated mastery and understanding of concepts such as; score order, clefs, and instrumentation. This student will also need to be able to operate the copier.
The Music Librarian’s responsibilities: · Assist director with music distribution and copies · Pull music as the director requests · Make lost copies for students · Collect money for lost copies · File music after it has been distributed and performed · Maintain music library and catalog of it’s contents
Parents are an important part in the Wewoka Band program and have a vital role to play. Without the assistance and cooperation of band parents, there would be no chance to reach the level of performance in excellence we aspire. There are many things a parent can do:
- Assisting your child to be prepared and punctual for every rehearsal and performance. - Notifying the director if your child is to be absent or late for rehearsal or performance. This should be done in advance, except in emergency situations. - Encouraging your child to practice at home and help them find a quiet place to do so. - Showing your interest and support in your child’s music study by enthusiastically attending every performance possible. - Discussing with the director and staff anything that will help them understand and better serve your child. - Arranging for private lessons for your child if at all possible.
Color Guard parents are encouraged to be actively involved with the Band Booster organization during the competitive marching season.
As with any learned skill, music must be studied and practiced to gain mastery. Just attending band class, rehearsals and performances will not provide a musical knowledge foundation that will serve them as they mature in musicianship. Many skills of the musician are a part of muscle memory. Articulation, fingering, flexibility, control, instrument range, dynamic range, and many other aspects are all contributed to the body remembering what it feels like to perform a function. This comes with daily repetition of these functions and teaching the body to repeat them with consistency, accuracy, and control therefore converting them into skills. The more the body does these actions then the better the student can perform these skills when the music calls for them. With mastery of these skills it inherently cuts down on practicing a specific part of music due to its complex rhythms, fingerings, or any combination of other needed skills. Please take individual practice time as a serious and much needed skill building opportunity.
Daily Warm Up Tips and Techniques
This part of the daily practice is the most important part. Use great care! - Don’t play in the upper registers - Don’t play too low at first - Don’t play too loud - Don’t play too soft
Play in the middle register, mezzo forte and gradually extend the register and dynamics as the embouchure begins to respond with agility and flexibility.
Strive to master all skills of the instrument until proficiency and accuracy are achieved. Do not just spend time on a part that has been already mastered. Practice should focus on: - Increasing breathing capacity and support - Developing embouchure strength and flexibility - Increasing speed and strength of fingers - Developing articulation abilities Each day, attempt to strengthen the breathing technique and gain better control; attempt to strengthen lip muscles to gain endurance in playing (long tones are best); attempt to strengthen finger muscles for better dexterity and control (metronomes are a musicians best friend); attempt to strengthen tonguing muscles to gain control, evenness and speed (in this order… never speed first!)
- Range (especially brass) - Scales and Arpeggios - Interval studies (3rds, 4ths, and 5ths etc.) - Lip Slurs (brass) - Single/double/triple tonguing - Flexibility exercises - Long tones with crescendos and decrescendos - Sight reading skills
- Use a metronome - Warm up with the fullest and finest sound - Take great care to use all skills while practicing (practice like it is a performance) - Work on new skill mastery and refresh old skill mastery DAILY for retention (use it or lose it) - The longer the practice sessions are - endurance can be gained and built. - Learn and play tunes that are well known, to work on music awareness and intonation. - Difficult passages should not be practiced up to tempo. Decrease tempo, recognize and master the patterns and then increase tempo. Play the passage at least 3 times (in a row) without mistakes before moving on. - Remember that practicing one passage only helps with playing that one passage. By recognizing what makes the passage difficult and finding a skill that assists in gaining the needed ability to play that passage, then mastery is one step closer. - Practicing skills and working towards mastery will build the necessary foundation of great musicianship. - Have fun Private Lessons Private lessons are the key to developing an outstanding musical organization. Students that study privately in their instrument with a professional will often show rapid improvement in individual musicianship. As an individual improves, the ensemble improves. An improved individual musician gains excitement towards practicing and improves in the ability to contribute to the ensemble. The director can assist, if needed, in locating, selecting or obtaining a private instructor. Check references and screen a private instructor for best results. As with any investment… it should be a sound one. Private lessons are the key to individual excellence. Students with private lessons have a key to being selected in honor organizations and college scholarships. Start private instruction as soon as possible. Alternatives to professional instructors in individual instruments can be:
Please do not consider these alternatives equivalent to professional private instructors on individual instruments. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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