Check this page frequently for any new announcements for the ZHS Band Students

If you haven't already done so, please have your parent(s) complete the attached form and then return it to Mr. V or Mr. A.  Without this form being completed, you will not be able to go any activities off of the Zachary High School Campus. 

http://www.zacharyschools.org/Images/permissionforparticipation.pdf 

Band Students and Parents:

Welcome to one of the most exciting experiences in which you can be a part - the band!  Now, more than ever, we have information to justify why we participate in this demanding, yet rewarding, activity.  Experts have concluded that the study of music helps with spatial reasoning, test taking, and overall quality of life!  Factor in social skills, emotional development, leadership training, group interaction, aesthetic perception, music-making, and the discipline of being in a band program, and I don't know why anyone would not want to be involved in a successful band program like the one at our school.  The ultimate goal is a lifelong understanding and appreciation for high-quality music and music-making!

Everyone should read the information in the handbook, even veterans.  Some of the information has changed, so make sure you're informed.  For those new to the program, this is the "band bible," which keeps us running smoothly and efficiently.  Most questions can be answered by consulting the handbook and policies will be adjusted from year to year as the need arises to clarify issues within the program.  It is my hope that the information contained in this handbook will both inform and inspire!  The advocacy article "How Parents Can Help" is designed to give guidance to parents; read it carefully to gain important insights.  Students need to know we think what they do is important.  You will quickly find that band is truly a family in and of itself.

This past year was full of successes by our students.  It was also a time of transition as we have raised the bar of expectations for participation in our program.  As of this writing, we are looking ahead to some wonderful opportunities for the coming year such as:

Performing at a regional Marching Band Festival
Performing at the Northwestern State University Marching Festival
Performing at the Loyola Jazz Festival
Performing at State Jazz Festival
Performing at District Concert Band Festival
Performing at State Concert Band Festival
Performing on our spring trip (more info to follow)

We have renewed our commitment to develop student leadership as well as our private lesson program.  We have such tremendous potential in both areas.  I recently had a band director friend tell me that "In Zachary, you are doing your child a disservice by not providing private lessons . . . they will either quit or become uninvolved."

This handbook is designed to answer any questions you might have concerning the program.  Please read all of the information, and sign the form in the back of the book.  Once the form is signed, it should be returned immediately.  If a student fails to return a signed form, they will be excluded from all performances until the form is turned in.

 

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Band Policy

We firmly believe each student should improve through regular practice.  When the student has lost the will to improve him- or herself or to make a better contribution to the band, he or she is wasting the time and effort of fellow members and the community by continuing in the program.  The happiest student is one who improves through regular habits of practice and daily progress.  He or she must not only know right from wrong but must be able to stand for principles and develop a high sense of purpose toward which he or she is willing to work.  Responsibility is the focus behind any level of achievement within this program.  We intend to conduct ourselves in a manner that will facilitate the learning of all students.

Objectives of the Band Program

·         To teach music by its actual performance

·         To develop performance skills on the various wind and percussion instruments

·         To provide for the musical needs of the school and community

·         To acquaint the students with music theory/history and how history and musical composition relate to students’ lives and musical experiences

·         To provide all students with the opportunity for worthy use of their time, a means for self-expression, and a healthy social experience

·         To develop the ability to function as a responsible member of a group, enhance interaction, and develop esprit de corps

·         To foster leadership skills within each student

Band Course Offerings

Wind Symphony (list as “Symphonic Winds” on student schedules)

The Wind Symphony is the primary performing organization in the instrumental music department during the winter and spring.  The Wind Symphony will be comprised of students with the performing ability necessary to play grade 4 or grade 5 literature.  Membership will be made up of the strongest performers regardless of grade level and is determined through auditions in May.

Symphonic Band (listed as “Concert Band” on student schedules)

The Symphonic Band is comprised of students with the performing ability necessary to perform grade 2 and 3 music.  Membership will be made up of the strongest performers that are not in the Wind Symphony, and is determined through auditions in May.

Concert Band (listed as “Intermediate Band” on student schedules)

The Concert Band is comprised of students with the performing ability necessary to perform grade 1 music.  Membership will be made up of developing players, or students who are learning a secondary instrument.

Marching Band

Membership in the marching band is a requirement (students participating in athletic or spirit groups should check with the directors about their specific conflict).  The marching band is our most visible ensemble in the community, and therefore needs to be of the highest quality.  The marching band is not a separate class, so students learn the necessary music for marching band during their symphonic winds or concert band classes during the fall.  The halftime show is learned during after school rehearsals.

Jazz Band

Students who have an interest in jazz band are invited to audition during the spring or summer.  Membership is by audition only, and the number of students taken on each instrument is limited, so therefore only the best players will be taken.  Students who perform in the jazz ensemble have tougher load than other students because they have to learn marching, concert, and jazz music.

Chamber Ensembles

We will begin experimenting with brass quintets, woodwind quintets, and small percussion ensembles this year.  Please be patient as we explore this different genre of music.

Color Guard

Students who are interested in dance, choreography, and movement may choose to audition for our marching auxiliary unit.  The color guard is an extension of the winter dance program and is instructed by Mrs. Christine Granier.  Auditions are usually held in April.

Large Percussion Ensemble

All percussionists in the band program are enrolled in the percussion class.  Students learn basic fundamentals on all the percussion instruments and explore many styles and genres.

Summer Instruction

There are many reputable camps that students can attend for summertime music instruction.  If you are thinking about a music camp, please check with us so we can help you find the right camp for your son/daughter.

Private Lessons

As one might expect, private lessons on a musical instrument are the best way to improve performance skills.  The one-on-one approach allows the student to benefit from individual attention as opposed to being one in a class of more than fifty.  A recent survey of students in the All-State band revealed that approximately 80 percent of the students in that group studied privately.  Students are generally more inclined to practice diligently for a weekly music assignment, and this discipline increases the student’s enjoyment with the instrument.  The band director will be more than happy to assist in the selection of a private teacher.

All-State, All-District, and All-Parish Honor Band

Members of the band program are eligible to audition for the all-state, all-district, and all-parish honor bands.  The first round of All-State is held in September with the second round being held in October.  All-District and All-Parish auditions are both held in December.

Attendance Policy
Band members are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances.  Students should be on time for all band functions.  Band practices are every Tuesday and Thursday from 2:50 – 5:30.  We have attempted to list all performance dates on the calendar for the year, but some changes/adjustments might need to be made as the year progresses.

A.    Unexcused Absence from Rehearsal

An unexcused absence means an automatic zero for that day’s rehearsal.  If a doctor’s note is turned in, a student can be excused.  If a student reaches 3 absences (excused or unexcused), they will be removed from the halftime show and replaced by an alternate in good standing.

B.     Early Departures from or Late Arrivals to Rehearsal

An early departure is defined as anyone who leaves before the closing announcements.  A late arrival is defined as anyone who arrives after roll call is complete.  If a student accumulates 5 early departures, late arrivals, or any combination thereof, they will be replaced in the halftime show by an alternate in good standing.  Early departures or late arrivals will result in a deduction of 1 point per every 2 minutes late.  Early departures or late arrivals can be excused/made up on the spot by doing 3 push-ups or 3 sit-ups for every minute late.  Doing the sit-ups and push-ups are optional.

C.    Performance Absences

The only excused absences from performances will be for the following reasons and with the accompanying conditions:

1.      Previously approved school function – the band directors must approve you missing the band function to attend the other school function.

2.      Emergency or Serious Illness – must be accompanied by a doctor / hospital note.

If the above situations are not satisfied, the penalty will be an automatic zero for that performance as well as being placed on alternate status and travel privileges being revoked.

Grading Policy

Grades are assigned for the band class, rehearsals, and performances.

Tuesday Rehearsal                  25 pts.

Wednesday Playing Test        25 pts.

Thursday Rehearsal                 25 pts.

Class Participation                  25 pts. Per week

Performances                          100 pts.

Total per week                                    200 pts.

A.    Class Participation – 5 pts. Per day

1.      No instrument – zero for the day.

2.      Late to their seat in the set (not in seat when rehearsal starts) – loss of 3 pts.

3.      Minor disturbance (talking, gum, notes, out of seat w/out permission) – 1 pt. per offense.

4.      Major disturbance (repeated talking, disrespect) – zero for the day plus a writing assignment signed by the parent

B.     Playing Tests – 25 pts.

1.      Will occur each Wednesday during class time.

2.      May be scales, rhythm counting, passage from music, or memorization.

C.    Performance Policy

1.      Students must have 90% of the total points possible for the grading period before each performance in order to perform (not including previous performance).

2.      Students not eligible to perform due to points may make up the performance by completing a minimum 5 page (typed, double spaced, 12 point font) report on a topic that is assigned on the Thursday prior to the performance.  The report is due the following Wednesday.

Duties of the Band Member

·         Be on time to all rehearsals and performances. Early is on time – on time is late.

·         Upon entering the rehearsal setting, get your instrument, and go directly to your seat.

·         When the director or staff member steps on the podium, all talking should cease.

·         There should be no excess playing (noodling, screeching, etc.) Only good material.

·         At the end of rehearsal, put all materials in their proper place.

·         Maintain a strong academic standing in all course work.

·         Become responsible for and assume responsibility for your own actions.  Admit when you are wrong.

·         Have proper respect for yourself and those in authority.

Parents’ Responsibility to the Band

It is the responsibility of every parent and guardian to see that the policies outlined in the handbook are followed and that the form in the back is signed and returned.  This states that you understand the policies set within and that any questions are to be directed to the band director by making an appointment.  Each parent is responsible for the attendance of his or her child at all band functions.  It is the responsibility of each parent to see that the child practices his or her instrument daily.  The hands of the directors are tied without the help of the parents.

How Parents Can Help

When a band question arises, it is important that you get the factual information before discussing it with others.  We do more harm to ourselves, the band family, when we talk about things that contain one or more falsehoods presented as facts.  If questions arise, it is important to remember this axiom:  If it is a performance issue or anything dealing with the band proper, contact the band director.  If it is a fund-raising question or anything dealing with parent issues, talk to the booster club president.  Here are other ways parents can help:

·         Show an interest in the musical study of your child.

·         Arrange a regular time for your child to practice.

·         Find a quiet place where he or she can practice without interruption.

·         Listen to performances of practiced material when asked to do so.

·         Help the student keep a daily record of practicing.

·         Come up with a reward system for daily practice.

·         Keep the instrument in good repair, and keep at least three reed in the case; get a metronome!

·         Be extra careful with school owned instruments.  Repair costs are high!

·         Teach your child to be prepared and on time to each rehearsal or lesson.

·         Provide private instruction if your finances allow!

·         Make faithful attendance at all band activities important.

·         Make sure your son/daughter uses their student planner to write down dates and times for activities.

·         Keep the handbook in a safe place and refer to it often.

·         Notify the teacher if the student is going to be late for rehearsals or lessons.

·         Double-check to make sure students have their instruments.

·         Visit rehearsals occasionally.

·         Attend booster meetings, concerts, games, and festivals.

·         Turn in fund raising money on time.

Financial Obligations

Each student is responsible for paying a band fee.  This amount helps pay for budgeted operating expenses that occur during the school year, and does not include extra activities such as band trips.  Each student can participate in fundraisers that are scheduled and earn credit towards his/her band fee.  If more than the amount of the band fee is earned, then the student can apply it toward a trip (if there is a scheduled trip that year), or the student can carry that amount over into the next year.  If any student does not earn enough money from fundraisers, then that student is responsible for the remainder of the band fee.  Invoices will be sent out monthly and will designate what amount is still owed, as well as what amounts have been earned through fundraisers.

Uniforms

The uniforms will be issued on a prearranged day after band camp is completed.  In the event someone misses the fitting, they will have to make special arrangements with the director to have the fitting completed.  In addition to the uniform, raincoats, shoes, t-shirts, and gloves will be provided with funds obtained from band fees.  After each game, a designation will be made as to whether or not we are getting the uniforms cleaned.  If we are getting them cleaned, then they will go in 2 stacks on the floor (jackets and pants).  If we are not getting the uniforms cleaned, they should be neatly hung on the racks in the correct order.

Home Football Games

·         Report time is 5:45 for every home game.  If the boosters opt to offer pre-game meals, they will be served at 5:15.

·         Students are to be dressed in full uniform with instrument and flip folder at 6:00 p.m. for inspection by section

·         Warm-up will begin at 6:10 p.m.

·         Any student not present at the beginning of the inspection will be docked 2 pts. For every minute late.

·         Any student not passing inspection must make corrections before the warm-up begins or they will be docked 20% of the performance grade.

·         Students must wear the full uniform – no exceptions!

·         Students will be dismissed following announcements in the band room.

·         When marching to and from the stadium, the band will remain at attention.

·         All members are to remain in their section.  Any stands music not properly rehearsed and approved by the directors will not be played.

·         All members should be alert as to what is going on down front.  Be ready to react immediately to instructions given by the drum major or director.

·         If a student needs to make an emergency bathroom trip, they have to get permission from the director.

·         Always report to the band room for games even if the weather is band.  Decisions will be made based on the length and severity of the bad weather.

·         Ranks and Files should be kept neat during the games.

·         Hats and gloves can be placed on your right side when the drum major gives the command.

Away Football Games/Festivals

·         Report times will vary because of travel time

·         Inspection will begin 15 minutes after report time.

·         Students will report by section in band shirt, bibbers, black shoes, black socks, with coat, hat, and gloves in hand.

·         Upon arrival, students will remain on the bus until instructions are given

·         After being told to unpack, students are responsible for bringing their cases to the trailer.

·         At the conclusion of the performance, students are responsible for returning their instrument to the trailer.

·         Students will not be dismissed until all buses are clean, the trailer has been unloaded, all uniforms are stored as instructed, and announcements have been given.

·         Only students who meet the before mentioned performance point policy will be allowed to travel

·         Bus sign-up will be made available on Thursday (day before the game).

·         No changes or switches are allowed on the final bus list

·         Chaperones/Adults will be treated with the utmost respect.  They are not your roadies or personal servants – they are volunteers whose duty it is to see that you are safe!

·         Disrespect or disobedience toward a chaperone or other adult will be dealt with harshly (revoking travel privileges, automatic referral, TOR, or suspension).

·         Conduct on bus and at food stops will be the same as at school (voices low, no horseplay, all areas will be cleaned by students when we leave, and everyone will be treated with respect and courtesy).

·         Foul language will not be tolerated

·         If a conversation can be heard in the front of the bus, it is too loud!

·         There will be no hanging out or talking out of the bus windows.

·         There will be no throwing items out of the bus windows.

·         Keep the bus clean – pick up after yourselves, and always thank the bus drivers and chaperones.

·         Audible music is not allowed.  Everyone listening to music must have earphones.

·         When arriving at a destination, everyone will remain on the bus until the OK is given.

·         All sickness must be reported to the director no matter how minor it seems.

In Hotel Situations

·         Parents and students will be responsible for paying any incurred charges, including lost room keys.

·         Rooms are to be locked at all times.

·         There will be no one of the opposite sex in your room at ANY time.  Failure to follow this policy will result in the students in question being sent home at the parent’s expense.

·         No instruments will be played inside the room.

·         All school rules and policies are enforced.

·         No student is allowed to leave the hotel.  Any emergencies should be handled by the director / chaperones.

·         Rooming lists will be taken care of before departure and NO student will be allowed to change rooms.

·         Students may not leave their rooms for any reason after lights out / room check.

Concert Band Auditions

In May, band members are given a chance to audition for placement in concert ensembles.  Students are asked to play scales and a prepared piece.

Challenges

Any student who does not like their chair placement at the end of concert band auditions can choose to challenge.  There are a few rules they have to follow:

·         Obtain a challenge form from the director.  Fill out the form completely and return it to the director.  Both participants must sign the form.

·         The challenger and the person being challenged choose one piece of music and write the selection on the form.  Measure numbers or rehearsal letters should be furnished.  The music is chosen from those selections being prepared for the next performance, and should be sixteen measures in length.

·         The challenge will be held approximately one week or five school days after the challenge form is turned in to the director.

·         A challenger or challenge who loses must wait one week before submitting another challenge form.

·         A forfeiture will result if the person being challenged refuses to sign the form or if one of the participants is absent or tardy for the challenge.

·         In case of a tie, the players will remain in their original order.

Spring After School Practices

Spring after school practices start during January.  It is different from fall after school practices because no student should have to practice every day.  Each group practices one day per week after school.

Classroom Procedures

·         You must be in the storage room or in your seat when the bell rings; a downbeat will be given two minutes after the bell.  During the two minutes beforehand you should move to your seat; obtain music, a music stand, and a pencil; and begin warming up for the day’s rehearsal.  Make sure you have extra reeds.  Percussionists should set up all equipment and music during the warm-up.  Announcements will be made at the end of class.

·         Talking will not be tolerated during a rehearsal.

·         The purpose of the rehearsal is for you to learn the parts of others and how they relate to yours, not to learn your individual music!

·         If you must leave your seat for any reason, please ask.  Restroom breaks should be taken between classes.

·         In your individual warm-up, it is important to practice long tones, lip slurs, scales, and that day’s assignment on a daily basis.

Materials Needed for Class

Each student should have the following items in class every day:

·         A sharpened pencil

·         Instrument (sticks, mallets)

·         Music and folder

·         At least 3 reeds (clarinets and saxes) and water bottles (trombones)

·         At least 2 reeds (oboes and bassoons) and water canisters for soaking

Scholarships

There are a wide variety of scholarships available for both music majors and non-music majors on the collegiate level.  Many universities grant partial scholarships or a one-time scholarship to students who simply agree to play in an ensemble, and some will waive out-of-state tuition.  Ask for information in the band office, and we will do all that we can to help in your future endeavors.

School-Owned Instruments

Each student who uses a school-owned instrument is completely responsible for the care of the instrument.  If an instrument is damaged due to negligence, the student is responsible for the entire cost.  An instrument check-out form must be filled out and on file with the director.

Use of the Band Facility

Band Room

The use of the band facilities before, after, and during school is a privilege.  Students who abuse the facility will be disciplined accordingly.  Any abuse or damage will be considered vandalism.  No outside students are permitted in the band room, except for business with the director.  There will be no horseplay, e.g., throwing things in or around the band room. All percussion and guard equipment is off limits to anyone not specifically designated to use them.  There will be no storing of personal items – the band room is not a locker!

Practice Rooms

·         Rooms are to be used for practice sessions and not “bull” sessions.

·         Food and drinks are not permitted in practice rooms.

·         Instrument cases and book sacks should not be taken into practice rooms.  This will keep the room from getting too crowded and will help eliminate scars or marks on the walls.

·         One or two people are allowed in a practice room at a time.

·         Small groups should use the ensemble practice room.  Three to eight people are allowed in an ensemble practice room.

Library, Band Office, Phone

The library is private and is to be used only by the library staff.  Materials may be checked out through the librarian; this includes solos, ensemble pieces, and etude books.  The band office is private and is not to be entered by any student without permission from the director or a staff member.  All students should keep in mind that this is a place of business. If the door is shut, then knock first.  Telephone use should be kept to a minimum, and is only available after school.  Ask permission before using the phone.

Lettering in Band

Students can letter in band through a point system.  Students have to accumulate 25 pts. In order to letter.  Points are awarded as follows:

25 pts.             All-State Honor Band

10 pts.             National Honor Band

10 pts.             Sweepstakes at State Festival

5 pts.               Sweepstakes at District Festival

4 pts.               Superior Concert at State Festival

4 pts.               All-South Honor Band

3 pts.               Louisiana Youth Orchestra

3 pts.               All-District Honor Band

2 pts.               Superior Sight Reading at State Festival

2 pts.               All-Parish Honor Band

2 pts.               Superior at Marching Festival (per group)

2 pts.               Superior at Jazz Festival

2 pts.               Superior Concert Performance at District Festival

1 pt.                 Southeastern University Honor Band

1 pt.                 Every 3 hours of Private Lessons that are verified with the teacher

1 pt.                 Superior in Sight Reading at District Festival

1 pt.                 Every football game where a student performs halftime/postgame

Percussion Accessories

Each percussionist should have the following materials as specified by the director:

·         A pair of general snare sticks

·         A pair of general timpani mallets

·         A pair of yarn mallets

·         A stick bag

Instrument and Mouthpiece Upgrades

Mouthpieces

Clarinet           Van Doren

Saxophones     Selmer C*

Trumpet           Bach 5C, Bach 3C, Bach 1 ½ C

Horn                Schilke 32

Trombone        Bach 6 ½ AL, Bach 5G, Bach 4G

Tuba                Helleburg 1208

Instruments

Piccolo            Yamaha YPC62 (concert band)

Flute                Yamaha 684H

Clarinet           Buffet R-13

Saxophone       Old Selmer Mark VI or Yamaha Custom

Trumpet           Bach Stradivarius

Trombone        Bach 42BO, Edwards

Method Books

Flute

The Art and Practice of Modern Flute Technique by William Kincaid

Eck Method for Flute by Emil Eck

Exercisis Journaliers – Flute by H. Altes

Rubank Intermediate Method for Flute by A.C. Petersen

Rubank Advanced Method for Flute by Himie Voxman and William Gower

Selected Studies for Flute

Clarinet

Forty Studies for Clarinet Book I by C. Rose

Klose’s Celebrated Method for Clarinet by Hyacinthe Eleonor Klose’

Melodious and Progressive Studies by David L. Hite

Rubank Advanced Method for Clarinet by Himie Voxman and William Gower

Rubank Intermediate Method for Clarinet by J.E. Skornicka

Selected Studies for Clarinet

Oboe

Barrett Oboe Method by A.M. Barrett

Fifty Classical Studies for the Oboe by Gunther Joppig

Practical and Progressive Oboe Method by Albert H. Andraud

Rubank Advanced Method for Oboe by Himie Voxman and William Gower

48 Famous Studies for Oboe and Saxophone

Saxophone

Rubank Advanced Method for Saxophone by Himie Voxman and William Gower

Rubank Intermediate KMethod for Saxophone by J.E. Skornicka

Thirty-five Melodious and Technical Exercises: Saxophone by D. Gatti

Universal Method for the Saxophone by Paul de Ville

48 Famous Studies for Oboe and Saxophone

Trumpet

Arban’s Complete Conservatory Method by Jean-Baptiste Arban

Daily Drills and Technical Studies for Trumpet by Max Schlossberg

Rubank Advanced Method for Cornet or Trumpet by Himie Voxman and William Gower

Rubank Intermediate Method for Cornet or Trumpet by J.E. Skornicka

Technical Studies by Herbert L. Clark

Selected Studies for Trumpet

Horn

First Book of Practical Studies for Cornet and Trumpet by Robert W. Getchell

Lyrical Studies for Horn  by Giuseppe Concone

Rubank Advanced Method for French Horn by William Gower

Rubank Intermediate Method for French Horn by Joseph Skornicka

Sixty Studies forHorn (two volumes) by G. Kopprasch

Trombone/Euphonium

Arban’s Famous Method for Trombone by Jean-Baptiste Arban

Daily Drills and Technical Studies for Trombone by Max Schlossberg

Melodious Etudes, Books I and II by Joannes Rochut

Method for Trombone/Euphonium by Herbert L. Clark

Rubank Advanced Method for Trombone or Baritone by Himie Voxman and William Gower

Selected Studies for Trombone

Selected Studies for Baritone (Bass Clef)

Selected Studies for Trumpet/Cornet (Treble Clef)

Rubank Intermediate Method for Trombone or Baritone by J.E. Skornicka

Tuba

Rubank Advanced Method for Tuba by J.E. Skornicka and E.G. Bolz

Rubank Intermediate Method for Tuba by Himie Voxman and William Gower