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MODERN BAND HANDBOOK
WELCOME
Welcome to the Mt. Hebron Band family. We are dedicated to the idea that performance is central to the training of musicians and we look forward to guiding your development. Please read the following information carefully. |
COMMITMENT
All performing ensembles are essentially group endeavors. Ensembles achieve musical successes through the collective efforts of their members. As such, no performing ensemble can successfully achieve its goals without a complete commitment to excellence from each member. Because of the performance nature of music and the team effort required to perform with an ensemble, it is imperative that students and their families realize that band is a commitment of time, money, energy and emotion. Each and every member of the ensemble is crucial to the success of the overall ensemble. This handbook is distributed by the Mt. Hebron Band and is designed to help identify the standards to which we collectively aspire.
All performing ensembles are essentially group endeavors. Ensembles achieve musical successes through the collective efforts of their members. As such, no performing ensemble can successfully achieve its goals without a complete commitment to excellence from each member. Because of the performance nature of music and the team effort required to perform with an ensemble, it is imperative that students and their families realize that band is a commitment of time, money, energy and emotion. Each and every member of the ensemble is crucial to the success of the overall ensemble. This handbook is distributed by the Mt. Hebron Band and is designed to help identify the standards to which we collectively aspire.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership in the Mt. Hebron Band Program requires one quality... ENTHUSIASM for Music and for Mt. Hebron High School. ALL students are accepted and are placed according to musical ability and aptitude. In some instances, players may be asked to play another instrument needed to make up the proper ensemble instrumentation. ALL Band Program members MUST be enrolled in a performing ensemble to participate
Membership in the Mt. Hebron Band Program requires one quality... ENTHUSIASM for Music and for Mt. Hebron High School. ALL students are accepted and are placed according to musical ability and aptitude. In some instances, players may be asked to play another instrument needed to make up the proper ensemble instrumentation. ALL Band Program members MUST be enrolled in a performing ensemble to participate
COMMUNICATION
Communication is a key component to our success. We will utilize several different methods of communication throughout the year.
Website - www.mthebronmusic.org
Communication is a key component to our success. We will utilize several different methods of communication throughout the year.
Website - www.mthebronmusic.org
- If you are reading this, you found it! This is where you will find information about the band program, including forms, handouts, audition materials, music, drill, etc. If you need something... it is here.
A BAND PHILOSOPHY
SYSTEM + SPIRIT = SUCCESS
The two most important attributes of a successful Instrumental Music Program are System and Spirit.
System is a way of doing things.
It represents the total structure of the Instrumental Music Program,
such as organization, procedures, activities, philosophies, teaching models, marching style, playing style, policies, etc.
Spirit represents how individual members react to the System.
It includes practice habits, attitudes, mental discipline, commitment, responsibility, dependability, hard work, etc.
Success is the result of good System and Spirit and produces its own by-products
such as pride, enthusiasm, loyalty, discipline, and dedication.
Success Breeds Success! Failure Breeds Failure!
Great organizations know and respect this!
The two most important attributes of a successful Instrumental Music Program are System and Spirit.
System is a way of doing things.
It represents the total structure of the Instrumental Music Program,
such as organization, procedures, activities, philosophies, teaching models, marching style, playing style, policies, etc.
Spirit represents how individual members react to the System.
It includes practice habits, attitudes, mental discipline, commitment, responsibility, dependability, hard work, etc.
Success is the result of good System and Spirit and produces its own by-products
such as pride, enthusiasm, loyalty, discipline, and dedication.
Success Breeds Success! Failure Breeds Failure!
Great organizations know and respect this!
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
Student Leadership is an important part of the MtH Band Program. Student leaders are selected from amongst their peers through collaboration with directors, staff and band members. A student must have been a band member for at least one year to qualify. Interviews are held each spring. Refer to the LEADERSHIP tab for more information.
Student Leadership is an important part of the MtH Band Program. Student leaders are selected from amongst their peers through collaboration with directors, staff and band members. A student must have been a band member for at least one year to qualify. Interviews are held each spring. Refer to the LEADERSHIP tab for more information.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
ALL STUDENTS will need the supplies listed below for all rehearsals.
- Pencil
- Instrument (clean & professionally maintained)
- "Tonal Energy" App (This is used as a metronome / tuner and should be available to students on a smart device in class.)
- GREAT Attitude
- Willingness to LEARN!
REHEARSALS
The success of the ensemble depends on the work and dedication of each and every member. We have established the following expectations in order to maintain discipline and achieve a quality that will reflect positively on every member of the ensemble, the music program as a whole, and the Mt. Hebron community.
What you can expect of us:
The success of the ensemble depends on the work and dedication of each and every member. We have established the following expectations in order to maintain discipline and achieve a quality that will reflect positively on every member of the ensemble, the music program as a whole, and the Mt. Hebron community.
What you can expect of us:
- We will be prepared for each class.
- We will arrive on time, and cover all material thoroughly.
- We will display professionalism and enthusiasm for teaching and music.
- We will reinforce basic through advanced skills required to be an outstanding musician.
- We will assist you in learning all aspects of music, including appreciation.
- You will adhere to all school guidelines as outlined in the HCPSS Student Handbook.
- You will be prepared for each class, having practiced your music at home. Class should be review and application of what has been worked on at home - not a substitute for practicing.
- Number all measures and mark your music using the system of notation presented at the beginning of the year.
- We will warm-up as an ensemble. Once you are settled, work on breathing, follow the directions of the staff and BLT and get mentally focused for rehearsal.
- Sit or stand as appropriate with good posture at all times.
- PODIUM PROTOCOL! - Do not talk while the conductor/Drum Major is on the podium unless instructed to do so.
- Stop playing immediately after a cut off and listen attentively for congratulations, corrections, or instructions.
- Be on time for every rehearsal/performance. (In your seat, mentally focused when class begins!) This include all materials as outlined in this handbook.
- Instruments and music go home every day!
- It is ultimately your responsibility to master the music. We will assist you, but mastery will involve true effort on your part. Do not settle for “good enough!”
- Respect your classmates and their belongings. Education is about teamwork. Do Not touch any equipment other than your own.
- Display professional behavior and dress in appropriate attire at all times.
- Act in a safe and respectful manner. Condescending or derogatory comments towards anyone in the program will not be tolerated.
- Bring a Great Attitude EVERY DAY!
- (PDA) Public Displays of Affection are not permitted while in uniform or while participating in a school related function.
- No food, drinks, or gum in the rehearsal rooms or performance spaces.
- No cell phone or electronics use during rehearsal. Exceptions will be made for the Tonal Energy App or Tempo App if we are working on this as an ensemble.
- The Rehearsal Room is not a locker room. Please keep all jackets, gym bags, lunches, etc. out of the Rehearsal Room.
- Play your best and actively participate in rehearsal. Always.
PERFORMANCES
Band is a performance based ensemble, as such, students will be required to perform throughout the year. All performances are announced well in advance and in writing. Attendance at ALL rehearsals and performances is EXPECTED. A musical ensemble is a team and a team is at its strongest when everyone is working together. Even if you feel you do not need to be present, the ensemble needs you!
A NOTE TO PARENTS:
Band is a performance based ensemble, as such, students will be required to perform throughout the year. All performances are announced well in advance and in writing. Attendance at ALL rehearsals and performances is EXPECTED. A musical ensemble is a team and a team is at its strongest when everyone is working together. Even if you feel you do not need to be present, the ensemble needs you!
A NOTE TO PARENTS:
- Allow plenty of time when attending concerts. Students will need to arrive well before the concert begins to set-up, warm-up, and tune. Typically, students should expect to arrive 60 minutes prior to the beginning of a concert. The audience will usually not be allowed into the performance space until 30 minutes prior.
- Please plan to stay for the entire concert, even if your student is done performing at the end. We want to teach our students to be courteous and respectful and this includes supporting our fellow musicians by being a great audience.
- Concert Etiquette requires that no one enter or leave the concert hall while a performance is in progress.
- So that others might enjoy the concert without distractions, there should be no flash photography, talking, eating, drinking, smoking or excessive movement while a performance is taking place. Cell phones should be turned off!
- Dismissal after a performance may take some time as we must clean the performance area and reset. We will dismiss the students as an ensemble once everything is in order. Please do not ask for special arrangements or put your student in the middle by asking them to ask us for special permission. We must approach this as a team...everyone working together for the good of the ensemble.
ATTENDANCE
Due to the performance nature of band and the team effort required to perform with an ensemble, it is imperative that students and their families recognize that music performance is a commitment of time, effort, energy, and emotion. Each and every member of the ensemble is crucial to the success of the ensemble! A performing ensemble is a collective endeavor; therefore we need everyone to be present at all rehearsals and performances. Unlike other classes in which one’s presence affects only him/herself, attendance profoundly affects the entire ensemble. For this reason, attendance at all rehearsals and performances is EXPECTED.
NOTE: Students involved in a performing ensemble recognize that they are making a primary commitment for the entire school year!
*HCPSS Policy 8090: Non-School Hour Participation Requirements for Elementary and Secondary Curricular Programs states that rehearsals and performances scheduled before, during, after-school, evening are required of the student participant and may be graded by the instructor.
The HCPSS recognizes the following as excused absences:
Since none of these can be foreseen, it is rare that a student will know in advance about an excusable absence. All other absences will be considered unexcused. With this in mind, we understand that extraordinary circumstances exist and must be taken into account. On some occasions, a planned absence may be excusable due to a situation that is beyond the control of the student and their family. Such absences will be excused at the discretion of the Director of Bands. Please contact the director in ADVANCE of the absence to discuss the situation.
The following guidelines have been developed to ensure maximum participation at ALL rehearsals and performances:
Athletic/Activity Conflicts
The Band Program often attracts those students with all around talent. HCPSS policy states that students participating in school athletics must split overlapping practice time equally and that if a performance and athletic event conflict, the curricular requirement takes priority. At Mt. Hebron, we seek a compromise between the two activities. Most conflicts will occur when after-school rehearsals are scheduled. However, both the teams/activities and the Band Program know schedules well in advance of any conflict. Therefore, as soon as a student joins a Mt. Hebron High School athletic team or activity, they should inform the Director of Bands (in writing), as well as their coach/sponsor. Any conflicts that arise from joining a team should be discussed immediately so that a plan of action can be developed. Most often these conflicts can be resolved through a compromise between the two commitments. I am happy to work with you to develop a schedule that allows you to be an active member of both the Band Program and the Athletic Program. Communication and Flexibility are key!
Due to the performance nature of band and the team effort required to perform with an ensemble, it is imperative that students and their families recognize that music performance is a commitment of time, effort, energy, and emotion. Each and every member of the ensemble is crucial to the success of the ensemble! A performing ensemble is a collective endeavor; therefore we need everyone to be present at all rehearsals and performances. Unlike other classes in which one’s presence affects only him/herself, attendance profoundly affects the entire ensemble. For this reason, attendance at all rehearsals and performances is EXPECTED.
NOTE: Students involved in a performing ensemble recognize that they are making a primary commitment for the entire school year!
*HCPSS Policy 8090: Non-School Hour Participation Requirements for Elementary and Secondary Curricular Programs states that rehearsals and performances scheduled before, during, after-school, evening are required of the student participant and may be graded by the instructor.
The HCPSS recognizes the following as excused absences:
- Serious Illness
- Death in the Family
- Required Court Appearance
- School Visitation
- Religious Observance
Since none of these can be foreseen, it is rare that a student will know in advance about an excusable absence. All other absences will be considered unexcused. With this in mind, we understand that extraordinary circumstances exist and must be taken into account. On some occasions, a planned absence may be excusable due to a situation that is beyond the control of the student and their family. Such absences will be excused at the discretion of the Director of Bands. Please contact the director in ADVANCE of the absence to discuss the situation.
The following guidelines have been developed to ensure maximum participation at ALL rehearsals and performances:
- A condition of membership in the Band Program is the ability to attend all rehearsals and performances. Students are expected to arrange their personal lives to accommodate this commitment.
- We respect the value of a previous commitment. Pre-existing conflicts should be communicated to the Director of Bands during the first week of school.
- Mt. Hebron academics sometimes hold field trips, retreats, and other educational activities. As we mutually support each other in all learning experiences, students will be excused for these experiences with proper communication. It is understood that every effort be made to schedule around your band commitments.
- Work conflicts are NOT excused absences.
- Lack of transportation is NOT an excused absence.
- Tardiness and early dismissals inhibit the progress of the ensemble. Please be on time and stay for the duration of rehearsal!
- Involvement in other musical activities can be an amazing experience. However, by making a commitment to the Band Program, the student agrees to fulfill their commitment before committing to another experience. Students should be careful not to over commit themselves.
- Academic success is a priority within the music program. As educators, we believe that school should be your number one priority. This may require sacrifices on the students’ behalf, including managing your free time and balancing your personal time. Homework is NOT an excused absence.
- Never assume a rehearsal or performance is canceled due to inclement weather. If you do not hear from us, please report as scheduled.
Athletic/Activity Conflicts
The Band Program often attracts those students with all around talent. HCPSS policy states that students participating in school athletics must split overlapping practice time equally and that if a performance and athletic event conflict, the curricular requirement takes priority. At Mt. Hebron, we seek a compromise between the two activities. Most conflicts will occur when after-school rehearsals are scheduled. However, both the teams/activities and the Band Program know schedules well in advance of any conflict. Therefore, as soon as a student joins a Mt. Hebron High School athletic team or activity, they should inform the Director of Bands (in writing), as well as their coach/sponsor. Any conflicts that arise from joining a team should be discussed immediately so that a plan of action can be developed. Most often these conflicts can be resolved through a compromise between the two commitments. I am happy to work with you to develop a schedule that allows you to be an active member of both the Band Program and the Athletic Program. Communication and Flexibility are key!
To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, to be late is to be a disruption!!
Every time a member misses an entire rehearsal or even part of one, it hurts the entire group!!
Every time a member misses an entire rehearsal or even part of one, it hurts the entire group!!
GRADING
MtH Modern Band is an extra-curricular ensemble experience. Student participation in optional, therefore students are making a primary commitment to this program when they agree to participate. Your motivation for active participation should be your commitment to the success of the ensemble.
MtH Modern Band is an extra-curricular ensemble experience. Student participation in optional, therefore students are making a primary commitment to this program when they agree to participate. Your motivation for active participation should be your commitment to the success of the ensemble.
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Fran Kick explains how MUSIC can be FUN...
If you are willing to put in the time! If you work hard... you get better... it becomes more fun! |
PRACTICING... aka HOMEWORK
This is always a tough topic to cover, but here goes... There is always homework if you are in a performing ensemble! We want your music experience to be fun, but it also requires a commitment of time, effort, and energy. So... We DO NOT use Practice Charts (Logs) to track student practice.
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Someone who practices correctly for one year will be a better player, than someone who practices incorrectly for five years.
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MUSIC
The school provides the music that the band uses. All marks should be made in pencil. |
INSTRUMENT CARE, SECURITY & IDENTIFICATION
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WHAT IS SUCCESS?
A placement, a score, or a rating never defines success within our program. Success is defined by our ability to grow as individuals by challenging ourselves beyond our current scope, achieving to our full potential, and achieving both individual and group goals that we set throughout the year.
RESPECT - Respect cannot be demanded or forced; it must be earned!! A successful Band Program member respects the values and contributions of their fellow musicians/performers, while consistently working to achieve their full potential. All Band Program Members should view themselves as EQUALS, regardless of their age or position.
SELF-IMPROVEMENT - There is no question that we all value people who are responsible, friendly, patient, positive, organized, sincere, talented, enthusiastic, consistent, and competent. We must become the kind of person that others admire. In all cases, this means that self-improvement is necessary. Self-improvement means objectively analyzing your strengths and weaknesses and then working diligently to improve your weaknesses, while maintaining your strengths.
MOTIVATION - We cannot motivate people! People motivate themselves, usually resulting from a positive or a negative experience. Success depends on each individual’s ability to motivate themselves in order to achieve their fullest potential.
A placement, a score, or a rating never defines success within our program. Success is defined by our ability to grow as individuals by challenging ourselves beyond our current scope, achieving to our full potential, and achieving both individual and group goals that we set throughout the year.
RESPECT - Respect cannot be demanded or forced; it must be earned!! A successful Band Program member respects the values and contributions of their fellow musicians/performers, while consistently working to achieve their full potential. All Band Program Members should view themselves as EQUALS, regardless of their age or position.
SELF-IMPROVEMENT - There is no question that we all value people who are responsible, friendly, patient, positive, organized, sincere, talented, enthusiastic, consistent, and competent. We must become the kind of person that others admire. In all cases, this means that self-improvement is necessary. Self-improvement means objectively analyzing your strengths and weaknesses and then working diligently to improve your weaknesses, while maintaining your strengths.
MOTIVATION - We cannot motivate people! People motivate themselves, usually resulting from a positive or a negative experience. Success depends on each individual’s ability to motivate themselves in order to achieve their fullest potential.
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CODA (a fancy music word for ending!)
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- You are beginning an unbelievable journey. Have a great time.
- You will face many challenges, but hard work, dedication, determination, commitment and heart will make the MtH Marching Unit a huge success. It is with people like yourselves that this organization was founded and continues to blossom.
- You are going to find that striving to be the best is not an easy task. There are long hours, frustration, and nit picking details. This however does not change our goal to be the best that we can be. We expect you to make a serious commitment. If you have decided to participate, we expect you to work hard and give everything that you have. Music will not be FUN all of the time. You will make a lot of new friends, and there will be good times and musical moments. There might even be times when practicing is the most fun you will ever have!?!?
- You will receive an education. Your talents will improve and other talents you were unaware of will begin to blossom. It WILL take hard work!! It is impossible to put into words all that our program has to offer you. We urge you to put all that you have into making this the best experience of your lives. Have a great year!!
To The Parents...
The MtH Band Program is an important part of the total school community. One of the greatest assets that a student musician has is a parent or guardian who is interested in the student’s success. Every member is expected to be the best person and best musician that they can be in order to foster the high standards that have been our tradition. You can help us guide your students to these goals by considering the following:
The MtH Band Program is an important part of the total school community. One of the greatest assets that a student musician has is a parent or guardian who is interested in the student’s success. Every member is expected to be the best person and best musician that they can be in order to foster the high standards that have been our tradition. You can help us guide your students to these goals by considering the following:
- Patience - Please (repeatedly id necessary) remind your child to practice. It is not unusual for your child to experience “slumps” in their practice routine. All of us have experienced times when we lack the self-discipline to do the things that need to be done. We need to be patient with ourselves and try to get back on track. Remember that practicing everyday means everyday, not just when it is convenient.
- Encouragement - Encourage your student musician through the ups and downs of the year. The nature of practice is working on something that you do not do well. This can be very frustrating. Encourage them to stick with it. In music, as in life, some things are learned easily, while others require intensive and repeated application. Parental understanding is critical.
- Imagination - "Imagination is more important that knowledge” - Albert Einstein. Knowledge is just the transfer of information, but imagination creates things that had no prior existence. Be imaginative in creating a musical atmosphere in your home. Tune in to interesting musical programs on the stereo and TV, invite friends who play instruments into your home, have students perform for you, have them record themselves. In short... make your home a haven for the arts.
- Exposure - Expose your student musician to as many diverse cultural events as possible. Make your home a place where all the arts are explored and celebrated.
- Praise - When you hear something good, praise your student musician for their good work. A little praise goes a long way.
- Criticize Carefully - Students often react negatively when they are told that they sound like a dying chicken. Although this may be done in a joking manner, the results could turn your child away from music forever.
- Never use practicing as a punishment!
- Common Sense is often not so common. Avoid undue stress. A balanced schedule of interests into which music and its practice fits as a natural element will pay big personal dividends. Help your student understand the importance of finding balance. Make practicing a regular and natural part of their daily routine and you will see huge leaps in music as well as pay-offs in their other subjects.
- Plan, Plan, Plan - Plan activities knowing that your child’s attendance is not only required, but imperative for the overall success of the ensemble. All dates are made available well in advance. Please make a point of including band activities into your long-term family planning by placing all band events on your calendar at the beginning of the year.
- Private Instruction - Nothing takes the place of a one-on-one teaching experience by a professional performer.
- Metronome/Tuner - Simple tools, but some of the most effective aids in becoming a better musician. Get the "Tonal Energy" App.
- Professional Instrument - Your student musician can only perform as well as their instrument will allow. Many times we lose sight of that fact, thinking that, “Little Johnny can play Uncle Fester’s old trumpet!!” This works, but nothing takes the place, and many times, nothing motivates a student like a shiny, new instrument. I would be happy to help you find an instrument that supports your child’s needs, and your financial situation.
- YOU! - The best thing that you can do for your child is GET INVOLVED. There is so much to do throughout the year that I am sure we can find the right place for you. Our organization relies on YOU to help us meet our goals. This is an exciting time in your child’s life and we want you to be a part of our journey.
