| Statement of Policy | Dates of Importance | The Total Effort | Band Curriculum | Structure | Marching Band Camp Information | Rules for all Band Practices | Attendance Requirements | Band Uniforms | Band Booster Club | Fees and Expenses | Policies | Acknowledgement |

Now Available!!!  The 2010 - 2011 handbook.  Get your copy today!

The handbook:
 
Handbook in RTF - Rich Text File (editable in MS Word)
Handbook in PDF - Portable Document File (to download, right click: "save target as")

Additional Forms included with the band packet:

Band Camp Information Sheet

Medical Information and Medical Release Forms - DUE Monday, July 26. 2010

Band Member Information Sheet - DUE, Friday, July 30, 2010

Band BBQ Information Sheet and Order Form - DUE Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Parent T-Shirt Pre-Order Form - DUE Friday, August 6, 2010

UT Concessions Information Sheet and Sign-Up Form - DUE Friday, August 6, 2010

FHS Football Season Passes Information Sheet

Volunteer Sign-Up Form

FARRAGUT HIGH SCHOOL

MARCHING & CONCERT BAND INFORMATION HANDBOOK

                                                                             

2010-2011

 

www.farragutband.org

 

 

Farragut High School Band Staff

 

Ron Rogers, Director of Bands

RRogers886@aol.com

 

Michelle Lewis, Assistant Director

MLewis@farragutband.org

 

Larry Danner, Farragut Middle School Director of Bands

 

Kathy Sullivan, Farragut Middle School Band Director

 

Chris MacTavish, Farragut Middle School Band Director

 

Steven Rodgers, Marching and Concert Percussion Coordinator

Metricmodulation@hotmail.com

 

Leslie Bledsoe, Fall and Winter Guard Instructor/Coordinator

 

This handbook has been developed from a number of sources and is provided for the students and their family’s general information. Changes to this handbook may be made during the school year by the Band Directors of Farragut High School, Farragut High School Administrators, Knox County Administrators, or the Farragut Band Boosters. All of these changes will be communicated through the web page, meeting minutes, emails or letters prepared at the direction of the Band Directors.

 

After reading the following pages, if you have any questions concerning our program or need additional information, please feel free to contact Ron Rogers at the Farragut High School Band room (671-7135) at your convenience.  Mr. Rogers’ office hours for the summer are from  5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. on Thursday evenings.  As always, these hours will likely increase as band camp approaches.  If Mr. Rogers’ office hours change/increase, this change will be noted on the band’s website.

Statement of Policy

 

 

We firmly believe that the student should improve through regular practice. Farragut High School Band students must develop a high sense of purpose toward which they are willing to work. We feel that when the student has lost the will to improve himself or make a better contribution to the band, he is wasting the time and the efforts of the school, his fellow students, and the community by continuing in this program.  Responsibility is the focus behind any level of achievement within this program. We intend to conduct the Farragut High School Band in a manner that will facilitate all students in learning and bettering themselves. Students should take pride in their achievements, putting forth the extra effort needed in order to attain and maintain this goal.

 

 Keeping Everyone Informed and Up-to-Date: Handling Forms

 

Students are responsible to take home forms they receive from band staff and band boosters. These forms should be filled out in a timely manner and returned as soon as possible to the designated area in the band office - The “Blue Tub”.

 

Many of the forms will continue to be on our band’s website at www.farragutband.org.  Very few forms are being sent/mailed home with students.   This, among other things, has continued to help us to save money on postage.  Many of these forms are also often available at the booster meetings. Several of the forms that must be turned in throughout the year can be found included in this packet as well as the last pages of the handbook.

Dates of Importance

Farragut High School Band

2010-2011 Required Events

**Locations of Marching Band Contests will be announced at a later date**

*Each of the bands will also be participating in concert festival during the spring. As soon as we decide which festival the groups will enter, we will pass the information on to the students and parents.

ALL DATES AND TIMES ARE TENTATIVE

More information on all of the above dates will be passed to the students and families as the events approaches.

The Total Effort

 

 

In order for the Farragut Band to be the best in marching, concert, and color guard we must behave according to what we know is correct, foregoing the luxury of making excuses or letting problems go unresolved. Marching, playing, and performing problems are going to occur in every rehearsal. The manner in which they are corrected will show in our performance on the field and on the stage.

 

The band staff (including student leadership, parents/guardians, and instructors) will respond to all band members fairly and courteously. If things go wrong, devote your efforts to trying to remedy the situation, rather than deciding who is at fault. Rehearsals will move smoothly and efficiently if we decide to work together toward that common goal.

 

Each band member is blessed with common sense and intelligence. Do not hesitate to communicate with the staff!  Good communication is a vital ingredient in the promotion of a good attitude among team members.  So…speak up!  However, communication is a two-way street, so be prepared to listen as well.

 

Direct your marching, playing, and performing problems to any of the teaching staff during rehearsals. This is the time to correct any problems. Any other problems can be resolved in the Band Office at another time.

 

Everything you do becomes a vital element in the success and character of our performances. Your total concentration during rehearsals and performances will insure precision marching and playing befitting our organization. You will begin each performance as well prepared as humanly possible. Always add that final touch of mental alertness that can make your performance great. Do not sell yourself short or insult the band’s integrity by doing anything less.  

Band Curriculum

 

 

The Band Program is comprised of various groups and numerous opportunities to explore the area of music. They include:

 

-All-State East and All-State Band - Members of the Farragut Band program (registered in concert band classes) are eligible to audition for the East Tennessee School Band & Orchestra Association’s All-State East Bands and Clinic. Auditions are held on the second Saturday in January at an East Tennessee High School. The All-State East clinic and concert is held the first full weekend in February in Gatlinburg at the Park Vista Hotel and Convention Center.  Students that place at or near the top of the All-State East auditions are eligible for the All-State Band.  The All-State Clinic and Concert is held in either March or April in Nashville.

 

- Chamber Ensemble- All band members will be strongly encouraged to form and perform in a small ensemble (Jazz Band, Solos, duets, woodwind quintets, brass quintets, etc.). Performances might be held during class time, as incidental music prior to or between bands at concerts, or for Booster Club meetings. Students are encouraged to hold additional rehearsals after school. The chamber ensemble program will help develop musicianship in the areas of precision, intonation, and individual responsibility for team efforts. Students are also encouraged to participate in conjunction with the Solo and Ensemble Festival held in the spring.

 

-Color Guard - Open to all current and incoming Farragut High School students. In the fall, this group is the "visual interpretation" of the marching band. Auditions are held each year in either April or May.

 

-Marching Band- Fall Semester only.  Attendance will be taken and a grade will be given based on participation and performance requirements. This includes all performances and outside competitions.  Marching band is a 180-member group that includes woodwinds, brass, percussion and color guard. This group performs at all football games and at various marching contests. 

 

-Solo and Ensemble Festival - Students in the Farragut Bands are offered the opportunity to perform for ratings and comments at the Middle Area portion of the East Tennessee School Band & Orchestra Association’s Solo/Ensemble Contest at West Valley Middle School.

 

- Concert Band - Second performing concert ensemble.  Membership is by audition only.  Students enrolled in Concert Band must audition for the bands during the November audition times (please refer to the schedule of events at the beginning of the handbook.)

 

-Symphonic Band - First performing concert band.  Membership is by audition only.  Students enrolled in Concert Band must audition for the bands during the November audition times (please refer to the schedule of events at the beginning of the handbook.) 

STRUCTURE

The instrumental music department at Farragut High School actively supports music education through classroom instruction and performance.  The band program follows an instrumental music curriculum that is approved by Knox County Schools and the State of Tennessee.  Performance is the reward of the principles of music education provided through this curriculum.   

Marching Band will be offered during the fourth block.  Marching Band will meet from 2:00pm until 3:30pm each and every day.  Students selecting band in their schedule of classes participate in either marching or concert bands or both (which we definitely prefer).  The Marching Band is active during the fall with performances at all home and away Farragut High School varsity football games, select local parades, and three marching band contests/festivals.  In order to prepare for the active marching season, the band schedules two weeks of pre-school rehearsals, which we call band camp.  (Complete information on these two weeks is in the Band Camp section of the handbook.)

During the marching season, there will be one scheduled after school marching rehearsal each week for the Marching Band.  These rehearsals will be held on Thursday afternoons during the entire football season.  The rehearsals will begin the first full Thursday that we are back in school and last until the final contest.  These rehearsals begin each Thursday afternoon at 4:00 P.M. and last until 6:00 P.M.   In the event of inclement weather, practices will be moved into the band room.  Unless announced, rehearsals will never be canceled because of bad weather.  There will be an additional rehearsal one afternoon per week for our guard and percussion section members.  This day will be decided upon at a later date.  There may also be additional sectional rehearsals called for individual sections.  There will always be ample notice given for students to arrange schedules.  If a student is unable to attend a called sectional rehearsal, he/she must talk to one of the directors so that advance notice can be given to the instructor of that sectional rehearsal.

Our concert band auditions will be held during the second week in November.  The Woodwinds will audition on Tuesday, November 9^th.  The Brass and Percussion will audition on Thursday, November 11^th.   The materials for the concert band auditions will be distributed approximately one month before the audition date.   These materials can also be downloaded and printed any time the student would like. 

All students, regardless of first semester only, second semester only, or both semesters are required to audition at this time.  It is the responsibility of those students not electing to march to stop by the band room periodically during the first semester to make sure that they have all pertinent materials, as well as to submit their names for All-State East and other honors bands. Next school year, just as this past year, we are planning to have two concert bands.  The first band is called the Symphonic Band; the second band is called the Concert Band.    Both groups will continue to meet during the fourth block.  The Band Directors and the student’s auditions determine instrumentation for the groups.  The Symphonic Band studies and performs the most difficult level of music available.  The Concert Band studies and performs music that is less difficult, but challenging nonetheless.  A superior level of performance is expected from each group.

We will once again be continuing our old method of concert auditions for this upcoming year.  We will be bringing local music educators to our school to hear each student’s audition. The local music educators that we bring for the auditions will not be familiar with any of the students that they will be auditioning.  Therefore, the audition will remain completely impartial.   These tryouts, as in past years, will consist of three separate parts:  Prepared piece, scales, and sight-reading.  The students will receive the prepared piece they will be required to perform approximately one month prior to the audition date.  The student may choose either the junior clinic prepared piece to perform or the senior clinic prepared piece to perform.  The senior clinic prepared piece, which is more difficult, will be evaluated out of a possible 100 points.  The junior clinic prepared piece, which is less difficult, will be evaluated out of a possible 50 points.  If any students are enrolled in second term only, they will need to pick up their audition music in the band room (see above regarding audition dates). 

 The audition requirements and scoring are as follows:

Senior Clinic Prepared Piece		100 points
Junior Clinic Prepared Piece		50 points
Scales
	Concert C	10 points
	Concert F	10 points
	Concert G	10 points
	Concert D	10 points
	Concert B Flat	10 points
	Concert E Flat	10 points
	Concert A Flat	10 points
	Concert D Flat	10 points
	Chromatic	20 points
Sight-reading
	Piece #1	50 points
	Piece #2	50 points
Total Possible Points		300 points

Students will be able to amass extra points by performing the following four scales, each worth ten points: Concert G Flat, Concert E, Concert A, and Concert B.

Bonus Points for being enrolled in band both semesters 10 Points

Total Possible points (including the four extra credit scales) 350 Points

The first eight scales listed above will be required for each student to perform.  A student will not receive a grade in band until that scale has been performed.  The director will know if this scale has been performed by the judge’s assigned score for that scale.  The students must score 4.0 or better on the required major scales to pass that scale.  The students must score an 8.0 or better on their chromatic scale to pass this scale.  If the scale is not performed during auditions, the student must perform that scale for the band director before the end of the semester (or year if the student is taking both semesters).   

The placements for the concert bands will be held after school on the dates mentioned above.  Once again, we will bring in band directors/music educators/musicians from outside our area to listen to and evaluate the placements.  It is in this way that these auditions can be absolutely impartial.  Neither the staff nor directors will have any say in the scoring of any student.  It is from this placement that the instrumentation of the different concert groups will be determined.

 There will be three concerts given at Farragut High School this year for the parents and community.  There is no admission charge for the public to these concerts.  These concerts require mandatory attendance from each member of the band.  An unexcused absence from a performance by a band member will result in a 20-point deduction from a student’s final semester average.  In addition, the concert groups almost always participate in the East Tennessee School Band & Orchestra Association's Concert Festival or a comparable concert festival in the area.  These festivals are always held in either March or April.  Attendance is also mandatory for each of these events.  We will always give the band students/parents ample time to prepare their schedules for these events.

MARCHING BAND CAMP INFORMATION

 

Dates of Band Camp:  July 26^th- August 6^th   (2 weeks)

 

All Marching Band members will meet in the Farragut High School Band Room from July 26- August 6, 2010.  All band members are expected and required to attend all practices and rehearsals.  Any students unable to attend any of these practices should notify the band office immediately.  Any student that misses a portion of band camp may exclude themselves from a position in the marching band or may find themselves considered an alternate.  If a student is unexcused from a rehearsal or performance or displays an attitude or behavior which is detrimental to the program, the director(s) will have the option of making that student an alternate. 

 

We, once again, will hold our band camp at Farragut High School.  We will have a band dance one night of the camp, as well as our usual Band Camp Performance on Friday evening, August 6^th.  We will have a catered picnic by Buddy's Barbecue for all the students and families immediately before the performance of the show.  All band students will wear their SUMMER UNIFORM for the Friday performance at Band Camp.  The Marching Band will wear the summer uniforms during the first two or three games when the weather is so warm.  The Summer Uniform is our warm weather wear which consists of Navy shorts (no cutoffs or denim please), dark belt, white socks, tennis shoes, and a "summer uniform shirt"  (the cost of which is included in the band cost). 

 

During the weeks of Band Camp, students learn marching fundamentals, special performance techniques, and a major portion of the marching show, and they become acquainted with the major portion of the music to be played during the fall production.  During these weeks of rehearsals, the band will meet three times each day.  The first rehearsal of the day will be held from 9:00 A.M. until noon.  Because this is a cooler part of the day, the band will rehearse outside and work on marching techniques.  These rehearsals will alternate between full band and sectional rehearsals.  The afternoon sectionals session will begin at 1:30 P.M. and conclude at 3:30 P.M.  Because this is the warmest part of the day, the group will stay inside and work on music only.  These rehearsals will also alternate between full group and sectional practices.   The band will then report back to school for an evening marching session.  These rehearsals will begin at 6:00 P.M. and end at approximately 9:00 P.M. 

 

The success of any organization is relative to the cooperation and attitude of the members of that organization.  It is essential that all band members accept and follow the rules, regulations, and operational procedures as planned by the directors.  The attitude development of the high school band member through successful group performance is a positive contributing factor to the mental and emotional growth of each and every student.  This may be truer in fine band programs than anywhere else. 

 

During the two weeks of Band Camp, the students are welcome to stay at the school between rehearsals if they so desire.  The directors will be there all afternoon.  If students plan to walk across Kingston Pike for lunch, parental instructions on personal safety are requested.  Students may prefer to commute for lunch or may prefer to bring a "sack lunch" from home.  Cold drinks will be available from the drink machines in the school building. 

 

The major objective of Band Camp is to prepare the student for the remainder of the marching season.  As stated earlier, fundamentals of playing and outdoor performance will be stressed.  Conditioning is an important factor in marching band.  Students should prepare during the summer by participating in regular outdoor activities. (Tennis, swimming, jogging, etc.)  Any activity that requires some exposure to the sun will be helpful.

 

Although Band Camp is very hard and focused work, there are also fun times - eating together, a dance night, visiting each other’s homes during free times, making new friends, etc. These are weeks your child will look forward to, and we assure you they will never forget. Please plan carefully around our band camp. Dentist and doctor appointments should be avoided during this time. Also, remember that the marching field is a classroom! Please do not come to the field expecting to talk to your child unless it is an extreme emergency (although you are always welcome to come, watch, and enjoy!!).

RULES FOR ALL BAND PRACTICES

 

1)         Students driving automobiles to rehearsals will leave them parked during the tenure of the rehearsal. Students will be allowed to drive to the close restaurants/stores during meal breaks.  Our band parents will also have Gatorade, water, cold towels, snacks, etc. prepared for the students to partake during rehearsal break time.  The band staff and/or school assume no responsibility for student-operated vehicles on campus. Parents should instruct students on safety and liability relative to the operation of their vehicle. 

 

2)         Students who refuse to comply with the driving regulations listed above will be removed from the band.

 

3)         Rehearsals will begin promptly at the designated times and will end at the designated     times.    All students should be punctual to all functions.  Punctuality is always expected of the students.  Responsibility and reliability are two signs of great organizations.

 

4)         All students are expected to bring proper materials (Horns, reeds, sticks, valve oil, etc.) to each and every rehearsal.  The directors cannot be responsible for this. 

 

The failure to follow these rules for band practices could influence the student's position within the organization.     

 

Once again, please read the following statement:

 

If there are any students unable to attend a week of band camp, there is the very definite possibility that he or she may not be used at all during the marching season.  I hope this illustrates the importance of everyone being present at camp weeks.

 

These weeks of Band Camp provide an opportunity for students to become members of the "band family".  The disciplines and training the students receive from the Band Camp experience are a contributing factor to good character, independence, and responsibility.  The self-image concepts are very important to the development of the high school student as well as the young person.

 

The students are supervised by band parents and a professional staff of musicians.  The camp music staff (selected by the band director) consists of skilled professionals who have had experience in training and teaching young band students.  There are more than an adequate number of staff members that accompany the band each year to Band Camp.  The parent chaperones also help provide the necessary supervision and provide medical attention, if needed, during rehearsals.  The staff members are always available if and when they are needed.

 

Band Member Duties

 

1.         Band members are to be on time to all rehearsals, sectionals, and performances and announced meeting times. This means arriving BEFORE the scheduled time, because:

 

Early is on time - on time is late.

 

2.         Pride and responsibility should be reflected in your attire and in your behavior. Your selection of clothing often sets the pattern for your behavior. We require students use good judgment and modesty in selecting attire. Be clean, neat, and dressed appropriately.

 

3.         Maintain a strong academic standing in all other course work at school.

 

4.         Make a real effort to learn and improve daily.

 

5.         Become responsible for, and expect to assume, the consequences of your actions.

 

6.         Follow all classroom rules, school regulations, and all travel instructions issued for     trips.

 

7.         Be honest and fair with others concerning equipment, music, and school life in general.

 

8.         Cooperate with fellow members and share with them the responsibilities and privileges that are a part of the band program.

 

9.         Contribute positively to your music education, and that of others, by the best use of your talents.

 

10.       Read and play music with insight and expression.

 

11.       Improve your knowledge and understanding of music theory, harmony and history, as well as develop good listening habits.

 

12.       All students will have their instrument, music, and attire for every rehearsal and performance and arrive with a positive attitude. A student without this equipment will not march in the rehearsal and will not be allowed to perform the next performance.

 

13.       Band members are expected to have the proper uniform parts at every performance and to maintain the upkeep and cleanliness of their instrument.

 

14.       Have proper respect for those in authority. Remember that by 1) having integrity; 2) being respectful; and 3) being responsible, you help in the smooth running of the Farragut High School Band program.

 

15.       Talking and playing while at attention, at ease, or when the director is on the podium is not allowed unless directed to do so. If, for any reason, a student is dismissed for insubordination they may not perform the next performance.

 

16.       Band members are expected to follow the instructions of the Directors, Drum Majors, Officers, and Section Leaders.

 

Care of School Property

 

We hope you share our pride in Farragut High School and will at all times help keep all parts of the buildings, equipment, and grounds at their best appearance. Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, and furniture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property, break windows, or do other damage to school or personal property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage which is done or to replace the item(s). Disciplinary action will be taken for willful acts of damage or destruction to property.

 

Bus Transportation and Student Behavior

 

All bus riders receive a copy of the bus rules prior to our first band trip.  There are some additional rules, which apply to school buses for safety reasons:

 

1.         Be on time. “Early is on time - on time is late!”

 

2.         Private cars will not be used. All members are expected to use the buses provided both to and from all events. 

 

3.         The band will travel as a unit on all trips. If a member has good reason to return from a trip by other means of transportation, he must submit a written permit to the Band Director, signed by his parents/guardians no later than the morning of the trip. The parents/guardians must see the director to authenticate the note.    Students will never be excused from an event to leave with boyfriends, girlfriends, best friends, etc.  Don’t even ask!!

 

4.         Students will not touch or hang out of the bus in any manner before boarding or after discharge.

 

5.         An adult chaperon will be on each bus and no changes in buses will be allowed. Once you sign the bus list, you will only be able to change buses at certain times.  Other than these “certain times”……..Don’t even ask!

 

6.         Students listening to music must do so with headphones/earbuds.  Remember that not everyone shares your musical taste.

 

7.         Students must sit in the bus seats.  No one should be standing or leaning over seats once the bus is in motion.

 

8.         Students will be held responsible for any vandalism to the windows, bus equipment and their seat or in the general area of their seat.

 

 9.        No beverages are permitted on the school buses.  We can take snacks, drinks, etc. on charter buses for longer trips.

 

10.       Throwing paper, hanging arms/heads/legs out of the window is prohibited. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

 

11.       Buses are to be treated with care and all refuse is to be placed in the trash bag placed on the bus for that purpose. Keep the bus clean!

 

12.       Talking must be limited to talking. No yelling or screaming because it distracts the driver.  No extreme noise will be tolerated on the buses.

 

13.       Do not use profane or obscene language, gestures, or make loud and distracting noises.

 

14.       Students must be quiet when the bus approaches and crosses railroad tracks.

 

15.       Follow the bus driver’s directions.

 

16.       The chaperones serve as an extension of the band director on all trips.  When the chaperone stands to speak, all students should be quiet and listen to their comments/information.

 

17.       Special care should be taken to see that all personal and school property is properly cared for:

 

a. Pack instruments for travel.

b. Hang uniform neatly in garment bags (on hangers) while traveling.

c. Place an identification tag on all school and personal items.

 

Our priority is to ensure the safety of our children, the drivers, pedestrians and other motorists on the road. When conditions on the bus have become distracting to the driver, the following actions will be taken:

-     The driver will stop the bus in a safe location and attempt to return to safe operating conditions. When conditions are deemed safe, the driver will continue on the route.

 

-     If this does not solve the problem, the driver will contact the band director and request assistance. The band director will travel to the bus, return it to safe operating conditions, and identify students who have behaved inappropriately.  The bus will continue on the route when conditions are safe.  If the above actions do not result in a return to safe operating conditions, the driver will return to the school so that school administrators can deal appropriately with the students causing the problem.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

 

 

We are very concerned with each individual and want each person to understand his or her importance to our organization.  Band does not rely on substitutes to cover for students absent or unable to attend.  This places more responsibility on the student to plan and be aware of his/her schedule.  STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND ALL REHEARSALS AND PERFORMANCES!!  Failure to do so may result in the student being made an alternate for marching season.

 

Students electing high school band are expected to attend rehearsals, performances, and regular classes.  The Marching Band practices Thursday afternoon from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. from the beginning of school through the end of the competition season. 

 

Students are expected to attend all after school practices.  In the event of a special event (Family wedding, vacation, etc.), when adequate notice is provided in writing to the band office from the parent, the student can almost always be excused from the performance or rehearsal without penalty.  Student’s absence without notification can be excused only due to illness of the student or family emergency (such as serious illness or death of immediate family member).  Even though parent notes are required for each absence, excuse for student work schedules and last minute "convenient plans" cannot be excused.  Students missing classes, performances, or after school rehearsals (unexcused) will suffer grade penalties and will be subject to replacement within the performing organization.  WORKING STUDENTS MUST ARRANGE THEIR WORK SCHEDULES AROUND CLASSES, PRACTICES, AND /OR PERFORMANCES.  We continue to try our best to reduce our after school obligations.  It is imperative that we get maximum effort and results from each student during our one full band rehearsal per week after school.

 

The band directors and section leaders will record all absences, tardies, and discipline problems.  If a student experiences a unique situation concerning attendance, the band director should be notified immediately.  These requirements are intended to protect the quality of the group and set a standard for commitment and performance.  Almost every situation can be resolved with adequate notice.  Each absence will be handled separately.  Unresolved absences and tardies will adversely affect the student's grade. One unexcused absence from a rehearsal/performance could result in the student being made an alternate for the marching season. 

 

Grading Procedure

 

1.         Grades are based upon the following:

- Attendance

- Scale mastery

- Memorization of music

- Punctuality (e.g. having the correct materials for class, being prompt to class)

- Uniform responsibility

- Attitude

- Effort

 

2.         The Farragut Band staff has established instructional objectives that relate to the Instrumental Music Curriculum of the State of Tennessee for grade level subjects or courses. These objectives are aligned to address the academic skills needed for successful performance in the next grade or next course in a sequence of courses.

 

3.         A major part of the music curriculum is the development of performance skills. Therefore, unexcused absences from a sectional, rehearsal, or performance-which are integral to developing these performance skills-will lower a student’s course grade as follows:

 

-           Sectionals and rehearsals are course requirements that require interaction from members of a group and cannot be made up. Therefore, an unexcused absence from an after-school school sectional or rehearsal will lower a student’s semester average by 5 points.

 

-           Performances are a culmination of group course requirements and cannot be made up. Therefore, an unexcused absence from a scheduled performance will lower a student’s semester average by 20 points, and the student may be removed from the extracurricular events for the remainder of the semester.

 

 

Band Specifics

 

Since band is an academic music class with some extracurricular activities attached, the band student’s grade will reflect achievement in both curricular and extracurricular areas.

 

 

 

 

PENALTY POINTS

 

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE FROM A PERFORMANCE OR REHEARSAL - 20 POINTS PER OCCASION WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE STUDENT'S FINAL SEMESTER AVERAGE.

 

UNEXCUSED TARDY FROM A REHEARSAL OR PERFORMANCE - 5 POINTS PER OCCASION WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE STUDENT'S FINAL SEMESTER AVERAGE.

BAND UNIFORMS

 

For the fall of 2010, the Farragut High School Band will be wearing almost new uniforms.  The uniforms are provided by the Farragut Band Boosters Club.  Due to the tremendous investment in the uniforms (almost $450 per uniform), students are asked to maintain the uniforms in excellent condition throughout the school year.  Students are held financially responsible for the complete uniform.  Students will have a travel/uniform bag assigned to transport their uniform at all times.  Any questions regarding uniforms may be directed to Mr. Rogers at the Farragut High band room.  At the end of the school year, (or semester if a student is marching band only) the uniform must be returned to the Farragut High School band room after having the uniform dry-cleaned.  If the uniform has not been dry-cleaned immediately before returning, the uniform will be returned to the student and his/her grades will be placed on hold until this matter has been cleared.  Upon the checkout of the uniform, each student will be required to fill out and sign a uniform checkout contract.  This sheet indicates that the student understands our policy of uniform maintenance and replacement policies.  Each student, along with our Uniform Chairperson, will write down their uniform part numbers on the uniform contract sheet and sign the contract indicating their acknowledgment of these part numbers and policies.  The student will then be responsible for those uniform parts for the school year.  Failure to turn in the correct uniform parts (as identified by the Part ID#) will be treated as a lost part with the appropriate financial responsibility.

 

Members of the Farragut High School Symphonic Band will be issued an additional jacket, pants, and bow tie that will serve as the concert uniform for our Symphonic Ensemble.  These jackets and ties will be issued to the students at the beginning of second semester.  Each member of the Farragut High School Symphonic Band will need to purchase a white dress shirt to be worn with their concert uniform (no button-down collars please).  These band members will be responsible for this uniform and bow-tie in addition to their marching uniform.

 

Students will once again be leaving band uniforms in the new uniform closets (located in the band room) at all times, with the following exception:  We will be holding either 2 or 3 weekends that we will designate mandatory dry cleaning times.  During these times, students/parents will take their uniforms to the cleaners and return them during the following week.  At the end of the school year, please place your dry cleaning receipt in the “Blue Tub” (or leave attached to the cleaned garment) so that we will have a record of your uniform being cleaned.

 

The cost of the yearly uniform usage fee is included in the student’s cost.   This also covers the uniforms of the color guard, drum majors, and majorettes.  Following the marching season, all auxiliary uniforms become property of the Farragut High School Band. 

 

Winds and Percussion performers, Color Guard members, Majorettes, and Drum Majors are still responsible for the purchase of black gloves, black shoes, unitards, etc. which go with the uniforms.

BAND BOOSTERS CLUB

 

The Farragut High Band Boosters Club is the parent/friend support group that supplies a major portion of the financial aid for the band.  The annual budget for the Farragut Band will be in excess of $125,000 this year.  Knox County Schools provide the directors' salaries and approximately $750 per year (less than 1% of our yearly needs) to purchase instruments and music.  The Boosters Club, along with student monies, finances the total high school band program: one large marching band and two concert bands.

 

The Farragut High Band Boosters Club is comprised of ALL band members and parents.  Interested friends of the band are encouraged and welcomed as a part of the Band Boosters.  ALL band parents are recognized as members of the booster's organization.  The Club needs the help and support of EVERY band student and band parent.  As I mentioned earlier, you will receive more information this summer and during the first week of Band Camp.

 

  

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

 

 

We need you! Even if your time is limited there are numerous ways in which you can make the Farragut Bands even better. Your talents and abilities are needed in areas such as:

 

Equipment Handling • Uniform Fitting • Carpools

Carpentry • Typing • Sewing Flags & Uniforms

Ticket Sales • Field Maintenance

Fund Raising • Chaperoning

 

. . . and the list goes on. There are always plenty of projects to go around. The more you get involved, the more you get to see the benefits that your child enjoys as a part of the band.

 

What is a Band Parent?

 

- A band parent is one whose child is the greatest. From the first note (perhaps squeak is more descriptive) through the monotonous scales the parent beams

because this young musician is learning so fast.

 

- A band parent quickly learns that it requires considerable hard work, time, and money to have a championship band. After extending credit to purchase an

instrument and finally locating a pair of plain-toe black shoes, the harried band parent is then introduced to fundraising campaigns. This usually means selling hot dogs, popcorn, and soft drinks during football games while the band is doing the half-time show. In between runs on the concession stand, the parent dreams of the day when oil will be discovered in the end zone sufficient to finance all school functions, beginning with the band.

 

- A band parent is a calm, multipurpose machine that can bring order out of the chaos of getting ready for a high school football game. Dad rushes to the cleaners to pick up the uniform, while Mom irons a shirt, finds the other black sock, cooks a quick hamburger, removes a spot of mustard from the uniform trousers, combs hair, and herds the family into the station wagon for a speed breaking dash to the school. The following week the game is away from home and the band parent becomes a chaperone, nurse, and dispenser of hair pins, safety pins, tape for flags, aspirin, shoe laces and sundry other essential items.

 

- A band parent relives childhood memories on a cold, slow moving school bus filled with shouting, singing and sleeping band members.

 

- A band parent is one who criticizes the Band Director for calling extra practice sessions, praises him for instilling teamwork and discipline, and defends him from outside critics who question the place of the band in the curriculum.

 

- On graduation day, a band parent is a relieved person. No more hectic pre-game nights - no more fundraising activities - vacations can be taken anytime and not scheduled around summer band camp - no more - oh no!

 

- A band parent is one who has a younger child who announces:

 “Guess What?  I’m joining the band.”

 

How Parents/Guardians Can Help

 

At Home: 

1. Request and complete all paperwork sent home.
2. Show an interest in the music study of your child.
3. Arrange a regular time for them to practice.
4. Find a quiet place where they can practice without interruptions.
5. Help them with their practice as much as possible by counting, studying music texts, etc.
6. Help the student keep a daily practice schedule.
7. Give them a safe place in which to keep the instrument
8. Keep the instrument in good repair with reeds, etc. in the case.
9. Be very careful of school-owned instruments. The cost of repairs is very high.
10. Teach them to be on time for rehearsals and lessons.
11. Make faithful attendance at all activities important.
12. Encourage them to play for others when opportunities arise, in the home, at school, church and in the community.
13. Encourage private lessons with the best possible specialist.
14. Check the band website and e-mail for any band information.

 At School: 

1. Notify the teacher if the student is going to be absent or tardy for lessons, rehearsals, etc. and explain why.
2. See that they take the instrument and the music when needed at school.
3. Teach them to be punctual at lessons and rehearsals, etc.
4. See that they keep up with classroom studies and make up work they missed.
5. Visit rehearsals and lessons occasionally.
6. Discuss with music teacher anything that will help him to understand your child.
7. Attend concerts and other performances whenever possible.
8. Attend Band Parent meetings. Check calendar for dates.
9. Check the band website and e-mail for any band information.
10. Help with parent activities.
11. Be an Active Member of the Farragut High School Band Booster Organization!

COSTS AND EXPENSES

 

 

The band cost, regardless of class, for a Farragut High School Band student will be $360.  This is virtually the same cost as the past few years (a $10 increase).  The directors want the parents to know that we are continuing to make a great effort to be as frugal as possible and keep costs as low as we possibly can. 

 

This is a flat fee regardless of one semester or full year.  However, if a parent/ student would like to fundraise during November and participate in our fruit sale, their fee can be lowered to as low as $200.  The first $200 cannot be reduced via fund raising.  These are funds, which we need to have in place long before our fundraiser occurs.  This, once again, makes the Farragut High School Band Program, potentially the most affordable program in Knox County and in the region. 

 

Once again, in November, the Farragut High School Band and Band Boosters will be holding its annual fruit sale.  More information will follow at a later time regarding the fruit sale.  We hope that as in past years, we will be able to allow the students and families to sell fruit to assist in the payment of band expenses.  Once again, much more information will follow as soon as we know something from Knox County Schools.

 

The payment schedule for the upcoming year will be as follows:

 

July 27                                     $200.00 due per student for “marching band only students” (this amount cannot be reduced by fund raising).  This amount is due the first day of camp.

 

November 11                             $200.00 due for “second semester only students”. (this amount cannot be reduced by fund raising).   This date was selected to coincide with the final day of concert band auditions.

 

February 10                             $160.00 or balance due (if any) after fund raising (all students)

 

Each student, regardless of his or her possible participation in only one term in band, is  responsible for the band expenses.

 

PLEASE MAKE OUT ALL CHECKS TO THE FARRAGUT HIGH SCHOOL BAND.

 

STUDENTS WITH FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES SHOULD NOTIFY MR. ROGERS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.  ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE TO DEFER PAYMENTS IN ORDER TO HELP STUDENTS AND PARENTS THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES.  NO ONE SHOULD MISS THE FARRAGUT BAND EXPERIENCE

 BECAUSE OF FINANCIAL PROBLEMS.

 

LET ME KNOW SO SOMETHING CAN BE WORKED OUT.

 

Note:  Always include the child's name and reason for the payment on the check.  Most parents use the memo line at the lower left corner to write in their child's name.

 

Policies

 

Student Policies

Standard of Conduct

 

The administration, faculty and staff of Farragut High School assume that secondary students are mature, will behave responsibly while at school, and that all discipline matters can be handled in a calm and reasonable manner. In order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning, certain standards of behavior are necessary. Each student is under the direct control of all classroom teachers and their substitutes. Standard procedures for disciplinary infractions will be enforced fairly, promptly and equitably to every student. In order for you to know what standards of behavior are expected, the following information is provided.

 

1.         Students will be expected to have the proper frame of mind prior to and during rehearsals and performances, avoiding inappropriate behavior (e.g. loud playing, boisterous behavior).

 

2.         Students will be prepared and on time for class. Remember “early is on time - on time is late”.

 

3.         Notify the band director prior to missing any band rehearsal for any reason.

 

4.         Band members are encouraged to cultivate an attitude of excellence to separate themselves from other individuals and groups.

 

5.         A portion of the marching band activity is somewhat militaristic. Therefore it is expected that students be aggressive in rehearsing and performing the marching fundamentals.

 

6.         Food, gum, or drink is never permitted during rehearsal or performance.  Keep the band hall, practice rooms, and instrument storage slots clean at all times.

 

7.         No student is to use the band computers / copiers without permission.

 

8.         Take care of your band instrument.

 

9.         Take proper care of your band uniform. Failure to care for the uniform properly, according to the rules established for uniforms, will automatically disqualify a student from lettering that school year. No exceptions to this rule.

 

10.       Loud and boisterous activity by band members when in public is not appropriate.

 

11.       Band members serve as good-will ambassadors for the school and community. Polite and courteous behavior is a credit to the band organization, to the school, and to the parents. Be courteous and respectful at all times.

 

12.       PDA (Public Displays of Affection) will not be permitted in the band hall, on buses, or at official band functions.

 

13.       Use of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol is strictly forbidden.

 

14.       Inappropriate appearance (e.g. hair, clothes) will not be allowed.

 

15.       Follow all school rules and district rules. Any infraction of conduct, attitude, or responsibility will be dealt with in one or more of the following manners:

 

- Conference with student

- Conference with parent

- Conference with grade-level principal

- Expulsion from the band program

- Other (as designated by school administration)

 

Attendance Policy

 

In order to maximize our rehearsal time, a strict attendance policy must be in place. As a member of the Farragut Band, you have an obligation to your fellow band members to be:

 

        - at rehearsals on time

- prepared, having all the necessary equipment and materials with you

 

Student grades will be based on evaluations of class attendance, attitude, and performance as set by the Farragut Band calendar.

 

Attendance

 

1. All band students must abide by the Farragut High School attendance policies.

 

2. Attendance is required at all rehearsals, sectionals, and performances.

 

3. Absences and tardies will be excused in the following cases-please notify the directors.

- Medical emergency or personal injury

- Death in the family

- Religious holiday

- Conflict with another school activity documented in advance

 

4. Examples of UNEXCUSED ABSENCES/TARDIES include, but are not limited to:

- Work

- Oversleeping

- Transportation not arranged

- Anything deemed unexcused by Farragut Administration

 

Injury and Illness

 

When an accident occurs, it must be reported at once to the teachers in charge, who will then report it to the school nurse and any other necessary authorities. Proper medical referrals will be made when necessary. A First Aid Kit is carried with the Band, and when traveling, each bus will also have a smaller First Aid Kit.

 

 

 

Care and Use of Band Facilities and Equipment

 

 

1.         NO FOOD, DRINK, OR GUM IS ALLOWED IN THE BAND FACILITIES,

EXCEPT AT TIMES DESIGNATED BY THE BAND DIRECTOR

 

2.         Students should not enter the band hall until a director is present.

 

3.         Students should not enter the director offices without permission.  Please knock and wait for a response. If you see that the directors are in conference, please do not knock.

 

4.         Keep instruments in cases with latches closed in a locker (not the floor) when not in use. Instruments picked up at the end of the day will be locked away.

 

5.         Instrument lockers must be kept clean. Do not leave any food items in your slot. Marching rehearsal shoes, etc. may be stored in the lockers during marching season if kept in a tidy and neat manner.  Any items left on the floor will be discarded at the end of the day!

 

6.         Each student is responsible for his/her music. Students should be advised that music is not always safe in a locker. If a student has the capability to lock his/her music inside of a case, it is highly recommended.

 

7.         Students should have their names on the outside of their instrument cases in a recognizable place. Be sure that your serial number, make and model are written down at home and have been given to the appropriate director for record keeping.

 

8.         Personal items are not to be stored in the instrument storage rooms, offices, or practice rooms.

 

9.         Instrument storage rooms are not rooms for play, PDA, or any other activity deemed inappropriate by the directors.

 

10.       No one is to use sound equipment, computers, copy machine, etc. without permission.

 

11.       The music library/etude files are off limits without director approval.

 

12.       Practice rooms are for practice, recording assignments, pass-offs, or private lessons. Any student caught misusing the practice facility will be dealt with accordingly. Any item left in the practice room will be picked up and thrown away at the end of the day.

13.       Periodic inspections will be made of school-owned instruments.  Each student is financially responsible for any damage that occurs during the period for which the student is in possession of the instrument.

 

14.       Any damage of school property must be repaired, the item replaced, or a reimbursement made immediately. Students that fail to pay for damages will be placed on the school fine list.

 

15.       The band department assumes no responsibility for personal items stored in the band hall. Students are advised to lock all valuable items in their assigned school locker.

 

16.       It is encouraged that each family obtain insurance for the student’s instrument. Check homeowners insurance for coverage.

Acknowledgement

 

This serves as an agreement indicating that the student and parents have read and understand this Band Information Handbook. Please sign and return promptly to the Director of Bands.

 

 

 

As a student in the Farragut High School Band Program, I have read, understand and agree to comply with all of the set policies, rules, and regulations listed in the Band Handbook. I will display a positive attitude at all times. I will be present, prompt and prepared for all rehearsals and performances.

 

 

 

Student's Signature _______________________________________________

 

Date _______________________

 

 

 

As conscientious parents/guardians, we have read and agree to comply with the set policies listed in the Band Information Handbook. We will ensure our child practices and maintains high scholastic standards in all classes. We ensure our child will be prepared, prompt and present for all band rehearsals and performances.

 

Parent's Signature ________________________________________

Date _______________________

 

 

Please return this page to the Band Office on the first day of Band Camp, July 26, 2010