Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to Belgrade Middle School and the 2014-15 school year. I hope you had a great break and are ready for the new school year ahead. The BMS band program has developed a reputation for excellence and I’m excited that you are going to be a part of it!
Parents, your child’s progress is very important to me. Encouragement and communication are essential for your child’s success in band. Please feel free to contact me at school (band office 924-2293 or by email [email protected]) to discuss any of your concerns or questions. Email is a much more efficient method since I don't use the phone system much.
In this handbook are procedures, guidelines, concert information and dates, grading system, and materials required. This needs to be looked at very carefully so you are aware of the expectations for participation in band.
Thank you for your interest, support, and dedication to the Belgrade Middle School Band Program. I am looking forward to a great year.
Musically,
Alan Fauque
Director of Bands
Syllabus
Classroom Procedures
Be Responsible
Bring instruments to band room before school starts.
Instruments must be stored in their proper area. NOT ON THE FLOOR.
Be in your seat with your equipment (music, instrument, necessary supplies and a pencil) 2 minutes after the class start time. If you think you may be late, bring a note from the teacher/administrator you came from.
Rehearsal instructions will be on the board. Prepare accordingly.
All talking will stop when the director steps to the podium.
Percussion equipment will be stored in their proper place before leaving class.
Trash such as old reeds, reed cases, paper, etc. will not be left on the floor.
Be Respectful
We will warm up together.
No talking while we are rehearsing.
Absolutely no food, GUM or drink in the band room. (Water bottles are the only exception)
Never use another musician’s instrument, reed, etc. Do not move or open equipment which does not belong to you..
Respect the equipment in the room. Don’t play with or lean on the music stands.
Never touch the school’s percussion equipment without the director’s permission.
Stay in your seats during the entire rehearsal unless you get permission to get up.
Be Safe
Consequences
One thing that is vitally important to the success within a classroom is that the class procedures are followed. The following details my plan to ensure they are.
Warning- I will let students know when a procedure is not being followed. I believe they already know, so it is an acknowledgement that I am also aware.
Level 2- Student will be removed and I will discuss their actions with them.
Level 3- Student will be removed and parental intervention will be needed.
Obviously, if an action is severe enough the student will be removed immediately.
Classroom Expectations
I believe band is a class that must work as a team. Each and every student is extremely important to the bands success. Students need to be:
Honest and trustworthy
Willing to participate and work hard
Helpful and concerned about the success of everyone in the band
Giving their very best to the band
Grading
60% Class Participation (effort, preparation with instrument, supplies and music)
10% Tests/Auditions (written and played)
30% Concert Attendance
Class Participation (60%)
Class participation includes students’ adherence to all classroom procedures, and their effort, attitude behavior in class.
Students are to participate every day, even if they do not have a playable instrument, reed, or music. They are expected to practice silent fingerings or “play” a pencil. They will NOT be allowed to do other homework. If a student has a condition which would prevent them from playing, the only way they will be excused is through a note from a parent/guardian in advance. In addition, students must have a note if their instrument is in the repair shop.
A band is unique from other school classes in that it is dependent upon the participation of each individual to succeed as a group.
Tests/Auditions (10%)
Playing and written tests will be given to review material from the class work. Preparedness and improvement will be the criteria for all playing tests. If a student gets below an A (95) grade on a test, they will have the opportunity to practice further for a test retake before or after school within one week. They will then receive the higher of the two grades. Auditions take place in the first month of each semester. Students will be given materials between one and two weeks before they audition.
Students who do not attempt the test or do not have their instrument on the test day may retake the test within one week. The highest grade they can receive is a B+ (89).
Concerts (30%)
Student attendance at concerts is required and is part of their grade. This is a performance elective and concerts are an important part of the curriculum. It is critical to the group to have everyone at the concerts. In the event of an emergency (illness or a death in the family) please notify me prior to the concert via email ([email protected]) or phone (600-3468). Students are expected to remain for the entire concert to hear all of the performing groups. The concert grade is also based on appropriate attire and behavior.
If an excused absence has been approved by the director, the student may make up for the missed concert as determined by myself.
Practice/Lesson expectations
It is important for a musician to establish habits for daily practice. Musical progress is directly related to the amount of effort put into learning new skills and music. With regular practice at home, a student will achieve his/her best. Band students are encouraged to take private lessons also. The one on one time is invaluable to their progress. I also encourage them to come in for a short lesson with me either before or after school at least one a quarter. Practicing is homework for band. The minimum amount of practice shall be:
20 minutes a day, 5 days per week
IMPORTANT DATES
5th grade beginning band night
Wednesday, September 3rd from 4-7pm in the MS West Band Room
5th Grade Concerts
Tuesday, December 9th @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
Monday, May 18th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
6th-8th Grade Concerts
Thursday, November 20th @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
Monday, February 23rd @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
6th Grade
Monday, May 18th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
7th-8th Grade
Tuesday, May 19th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
Please note and record the concert dates above
Concert Attire
White or Black collared shirt, nice pants (or long skirt for girls) and shoes…black is preferred.
Materials
½ inch 3-ring binder with pockets (black preferred) – Name on Front
(most students prefer sheet protectors...team up and share)
The following items are recommended for students to have with their instruments at all times.
FLUTE Cleaning rod, cloth handkerchief
OBOE/BASSOON Reeds, swab, cork grease, small container for water to soak reeds
CLARINET Swab, reed guard case for 2-4 reeds, cork grease
SAXOPHONE Swab, reed guard case for 2-4 reeds, cork grease, neck strap
** All reed players should keep at least 3 good reeds in their case at all times. Purchasing reeds by the box is much less expensive than individual ones.
TRUMPET/BARITONE Valve oil, Tuning slide grease, Snake (flexible nylon covered wire with brushes on each end), mouthpiece brush
FRENCH HORN Same as trumpet except Rotor instead of Valve oil
TROMBONE Slide cream (like Super Slick) and a spray bottle OR slide oil, Snake (flexible nylon covered wire with brushes on each end), tuning slide grease, mouthpiece brush
TUBA Valve oil, mouthpiece brush
PERCUSSION Drum stick/mallet case with snare sticks & bell mallets (medium hard rubber). 7th and 8th Graders should also include medium hard yarn mallets (7th and 8th) for suspended cymbals and xylophones and general felt timpani mallets (8th grade). Mark all with name.
Each student is expected to furnish his/her instrument by purchasing or renting.
PLACE AN IDENTIFICATION TAG ON THE INSTRUMENT CASE. There are nearly 200 band students in the Middle school and names must be on instruments and folders. It is also a good idea to write and file the brand and serial number from the instrument to keep at home.
Private Instruction
Private lessons are encouraged. A list of private teachers will be posted in the band room or can be obtained from Eckroth Music.
Alan Fauque, Director [email protected]
Student Name________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name(s)_____________________________________________________
Parent’s Email Address_______________________________________________________
(for concert and event reminders)
Phone (cell if preferred)_______________________________________________________
Instrument (flute, trumpet, etc..)______________________________________________
Brand Name (Bundy, Gemeinhardt etc…)_______________________________________
Serial Number________________________________________________________________
Welcome to Belgrade Middle School and the 2014-15 school year. I hope you had a great break and are ready for the new school year ahead. The BMS band program has developed a reputation for excellence and I’m excited that you are going to be a part of it!
Parents, your child’s progress is very important to me. Encouragement and communication are essential for your child’s success in band. Please feel free to contact me at school (band office 924-2293 or by email [email protected]) to discuss any of your concerns or questions. Email is a much more efficient method since I don't use the phone system much.
In this handbook are procedures, guidelines, concert information and dates, grading system, and materials required. This needs to be looked at very carefully so you are aware of the expectations for participation in band.
Thank you for your interest, support, and dedication to the Belgrade Middle School Band Program. I am looking forward to a great year.
Musically,
Alan Fauque
Director of Bands
Syllabus
Classroom Procedures
Be Responsible
Bring instruments to band room before school starts.
Instruments must be stored in their proper area. NOT ON THE FLOOR.
Be in your seat with your equipment (music, instrument, necessary supplies and a pencil) 2 minutes after the class start time. If you think you may be late, bring a note from the teacher/administrator you came from.
Rehearsal instructions will be on the board. Prepare accordingly.
All talking will stop when the director steps to the podium.
Percussion equipment will be stored in their proper place before leaving class.
Trash such as old reeds, reed cases, paper, etc. will not be left on the floor.
Be Respectful
We will warm up together.
No talking while we are rehearsing.
Absolutely no food, GUM or drink in the band room. (Water bottles are the only exception)
Never use another musician’s instrument, reed, etc. Do not move or open equipment which does not belong to you..
Respect the equipment in the room. Don’t play with or lean on the music stands.
Never touch the school’s percussion equipment without the director’s permission.
Stay in your seats during the entire rehearsal unless you get permission to get up.
Be Safe
Consequences
One thing that is vitally important to the success within a classroom is that the class procedures are followed. The following details my plan to ensure they are.
Warning- I will let students know when a procedure is not being followed. I believe they already know, so it is an acknowledgement that I am also aware.
Level 2- Student will be removed and I will discuss their actions with them.
Level 3- Student will be removed and parental intervention will be needed.
Obviously, if an action is severe enough the student will be removed immediately.
Classroom Expectations
I believe band is a class that must work as a team. Each and every student is extremely important to the bands success. Students need to be:
Honest and trustworthy
Willing to participate and work hard
Helpful and concerned about the success of everyone in the band
Giving their very best to the band
Grading
60% Class Participation (effort, preparation with instrument, supplies and music)
10% Tests/Auditions (written and played)
30% Concert Attendance
Class Participation (60%)
Class participation includes students’ adherence to all classroom procedures, and their effort, attitude behavior in class.
Students are to participate every day, even if they do not have a playable instrument, reed, or music. They are expected to practice silent fingerings or “play” a pencil. They will NOT be allowed to do other homework. If a student has a condition which would prevent them from playing, the only way they will be excused is through a note from a parent/guardian in advance. In addition, students must have a note if their instrument is in the repair shop.
A band is unique from other school classes in that it is dependent upon the participation of each individual to succeed as a group.
Tests/Auditions (10%)
Playing and written tests will be given to review material from the class work. Preparedness and improvement will be the criteria for all playing tests. If a student gets below an A (95) grade on a test, they will have the opportunity to practice further for a test retake before or after school within one week. They will then receive the higher of the two grades. Auditions take place in the first month of each semester. Students will be given materials between one and two weeks before they audition.
Students who do not attempt the test or do not have their instrument on the test day may retake the test within one week. The highest grade they can receive is a B+ (89).
Concerts (30%)
Student attendance at concerts is required and is part of their grade. This is a performance elective and concerts are an important part of the curriculum. It is critical to the group to have everyone at the concerts. In the event of an emergency (illness or a death in the family) please notify me prior to the concert via email ([email protected]) or phone (600-3468). Students are expected to remain for the entire concert to hear all of the performing groups. The concert grade is also based on appropriate attire and behavior.
If an excused absence has been approved by the director, the student may make up for the missed concert as determined by myself.
Practice/Lesson expectations
It is important for a musician to establish habits for daily practice. Musical progress is directly related to the amount of effort put into learning new skills and music. With regular practice at home, a student will achieve his/her best. Band students are encouraged to take private lessons also. The one on one time is invaluable to their progress. I also encourage them to come in for a short lesson with me either before or after school at least one a quarter. Practicing is homework for band. The minimum amount of practice shall be:
20 minutes a day, 5 days per week
IMPORTANT DATES
5th grade beginning band night
Wednesday, September 3rd from 4-7pm in the MS West Band Room
5th Grade Concerts
Tuesday, December 9th @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
Monday, May 18th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
6th-8th Grade Concerts
Thursday, November 20th @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
Monday, February 23rd @ 7pm in the HS Auditorium
6th Grade
Monday, May 18th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
7th-8th Grade
Tuesday, May 19th @ 7pm in the MS West Gym
Please note and record the concert dates above
Concert Attire
White or Black collared shirt, nice pants (or long skirt for girls) and shoes…black is preferred.
Materials
½ inch 3-ring binder with pockets (black preferred) – Name on Front
(most students prefer sheet protectors...team up and share)
The following items are recommended for students to have with their instruments at all times.
FLUTE Cleaning rod, cloth handkerchief
OBOE/BASSOON Reeds, swab, cork grease, small container for water to soak reeds
CLARINET Swab, reed guard case for 2-4 reeds, cork grease
SAXOPHONE Swab, reed guard case for 2-4 reeds, cork grease, neck strap
** All reed players should keep at least 3 good reeds in their case at all times. Purchasing reeds by the box is much less expensive than individual ones.
TRUMPET/BARITONE Valve oil, Tuning slide grease, Snake (flexible nylon covered wire with brushes on each end), mouthpiece brush
FRENCH HORN Same as trumpet except Rotor instead of Valve oil
TROMBONE Slide cream (like Super Slick) and a spray bottle OR slide oil, Snake (flexible nylon covered wire with brushes on each end), tuning slide grease, mouthpiece brush
TUBA Valve oil, mouthpiece brush
PERCUSSION Drum stick/mallet case with snare sticks & bell mallets (medium hard rubber). 7th and 8th Graders should also include medium hard yarn mallets (7th and 8th) for suspended cymbals and xylophones and general felt timpani mallets (8th grade). Mark all with name.
Each student is expected to furnish his/her instrument by purchasing or renting.
PLACE AN IDENTIFICATION TAG ON THE INSTRUMENT CASE. There are nearly 200 band students in the Middle school and names must be on instruments and folders. It is also a good idea to write and file the brand and serial number from the instrument to keep at home.
Private Instruction
Private lessons are encouraged. A list of private teachers will be posted in the band room or can be obtained from Eckroth Music.
Alan Fauque, Director [email protected]
Student Name________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name(s)_____________________________________________________
Parent’s Email Address_______________________________________________________
(for concert and event reminders)
Phone (cell if preferred)_______________________________________________________
Instrument (flute, trumpet, etc..)______________________________________________
Brand Name (Bundy, Gemeinhardt etc…)_______________________________________
Serial Number________________________________________________________________