Rebel Regiment Band
2006 - 2007
Handbook
Phil McIntyre
–Director
(864) 949-2359
mcintypc@spart5.k12.sc.us
Chris Moss –
Assistant Director
(864) 949-2359
mosscm@spart5.k12.sc.us
This manual has been developed to provide information
regarding the activities of the band program at
“A
member of the Rebel Regiment does not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate anyone who
does.”
A
Statement of Policy
In
order to assist band members and parents in understanding areas of
responsibility, a statement of band policy is herein set forth. Becoming
familiar with this policy will enable each individual to make the most of this
great opportunity to be a member of the
Objectives
of the Band Program
• To
teach music by its through performance
• To
develop performance skills of the various wind and percussion instruments
• To
provide for the musical needs of the school and the community
• To
develop discrimination with regard to the selection of music
• To
acquaint the students with Music Theory / History and how history and musical
composition relate to students’ current
life and musical experiences
• To
provide all students with the opportunity for worthy use of their time, a means
for self expression, and
a healthy social
experience
• To
develop the ability to function as a responsible member of a group, enhance
interaction, and develop
Esprit de Corps
• To
foster leadership skills within each student
In order to achieve these goals, it is important to have
well-established guidelines which apply to each member of the band program. The
purpose of this handbook is to define those guidelines, in order to continue
the tradition of excellence established by the Rebel Regiment.
Why Music?
• Music Is A Science. It is exact, and it
demands exact acoustics. A conductor’s full score is a chart, a graph which
indicates frequencies, intensities, volume changes, melody and harmony all at
once and with exact control of time.
• Music Is Mathematics. It is rhythmically
based on the subdivision of time into fractions, which must be done
instantaneously, not worked out on paper.
• Music Is Foreign Language. Most of the terms
are in Italian, German, or French and the notation is certainly not English –
but a highly developed kind of short-hand that uses symbols to represent ideas.
The semantics of music is a most complete and universal language.
• Music Is History. Music usually reflects the
environment and times of its creation, often representing its country of origin
and/or racial feelings.
• Music Is Physical Education. It requires
fantastic coordination of fingers, hands, arms, lips, cheek, and facial muscles
in addition to extraordinary control of the diaphragm, back, stomach, and chest
muscles, which respond instantly to the sound the ear hears and the mind
interprets.
• Music Develops Insight and Demands Research.
• Music is all these things, but most of all,
Music Is Art. It allows the human being to take all these dry, technically
boring (but difficult) techniques and use them to create emotion. That is one
thing science cannot duplicate: humanism, feeling, emotion, call it what you
will.
That is why we teach music! Not because we expect
you to major in music But…..
so you will be
human
so you will
recognize beauty
so you will be
closer to God
so you will have
something to cling to
so you will have
more love, more compassion, more gentleness, more good;
In short,
More Life!!
The
Band Beatitudes
Blessed are they who play with spirit, for
theirs will be a band with style.
Blessed are they that listen, for they shall
have good intonation.
Blessed are they who follow the conductor,
for they shall obtain precision.
Blessed are they with pure tone, for they
shall be a credit to their band.
Blessed are the sincere players, for they
shall be called artists.
Blessed are they who practice righteously,
for they shall achieve perfection.
Blessed are they who do hunger and thirst
for good music, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are they who play with good posture
and deep breath, for their instrument shall be filled.
Blessed are the fine bands, for they will
inherit a glorious tradition.
Is
Band Considered “fun?”
Band,
in and of itself, is not “fun.” It is hard work. Where there are certain
playful, funny moments, the overall one-word summation is most definitely not
fun. It is not fun to constantly be held to the highest critical standards. It
is not fun to take an audition and know that you have one chance to get it right.
It is not easy to strive for excellence.
There are other words, however, that describe the band experience.
Challenge, discipline, fulfillment, pride, work ethic, emotional expression,
respect – there is almost no experience that is more rewarding! If there were,
students would meet in those classrooms first thing in the morning, or students
would wear t-shirts with the logo of their favorite class, instead of band
apparel. The reality is that the enjoyment of band comes from the interaction
of people that ultimately leads to great music making. When the downbeat is
given at the concert that's the time to have fun because you get to share this
incredible experience called making music with others.
Curriculum
Band Methods – Fall Semester
This course involves the study of the fundamentals of
instrumental music. Emphasis will be
placed on tone production, scales, sight-reading, rhythmic skills and technical
facility.
Prerequisites: Previous
instrumental study; teacher recommendation; signed student/parent contract.
* Students are required
to enroll and participate in Symphonic Band or Concert Band during the spring
semester.
This course involves the coordination of musical skills with
physical movement. Performance and
entertainment techniques will be emphasized.
Prerequisites: Previous instrumental study (winds and
percussion); audition (flag line); teacher recommendation; signed
student/parent contract; South Carolina High School League eligibility.
Required
Performances: All football games including playoffs; pep rallies; all
marching contests; all parades including spring semester events; afternoon
rehearsals; summer rehearsals; additional performances as required.
* Students (with the exception of
non-instrumentalists) are required to enroll and participate in Symphonic Band,
Concert Band, Jazz Band or 9th Regiment Band, during the spring
semester.
Guard Classes Fall and Spring Semesters
Students
who are interested in dance, choreography, and movement may choose to audition
for our marching band color guard. Color guard is an extension of the winter
guard program. Auditions are usually held in April.
This course involves the study of the basic fundamentals of
instrumental music. Emphasis is placed
on tone production, technical facility and rhythmic skills.
Prerequisites:
Previous instrumental study; teacher recommendation; signed
student/parent contract; participation in either Band Methods or Marching Band
class during the fall semester.
Required Performances: All concerts; James F. Byrnes High
School Graduation Ceremony, Concert Festival; other school or community events
as required.
This course involves the study of instrumental music on the
intermediate level. Basic skills are
emphasized along with the study of more advanced music and concepts.
Prerequisites:
Previous instrumental study; teacher recommendation; signed
student/parent contract; participation in either Band Methods or Marching Band
class during the fall semester.
Required Performances: All concerts; James F. Byrnes High
School Graduation Ceremony, Concert Festival; other school or community events
as required.
This is the major performance ensemble at
Prerequisites:
Previous instrumental study; teacher recommendation; signed
student/parent contract; participation in either Band Methods or Marching Band
class during the fall semester.
Required Performances: All concerts; Concert Festival; James
F. Byrnes High School Graduation Ceremony: other school or community events as
required.
All Students receiving Honors
credit will complete outside of class:
1. Prepare and, audition for Region Band and or
All-State Band and attend the clinic if chosen.
2. Prepare a solo and receive an Excellent or
Festival.
Chamber Ensembles
During
the fall and spring, chamber ensembles may be formed. All band members will be
encouraged to perform in a chamber ensemble. Possible groups include Woodwind
Quintet, Brass Quintet, Saxophone Quartet, Horn Ensemble, Trombone Quartet, Low
Brass Ensemble, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, Percussion Ensemble, as well as,
additional small groups. Plans are for a chamber concert in the spring and
opportunity for performance at Solo and Ensemble.
Percussion Ensemble
All
percussionists in the band program are enrolled in the Percussion Ensemble.
Students learn basic through advanced concepts on all the percussion
instruments. Rehearsals are held on Monday afternoons following marching
season. The Percussion Ensemble performs at the Band concert in the spring.
Classroom Expectations
·
All
policies of the
·
Students
are expected to abide by the rules contained in this handbook as well as other
regulations established during the school year.
·
Students
should demonstrate respect for others at all times.
·
Students
are expected to be on time for class and to be seated with all necessary
equipment and materials within two minutes of the tardy bell.
·
All
talking and playing will cease when the Director or a student leader steps onto
the podium.
·
Talking,
disruptive behavior or horseplay will not be permitted.
·
Students
are expected to maintain the facility in a clean and orderly fashion.
·
Personal
items (books, clothing, calculators, purses, etc.) are left in the facility at
the student’s own risk.
·
Only
percussionists may play percussion instruments and only at assigned and
appropriate times.
·
Only
those individuals who have completed usage forms and have paid the rental fee
may play school-owned instruments.
·
No
gum or candy is permitted in the facility.
·
The
Band Room Office is for official use only.
Use of the telephone will be limited.
·
Practice
and storage rooms are off-limits without permission from the Director.
·
Only
Band members are permitted in the Band Room.
Rehearsal
Procedure
You
must be in the storage room or your seat when the bell rings; a downbeat will
be given two minutes after the bell. During the two minutes you should obtain
music, a music stand, and a pencil, and begin warming up for the day’s
rehearsal. Make sure you have extra reeds. Percussionists should set up all
equipment and music during the warm-up. Announcements will be made at the
beginning or end of class and will also be written on the board.
Policies
Grading Policy
Grading will be based on playing exams, written tests, the
prompt return of documents, assigned projects, and participation in band
events, conduct, attitude, effort, attendance and punctuality to rehearsals and
performances. Exams will be as designated
by the James F. Byrnes Director of Bands.
Grades
are assigned for the band class and any activity that is considered
co-curricular. Some performances may fall outside of the school day. Class
participation: 20% this includes after school rehearsals which are on the
schedule. Students must have their instruments every day, a pencil at every
rehearsal, and show
maximum
effort to earn the best grade. Band Curriculum: 80% a band syllabus or pass-off
sheet will be handed out at the beginning of each nine weeks. Students are
responsible for all assignments, including pass-offs and recorded examples of
performance. Students must also attend all auditions, Band Camp, and Festival
performances.
Discipline Policy
A student found in violation of the rules established in
this handbook may be assigned detention, work detail, physical training, be
referred to an administrator, be suspended from performances, or removed from
the band program.
Performance Policy
The James F. Byrnes Band annually publishes a calendar of
all known activities. Additional performances
may be scheduled as necessary. Every
effort will be made to notify students of additional obligations as soon as
possible. Except when marked as optional, all performances are mandatory. An unexcused absence from a performance can
result in failure and/or removal from the band program at the discretion of the
JFB Director of Bands.
The Total Band experience for the students includes these 4
areas:
Marching Band
Concert Bands
All-State / Region Bands
Solo & Ensemble Festival
We as the Byrnes Band Staff promote the four components of the
South Carolina Band Director’s Association as a framework for the Byrnes Band Program.
School-owned
Instrument Policy
Each
student who uses a school-owned instrument is responsible for the care of the
instrument. If an instrument is damaged
due to negligence, the student will be responsible for the entire cost of
repair or replacement. Students using school-owned instruments will be charged
a full-year rental fee of $50.00 or a half-year fee of $25 (example: marching
instrument). Percussionists will be charged a full year rental fee of $50.00.
Each student and parent that rents a school-owned instrument will be required
to sign a rental agreement form and submit a check at the beginning of the Fall
rental period. All school-owned instruments must be secured in lockers at all
times. Malicious damage to any instrument will be addressed under appropriate
School Instrument and
Equipment Policy
Instruments owned by the band program are available for
student use. Band members must pay a $50 maintenance/insurance fee. Students
and their parents must sign a form acknowledging acceptance of financial
responsibility for damages to or loss of property.
·
All
students will be given a locker during band camp. All personal items should be
placed in these lockers. The band will not be held responsible for any items
stolen from the band facility at any time.
·
Members
are expected to keep their lockers clean at all times, and to remove all
contents at the end of the season, when locks are collected. Any items found in
the lockers after final exams will be discarded.
·
Any
defacing of lockers will be considered vandalism, subject to the
penalties set forth in the James F. Byrnes High School Handbook.
·
Band
members are expected to have the proper equipment (i.e. instruments, reeds,
mouthpieces, drumsticks, flags, etc.) at every rehearsal and performance.
·
Equipment
should be properly stored at all times.
·
Members
are expected to keep up with, and take care of, ALL music that is issued to
them. If lost, members will have to pay a small fine to redeem it. First
Lieutenants are the only members allowed to handle music.
Rules and Regulations
Attendance Policy
All band members are expected to be at every rehearsal and
performance of the groups to which they belong.
In general, cases of extreme illness, a death in the immediate family,
or an emergency situation are the only excuses that will be accepted for missing
a performance. During marching season,
members are encouraged to schedule doctor and dental appointments on
Wednesdays, so as not to conflict with band rehearsals. If a member knows in advance that he must
miss a rehearsal or performance, he should inform the Director of Bands as far in advance as
possible. If the absence is declared
"unexcused," appropriate action will be taken with regard to band
awards (see Awards) and grades (see Grading Procedures). A parent-teacher conference will be requested
for any student who accumulates more than one unexcused absence from a
rehearsal and any absence from a performance. Excessive absenteeism is
considered grounds for dismissal from the band. Please remember it takes all of us to make a Band. Your commitment to be
at all rehearsals and performances is important and required. Late arrivals and early dismissals should
also be cleared in advance with the Band Director. Corrective measures will be taken against all
personnel who arrive late to rehearsal. We need the understanding of all students and
parents in regard to attendance. It would be better for the band to have
someone of lesser ability but more faithful with their attendance than to have
a member who is unreliable.
The only excusable absences are pre-arranged*
school conflicts and those that would be excused by the school for regular
attendance records, such as illness, death in the family, religious holiday, or
college visitation.
*Example: a school conflict may be a club or varsity
sport. This system is subject to modification by the director.
“No
Shows” to Rehearsal
A “no
show” is defined as an absent student that cannot be accounted for due to lack
of a phone call or simply cutting rehearsal. In such case, the student may lose
the opportunity to participate in the next performance by the band. For
marching band, an alternate may be placed in the empty spot. This decision will
be made by the director based on what is best for the entire group.
For
ALL absences, the following procedure must be followed by all students and
parents:
1. Director must be notified in advance.
2. An absentee request form must be filled out and on
file.
3. For illness, a parent note or doctor’s excuse must be
submitted.
4. Although cleared by the school office, absences from a
band activity that same
day must be cleared with the
director as well – please call the band room.
5. In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the
band answering machine,
with a follow-up personal
call.
6. Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student.
The mere filing of an absentee request form
does not
constitute whether an absence is excused. The above policy is cut and dry in
regards to
what is excused.
Please do not call and say, “Please excuse…” if the excuse does not fall within
the policy.
Missed Performance
Students
will lose one letter grade on their final nine weeks average, based on the
formula used for participation.
Conflicts with Band
Conflicts
between band and other activities or events are the responsibility of the
student. Rehearsal and performance schedules are given out in advance so that
arrangements can be made. Students should not become involved with activities
that may directly conflict with band activities. When outside activities create
hardships concerning band, unless it is a rare and unusual situation that may
only happen once, the student will need to consult with the director about
alternatives that may be possible. Students should have a calendar book and be aware of
all band dates well ahead of schedule. It is the policy of the band to assist
students when conflicts occur within the scope of the band policy. Students are
reminded that band is a very demanding activity and that involvement in outside
activities should be limited to those that are compatible with the band
schedule. All conflicts in regards to performances
must be worked out in favor of the student’s responsibility to band.
Work is not an excuse for missing any band activity.
Withdrawal/Dismissal from Band
Withdrawal from the
band in the middle of a season is strongly discouraged, as this creates a
hardship on the other band members. Persons who do withdraw in mid-season will
forfeit all rights and privileges as band members, and will be prohibited from
signing up for band in future seasons unless there is just cause that is
acceptable to the Band Staff or School Administration. The band staff reserves
the right to dismiss any person from the band who poses a constant behavior
problem, but only after all other courses of action have been pursued. A student may be recommended for dismissal
from an ensemble or the band program for attendance problems, attitude
problems, poor performance level, failing or poor grades in band class, failing
or poor grades in academic classes, destruction of property, school discipline
problems, continual violation of band rules as stated in this handbook, or
conduct unbecoming to the Rebel Regiment Band Program. Any individual under the
influence of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances will be recommended
for dismissal from the program.
Additionally, all Byrnes and
Duties
of the Band Members
Miscellaneous
Rules and Procedures
The
Importance of Attitude
The
greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or
organization is attitude. The
kind of person that you are is an individual choice and how we feel about
something, which involves attitude, is one of the few actual independent
choices that we have in life. It takes intense dedication to reach goals.
Students should learn to discipline themselves to daily practice on
fundamentals. The right attitude must be present along with sincerity,
concentration, and dedication as the basic foundation. Such an attitude makes
an artistic performance inevitable and is the difference between a winning
organization and a mediocre group. You who are in band are a favored few. The
band can do much for you. Make the most of it in every rehearsal and
performance.
The
Importance of Discipline
Because
of the nature of the organization, band discipline must be strict! Band
students and parents must believe in the ideals, principles, and philosophy of
the organization. Each member must always be aware of good behavior and think
for himself. Any misconduct casts a bad light on the school, community, and
band program. Any member who casts discredit to the organization by his/her
conduct or actions in band, in another class, or on a trip, shall be subject to
dismissal from the band program, or may lose a privilege within the program.
This may include the chance to go on a trip. This decision will be at the
director’s discretion.
Students’
Responsibility to the Band
As
members of this organization, you have a great deal of responsibility. It is
essential to any program that if certain expectations are to be met that they
coordinate with the privileges, rewards, and duties of the band program.
Responsibilty
to Ourselves
You
have the primary responsibility of developing your own abilities. The benefits
of a good instrument and private instruction can never be underestimated. What
you put into it is what you will get out of it. The director is always
available for your guidance and encouragement – just ask!
Responsibility
to the School
Spartanburg
School District Five provides us with the resources for rehearsals,
performances, and some equipment. The Band Booster Club also provides a support
network, both financially and with their encouragement. We have the
responsibility to provide the best possible services to our community.
Responsibility
to Music
Music
has always been a part of our culture. We must take what we have and use it for
the betterment of that culture. No one expects virtuoso musicians, only your
very best! The great composer Gustav Mahler once said that only 10% of a piece
of music is on the page. If that is the case, then we as musicians have the
duty of creating and producing the other 90%. The joy of music is not in
everything that is apparent. It must be discovered and created.
Responsibility
to Each Other
We
must always do what is best for the welfare of the group. There can be no
selfish acts solely for the benefit of the individual, but for all. Respect
each other. If there are conflicts, find a way to resolve them. Never insult
another band member’s integrity. The word band means that we are banded
together and that there is no separation.
Parents’
Responsibility to the Band
It is the responsibility of every parent and guardian to see that the policies outlined in the handbook are followed and that the form in the back is signed and returned. This states that you understand the policies as set within, and that any questions are to be directed to the band director by making an appointment. Each parent is responsible for the attendance of their child at all band functions. It is the responsibility of each parent to see that their child practices his/her instrument daily. The hands of the directors are tied without the help of parents.
How
Parents Can Help
When
a band question arises, it is important that you get factual information before
discussing it with others. We do more harm to ourselves, the band family, when
we talk about things that contain one or more falsehoods but consider them
facts. If questions arise, it is important to remember this axiom: If it is a
performance issue or anything dealing with the band proper, contact Mr.
McIntyre. If it is a fundraising question or anything dealing with parent
issues, talk with the booster club president.
• Show an interest in the music study of your child.
• Arrange a regular time for your child to practice.
• Find a quiet place where he/she can practice without
interruption.
• Stay current on your “fair share.”
• Help the student keep a daily record of practicing.
• Come up with a reward system for daily practice.
• Keep the instrument in good repair and keep at least
three reeds in the case; get a metronome!
• Be extra-careful with school-owned instruments. Repair
costs are high!
• Teach your child to be prepared and on time to each
rehearsal or lesson.
• Provide private instruction!
• Make faithful attendance at all band activities
important.
• Buy your child a personal planner for marking important
dates.
• Keep the Handbook in a safe place and refer to it often.
• Notify the teacher if the student is to be absent for
rehearsals or lessons.
• If student is absent, make sure that their folder gets
to school, if they share it with someone.
• Visit rehearsals occasionally.
• Attend booster meetings, concerts, games, and contests.
• Turn in fundraising money on time.
Materials
Needed for Class /Materials Grade
Each
student should have the following items in class everyday:
• a sharpened pencil
• instrument (sticks, mallets)
• music and folder
• at least three reeds (clarinets and saxophones) and
water bottles for trombonist
• at least two reeds (oboes and bassoons) and water
canisters for soaking.
From
time to time during the school year you will receive a materials grade. If you
have all the items listed
above,
you will receive a daily grade of “A.” Your grade will be lowered one letter
for each item you are
missing,
but students will be given two days to bring in any missing items. The easiest
way to avoid this
is to
have everything that you need, at all times! After the second day, the letter
grade may be lowered.
Scholarships
There
are a wide variety of scholarships available for both music majors and
non-music majors on the collegiate level. Many universities grant partial
scholarships or a one time scholarship to students who
simply
agree to play in an ensemble, and some will waive out-of-state tuition.
Information varies at each
school. Ask in the band office and we will do all that we can to help in your future endeavors. The Rebel Regiment Band Booster Club offers a $1000.00 scholarship each year to a deserving member of the band. Guidelines and procedures will be given out each year in April.
Concerts
The JFB Band is known in the community for well-prepared
programs presented with great pride and professionalism. Concert dates are published on the
performance calendar. Concert attire for
ladies is a dress or skirt that comes to or below the knee when seated. Gentlemen should wear a dress shirt, tie,
dress pants, socks and dress shoes. A
coat or sweater is also preferable.
Student Dress Code
The student dress code adheres to the guidelines set forth
in the James F. Byrnes student handbook.
Use
of the Band Facility
The
use of band facilities before, after, and during school is a privilege.
Students who abuse the facility will be disciplined accordingly. Any abuse or
damage will be considered vandalism. The following rules and procedures are now
in place:
Travel Rules and Policies
·
Students
must travel to each away event with the band.
A student may ride home from an event with his/her parents/guardians if
a written notice is presented to the Director prior to the trip.
·
Prior
to trips, each student will sign for a specific bus. Students may not sign for
any other individual. Chaperones may reassign
buses and seats.
·
Band
members will demonstrate proper respect to staff, chaperones, bus drivers, and
other band members at all times.
·
Students
must remain seated while the bus is in motion.
·
Students
will not place body parts or objects out of the windows.
·
Noise
must be kept at moderate levels.
Students will be called to “All Quiet” when crossing railroad tracks and
during other critical travel times.
·
In
addition to the regulations of the Spartanburg School District Five, the rules
of common courtesy will be enforced.
·
Neither
the District, school, band program or the Rebel Regiment Band Booster Club are
responsible for loss or damage to personal property. Students are discouraged from possessing
nonessential items of value during band related activities.
·
Radios/Tape/CD
Players are permitted on buses with headphones only. Music should be appropriate for school
events.
·
Proper
social behavior is required at all times.
Chaperones will not be expected to teach morals.
·
Parents/students
should notify the Director of any medical condition prior to any band
activity.
·
No
disorderly conduct (e.g. screaming) will be tolerated.
·
Members
must remain on the bus until instructed to get off by the staff.
·
Members
should remove all personal items and trash from the bus after a trip.
Hotel
Marching Band
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