Thunderbird Band Handbook

WHY STUDY MUSIC?

MUSIC IS A SCIENCE. It is exact and specific. A conductor’s score (which represents a musical composition) is a chart and graph which indicates frequencies, intensities, volume changes, and harmonies all at once, with the most exact control of time.

MUSIC IS MATHEMATICAL. It is rhythmically based on the subdivisions of time into fractions, which must be done instantaneously in the brain, not worked out on paper.

MUSIC IS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE.  Most of the descriptive terms used in a piece of music are in Italian, German, or French, and the musical notations themselves are certainly not in English. Musical notation is a highly developed form of shorthand that uses symbols to represent ideas. The language of music is the most complete and universal language.

MUSIC IS HISTORY.  Music usually reflects the environment and historical times of its creation, often revealing the political and social sentiments of its era.

MUSIC IS PHYSICAL EDUCATION.  The performance of music requires fantastic coordination of the eyes, fingers, hands, legs, lips, and facial muscles. In addition, it also takes extraordinary control of the diaphragmatic, back, stomach, and chest muscles. All of these physical actions then respond instantly to the visual and aural prompting of the eyes and ears and are immediately interpreted by the mind.

MUSIC IS INTERACTIVE.  Performing a piece of music in a group setting takes an extremely high level of physical, aural, and interpretive cooperation between all members of the ensemble.

MUSIC IS FUN. This one is self-explanatory.

Music is all these things, but most of all MUSIC IS ART. It allows a human being to take all of these physical attributes and techniques and use them to communicate and create emotions, thoughts, and ideas. This is what differentiates us from computers and machines. Music is proof positive of a distinctive quality we possess… humanism.

THAT IS WHY WE STUDY MUSIC!                                                                                     

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

1.      Show an interest in your student’s musical endeavors.

2.      Arrange a regular time for the student to practice.

3.      Find a quiet place where they can practice without interruption.

4.      Help the student keep a record of their practice routine and habits. Good practice involves a good warm-up with technical studies (scales, arpeggios, etc.), a review of current music being studied, intense isolation of difficult sections in the music, and exposure to new material. If they are merely playing through the music and ignoring those parts of the music that are challenging, they will feel no sense of accomplishment. It is important that they develop a routine they can stick with.

5.      Make sure they have a safe place to store their instrument at home.

6.      Keep the instrument in good repair (clean and working properly) and make sure they have all the supplies they need to be successful (good reeds, cork grease, valve oil, mutes, etc.)

7.      Be very careful with school owned and privately owned instruments. Repairs can be costly.

8.      Make sure your child is on time to school and rehearsals every day.

9.      Find a private instructor for your child to study with. Please check with Mr. Williford before committing to an instructor. Some private tutors are better than   others!

10.  Encourage the student to play for others whenever the opportunity arises (in the home, at school, in church, or for community events).

11.  Make sure you know your child’s schedule of performances and other school events and make sure they’re on time.

12.  See that they always remember to bring their instrument and music and pencil to school each day.

13.  See that they keep up with their classroom studies. Your involvement can make a huge difference.

14.  Visit rehearsals and lessons periodically and attend performances whenever possible.

15.  Join and become an active member of the Band Boosters.

16.  Donate up to $400 of your eligible tax credit to the Thunderbird Band. This is a dollar for dollar tax credit, with every penny going directly into the program. A donation form has been included in the handbook.

17.  Please don’t discipline your child by refusing to let them participate in a performance. This not only penalizes the individual, but it also penalizes everyone else in the group. The students depend on each other for the coverage of parts, and positions when on the field. Disciplinary action is not considered an excused absence and their grade will suffer.

18    Help them to succeed by becoming involved in their schoolwork and activities. Sometimes your support is more important than anything else.

  Expectations 

“Band Laws”

Always Be on Time

·       “To Be Early is to Be on Time, To Be on Time is to Be Late”

Respect

·   Respect your instrument/equipment, Respect your environment, Respect others

Be Prepared

·   Practice your music, bring all necessary materials to rehearsal (pencil, music, instrument, drill book, water, etc.)

Be Professional & Kind

·   Listen to others thoughts and opinions respectfully, do not use profanity, dress appropriately for school, act maturely.

·   Use kind words, offer genuine compliments, offer help when you see someone struggling (never force help onto someone, only offer it)

Cell Phones for Academic Purposes ONLY

·   Unless being used for tuning, cell phones should remain under chair or put away until class is over or otherwise instructed.

Absolutely NO Drugs, Alcohol, or other Controlled Substances

·   ZERO tolerance. Discovered use will result in banning from future band trips, band “probation” and other consequences such as daily searches by on campus security/officers.

Classroom Expectations are kept in order to create a safe, welcoming and successful environment. A large part of being in a band is knowing that your individual responsibilities (practicing your part, coming to rehearsal prepared) affect the entire ensemble and the ability to be successful together. If these expectations are not followed, performance privileges may be temporarily revoked, grades may be lowered and other consequences may occur.

In general:

·         Memorize your marching band field music. You will be tested on this for part of your grade.

·         Learn and practice your music for ALL performing ensembles.

·         Practice at home regularly every  week.

·         Attend every mandatory sectionals.

·         Any student that does not know the drill or cannot play the music up to expectations will not be permitted to perform at that night’s performance.

At school & in the band room:

·         Get to class on time. This means that you are to be in the room with your instrument in hand by the time the tardy bell rings

·         Bring your materials with you every day. These include your instrument, your music, your pencil, and for marching band, the proper shoes for participation on the field. If you are without proper shoes, you will not be able to participate on the field. (see Ms. Melody if you are having difficulties obtaining appropriate athletic shoes)

·      You will be held financially responsible for the damage or loss of any instruments, equipment, music, and music folders that you are issued. This includes uniforms.

·         Keep your grades up in other classes. You will not perform if you have a “5” in any of your classes.

·         Treat all other students with respect.

·         Keep your language clean.

·         Keep food outside of the band room.

·         Any locks used on a band locker must be issued by Mr. Williford.

·         Refrain from loud talking, yelling, running, and engaging in any form of horseplay while in the band room.

·         Keep all areas of the music room clean at all times. If you make a mess, clean it up, if you see a mess, clean it up, even if you didn’t make it. Do not leave any items (including cases) on the floor. Keep your cases and books in your locker at all times.

·         Hazing, or the harsh physical initiation of any student is strictly prohibited. All band members are to be treated with the utmost respect at all times

At football games:

·         Upon completion of warm-up procedures, the band will assemble outside in block or stadium entry formation. Students will form ranks immediately upon hearing the Drum Major’s command.

·         The Drum Majors and Section Leaders will conduct uniform inspections prior to the band’s departure to the stadium.

·         The band will march to the stadium in block formation. Spectators should not be allowed to break ranks or files.

·         Purses should not be carried into the stadium but should be left the students' band LOCKERS.

·         All extra equipment, including flipbooks, lyres, and water jugs shall be carried into the stadium when we march over to the stadium.

On the field or in the stands:

· Refuse to talk or move while at attention.

·Remain at attention once you are in-place in the stadium seating area until the Drum major gives the command for all to be seated.

· Ranks and files should be kept in perfect alignment while seated or playing in the stands.

· Keep all part of your uniform on unless directly instructed by Ms. Melody or the Drum Major.

· Stand at Parade Rest when there is an injured player on the field.

·Keep family and friends out of the band’s stadium seating area.

· Stay at your seat while the game is in progress.

· Pay attention to the game.

·Help the team and spirit line by taking part in cheers.

·No eating or drinking while in the stands and in uniform.

·Visits to the rest rooms are allowed, but no more than two students may be gone at any one time. Make sure the Drum Major is aware.

·At away games, students may leave the stands, but must remain in groups of five or more students or must be accompanied by a chaperone.

·Student conduct should be professional throughout the time spent in the stadium. Individual playing or beating of drums is not permitted.

· Band members should treat the other band’s members, director, and guests courteously.  If something good cannot be said about the visiting band, then don’t say anything.

At half-time:

· Band members should exit the stands in a pre-determined orderly manner.

· The band should move quickly to form the proper line-up or pre-set formation at the north end of the stadium before the half-time performance (at nine minutes left in the second period).

·After the performance, the band will form a tunnel on the track to bring the team onto the field. At the conclusion of the fight song, the students are to ground their instruments against the fence to facilitate visiting with the other band. At home games the visiting band will be allowed to visit with us on the southwest corner of the track.

On the bus:

· Remain silent when ten minutes away from a performance location.

· Keep your limbs inside the bus.

· Stay seated while the bus is in motion.

· Choose the seat you want and remain there.

· Clean up your messes and throw away your own trash.    

Procedures

• Entering the Room

o   Enter in an orderly fashion

o   Set up your Chair and stand (if applicable)

o   Get your instrument and materials out

o   Warm Up your instrument

o   Wait for Ms. Melody or other staff to begin rehearsal

o   You must be ready for the DOWNBEAT. (arrive early in order to be on time!)

• Tardy

o   If you come into a rehearsal or class tardy, DO NOT interrupt class to hand the Director a pass. Sign in, leave your late pass next to sign in and join class as quickly as possible.

• Restroom: Sign out and take pass. Do NOT interrupt instruction, be quick.

• Rehearsal Procedures

o   Rehearsals should be focused and efficient. Talking should be kept to a minimum. NEVER distract from a rehearsal by talking, playing out of turn, goofing off, etc.

o   Music Rehearsal Structure will usually include:

• Breathing (wind players)

• Full Group Warm Up

• Technique, Skills, Scales, Long Tones, Chorales, etc.

• Repertoire Rehearsal

o   Outside Marching Rehearsal will include:

•   Warm Up Lap

• Physical stretch/warm Up

• Basics block/Across the floors

• (Music Warm Up)

•  Review drill

• Learn New Drill

• Apply music to drill

• Using Facilities and other spaces (Practice Field & Auditorium)

o   ALWAYS leave facilities BETTER than you found it. Clean up after yourself without being told. (Don’t become a teapot!)

• Fire Drill/Lockdown Drills

o   Fire Drill: Exit orderly to the North Field (Practice Field)

o    Lockdown: Move in an orderly fashion to the shelter location (office back storage room)                                                                                          

Attendance Expectations

Students are expected to be on time and present at all sectionals, ensemble rehearsals, and performances.

Some absences may EXCUSED. These include but are not limited to:

•                family emergencies

•                 death in the family

•                 severe illness

•                 hospitalization

•                 Sickness with signed doctor or parent note/email

•                 religious holiday

•                 admin-approved extracurricular conflicts such as club, or sports events.

•                 Doctor’s appointments are only considered excused for in class rehearsals that meet during the school days.

•                 Job/Work- must speak with Ms. Melody prior to needing to miss rehearsal/performance.

UNEXCUSED Absences include but are not limited to:

•              Babysitting

•              Homework/Projects (it is student responsibility to plan these accordingly along with their band schedule)

•              Driver’s Ed

•             “Sick” with no signed doctor or parent note

•              More than 10 minutes late to class with no excuse or parent/office note

Unexcused Absences from any Marching Band related rehearsal (sectional, ensemble or repeatedly during class time rehearsals) will result in student not performing that week in the field show. Student(s) will be expected to stand at attention/parade rest on the sidelines while the rest of the ensemble performs.

Unexcused Absences from any Concert Ensemble will result in additional recording or listening assignment due within 1 week of the unexcused absence. Unexcused absence from any Dress Rehearsal will result in revoked performance privileges for the actual concert.

CONCERT AND PERFORMANCES POLICIES

Because performance plays an integral role in any music program, all students are expected to be at every performance or concert. A required performance is one that is listed on the band calendar or one that is added to the calendar with three weeks notice.

Two weeks notice for any absence by a parent is required for most of the excused absences listed below. If parent notification is given to the director and arrangements are made prior to the performance, exceptions will be made under the following circumstances.

While at performances, the following is also important and will be graded:

1)      Promptness. Unless otherwise noted, all band personnel will be required to arrive one hour prior to field entry or performance time for dress and warm-up

2)      All students must stay for the completion of the entire performance or concert. 

a)      Leaving early will result in a partial loss of credit for that performance.

3)      All students must display proper performance and concert etiquette:

a)      Proper concert attire/dress.

b)      Staying seated in the hall or in the stands at all times (except when playing).

c)      Movement in and out of the concert hall is permitted during applause only.

d)     Consideration and sensitivity to the performers and audience. Don’t talk to your neighbors, fidget, put your feet on the seats, or eat while at a concert.

4)      Students must ride on the bus with the group for all away performances. A parent release form must be signed for any student wishing to ride in a private vehicle to or from any school-sponsored event.  However, this practice is highly discouraged.

**Always do your absolute best to schedule band and other activities in a way that does not hinder with your ability to be in rehearsals and succeed academically. If something comes up that is unavoidable, communicate with the Band Director and other necessary staff/teachers as soon as possible. The more in advance we know, the better we can help you to still be successful in your absence.

Grading Procedures 

*Applies to ALL Curricular Band & OrchestraEnsemble Classes*

 Philosophy:

     Band is a unique class because we have students that vary in grade levels and musical experiences. All should be able to earn a “A” in Band or Orchestra even if you do not play as well as someone else.

Principles of Grading:

     Grades will be earned on the basis of music play-offs, performance, attendance, practice assignments, sectional rehearsals, term and semester exams, and on your ability to meet expectations.

     Every ensemble at Thunderbird is a performing organization. Your attendance at every rehearsal and performance is critical to the groups’ success. However, due to illness or other situations, you may not be able to attend 100% of the time. Although this is understandable, absences will not be excused when there is a failure to get a ride, when there is a work conflict, or when absences are due to disciplinary action by the school or parents.

Students are graded on:

• FOOTBALL GAME OR CONCERT ATTENDANCE

• BAND DAY & FESTIVAL ATTENDANCE

• REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE- Being present at rehearsals is a critical component. A student's overall grade can be negatively impacted due to excessive absences or tardies.

• MUSIC CHECKS/ASSESSMENTS

  • Marching Band: Music memorized when required. These pass-offs are mandatory for your grade.

  • Jazz Bands/Concert Band: Music must be learned by the assigned due date.

WRITTEN WORK AND HOMEWORK

Written work will include P.B.A.’s (Performance-Based Assessments), and/or written quizzes given periodically. Homework may include scheduled sectionals, scheduled additional rehearsals, and other activities relevant to the music program.

FINAL EXAM (Jazz & Advanced Band)

The final exam will include the final performance and performance reflections.

Since there are varying numbers of performances during each grading period and by each band, the grading scale for each band will be a percentage of the total points possible.

GRADING WEIGHTS

Attendance/Participation- 30%

       Arrival on time for rehearsals

       Prepared with all needed materials for rehearsals.

       Participation in Discussion/Rehearsal

Concert Reflections/Summative Assessments- 20%

       Concert/Performance Reflections

       Written Exams/ Assessments

Pass Offs/Quizzes- 30%

      Scales

       Part Pass-Offs

   Theory Quizzes

   Composer Quizzes

       Musical Work Quizzes

Listening/Worksheet Assignments -20%

      What’s Your Story?

       Listening Assignment- What do you hear?

       Adjudicator Assignment

       Discover Music worksheets

       Bring YOUR Music to Class Worksheets

Tardy: unexcused Tardies automatically result in half participation points for that day.

Unexcused Late Assignments: will only be accepted for half credit. 

Please Note:

• Students with the grade of F in any of their classes will be unable to perform with the band until their grade is brought up. These students will be required to stand on the sideline in full uniform during the marching field show.

• The district attendance policy of dropping credit or moving a student to audit status after any combination of 12 tardies or absences will be strictly adhered to.

• The district’s 6-step disciplinary policy will be utilized in all music classes.

Uniform Info

Uniforms:

As members of the Thunderbird Band Program, it is important that dress in a uniform manner that positively represents the program and school itself. All members are required to dress in the appropriate performance attire for whatever ensemble they are in. Below are policies for each ensemble.

Marching Band

All members are expected to wear the following for formal performances such as games and competitions:

·   Comfortable athletic shorts and Current Year Band Show Shirt

·   LONG BLACK Socks (for black bibbers). LONG WHITE Socks (for white bibbers-drum majors)

·   Uniform Bibbers & Uniform Top

·   BLACK MARCHING Shoes (cleaned and polished if possible)

·   Clean, LONG-waisted Gloves (Black)- White for Drum Major

·   No Jewelry, No Makeup

o   Makeup will get on uniforms which will dirty and ruin uniforms. Please DO NOT wear makeup in Uniform.

o   Exception: Tiny nostril studs may be kept in if they are hardly visible. For sake of not letting the piercing close while removed.

o   *New piercings should be avoided during marching season; however, I understand that some piercings can close even long after having them done*

**ENTIRE Marching Band Uniform MUST be returned at the end of the season. Otherwise, a full charge of the uniform cost (about $400) will be charged to the student’s bookstore account**  

A Marching Band Uniform will be provided to all students in the marching band and is comprised of the following components:

1)      Uniform Top and Bibbers

2)      Shako with Plume (if used)

3)      Uniform Bag with Hanger

     Students are responsible for purchasing of the following:

1)      Band t-shirt

2)      Black shorts (knee length)

3)      Long Black dress socks

4)      Marching shoes

A “summer” uniform will be worn to the first few games. It consists of:

1)      Band t-shirt

2)      Black shorts(knee length)

3)      Athletic socks

4)      Marching shoes        

Uniforms will be checked by section leaders before each performance for:

·         Failing to be fully dressed in all of the items listed above.

·         Dirty uniform (shoes, socks, t-shirt, as well as shako, pants or jacket).

·         Hanging up uniform improperly (see uniform cabinet doors for details).

·         Leaving any piece of the uniform unattended in any place other than the uniform cabinets after a performance.

·         Uniform on the floor.

All of the components of the uniform are to be kept together at all times.

SOUND GOOD, LOOK GOOD, AND FEEL GOOD

TAKE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND IN YOUR UNIFORM

The Marching Uniform

·Know the number of your uniform and shako, and make sure that they are stored in the proper place when not in use.

·Always wear the band t-shirt and athletic shorts under your uniform, along with black socks and clean/polished marching shoes. It is your responsibility to make sure your shoes are polished and gloves are cleaned before each performance.

· A garment bag must be over the properly hung uniform when the uniform is being transported or carried. You may store your gloves in the bag but NOTHING ELSE! Absolutely no shoes!

· You are responsible for taking care of your own garment bag, hanger, and clothes while in uniform.

· Shakos must be placed in the shako box and stored correctly when not in use.

· Uniform must be hung up properly and stored in the correct place when not in use. Do not store your uniform in the garment bag until it has been “aired out” for at least 24 hours.

· Long hair must be put up into the shako for performances.

· Uniforms will be worn properly (zipped up) at all times when in public view.

· Eating or drinking is not permitted while in uniform. The only exception is water.

· Uniform pants are to be hemmed to rest perfectly on the band shoe. This is the responsibility of each individual member.

·Never leave uniform or accessories unattended, as you will be personally held responsible for the cost of anything lost or stolen.

· We will wear a summer uniform until the weather drops to a reasonable temperature. It will consist of: band t-shirt, black shorts (knee length), black socks and marching shoes                                                                              

Concert Band/Percussion Ensemble/Jazz Band 

All members of concert ensemble must adhere to the following concert attire expectations:

Performance attire is all black (Concert Black)

• Concert Black-  Black shoes, black socks, black bottoms, Black Top.

  • • Black Concert Shirts include:

o   Button down long sleeves (preferred)

o   Black button-down ¾ sleeve                                                               

o   Ties are not necessary but should be black, white, blue, or orange if you decide to wear one.

o   Black blouse with sleeves (short sleeve, ¾ sleeve/ or long sleeve) NO Tank tops. Shoulders should remain covered at all times- Cover ups are OK to wear over appropriate tank top if it remains on.

• Black Concert Bottoms Include:

o   Black casual Dress Pants

o   Black suit pants

o   Black Dress Pants

• Concert Skirts/Dresses include:

o   Black maxi skirt made of thick material (not see-through!)

o   Black Tea Skirt

o   All-Black Maxi Dress

o   All-Black Tea Dress

o   All-Black Choir Dress

o   All-Black evening dress (no see-through/Lacey see-through dresses)

o   All-Black Dress

 **ALL dresses and skirts MUST come over the knee while seated in playing position**

• Black Concert Shoes:

o   Black dress shoes

o   Nice Black Boots/Booties

o   Black Flats

o   Black heels

o   **You MUST be able to walk safely in your shoes, you will be carrying your instrument on stage and we do not want any damages or falls due to shoes**

·   Minimal Makeup & Jewelry

o   Makeup and Jewelry should not be distracting. Think simple and effective.

**Goal is to look mature and classy for our performance. Always dress with class! **                                                                                                         

Rehearsal Materials

It is EXTREMELY important that all students come to every rehearsal with ALL materials needed for that rehearsal. Students should also come having practiced and prepared their music individually. Below is a list of materials students need to bring to ALL music rehearsals.

·      PENCIL

·      Music

·      Instrument(s)

·      Sticks/Mallets/Bows

·      Instrument accessories:

o   Rosin (orchestra)

o   Reeds

o   Cork grease

o   Valve oil

o   Slide grease

o   Mouthpieces

o   Cleaning supplies

·      Band/Orchestra Binder

o   Warm ups

o   Music

o   Fingering/position charts

o   Drill sheets/coordinate sheets (marching band)

·      Metronome/Tuner (if you have one)

·      WATER

Parent Responsibilities

Parents Can Help Their Student(s) in the following Ways:

•  Assist in giving your student(s) rides to rehearsals & performances

•  Ensure students have correct attire and materials     required for rehearsals and performances.

• Show an interest in your student(s)’ music study

• Encourage Practicing at home

• Designate a Quite place where your student(s) can practice without interruption or distraction

• Encourage your students to practice daily and to keep a practice log

• Keep instrument in good repair and take woodwinds to shop once a year if they are personally owed to ensure they are in proper working order.

• Purchase a metronome/tuner combo (about $20.00 at your local music store)

• Teach your child to be prepared and on time to their obligations.

• Attend all performances and important band activities such as games, competitions, fundraisers, etc.

• Encourage your student(s) to use a planner to keep track of important dates

• Refer to and understand Band Handbook Policies & Procedures

• Aid in your Student(s)’ fundraising (individual and group)

• Do your best to notify teacher(s) if student will be absent.

• Visit rehearsals occasionally

• Cheer them on always!

Parents Can Help the Program in the Following Ways:

•  Join the Parent Booster Club

• Volunteer

o   Help with Uniform Distribution on Game Days

o   Help pass out snacks at rehearsals, games, competitions

o   Help with fundraiser activities and Events

•  Lend your building skills to build props for the marching field show

• Lend your accounting skills to review budgets for the Booster Club

•  Lend your sewing and crafting skills for Booster Projects and band uniform fitting.

• Lend your baking skills for Band Celebrations and Get-Togethers

• Become a Booster Officer (President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.)

*If   you are interested volunteering or becoming a part of the Parent Booster Program, contact the Ms. Melody and Mrs. Kim Baker (Current Band Booster President) to get started! *

Fundraising Activities

We will be holding several fundraisers throughout the year. Fundraiser participation is encouraged but never required. We will hold a combination of individual and group fundraisers. Doing so will enable students to raise money to pay for band camp fees, possible trips, and individual expenses. Group fundraisers however will be used to purchase much needed materials and equipment for the Thunderbird Band Program. These could be bigger purchases such as a new marching Drum Major podium, sound equipment, new instruments to replace damaged instruments that are past fixing, or to pay for experienced, renowned clinicians that can come in and work with the students during rehearsals.

Possible Fundraising Events of the Year:

•                 Car Washes (Group)

•                 Restaurant Nights (Group)

•                Throw a broken instrument fundraiser (Group)

•                Trash Bag Fundraiser (Group/Individual)

•                 Mattress Sale (Group)

•                 Walk-a-Thon (Individual)

•                 March-a-Thon (Individual)

•                Toilet Paper Sale (Group/Individual)

•                Silent Auction

•                Community Yard Sale

AWARDS

John Phillip Sousa Band Award – This award is presented each year to the outstanding band member who displays superior musicianship, merit, leadership, dependability, loyalty, cooperation, and other positive qualities of conduct. The student’s name is placed on a plaque permanently displayed in the band room. The director selects the recipient.

Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – This award is presented each year to the outstanding jazz band member who displays superior musicianship, merit, leadership, dependability, loyalty, cooperation, and other positive qualities of conduct. The student’s name is placed on a plaque permanently displayed in the band room. The director selects the recipient

National Marching Award - This award is presented each year to the outstanding marching band member who displays superior musicianship, merit, leadership, dependability, loyalty, cooperation, and other positive qualities of conduct. The student’s name is placed on a plaque permanently displayed in the band room. The director selects the recipient.

Outstanding Freshman/Sophomore/Junior/Senior – These awards are presented to a member from each class who displays outstanding musicianship and character.

LETTERING

To qualify for a letter in band, a student must participate in band for all 4 years and maintain good grades in band. This letter represents the students' commitment to band and their individual growth as a musician. To receive a letter and awards, the student must be in good standing with the band, the department, the school and the community.