Wind Ensemble

HHS Performing Ensembles 2013-2014 (WIND ENSEMBLE)

The objectives of Hanover High School performing ensembles are: to develop each student’s musical skills to the greatest degree possible,

to build self-confidence while striving for personal and group excellence,

to develop a sense of community and commitment within the group, and

to develop professionalism in all aspects of performance, including rehearsals.

CORE COMPETENCIES

1. Students will perform on instruments a varied repertoire of music.

2. Students will read music.

3. Students will listen to, analyze and describe music.

4. Students will evaluate music and music performance.

5. Students will demonstrate an understanding of music in relation to history and culture.

6. Students will demonstrate appropriate ensemble participation skills.

Music students are expected to uphold high standards of responsibility, honor and integrity in accordance with the HHS Academic Honor Code and Academic Integrity Policy. Students are expected to abide by the rules of the HHS handbook.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR WIND ENSEMBLE:

Wind Ensemble meets first period -- a weekly schedule will be posted. During concert times days may be changed to accommodate other dress rehearsal needs. Extra evening or after school rehearsals may occur during the year.

l. Rehearsal Technique

a. Be ready to begin class promptly.

b. Each student must have an instrument, music and a pencil for every rehearsal.

c. Sit with both feet on the floor and your back away from the chair when playing.

d. Be quiet when your section is not playing.

e. Show courtesy and respect to all ensemble members including the Director.

f. Watch the Director and cut off when indicated.

g. No food, drink or gum during rehearsals. (water is okay)

h. There may be extra rehearsals before concerts. Students will be excused from class to attend.

Attendance is required at all extra rehearsals.

2. Performances

A list of Music Department dates for the school year is attached. Please check these dates carefully. Each student is required to perform at all concerts and other special events. Appropriate dress (all black) for each performance is required and students are expected to be ready for warm up at the designated time.

3. Concert Attendance Requirement

Students enrolled in Wind Ensemble for credit are expected to attend all concerts and rehearsals for concerts. The only acceptable excuses for missing a concert or rehearsal are illness or extreme family emergency. The Prior Notification (Golden Rod) procedure for excusing class absences does not apply to concerts. Concert schedules are established before the start of each school year, and performers are expected to arrange their other priorities (recreation, college visits, vacations, etc.) so as not to conflict. An unexcused absence from a concert will result in a grade being lowered by one letter.

If a parent and/or student believes there are extreme extenuating circumstances impacting on a pending absence from a concert, an appeal of the prescribed consequence (grade level drop) may be made first to the teacher and secondly, if still unresolved, to a panel of music department staff and administration.

4. Wind Ensemble Music/Comprehensive Skills

All students are expected to be able to play their parts and should be able to explain all symbols, terms and markings in the Wind Ensemble music.

5. Student evaluation

Your grade in Wind Ensemble will be based on the following:

Rehearsal technique 72 points

Music/Comprehensive Skills 12 points

Performance 10 points

Individual improvement assessment 5 points