Handbook

Welcome/Expectations

Welcome!

We are excited to have you as a member of the North Scott High School Band! Through a variety of learning and performance experiences, our goal is to develop a life-long appreciation for music and the fine arts in our students. In addition to honing their skills on their particular instrument, both individually and as members of small and large ensembles, students will also develop personal, leadership, teamwork, and social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. If you have any questions about the information contained in this handbook, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Expectations

In order for a program such as ours to thrive, all members must contribute to the success of the whole. The following pages outline some of the policies and expectations that will help ensure this success. Students enrolled in the Band Program are expected to:

• Prepare for and attend all lessons, rehearsals, and required performances

• Contribute to the success of the program by demonstrating the proper work ethic and behavior in all rehearsals and performances

• Represent themselves, the band, and the school appropriately at all times

• Have fun learning music!!

Grading Policies

Overview

The North Scott Band program utilizes standards-based grading in both Band and Jazz Band. Students are evaluated on their performance and improvement in both individual and ensemble  settings.  Within each setting, they are expected to demonstrate competencies as they relate to the areas of Literacy (including knowledge of musical notation, symbols, and terminology), Technique (proficiency on their instrument - includes characteristic tone, varieties of articulations, knowledge of scales and note patterns, and ability to play assigned exercises fluently), and Musicianship (musical interpretation - including breathing in appropriate places, use of dynamics and melodic shape, and choosing appropriate tempos).

In the gradebook, you will see the standards listed as follows: Literacy (Individual), Technique (Individual), Musicianship (Individual), Literacy (Ensemble), Technique (Ensemble), Musicianship (Ensemble). Individual refers to Lessons, and Ensemble refers to the large ensemble (Concert Band, Jazz Band, etc.). These are the areas that determine a student's grade. Lessons and ensemble performance will be entered as Evidence. You should regularly check your student's Evidence scores, as this is where you can see how they are doing in terms of attendance and preparation.

Concert Band Grading Policies

LESSONS (50% of the total grade) 

Students are required to have 4 lessons per quarter (one every 2 weeks=once per lesson cycle). They sign up online by the end of the day on Sunday before the next lesson cycle, and come out of study hall (preferred - if they have one on their schedule), or one of their other classes. Students should check with teachers in advance, if possible, to avoid any conflicts with tests, in-class projects, etc. If a student has trouble leaving class for their lesson, they are encouraged to talk to their lesson teacher to try to arrange an alternate time. Lessons must be completed by the due date listed in Canvas, or they will be recorded as a zero in the grade book. If a student signs up for a lesson and has to miss for any reason (illness, test in class, etc.), they have until the end of the following week to make up that lesson. Lessons may not be made up all at once at the end of the quarter. Students may only be graded on one lesson per week.

Each lesson is graded based on preparation and demonstrated mastery of the concepts presented. While 4 are required, students are certainly permitted to sign up for and attend as many as they wish. If a student chooses to attend more than the minimum number of required lessons, the top 4 grades will be counted.

The most important aspect of the individual lesson is the student's progress from lesson to lesson, and their individual growth in the time between lessons. Much of the learning takes place through trial and error during individual at-home practice. For students to experience steady improvement, it is critical that they practice regularly - daily is best. Students are encouraged to take their instruments home each night. Students are also welcome to use the band room and practice rooms during any study halls or free periods they may have throughout the day for individual practice. Parents - you can play an important role by encouraging your student to make time to practice, asking them what they are working on, or asking them to play something from their lesson book that they are preparing for their next lesson.

During the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters, students who study with an approved private instructor may count up to three private lessons per quarter toward their required lessons, with the remaining lesson to be completed at school. This way, the directors are able to monitor the student's progress with their private lesson teacher. The private lessons must be completed by the corresponding due dates in Canvas. Please click HERE to download the voucher form. The private instructor is to fill each out and assign a grade. The student will then turn it in to Mr. Collins or Mr. McMann by the end of the quarter.

NOTE: LESSON VOUCHERS ONLY APPLY TO THE 2nd, 3rd, and 4th QUARTERS. DURING THE 1st QUARTER, ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE 4 IN-SCHOOL LESSONS: 2 "REGULAR" LESSONS, AND 2 "CHAIR PLACEMENT" LESSONS.

ENSEMBLE (50% of the total grade)

The Ensemble grade is a combination of concert attendance/preparation, daily rehearsal preparation and contribution, and completion of the pep band requirements. Things such as excessive tardiness to rehearsal, forgetting their instrument/music, and behavior which detracts from a good rehearsal environment will adversely impact the rehearsal contribution portion of this category.

Public performances are a critically important part of ensemble participation, and students are expected to attend all scheduled performances. The calendar is set well in advance so families may plan accordingly. Absences from a concert will be excused in certain cases (serious illness, death in family, etc.), and should be communicated to the directors as soon as possible BEFORE the performance. If an absence is known about in advance, a MINIMUM written notice of 10 school days is required. Please place the performances on your calendar NOW so conflicts can be avoided. Contact the directors if you have any questions or conflicts. Conflicts with a work schedule are NOT considered excused absences. Unexcused absences from a performance will have a negative effect on a student's grade for the semester. Please see Attendance Policies for more information.

Jazz Band Grading Policies

1) Individual Standards (Literacy, Technique, and Musicianship) - These grades will reflect each student's work, contribution, and rate of improvement in rehearsals.

2) Ensemble Standards (Literacy, Technique, and Musicianship) - These grades will be based on student performance and attendance at all required concerts and events. Attendance expectations for Jazz Band are the same as for Concert Band.

Attendance Policies

Performances

Concert dates are listed on the Calendar page. Band concerts are a required part of the band curriculum; unexcused absences from concerts will result in a lowered grade in band.  Students are required to participate in ALL concerts. If a student will be missing a concert, written notice must be given to the director at least 10 school days in advance of an absence from a concert in order for said absence to be excused. Students who provide the proper notification for an excused absence will complete a make-up assignment to recover the points from said performance. Students who miss a performance and DO NOT give the proper 10 days notice, or are absent for reasons not approved by a director, will not receive credit for the performance and will not have an opportunity for make-up. Emergency absences will be considered on an individual basis and will include student illness or a family emergency. If such a situation arises, please make every effort to notify the director prior to the event.

Public performances are a critically important part of ensemble participation. The calendar is set well in advance so families may plan accordingly. Please place the performances on your calendar NOW so conflicts can be avoided. PLEASE NOTE: Conflicts with a student work schedule are NOT considered excused absences. Be sure to notify your employer WELL IN ADVANCE so they may accommodate your schedule needs. Contact the directors if you have any questions.

Rehearsals

School attendance policy applies for rehearsal attendance. Being in attendance for a rehearsal means that the student has their instrument, music, and all other required materials.

Homecoming Week

There are two required performances during NSHS Homecoming Week: the parade and coronation assembly on Thursday evening, followed by the halftime performance on Friday. ALL BAND MEMBERS ARE REQUIRED TO MARCH WITH THE BAND for the homecoming parade, unless they are a Varsity Football Player, Varsity Cheerleader, or Varsity Silver Shaker. No exceptions will be made.

Graduation

Attendance at the band performance for the graduation ceremony on Sunday of Memorial day weekend is a required performance for all current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Please plan accordingly, and notify the directors NOW if you are aware of any conflicts with this performance.

Ensemble Auditions

Overview

The primary purpose for auditions is to place students in an ensemble and on a part that best aligns with their skills and abilities.

Symphonic/Concert Band

Auditions for chair placement will be held during the 3rd and 4th lesson cycles of the 1st quarter. Audition material will be given out in lessons, and will consist of the following:

Audition Lesson #1 - Sight-reading. Students will perform a series of standardized sight-reading exercises.

Audition Lesson #2 - Scales and Prepared Etudes. Students will perform as many of the major scales and the full range chromatic scale as they are able, as well as 2-3 short etudes selected by the directors. The etudes will be provided to the student at the sight-reading lesson, so that each student has the same amount of time to prepare.

Jazz Bands

Auditions for one of the two jazz bands and Night School typically take place during the second full week of school. Materials will be posted on the website and in Canvas in early August. Standard jazz band instrumentation includes alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, bass, drum set, and guitar. Students who play flute, clarinet, or a double reed instrument (oboe and bassoon) are encouraged to try out on sax or piano if interested. We have many students currently performing in our jazz bands on secondary instruments. Euphonium players are also encouraged, as the school owns a couple of valve trombones that translate nicely into a jazz band setting. The auditions consist of the following:

EVERYONE BUT DRUMMERS SHOULD PREPARE THE FOLLOWING:
1) The mixolydian and dorian scales (the sheet may be used in audition)
2) Prepared tune (given by directors)
3) OPTIONAL (but recommended)- Perform a 12 bar improvised solo over concert Bb or F Blues changes with a pre-recorded rhythm section.

DRUMMERS:
1) Perform these drum styles with the given metronome markings:
Up-tempo Swing, q=180
Bossa Nova, q=120
Samba, q=104
Funk Groove, q=96
2) Snare rhythms provided on sheet
3) OPTIONAL (but recommended)- perform a one-minute solo in style of their choice.

Night School

Night School instrumentation includes five horns (combination of trumpets, trombones, and saxes, based on level and numbers auditioning), two or three vocalists, guitar, piano, bass, and drums.

Instrumentalist auditions will happen during the first two weeks of  school. Interested students will be asked to perform an excerpt (provided) from a tune that demonstrates proper style, technique, and musicianship. The materials will be posted in Canvas and on the band webpage in early August.

Vocalist auditions happen in late spring/summer, and are done either live or through video submission. Auditionees are asked to perform a song in the soul, funk, R & B, or pop genres that demonstrates appropriate style, pitch, timbre, and energy.

Challenges

Some students may not end up in the band or chair that they desire. Challenges are a way for students to improve their ensemble placement. The process is as follows:

A student may challenge the player sitting one chair ahead of them. The challenge is made first by informing the person to challenged, then by informing one of the directors, and completing a challenge form (found on the bulletin board in the band room). The challenger is to select a piece of music from his/her folder, the challengee is to select a piece from his/her folder, and each is to give a copy of their piece to the other THE NEXT DAY after the challenge is made. Each student will then have three school days (after exchange of music) to prepare BOTH pieces of music. On the fourth school day after music is exchanged, both players will play for the directors. All challenges will include scales. Any student refusing to accept a challenge or not abiding by the challenge rules will automatically forfeit their chair position. The only exception is if a student is ill on the day of the challenge. A challenger losing a challenge may re-challenge, but must wait at least one week. Challenges may occur between Concert and Symphonic Band, and Jazz I and Jazz II. The directors have the option of selecting another piece of music of their choosing, if they so desire. While a challenge may occur during the time immediately prior to a performance, a change of seating will not occur during the two week period before a performance.

Uniforms

New band members will be assessed a one-time fee of $32 to cover the cost of the black dri-fit band t-shirt and black uniform ball cap. The band department will supply the uniform jackets, which students will have the option to purchase and keep for everyday use ($75). Returning members should already have their dri-fit t-shirt and ball cap. Replacements are available for purchase if needed.

All band members must supply black pants, long black socks, and plain black shoes (must be all black- no other colors) to complete the marching band uniform.  For concert band, the attire is black dress pants, a black button-down long-sleeved shirt or blouse, long black socks, and black dress shoes. If black dress-type shoes were purchased for marching band, those may be used. A long black dress with at least 3/4 length sleeves is also appropriate concert attire. Graduation is a warmer weather performance that we ask the students to wear "nice" clothes of a lighter nature. This outfit should not include jeans or jean skirts, shorts, t-shirts, gym shoes, etc., in order to reflect the importance of the occasion.

Lockers

All band members will be assigned a locker in which they may store their instrument and other items needed for band. Students who play multiple instruments may be assigned more than one, if needed. Lockers should be kept clean and organized, and may be inspected by the band directors at any time. The following policies apply with regard to the use of band lockers:

1. ABSOLUTELY NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED IN LOCKERS OR THE LOCKER AREA AT ANY TIME. Water bottles containing plain water (i.e. not flavored/colored water) are ok, as long as there is a lid or cap to prevent spilling.

2. Students should not share a locker with other students, and should keep their locker locked at all times. The North Scott Community Schools and the North Scott Bands are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

3. Locks will be provided. Students may not use their personal lock. Students will be charged a replacement fee for lost/damaged locks.

4. Students will be responsible for cleaning their assigned locker(s) at the end of the year. Students who do not complete this task will be charged a locker cleaning fee of $10 per locker.

5. Students will be charged for any damage to their locker caused by misuse or abuse (e.g. sitting/hanging on the door, slamming doors shut, damage caused by horseplay, etc.).

School-Owned Instruments

There is a $50.00 per year rental fee if your child is using a school-owned wind or percussion instrument, which will be added to the student's Infinite Campus account. This fee covers only a portion of the yearly maintenance performed on these instruments, which includes things such as cleaning/sterilization, replacement of pads on woodwind instruments, replacement of percussion heads, etc. (Think about musical instrument maintenance like having the oil changed on your car - if you don't have regular maintenance performed, eventually the car will stop working.)

It is imperative that students treat school-owned instruments and equipment with the utmost care and respect. When not being played, instruments must be stored in the case with the lid closed and the latches latched. Woodwind instruments should be swabbed after playing, and brass instruments should be oiled and lubricated regularly. Reeds should not be left on woodwind mouthpieces, and mouthpieces should be removed from brass instruments when returned to the case. Percussionists must take care to play any instrument with the correct sticks/mallets, and to play in such a way as to not damage the head or the equipment. Percussion equipment must be covered and stored properly when not in use.

Students are responsible for consumable items related to playing their instrument (reeds, valve oil, slide grease, etc.)

Finally, students must not loan their instrument to others, nor should they allow others to use or play any instrument assigned to them. STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO SCHOOL-OWNED INSTRUMENTS ASSIGNED TO THEM, even if that damage is caused by others. Treat your school-owned instrument as if it were yours!

Band Trip

Every-other year, the band program takes a trip to Disney World/Universal Studios in Orlando, FL. There are significant fund-raising opportunites available each year to help offset the cost. As these trips are considered a reward, each student will need to be academically eligible and show regular, consistent lesson attendance. Any school discipline problems will also be subject to review.

To learn more, visit our trip page HERE.

Band Letters/Awards

Students are given the opportunity to earn Band Letters based on their participation in the program. After the initial letter is earned, the students may earn bars. The point system is as follows:

500 points are required for a Freshman to receive a letter

800 accumulated points are required for a Sophomore to receive a letter

500 points in one year are required to receive a bar after receiving a letter

Points are given for the following musical activities:

Football games - 25, Concerts - 25, Honor Band - 25, North Scott Solo - 25, All State tryout - 25, Band Camp - 25, State Ensemble - 35, State Solo - 50, All State - 50, All State Jazz - 50, Jazz Band- 50, Mentoring Program - 20, Commencement - 15, Pep Band - 10, Summer lessons - 5. Other points may be awarded at the director's discretion for participation in outside musical ensembles, taking private lessons, and other musical achievement/participation.

The following awards are given at the end of the year:

John Philip Sousa Band Award - presented to a senior band member in recognition of outstanding achievement and interest in instrumental music, for singular merit in loyalty and cooperation, and for displaying those high qualities of conduct that school instrumental music requires. Voted on by the members of the band.

Louis Armstrong Jazz Award - presented to an outstanding senior jazz band member in recognition of outstanding achievements in the field of jazz as demonstrated through superior musicianship, character, and individual creativity. Voted on by the members of the Jazz Bands.

Scarlet and Silver Award - Directors’ award presented to student(s) who, in the eyes of the directors, have demonstrated outstanding character, persistence, and/or achievement as a member of the North Scott Band, as well as for their contributions over and above to the North Scott Band program.

Band Council

This leadership team is elected by the band students and serves as a "Student Government" for the band program. Responsibilities of the Band Council include choosing music for the upcoming marching band season, finalizing band camp activities, decorating the band locker room, creating Band Bash activities, and more. Band Council nominations and voting takes place at the end of the previous school year. See below for positions and duties.

President

• Provide student leadership and direction to all of the NSHS Ensembles.

• Lead all Band Council meetings (~once per month).

Vice President

• Assist the President in providing student leadership and direction to all of the NSHS Ensembles.

• Lead Band Council meetings if the President is absent.

Secretary

• Record notes at all Band Council meetings and email them to the Band Council after each meeting.

• Take attendance at all Band Council meetings.

Class Representative (2 from each class)

• Serve as “voices” of their respective class.

• Check in with their classmates to hear questions, comments, or concerns to be presented at the Band Council meetings.

Social Chair

• Lead the process in determining extra activities (Band Bash, movie nights, theme days, etc.).

• Check in with band students to hear any suggestions for said activities.

PR Chair

• Oversee locker sign distribution and recognition (not creating all signs- just coordinating the distribution).

• Create/maintain a “Band Students in the News” board.
  
  

APPOINTED POSITIONS

Drum Majors

• Direct the Lancer Marching Band at home football games and in the Homecoming parade.

• Direct the Lancer Pep Band.

• Assist directors during rehearsal, provide mentorship to band members, and maintain an effective rehearsal atmosphere.

Facilities Team

• Assist the directors in keeping the band facilities neat and organized.

• Organize students to help set up and tear down special events held in the band room.

Social Media Chair

• Collect pictures from classmates and place them in a shared Google folder for the NS Band Facebook page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Marching Band

What do students need for marching band?
Besides their instruments, students are expected to purchase and bring their own lyres and flip folders for their music. These are available at all local music stores. Students using school-owned instruments and drumline members do not need to purchase lyres or flip-folders. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for marching band rehearsals (NO FLIP-FLOPS!). Due to wet turf, etc, we recommend a pair of "grubby" tennis shoes to rehearse in. For performances, all students must have black shoes and black socks. (The shoes must be ALL black- stripes or swooshes of a different color are unacceptable.)

When does the marching band perform?
At all home varsity football games and the homecoming parade. The band marches pre-game and at half-time. Students are expected to remain seated with the band during the 1st half. After halftime, students are admitted back into the game at no charge.

Are they responsible for keeping their uniforms at home during the school year?
Yes. They will keep their band jacket, band t-shirt, and ball cap with them and will be responsible for the care of each. If students would like to wear/keep their uniform jacket, they have an option to purchase it for $75. Those who do not purchase will be expected to return their jacket in good condition. The band shirt and ball cap are theirs to keep (they were covered in the fees paid at the beginning of the year).

Where do I purchase music lyres, and are there certain kinds that are better than others?
West Music (corner of Kimberly and Brady). For trumpets and trombones, we recommend the lyres that clamp onto the bell. If you are worried about scratching or denting the instrument, a cloth may be placed between the bell and the lyre.

Who is required to march in the Homecoming Parade?
Everyone is required to march in the parade except VARSITY Football players, VARSITY Cheerleaders, and Silver Shakers.

Lessons/Grading

Does my child need to purchase a method book for lessons?
They should have a lesson book that was provided for them in junior high. If it gets lost, it is the student's responsibility to replace it.

What is expected of the students in lessons?
The students are expected to prepare assigned materials from their lesson book. Band music is NOT an acceptable substitute for the lesson book. FRESHMEN should bring the lesson book they used in 8th grade to their first HS lesson. ***This should not be the book they used in band, but only for lessons.

Are lessons graded? How?
Yes, each lesson is graded based on preparation and progress. Please see  Grading Policies in the Band Handbook.

How does the lesson schedule work?
Students sign up on their own one week (or more) ahead of time. They are asked to sign up for a time when they feel they would miss the least in a particular class. They are also instructed not to come out of the same class more than twice per quarter. The links to sign up are in Canvas.

Do students receive credit for taking private lessons outside of school?
As long as it is on their PRIMARY concert instrument and happen on a regular, weekly basis. Students who study with a private instructor will need to attend 1 in-school lesson and turn in a Lesson Voucher for the remaining 3 (2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters). The private instructor is to fill each out and assign a grade. The student will then turn it in to Mr. Collins or Mr. McMann by the end of the quarter.

Do summer lessons count towards the band grade?
If they complete TWO summer lessons (one each of the two available weeks), they will get credit for ONE first quarter lesson.

Concert/Symphonic Band

How/when are the students placed in Concert/Symphonic Band?
Please see the Ensemble Auditions section for more information.

Once they are placed, is that set for the whole year, or can they challenge?
Please see the Ensemble Auditions section (Challenges) for more information.

Do they have uniforms?
Students are responsible for providing their own concert attire, consisting of black dress pants, a black long-sleeved button-down shirt or blouse, and black dress shoes. A long, black dress with at least 3/4 length sleeves is also appropriate. If students have difficulty procuring their concert uniform, please see the directors.

Jazz Bands

How / when are the students auditioned for jazz band?
They will receive materials on the first day of rehearsal (they will also be posted in Canvas and on the band webpage in early August), and be auditioned approximately 1-2 weeks later. Auditions will be based on playing a prepared piece and optional improvisation. See the Ensemble Auditions section (Jazz Bands) for more information.

How do students get into Night School?
Similar to Jazz 1, there will be a piece of music they will work up.

How many jazz groups are there?
Three: Jazz 1, Jazz 2, and Night School.

What instruments are eligible for jazz band?
Standard instrumentation includes alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, bass, drum set, and guitar. Flute, clarinet, and double reed players (oboe and bassoon) are encouraged to try out on sax or piano if interested. We have many students currently performing in our jazz bands on secondary instruments. Euphonium players are also encouraged, as the school owns a couple of valve trombones that translate nicely into a jazz band setting.

Can students who have never been in jazz band audition?
Absolutely! We have had many students who have never been in jazz band before step in and do a great job.

Since we register before auditions, what should we do? We won't know if we have made it yet!
We will have a place for everyone who enrolls! Once you are in, you'll have the option of auditioning for Jazz 1 or Night School.

Can you participate in jazz band without being enrolled in band?
Only for those playing non-traditional band instruments, including the following: piano, guitar, bass, and drum set.

Do they have uniforms?
No, but they are asked to dress up for performances. (Guys, shirt and tie, etc.)

What if my child plays a different instrument in jazz band?
Check with the directors for specific info. We have a couple of saxes, valve trombones, guitars, bass, etc., that your child may be able to use.

If they study privately on their jazz instrument (if different than concert instrument), can that count for their band lesson grade?
Since Jazz Band is a separate class, lessons on their jazz instrument do not count towards their band lesson grade. If a drummer studies privately and they work on classical percussion AND jazz drumset, that would be okay.

What are grades based on?
Band grades are determined based on a student's progress and ability to meet the standards listed. Please see the Grading Policies section for more information.

Pep Band

Is Pep Band required?
All students are required to attend half of the pep band performances each season (usually 2-3).

Does it affect their band grade?
If they attend less than the required number, it will affect their second semester grade.

How is the pep band schedule determined?
Every attempt is made to distribute pep band performances equally between boys' and girls' games, and to avoid conflicts with conflicting activities (musical, etc.).

Instrument Rentals

What instruments does the school rent to students?
The following instruments are provided for student use: oboes, bass clarinets, bassoons, baritone saxophones, French horns, euphoniums, tubas, and large percussion equipment (students are required to provide their own basic sticks and mallets).

How much are rental fees for said instruments?
Students pay $50 per year.

What happens if my son/daughter plays a different instrument in jazz band?
It varies by situation. Please contact one of the directors.

Band Trip to Florida

Are students required to go on the trip?
No, but highly encouraged. Some of the greatest memories of their high school experience are created on this trip!

How many fundraisers are done leading up to the trip?
Music Boosters Pizza Sales, Quad Cities Coupon Books, and Mattress Sale Fundraiser every year.

How do I get on the chaperone list?
Contact Mr. McMann!

Advice for Parents

There are many things parents can do to enrich their child’s musical experience.

1. Be willing to occasionally listen to your student practice, offering encouraging comments and praise whenever appropriate.

2. Encourage your child to practice regularly and effectively.

3. Remind students to take their instruments to school and check to see that it is brought home after school daily.

4. Make every effort to attend all of the school concerts.

5. Give your child a chance to hear other performing groups.

6. Provide private lessons if possible – ask for a list of teachers!

7. Contact a band director with any questions or concerns.