Liberty Union Middle School Band Handbook

Mr. Evan Greene, Director

Communication:

Good communication can prevent problems throughout the school year!  My primary form of communication is through email. I encourage you to email me at evan.greene@libertyunion.org at any time with questions or concerns.

Grading breakdown:

60% - Assessments

30% - Knowledge

10% - Responsibility

Expectations:

A LIBERTY UNION BAND MEMBER is a student who has, by choice, made a commitment to the goals and philosophy of the Liberty Union Band Program. 

One's personal objectives should always be to become a successful part of the total unit and to strive to help others achieve the same goal. To achieve these goals, all band members must embrace the following band rules: 

1. Be Respectful

2. Be On Time 

3. Be Prepared 

4. Use Your Talents to Make a Difference 

5. Use All Resources to Continue Improving 

6. Follow Instructions

Practice:

We know our Band kids are some of the most busy and outgoing kids. We ask that students find time each week to practice. Our philosophy is that PRACTICE MAKES PROGRESS. While daily practice is hugely beneficial, it is not required or even expected. Every little bit of individual investment and practice goes a long way to growth and success. Practice logs and expectations are often given to help guide the student's progress.

Performance Absences:

Performances are students’ opportunities to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the previous weeks and months of study and rehearsal.  Performances are required and a large portion of the student's grade. Occasionally circumstances occur which cause a student to miss a performance. If a student’s absence from a performance is excused, it is the student’s responsibility to schedule a time after school to perform selected portions of his or her concert pieces individually for Mrs. Greene.  The student must complete this assignment within one week of the concert. The grade given will be based on the student’s performance with consideration given to the student’s experience and ability level. Most importantly - plan ahead.  Most conflicts can be avoided.  

In order for an absence to be excused, the parent must send in an email or note of explanation for the students’ absence two weeks or more before the concert.  Unexcused absences will result in a zero for the assignment. Without parent contact, no absence will be excused.         

Fundraising:

Fundraising helps us pay for transportation, sheet music, guest conductors, instruments and supplies, and other needs essential to the groups.  

Music Boosters:

All band parents are invited to come to music booster meetings, held the first Tuesday of each month in the HS band room at 6:00 pm. You can also attend virtually from the Google Calendar event link.  

Supplies needed every day:

Instrument and accessories, folder, music (including book if applicable), pencil

Concert Attire:

Middle School Band students are asked to dress nicely for the concert but with no specific uniform. Boys are asked to have a collared shirt (ties are optional but appreciated). Girls are asked to wear something comparable. Some items that are not appropriate include: jeans, shorts, or leggings worn as pants alone. Skirts/dress should be knee length or longer.