Important Documents

CHS BAND HANDBOOK

Mr. David Miller, Director

Preface

This handbook is to be an aid to all Christiansburg High School band students and their parents. The handbook contains the necessary information for the success of each band student. This book should be studied and used as a reference to enhance the efficiency of the band program. It should answer most questions on the administration of the band program and therefore, orient the student. THIS IS YOUR BAND! With constant effort you can make it an organization of which you can be proud. All band members and parents are urged to read the entire manual carefully at the beginning of each school year to avoid conflicts with policies stated within.

Table of Contents

Chapter I…………………………………………………….Philosophy and Objectives

Chapter II………………………………………………Qualifications for Membership

Chapter III…………………….Band Organization, Membership, and Commitment

Chapter IV…………………………………………Responsibilities of a Band Member

Chapter V…………………………………………Director’s Expectations of Members

Chapter VI………………………………………………………………General Policies

Chapter VII……………………………………………Class Materials and Equipment

Chapter VIII……..…………………………………………………….…Band Classes

Chapter IX…………………………………………..Information, Rules, and Policies

Chapter X……….………………………………………………….Awards and Letters

Chapter XI…………………………………………CHS Band Boosters Organization

Chapter I

Philosophy and Objectives

Music is a universal language, a pure and unique method of communication. Through music a person can achieve an understanding of beauty, expression, and the appreciation of the finer things in life through the actual participation in them.

In addition to the cultural values, there are many non-musical values taught in music education including personal, physiological and vocational reasons. The band program at Christiansburg High School forms a vital and important part of the total high school life. Band and marching band in particular, represents one of the largest, most visible and highly disciplined segments within any school. The performance of a school band at concerts, sporting events, parades, contests and many community events adds color, pageantry, ceremony and life to the community.

Music is an important and contributing factor in fulfilling the philosophy and general objectives of general education.

There are many objectives of the instrumental program. All of these objectives lead to a broadening of musical experiences. Each student is expected to increase appreciation of all types of music, improve musical skills, and develop an understanding of music. The group should offer recreational opportunities, respect, and pride, through musical performances. Providing high standard musical performances is to be expected to becoming a better citizen and making the community a better place in which to live.

It is possible, by setting your schedule in a reasonable manner, to be in the band and still maintain a high scholastic standard. The purpose of this handbook is to provide members with information on our policies and goals. Please keep this handbook in a safe place and refer to it often!

Chapter II

Qualifications for Membership

In order to qualify for membership in the Christiansburg High School Band, each student must proceed through an approved instrumental training program. Each student is expected to know a minimum of several scales (major) and a chromatic scale by memory. Additional requirements will be added from year to year in order to maintain membership status.

Chapter III

Band Organization, Membership, and Commitment

The band courses are structured to provide students with a sequential development and transition from middle school to high school Intermediate band to Advanced band. Materials covered in intermediate band provide a foundation for the advanced band through further development of musical skills and maturity. Musical selection is based on strengths of the group and is geared to challenge the different ability level of the students. Materials covered in both intermediate and advanced bands include concert literature, basic theory, and history of literature covered.

Students enrolled in the bands also have the opportunity for individual challenges through participation in the All-County, All-District and All-State Bands. Selection for these groups are by audition. Small ensembles are encouraged to provide further challenge for the individual student.

Advanced Band: (Grades 10-12 audition).

Intermediate Band: (Grades 9-12).

Percussion Techniques: (Grades 9-12).

Marching Band: (Grades 8-12).

Jazz Band: (Grades 9-12)

COMMITMENT: High standards of performance demand a strong commitment to excellence by the students, parents, staff and the director of the Christiansburg band program. Remember that any ensemble is only as strong as its weakest performing member and it is only by working together that can we produce the performance level that is expected of us.

It is extremely vital to the success of the program that all students attend appropriate rehearsals and performances for their ensembles. Please check the band schedule in the rear of this handbook or online at www.bluedemonband.com for specific dates. Contact the director immediately if you have a conflict. Once students have been placed in an ensemble, they are expected to be at every rehearsal and performance. The only valid excuses for missing performances include a death in the immediate family, a religious conflict or personal illness. Work does not constitute a valid excuse for missing a performance or practice. We will do our best to work with other school activities, however a practice in another activity is not an excuse for missing a rehearsal or public performance. Failure to be present at rehearsals and performances could result in loss of participation privilege or lowering of a student's grade. The band calendar will be followed as closely as possible, but some changes may need to be made at the discretion of the director. Students will always have ample notice of any schedule change. Occasionally, we will be asked to give other performances within the community. When possible, students will be given notice and a chance to check their calendars when an extra performance is scheduled.

The absence of a student at a rehearsal or performance affects every student within the ensemble, not just the student who failed to appear. Everyone in the organization depends on each other and it is important that we all do our part. We all suffer when someone does not fulfill their obligation to the group. Remember, students and their band will be judged by the quality of their results and not by the quality of their excuses.

Chapter IV

Responsibilities of a Band Member

Through effective performances and musical contributions to the community, the members of the CHS Band Program may earn various rights and privileges. As we continue these traditions of performance excellence, we must temper these rights and privileges with several areas of responsibility.

1. Responsibility to music as an art form:

The performing arts have always been a vital part of humanity. You have been blessed with a very special talent and opportunity. You have the obligation and responsibility to use that talent for the betterment of our community and all mankind.

2. Responsibility to community:

As a member of the Christiansburg High School Bands you have a responsibility both to your school and your community to provide a certain number and quality of performances. The support provided by the school and members of the community indicate that we are indeed appreciated and respected. At times we repay the school and other supporters by performing in events such as holiday observances. It is not only right that we perform at such times, but also vital to the continued existence and success of this organization. We must endeavor to perform our very best at these functions.

3. Responsibility to the school:

The CHS Band is very fortunate that the school district provides us with adequate resources such as appropriate settings and facilities to rehearse, instructors to contribute to our success, and much of the larger and more expensive equipment that is vital to our program. We have the responsibility to provide the best possible performances for the school, community, and

citizens of our school district. It also means that if you use school-owned instruments, it is your responsibility to maintain it and treat it with respect to keep it in “like new” condition.

4. Responsibility to each other:

Getting along with each other in our complex society is a challenging task by itself. You have the obligation and responsibility to respect the rights of others. Anti-social behavior will only breed the same in others and bring unwanted trouble. Excessive talking during rehearsal, spreading rumors, bad manners, disrespect, etc., are all examples of anti-social behavior. Please respect the rights of others, both in and out of uniform, and treat them as you wish to be treated.

5. Responsibility to ourselves:

We owe ourselves the benefit of proper equipment and proper instruction. The Montgomery County Public Schools have equipped our band program with some of the best equipment available. Whenever possible, you as an individual should use the best possible quality instrument you can afford and make the most of private lessons. You have the primary responsibility for learning and contributing your talent to the group.

Chapter V

Director’s Expectations of Members

Now that you are a member of such a visible organization, you are constantly in the “limelight”, whether you want to be or not. At all times you are representatives of the Christiansburg Band program - even when you are out of uniform and after school hours. My expectations are that you always set a positive example of our band family. Not only do you have obligations outside the organizations, but to the organization as well. The band consists of different elements but we are one group. A group of players, no matter how talented, will never perform as well as an ensemble unless they work together. There are several expectations of all members:

1. Attend all class sessions, sectionals, rehearsals, and performances.

2. Show respect for those in authority and fellow students.

3. Follow all school rules, including the Student Code of Conduct, and all other Montgomery County and Christiansburg High School Rules and Regulations.

4. Cooperate with and encourage fellow band members to produce a unified effort.

5. Keep a positive attitude.

6. Be responsible for and assume the consequences of your own behavior.

VI. General Policies

All school rules and policies apply to band members when those students are with the band program. Violations of these policies will be handled as outlined by Montgomery County Public Schools and the Student Code of Conduct handbook.

A. Attendance Policy

At least two days ahead of time, make sure that you notify the director in writing if you are going to be absent for a rehearsal or performance. If it is an evening or summer rehearsal, then immediately e-mail the

director at: dmiller@mcps.org and/or call the band room (540-382-5178) and leave a message. If you are in school for the full day, you are expected to be at rehearsal that day. Students who are sick will be expected to check out through the school clinic during school hours. Students will be excused from rehearsal for emergencies as the situation dictates. It is not possible to make up the experience of missed rehearsal time. Please plan doctors, dentist and other appointments around the practice/performance schedule. Missing rehearsal for anything except a death in the immediate family, a religious conflict or verified personal illness will be considered unexcused and could result in loss of participation privilege or lowering of a student's grade.

Tardiness to rehearsal will also result is a loss of participation privileges as well as extra supervised practice time outside of rehearsal . Two tardies will constitute an unexcused absence and will carry the same consequence.

Students missing any unexcused rehearsal time will be required to provide a plan for practice and service for the band for a specified period of time. The director will approve the list of tasks and the scheduling of such work. Appropriate service projects will be determined by the director.

B. Christiansburg Standard Time (C.S.T.)

When a “call” time is given for a band function, that is the time the event will begin. Since various preparations need to be made beforehand, you should arrive fifteen minutes before the scheduled time.

Example: If rehearsal is scheduled to begin at 6:00, you will need time to park, socialize, assemble your instrument or equipment, oil valves, test reeds, set your chair and music stand, and use the restroom before 6:00. When 6:00 arrives, all other activities will cease and rehearsal will begin.

This will allow us to make full use of our time together and will help prepare you to be a better student and performer.

C. Awards

Band students may earn a Band Letter or Award by completing the following:

1. Participate in ALL rehearsals and performances for Marching Band and Advanced Band(incl. Percussion Tech.)

2. Maintaining an ‘A’ average in Advanced Band or Percussion Tech.

3. Auditioning for All-District Band

D. Instruments

Students are expected to provide their own instruments or to make rental arrangements. Students who play large instruments (tuba, bassoon, percussion, etc.) can make arrangements with the band director to rent school-owned instruments. Rental arrangements are available on a first-come, first served, basis. All students using a school-owned instrument must pay the $25.00 Instrument Rental Fee and complete the rental agreement form as required by the Montgomery County Public Schools.

All instruments must be maintained and kept in working order. Students should immediately inform the director of any repair that is necessary for any school-owned instrument. Any student who sends their instrument to the shop must obtain a loaner instrument until they receive their instrument back. “My instrument is at the shop” is not a valid excuse for not performing in class. It is recommended that students have their personal instruments checked over by a certified musical instrument repair technician during the early part of the summer to make sure they are in proper playing condition for the upcoming school year.

E. Travel Policies

1. The complete uniform should be worn properly at all times when in public.

2. Horseplay and loud talking and/or screaming on the bus are prohibited. Remember, you are a representative of our community, school, and band program when we travel.

3. Any use of music and/or video players must be done with personal headphones. This protects your right to listen to your choice of music and protects other’s rights not to have to listen to your type of music.

4. Students may not change buses without permission. The roll will be checked on each bus before departure.

5. All students will travel to and from performances on buses, not in personal cars. A student who needs to return from a performance with his/her parents or guardians must obtain permission in advance of the day of the trip and must submit a permission slip signed by the parents before departure. Parents must sign a release before taking the student from the performance site as per Montgomery County Public Schools regulations.

6. Any use of, or being under the influence of, alcohol, tobacco, vaping or any illegal drug will not be tolerated.

VIOLATIONS OF THIS RULE WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL FROM THE BAND PROGRAM

7. When wearing uniforms, no eating or drinking (except water) will be permitted.

8. Students are responsible for their own equipment and instruments.

9. Students will be responsible for knowing departure times and must be ready on time.

10. Chaperones are to be obeyed and respected at all times.

11. Any illness or injury should be reported to the band director immediately, no matter how unimportant it may seem.

12. Students are required to stay seated and facing front while the bus is in motion. Upon arrival at a destination, the students should remain seated and quiet on the bus until instructed to leave by the director.

13. You must seek permission to watch any movie from the director beforehand. Nothing above a rating of PG-13 will be acceptable.

14. Only students, school personnel, and designated chaperones are allowed to ride the bus.

15. Students should have submitted all payments, field trip forms, and appropriate insurance information before participating in a field trip with the band program. Students who have not submitted the necessary forms and payment will not be allowed to board the bus.

F. Fund-raising

We will have fundraisers throughout the year to assist with the cost of marching band or trips.

G. Financial Assistance

Any band family in need of an amended payment schedule or payment assistance should contact the Director of Bands to arrange a confidential meeting to discuss available options. This meeting must be arranged by the parent or guardian. Student attendance at this meeting is not required.

H. Payments

All payments should be made by check, payable to: Christiansburg Band Boosters (Please be sure the student's name and the purpose of the payment are clearly printed on the check)

I. Communication The best avenue of communication with Mr. Miller is via e-mail: dmiller@mcps.org. You may also reach the band room by calling (540) 382-5178 during normal school hours. Additional information is available at www.bluedemonband.com.

Chapter VII

Class Materials and Equipment

A. Instrument and All Related Items

1. Brass players: Mouthpiece, proper mutes, valve oil

2. Woodwind players: three playable reeds

3. Grease, oil, polish and cleaning tools

4. Lyre (marching band)

5. Percussion: one (1) pair concert SD sticks. (size 2B or 5B)

Percussionist—appropriate mallets for instrument played in marching band.

B. Classroom Material

1. Pencil

2. Metronome and Tuner

3. Moodle username and password

4. music folder

5. small notebook for class notes / three ring binder

6. method/workbook (provided)

C. Instruments – Mouthpieces

Student progress and success in an instrumental program depends a great deal on the quality of the instrument or mouthpiece the student is playing. As the student progresses through the band the level of music increases in difficulty and student playing problems may be due to inferior instrument or mouthpiece. The instruments that students start on in the sixth grade are designed for the beginning student. Many of these instruments (especially woodwind) are very difficult to play in tune in the extreme ranges which are required in music of grade V and VI level. Stuffiness of sound, poor intonation, and inability to play certain notes are many times due to poor quality instrument rather than to the student’s playing problems.

Chapter VIII

Band Classes

Intermediate Band (1 credit) (Grades 9-12, 1st Period)

Pre-requisite: Two or more years of band at the Middle School level is required. .

The emphasis in Intermediate Band coursework is on mastering the skills necessary to meet the Advanced Level of the Virginia Standards of Learning for Instrumental Music. Students in this course are required to participate in two school concerts. Students may also participate in the following optional events: All-County and All-District Band Auditions (students are required to participate in these events if selected), All-Regional Orchestra auditions and Solo & Ensemble Festival. Music theory and history will be components of this course.

This is a performance-based class and requires participation in concerts/performances and rehearsals outside of class time. Students are expected to practice an average of 20 minutes per day.

Advanced Band (1 credit) (Grades 10-12, 5th Period)

Pre-requisite: three years at middles school level and at least one year at the high school level is preferred. Students are required to pass a proficiency audition with the Director of Bands which will include all twelve major scales, chromatic scale for the full range of the instrument, and a sight reading.

The emphasis in Advanced Band coursework is on mastering the skills necessary to meet the Artist Level of the Virginia Standards of Learning for Instrumental Music. Students in this class are expected to participate in VBODA District Concert Assessment. Four concerts of traditional and contemporary band works will be prepared and performed during the school year. Small ensemble and/or solo work as well as music theory and history will be components of this course.

This is a performance-based class and requires participation in concerts/performances and rehearsals outside of class time. Students are expected to practice an average of 15 minutes per day.

Percussion Ensemble (1 credit) (Grades 9-12, 2nd semester)

Pre-requisite: Two or more years of band at the Middle School level is required.

**Permission from the Director of Bands required prior to enrollment**

The emphasis in Percussion Ensemble coursework is on mastering the skills necessary for the performance of intermediate high school band literature. Students in this course are required to participate in four school concerts (as part of the Advanced Band) as well as the VBODA District Concert Assessment. Students may also participate in the following optional events: All-County and All-District Band Auditions (auditions are optional for this class, but students are required to participate in these events if they audition and are selected), All-Regional Orchestra auditions and Solo & Ensemble Festival. Small ensemble and/or solo work as well as music theory and history will be components of this course.

Materials required: Neoprene practice pad (such as a real-feel), concert snare sticks (2B or 5B), and a metronome

This is a performance-based class and requires participation in concerts/performances and rehearsals outside of class time. Students are expected to practice an average of 15 minutes per day.

Marching Band (no course credit) (fees required, Grades 9-12, 1st semester)

Pre-requisite: Instrumentalists should have at least one year of middle school band experience. Marching Band is a co-curricular activity at Christiansburg High School, therefore all instrumentalists must be enrolled in a regularly scheduled band class. Auxiliary members (Color Guard, etc.) audition for positions in April of each year and must attend a summer training camp.

The members of the Christiansburg Marching Band will soon establish themselves as an integral part of the pride and spirit of Christiansburg. This dynamic group of young musicians performs regularly at all home and some away football games. The band provides the excitement and pageantry that is a vital part of the high school Friday night experience. The band works with the cheerleaders and football team in providing an exciting, charged atmosphere for the entire school community.

The Christiansburg Marching Band will also compete in field show competitions and parades during the fall season, representing Christiansburg High School across the state of Virginia. Students and parents should plan on three to five Saturday events during late September and throughout October. Additional scheduling information can be found at www.bluedemonband.com. Members of the Christiansburg Marching Band will also have the opportunity to travel for a major performance in the spring every other year.

Marching Band rehearsals begin in late-July. For more information on the summer band rehearsal schedule, refer to the web site. The marching band will rehearse Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3:15pm to 5:30pm after school from the beginning of school until mid-November. Most Friday evenings are performance nights at Christiansburg football games. Students who are a part of the marching band will choose that as their "fall activity” and must commit to the time requirements specified.

Membership in the Christiansburg Marching Band is open to any student enrolled in a band class. In addition, the pageantry of the band is enhanced with the help of an auxiliary unit, or Color Guard, which is open to any student at Christiansburg. Auditions for this exciting group are held in April of each year.

Chapter IX

Information, Rules, and Policies

A. General Rehearsal Rules and Procedures

1. “If it’s not yours, don’t touch it.”

2. Every band member must bring instruments, music and proper equipment to every rehearsal and performance.

3. Basic instrument warm–up, including tuning, should be done prior to the start of the rehearsal. A formal warm–up will then be done together as an ensemble under the direction of the director.

4. There is to be no talking during rehearsals. Subdued talking is permitted with the director’s permission when the director leaves the podium. Talking should cease when the director stands on the podium.

5. Gum chewing, eating, and drinking are not permitted during any rehearsal or performance, and food is not permitted in the rehearsal rooms unless specific permission is given.

6. Every student should be seated (or standing in formation in Marching Band rehearsals) at the time designated by the director, or the student will be marked tardy.

7. Posture is of the utmost importance. Students should avoid crossed legs or ankles and slumping when seated in chairs.

8. The white board should be read when entering the room. Music should be placed in the proper order according to the instructions on the board.

a. During concert rehearsals, music will be listed on the board in the order it will be rehearsed. Music should be placed in order on the music stand before the rehearsal begins.

b. Students are not allowed to write anything on the board or add anything to the bulletin board without permission. Posted information should never be removed from the bulletin board without permission from the director.

9. Music folders, instruments and equipment should be kept in their proper storage places when not in use.

10. Books and personal belongings should not be left in the band room. All trash should be thrown into the waste containers. Students may not bring school books, back-packs, instrument cases, etc. to their seats.

11. Coats and school books are not to be left in instrument lockers. Failure to adhere to this rule could result in losing the privilege of using a locker.

12. Loud talking, shouting or horseplay is not allowed in the band room.

13. No one is to use any phone in the band room without permission. Personal phone calls are not permitted except calls made to parents after special rehearsals or performances.

B. Uniforms

The Montgomery County Public Schools have invested a great deal of money and time into the concert uniforms. To maintain the uniforms, students are charged a concert attire cleaning and maintenance fee of $25.00. Payments will be due as stated on the band calendar, found on the annual course description or online at www.bluedemonband.com.

All uniforms will be assigned to students at the beginning of the semester, and students are responsible for handling their uniform in the appropriate manner. Uniforms should never be placed on the floor. Students will be responsible for all costs for cleaning in such cases that are above the standard uniform fee. Students will be charged for any parts that are damaged or lost while the uniform is in their possession. In order to receive a uniform, the student must pay the uniform fee and return the uniform contract. The contract provides guidelines for uniform use and acknowledgment of these guidelines. Concert attire is stored at school and may not be removed or worn from school property without the consent of the Director.

Young men must provide black dress shoes (no tennis shoes or sandals, and no color or stripes of any kind), black dress socks, and must wear a plain full white undershirt.

Young ladies must provide plain black pumps or flats with black hose (Legg’s jet-black.) Heels should be 2 inches or less. Sandals/open-toed shoes are not acceptable.

All students – You may not wear jewelry or any other visible accessories during any performance (including watches). No nail polish is allowed except natural color. Hair should be worn in a style away from the face.

Students will arrive at least one hour before the beginning of each concert in order to change into their concert clothing, and should allow enough time after each performance to see that their uniform is properly put away.

C. Public Performances

1. Every student will receive a schedule of performances the band will be attending throughout the year in the course description, and it will also be available online at www.bluedemonband.com. It is the student’s responsibility to know this information. A field trip form, requiring a parent signature, will be issued for any performance requiring students to be transported away from the school. This form will state both the departure and return times for the trip, as well as the location and pertinent contact information.

2. Always report (rain or shine) to the designated meeting place. You will be notified if plans are changed. Do not call the band director unless there is an emergency.

3. A travel itinerary and procedures list will be distributed for each trip where length of trip and complexity of itinerary deems it necessary. It is important that these instructions be followed so the band can move quickly and efficiently.

Marching Band

A. Rehearsal Procedure

1. As an important part of an effective rehearsal procedure, each year it is necessary for the marching band to meet in June for several rehearsals and for a few weeks at the end of July/beginning of August before school begins. All members of the Marching Band (including incoming freshmen) are expected to attend these rehearsals.

2. At all marching functions, the drum major is in charge of the band and should receive the same respect as the director and professional staff.

3. Students are expected to be on time, with instruments, music and drill charts or notebook/coordinate sheets.

4. Section Leaders and Drill Assistants will be chosen by the director to assist in marching instruction. They will also be in charge of assessing music and drill memorization for their sections.

B. Public Performances

1. Every student will receive a schedule of performances the band will be attending throughout the year. Information regarding these events will be posted in the band room on the band’s web site at http://www.bluedemonband.com. Often, information will be printed and distributed to the band members. It is the student’s responsibility to know this information. The bulletin board and whiteboard should be read daily.

2. Always report (rain or shine) to the designated meeting place. You will be notified if plans are changed. If possible, an announcement will be placed on the website (www.mvhsband.org) in case of inclement or special weather conditions.

3. The Drum Major and Section Leaders will hold inspections before every performance.

4. A travel itinerary and procedures list will be distributed for each trip where length of trip and complexity of itinerary deems it necessary. It is important that these instructions be followed so the band can move quickly and efficiently.

C. Travel Policies

1. The complete uniform should be worn properly at all times when in public.

2. Horseplay and loud talking and/or screaming on the bus are prohibited. Remember, you are a representative of our community, school, and band program when we travel.

3. CD players/iPods without headphones will not be allowed. This protects your right to listen to your choice of music and protects other’s rights not to have to listen to your type of music.

4. All students will sign a bus list before departure. Students may not change buses without permission. The roll will be checked on each bus before departure.

must sign a release before taking the student from the performance site as per Stafford County Public Schools regulations.

6. Any use, or being under the influence of, alcohol, tobacco, vaping or any illegal drug will not be tolerated.

VIOLATIONS OF THIS RULE WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL FROM THE BAND PROGRAM

7. When wearing uniforms, no eating or drinking (except water) will be permitted.

8. Students are responsible for their own equipment and instruments. The students should take their own equipment to the truck/trailer for loading by the “pit crew”.

9. Students will be responsible for knowing departure times and must be ready on time.

10. Chaperones are to be obeyed and respected at all times.

11. Any illness or injury should be reported to the band director immediately, no matter how unimportant it may seem.

13. You must seek permission to watch any movie from the director beforehand. Nothing above a rating of PG-13 will be acceptable.

14. Only students, school personnel, and designated chaperones are allowed to ride the bus.

***When you fill out our electronic commitment form for the CHS Marching Band, you are agreeing to follow these guidelines.***

D. Uniforms

Every band member must meet the assigned uniform requirements at each performance. The assigned requirements will depend on the type of performance. One of two uniforms will be used for all performances.

Informal Uniform: For casual performances (pep rallies, etc) consist of the official band t-shirt, approved Khaki shorts and athletic shoes (preferably white). The band shirt should always be worn tucked into the pants. There will not be a reason to defer from this policy.

Performance Uniform: For formal performances at Varsity Football games, the Christiansburg High School Band uniform will be worn. The uniform consists of a pair of blue “bibber” trousers, a uniform jacket, and several accessories such as black marching shoes, black socks, gloves, hat and plume. Each time the band performs the students will be notified as to the exact uniform requirements. Students should be prepared to wear shorts and the official band T-shirt underneath their uniform. Each student will be expected to wear an approved pair of Black marching shoes, with black socks, when in full dress uniform.

Each member of the band is expected to arrive early for each performance event to check out all parts of the appropriate uniform. Failure to have all uniform parts including black marching shoes and black socks

will result in that member’s immediate removal from the drill (including that performance) for a length of time to be determined by the director.

E. Marching Band Uniform Procedures and Regulations

1. At no time will a student appear in public in partial uniform.

2. No other headwear, except for the assigned band cap, is to be worn with the marching uniform.

3. It is your responsibility to take proper care of your uniform. Uniforms should never be placed on the ground. If necessary, students will be assessed an additional uniform cleaning fee beyond the yearly maintenance cost. Students will be billed for missing and damaged uniform parts.

4. Students should hang their marching uniform properly and return it to the uniform manager for inspection before departing from a performance.

5. A plain white T-shirt will be worn under the marching uniform.

6. All marching band members are to wear shorts under the band uniform trousers at all times.

7. On performance dates where rain is possible, students should bring jeans and the band polo t-shirt in case it is too muddy to wear uniforms. Remember to bring appropriate clothing to wear underneath the uniforms if weather conditions demand it.

8. Jewelry is not to be worn with the uniform. Please refrain from bringing expensive jewelry with you to performances. Christiansburg High School and the Montgomery County Public Schools cannot be held accountable for the loss of such items.

9. Make-up should not be worn with due to the possibility it may come into contact and stain the uniform.

10. During marching season long hair is to be worn up in the uniform hat. No hair is to touch the jacket collar.

F. Drum Major and Section Leader Interviews

Drum Major and Section Leader auditions and interviews will be held during the spring of each school year to select student leadership for the following year. To interview for the position students must have at least one year of participation in marching band, a 3.5 GPA in their performing ensemble and must be enrolled in a band class for the upcoming school year. Interviews require a written essay and other written work, meetings with the director and, when necessary, a playing audition. Drum Major auditions will require conducting, issuing marching commands, execution of fundamental marching, teaching basic marching skills and a demonstration/discussion of fundamental principles of band student leadership. Music for playing auditions will be determined by the director and the standard VBODA audition process will be used to determine which student has the highest score.

All students should be aware that your audition for any leadership position will include an assessment of your performance, participation and behavior throughout the time you have participated in the band program.

Chapter X

Awards-Letters

Band Letters/Bars: Students who earn meet the following criteria in the same school year are eligible to apply for a CHS Band Letter or Bar. Listed below are the areas in which students must participate. This includes participation in all performances and rehearsals. Any unexcused absences will result in the student not being eligible for a Letter/Bar.

CHAPTER XI

CHS Band Boosters Organization

The parents and friends of the band members at Christiansburg High School have for many years maintained the Band Boosters Organization. The Boosters have consistently supported the music groups of the instrumental music department and have rendered invaluable financial aid and parent backing to all instrumental organizations. The success of the music department is due, in large part, to the active participation of the Band Boosters.

Some of the objectives of the Boosters are:

1. To stimulate and maintain an enthusiastic interest in all phases of the instrumental music program.

2. To cooperate with those in charge of instrumental and music department and the School Board and the administration to the end that this department be brought to and kept at the highest possible degree of efficiency.

3. To assist in the purchase of uniforms, instruments, and other equipment not regularly provided or sanctioned by the school.

4. To augment or encourage educational trips, exchange programs, or concerts that are approved or sanctioned by the school.

5. To aid in the chaperoning on band trips.

Membership of the CHS Band Boosters shall consist of all parents and friends of band members enrolled in the various instrumental music organizations in the Band Department at Christiansburg High School.

How Parents Can Help

1. At Home:

a. Show an interest in the music study of your child.

b. Arrange a regular time for them to practice.

c. Find a quiet place they can practice without interruption.

d. Help them with their practice as much as possible by counting, studying music texts, etc.

e. Help the student keep a daily record of their practicing.

f. Give them a safe place in which to keep their instrument.

g. Keep the instrument in good repair with reeds, etc., in the case.

h. Be very careful of school owned instruments. The cost of repair is very high.

i. Teach them to be on time to rehearsals and lessons, etc.

j. Make faithful attendance at all activities important.

k. Encourage them to play for others when the opportunity arises, in the home, at school, church, and in the community.

To make the daily practice period more enjoyable and worthwhile to both pupils and parents, here are some suggestions we hope you will find helpful.

1. Assist your child with their practicing.

2. Be generous with your interest and praise.

3. Credit each achievement with some form of recognition.

4. Help them develop the habit of daily practice.

5. Encourage note-reading rather than playing by ear.

It may take all five suggestions to unlock your practice problem but try them all before giving up. MUSIC IS THE ONE THING YOUR CHILD WILL NEVER THANK YOU FOR NOT GIVING HIM/HER.

2. At School.

a. Keep a record of the student’s various music activities.

b. Notify the teacher if they are to be absent or tardy at lessons, rehearsals, etc., and explain why.

c. See that they take their instrument and music when needed to school.

d. Teach them to be punctual at lessons and rehearsals.

e. See that they keep up with classroom studies and make up missed work.

f. Visit rehearsals and lessons occasionally.

g. Discuss with the music teacher anything that will help them understand your child.

h. Attend concerts and parent meetings whenever possible.

i. Attend Booster Organization meetings.

Music is the one area in which we are constantly striving for perfection; seventy-five cannot be acceptable as a passing grade in music. Can you imagine what a group would sound like that got only 75% of the notes correct? In music we are always working for that perfect performance. You as a parent can help your child by encouraging them in their home practice in working towards this goal.

“Music, a language of the feelings, goes beyond the printed or spoken word. It holds no barrier of race, creed, or nationality. When a child studies music, significant elements of his or her education finds focus and expression.

- Developing the ability to understand and use symbols in new contexts.

- Finding and directing the power of personal creativity and self-expression.

- Exercising the diverse skills of problem solving; and

- Participation in the deeply human satisfaction of shared work and meeting new challenges.

Education without music shortchanges our children and their futures. Education with music reinforces such characteristics as self-esteem, self-discipline and correlates highly with overall academic achievement.