Every student is expected to attend all performances, as each member is essential. Families should plan around provided dates and check for scheduling conflicts in advance. Only family emergencies are automatically excused.
If a conflict arises, both student and parent must notify the director in writing (email or text) at least one week before the concert. In emergencies, call the band office as soon as possible.
Students absent due to illness or excused reasons will receive an alternate assignment, which must be completed for credit. Unexcused absences result in half credit once the alternate assignment is submitted.
Grades are based on musical performance, audience behavior, and proper attire. Performance includes accurate playing, knowing your part, and maintaining professional stage etiquette.
Fine Arts/Athletic Conflict Policy
When there are conflicts with athletic events, the scholar is to resolve it as follows:
When there is a practice for a sport vs. a concert for band, the scholar is to attend the concert.
When there is a practice for the band vs. a competition for the sport, the scholar is to attend the competition.
When there is both a concert and a competition that falls on the same day, the scholar can try to attend both or will decide which event he/she will participate in with no pressure or negative consequences from the director or coach. If attending both is not possible, all persons involved should meet to discuss the appropriate action 2 weeks prior to the conflict.
Band is a performance-based class where everyone’s participation helps the group succeed. Your grade reflects both your individual progress and your contribution to the ensemble.
How Grades Are Calculated:
Assessments (concerts, quizzes, tests): 30%
Rehearsal & Class Work (participation, preparation, materials): 70%
If you are excused from a rehearsal or performance, you’ll receive an “X” (does not count against your grade).
Our goal is simple: show up, stay prepared, and contribute your best so that together, we can make great music!
Daily Performance Grade (Classwork):
The most important thing you can bring to rehearsal is a positive attitude. Your attitude and rehearsal techniques are a part of your daily performance grade. Each scholar will earn 10 points per class for daily performance. When applicable, scholars will have note reading practice and rhythm practice and other assignments for additional points.
Daily performance parameters.
First four minutes after the bell rings, scholars set up materials.
Materials are: prepared and in their seat with instrument, music and pencil.
Backpack on back of chair, instrument case neatly under or next to chair
Scholars are playing their instruments, clapping/tapping or singing along. At no point will a scholar sit with nothing to do.
Scholars are responsible for helping stack chairs and putting stands away at the conclusion of each class, unless told otherwise.
When a scholar does not have an instrument for class, they will be expected to actively participate in class with their peers, during the duration of class. Participation may include: clapping/counting, sizzling, group discussions, etc. Scholars can receive a maximum 5/10 daily performance points.
Check-out Procedures
INSTRUMENTS & EQUIPMENT: Students may check out school-owned instruments & equipment.
An Instrument Contract will be distributed to the student. Once a signed contract is returned, the student will be assigned an instrument for the school year.
The parent/guardian and student will be liable for any damage beyond “Normal Wear and Tear” that results from willful damage, negligence, or misuse. The price quote will be obtained through the Instrument Repair Department at Meyer Music.
Rentals
Most students are encouraged to provide their own instrument for use in the High School band program. There are a variety of instrument rental/purchase plans available through our local music store, Meyer Music.
More information regarding Meyer Music's rent-to-own program can be found here: https://www.meyer-music.com/rentals/
The school does have instruments for student use. Students are able to use the instrument while enrolled in an ensemble. All students are expected to have their instrument in proper operating condition at all times and to have all necessary accessories such as reeds, valve oil, cleaning swab, cork grease, slide oil, etc. The director is not responsible for these accessories and may not have them available.
Concert Performance Shirt
Scholars will be required to purchase a concert performance shirt for $5. This shirt will be their part of their concert uniform for the entire year.
Once a scholar purchases their shirt, it cannot be replaced if lost. Scholars are responsible for keeping up with their uniform.
The $5 shirt can be purchased at any point prior to the first concert in October.
If you need financial assistance in paying for the concert shirt, please reach out to a director.
Concert Pants/Shoes
Scholars are required to wear black pants, black socks, and black shoes for each concert.
No ripped jeans, jeans, leggings, or shorts will be allowed.
Students who need assistance with providing black shoes or pants may notify a director no later that one week from the performance.
Parents are expected to purchase reeds on their scholars behalf. Reeds come in boxes of 10 for $22-28, depending on the instrument and should last a scholar through the whole year when treated with care.
Reeds can be purchased by calling or texting Meyer Music. They will need to know your student’s name, grade, and what school they attend. After purchasing over the phone, Meyer Music will deliver the reeds to Charles Hackley Middle School to your student. Supplies can be ordered here: https://www.meyer-music.com/order/
Additionally, students may purchase a single reed from their respective teacher for $2.00. Scholars that are unable to pay will be subject to the no-instrument in class policy. If a scholar comes to more than two classes in a row without a reed, parents will be contacted and the scholars grade may be affected.
Students are responsible for having 2-3 reeds in their case, at all times.