LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL BAND STUDENT HANDBOOK 2013-14

Direct Line to the Band Room - 983-5452 Direct Line to Ladue High School Main Office - 993-6447 WEBSITES: www.laduebands.com www.laduepercussion.com www.ladueperformingarts.com
Michael D. Faris Associate Director Voice Mail - 983-5714 mfaris@ladueschools.net Aaron W. Lehde Associate Director Voice Mail 983-5750 alehde@ladueschools.net Scott E. Harris Associate Director Voice Mail 983-5616 sharris@ladueschools.net Katie Solomon Associate Director Voice Mail 983-5808 ksolomon@ladueschools.net

Daily Schedule Ladue High School Band Blue 2 and White 6 Daily - 9:10-10:40 During Pep Band Season 9:10-9:55 - Everyone Rehearsal Blue Drumline 9:55-10:40 - Everyone - Academic Lab White Drumline After Pep Band Season Symphonic Band Concert Band 9:10-9:55 - Rehearsal 9:10-9:55 - Lab 9:55-10:40 - Lab 9:55-10:40 Rehearsal

Contents
Page 2 Organizations within the Band Program Page 3 Grading Policy Page 4 Academic Lab Policy Performance/Rehearsal Schedule Page 5 Audition Procedures/Behavior - Fund-raising School Instrument Policy - Flip Folder/Lyre Deposits Page 6 Out-of-Town Travel Policies Uniforms Page 7 Band Awards Page 8-10 Handbook Field Trip Form Emergency Form

Organizations Within The Band Program

Symphonic Band/Concert Band
After pep band season, the band will be organized into two performing ensembles. Students will be placed in either ensemble based on an audition measuring musical ability and knowledge. Each band allows students to learn performance skills in order to understand the musical language and to develop a capacity for understanding and appreciating music. Students will perform a variety of literature to improve their musical skills and usually will give two or three concerts each school year.

Pep Band
All students enrolled in the band program are members of the Pep Band. The band plays at home football games, selected home basketball games, pep assemblies, and special performances outside the school. All home football games are considered part of the first semester grade. In addition, the pep band will perform, if possible, at any home football playoff games including the state championship. The school community appreciates band members understanding and flexibility with regards to this request.

Percussion Ensemble
All students enrolled in the band program as percussionists are members of the percussion ensemble. Besides preparing band music for performance with the pep band, symphonic band, concert band, and jazz band, students will study percussion techniques and form various percussion ensembles that will be performed throughout the year. The percussion ensemble will play at the winter symphonic/concert band performance and also give a concert at the end of the academic year.

Jazz Band
Jazz band members must be enrolled in band except for students who do not play a wind or percussion instrument. Jazz band meets during our class period as part of our curriculum and on Tuesday evenings as necessary from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Students will perform a variety of literature to improve their musical skills and usually will give two or three concerts each school year.

Musical Orchestra
Students wishing to play in the musical orchestra must audition and are selected by the director. This orchestra is a combination of wind and string students. It provides the music for the high school's spring musical. Musical orchestra usually rehearses on Sundays from 2:00-5:00 p.m. during January and February with performances in February. Musical Orchestra is considered an interscholastic activity. Students must meet the eligibility standards set forth in the Ladue Horton Watkins High School Handbook in order to participate.

Chamber Ensembles
Chambers ensembles are an important part of our program. Our goal with chamber ensembles is to provide students with another outlet for performing, to encourage students to prepare music on their own and take full responsibility for their performance, and to apply skills learned through this assignment to the large ensemble. Students should work with their ensemble partners along with guidance from the directors in preparation for scheduled performances listed on the band calendar.

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Grading Policy
A. Individual Performance Tests (70%):
Playing and written tests measuring knowledge and skills in: tone quality, embouchure, note reading, proper fingering, breathing, rhythmic accuracy, articulation, sticking, playing position, musical terms, intonation, and tempo/pulse. **Turning a performance test in late will result in the student's test grade being lowered one-half letter for each school day the test is late. - arrive prepared (daily practice at home) - arrive with the proper materials (instrument, music, pencil, etc.) - have academic lab card with you always (no exceptions) - follow the proper procedures for filling out the academic lab card 3. Participate in an appropriate manner (no excessive noise) and be respectful to all lab faculty Any forms or assignments due during a grading period such as the handbook form or permission slips are worth an additional 50 points. O points will be awarded for any assignment turned in past the due date. Failure to follow classroom and academic lab guidelines will result in loss of points and/or the grounding of the student for a period of time as determined by the teachers.

B. Concerts/Rehearsals/Classroom (20%):
Please see the attached sheets regarding performances and rehearsals associated with the band program. Band members are expected to be present at all performances and rehearsals outside the normal school day. Points will be assigned for each concert and/or rehearsal outside of the normal school day for each quarter. In order to receive the designated points, you must be present at the concert/rehearsal. Conflicts should always be reported to the director in advance so that a suitable solution can be arranged, if possible. College visits should not be scheduled during a performance or rehearsal and will not be considered excused. The performance and rehearsal schedule for each academic year is published in August so that you can plan accordingly to avoid conflicts. In order to reward students that demonstrate their intent to learn and participate in class and lab, we will also assign participation points for each class meeting. Ten (10) participation points will be assigned for each class and lab meeting. The only scores awarded will be 10 or 0. In order to earn the highest possible participation points, students should demonstrate the following each day: - Daily class and lab attendance - Respect the time available for class and academic lab - arrive promptly

C. Practice/Written Assignments (10%):

Practice is essential to your child's success and should be considered a homework assignment for instrumental music students. With consistent daily practice, we are confident that your child can succeed in band. Forms to sign, concert reviews, practice records (if necessary) and/or written tests will be part of this portion of your grade.

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Academic Lab - Schedule - Summer Band Rehearsals

Academic Lab
Academic Lab is a period that meets every day for band students in conjunction with the class/rehearsal period. During the Academic Lab portion of the class, students may sign up to confer with teachers or counselors, utilize the Library Media Center, computer labs, Learning Center, and other specialized areas. Students are held accountable for the effective use of their Academic Lab time. Academic Lab is to be used for academic purposes and is not unstructured free time. Students will receive a citizenship grade for academic lab that will apply towards eligibility. Lab cards should be properly filled out indicating what the student did during that portion of the school day. Failure to follow classroom and academic lab guidelines will result in loss of points and/or the grounding of the student for a period of time as determined by the teachers.

Performance/Rehearsal Schedule
Please see the attached sheets regarding performances and rehearsals associated with the band program. Band members are expected to be present at all performances and rehearsals. Conflicts should always be reported to the director in advance so that a suitable solution can be arranged, if possible. College visits should not be scheduled during a performance or rehearsal and will not be considered excused. The performance and rehearsal schedule for each academic year is usually published in May of the preceding year with minor revisions occurring as the year progresses. However, additional rehearsals are scheduled according to the ensemble's performing commitments. Students will be notified with adequate time to accommodate these extra rehearsals.

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Auditions - Behavior - Instruments Flip Folder Deposits - Fund-Raising

Audition Procedures - Symphonic/Concert Band
In the spring of each year, usually in May, students will audition for chair and ensemble placement within the symphonic and concert band. The audition consists of various musical and technical excerpts, scales, and sight-reading. This audition will also be part of the student's final semester grade for that year. During the course of the year, chair placement and ensemble placement may change based on various factors such as student performance on tests and attendance at performances and rehearsals.

School Instrument Policy

Students are expected to provide their own instruments for use in band. The school will issue an instrument to a student based on need as determined by the school administration and director. Students issued a school instrument are held personally and financially responsible for that instrument. It is their responsibility to return the instrument in good working order and to take care of the instrument properly while it is in their use. Any damage resulting from misuse or neglect will be the responsibility of the student and the student will be expected to pay for the repairs. All other repairs will be handled by the school district. If a school instrument is not working properly, a student MUST NOT take it to be repaired; he/she should inform the director so that the problem can be corrected. If the instrument is lost or damaged beyond the possibility of repair, the student will be responsible for replacing the instrument with another of the same make, model, style, and finish at current replacement cost. Students using a school-owned instrument will be required to pay a $45.00 maintenance/use fee. Any student who is not able to pay the instrument fee should let us or their counselor know so that we may provide assistance if necessary.

Jazz Band
Jazz band auditions will take place at the same time as symphonic/concert band auditions. The material used will be the same. Students interested in playing in jazz band must let the director know that they would like to be considered for jazz band membership.

Behavior
Guidelines for general conduct, behavior, and discipline are outlined in the Ladue Horton Watkins High School Handbook and students are expected to follow these guidelines in band class. Below are some specific guidelines for the band program. 1. The band room and practice rooms are here for the band members to use. Students should keep them clean by picking up after themselves. 2. Students may not chew gum in the band room during class. 3. Students may not eat or drink on the carpet in the band room. 4. All students should take special care to see that the instruments and equipment in the band room are not damaged.

Flip Folders and Lyre Deposit

As in the past we will issue flip-folders and music lyres. We will require a $25.00 deposit for these and other items. This deposit will be returned to you at the end of the school year IF your music, flip-folder, lyre, and all other equipment have been returned. The deposit can also be used to purchase a CD recording of our ensembles at the end of the year. Any student who is not able to provide the deposit should let us or their counselor know so that we may provide assistance if necessary.

Fund-Raising
Our school district believes there is considerable educational value in taking field trips. However, it is our responsibility to raise the necessary funds to take the trip. During the course of the school year, we will offer fund-raising projects so that students can raise the money to take a trip.

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Out-of-Town Travel Policies - Uniforms

Out-of-Town Travel Policies
The Ladue Horton Watkins High School Handbook lists policies and guidelines for being eligible to participate in interscholastic activities, athletic and non-athletic. The band will adhere to these policies for all out-of-town trips. Students must be eligible for the quarter or semester in which the trip will occur. Failure to do so will jeopardize his/her opportunity to participate on the trip. It is the student's responsibility to maintain his/her eligibility so that he/she can participate on band trips. If a student becomes ineligible in the quarter in which the band trip occurs, moneys may be forfeited due to prepayment to out-ofschool agencies. In addition to the above, the following guidelines will be used: 1. In order to be eligible to travel with the band, each student must be invited and qualify based on defined performance expectations outlined in class. Students will be given adequate notification and time to meet the performance eligibility criteria. 2. Students are expected to have satisfactory citizenship in ALL classes during the quarter in which the trip will occur. Failure to do so will jeopardize his/her opportunity to participate on the trip. 3. Students must attend all performances and rehearsals during the course of the year. Failure to do so will jeopardize his/her opportunity to participate on the trip. 4. Students must maintain a "C" average in band in order to be eligible for the trip. 5. Each student's trip must be paid in full by the appropriate time. Each student is responsible for earning the money for the trip through fund-raising activities or through personal contributions. 6. Students who have a record of disciplinary and behavior problems in the classroom or school will jeopardize their opportunity to go on the trip. These cases will be handled through consultation with appropriate principals, teachers, and the director. 7. Students will be given, prior to each trip, a list of behavior expectations for that trip.

Uniforms
The school will issue the following items to students. All other items must be provided by the students. 1. black concert jacket (men only) 2. black bow tie (men only) 3. black cummerbund (men only) 4. band shirt (students must purchase) The pep band uniform consists of the following parts:
Each student is required to have and purchase a band shirt and fleece which we will wear at pep rallies, basketball games, band trips, etc. The cost of the shirt is $25.00 and the fleece is $30. Shirts and fleeces will be passed out at the beginning of school for ALL students in the high school band program. Any student who is not able to purchase the shirt and fleece should let us or their counselor know so that we may provide assistance if necessary.

The symphonic/concert uniform consists of the following parts: Men black concert jacket black pants white collared shirt black bow tie black cummerbund black shoes and socks (no gym shoes) Women long black skirt (below the knee) or black dress pants black blouse hose black shoes (no gym shoes) IMPORTANT
Students are held personally and financially responsible for the uniform parts that are issued to them and they must return the uniform in good condition at the end of each school year. Any damage to the uniforms resulting from misuse or neglect will be the responsibility of the student and the student will be expected to pay for the repairs. If the uniform is lost or damaged beyond the possibility of repair, the student will be responsible for replacing the uniform or uniform part. Do not wash or dry any part of the uniform in a conventional washer and dryer as this will damage the uniform. Do not take the uniforms to the dry cleaners. All uniforms are cleaned during the summer. If a uniform becomes exceptionally dirty, the student should see the director.

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Band Awards
George M. Turmail Band Award
George M. Turmail came to the Ladue School District in 1952 and taught until 1977. He served as band director, musical orchestra director, and coordinator of music during his tenure with the Ladue Schools. His compassion and dedication for music and students was exemplary. This award, named after Mr. Turmail, is presented to the senior who, during four years in the bands, has become an outstanding musician on his/her instrument. The student must be involved with the band program and should participate in other outside activities such as the musical orchestra, All-Suburban Band, All-State Band, Solo Festival, Community Music School of Webster University orchestra, the Youth Symphony, or other community groups. The student should demonstrate leadership qualities, be a good role model for younger students, have a good knowledge of music, and demonstrate qualities that are similar to those of George M. Turmail. The award will also include a $500 scholarship toward the student's future education. This award will go to an individual who has gone beyond the call of duty, who has willingly assisted in the day to day operation of the band program, and who demonstrates qualities that are similar to those of Bill Brackman. The award will also include a $250 scholarship toward the student's future education.

Tom Poshak Band Camp Scholarship

Tom Poshak was Director of Bands for Ladue High School from 1973 until 1985. He subsequently moved to Kirkwood High School and served as Director of Bands and Music Coordinator from 1985 until his retirement in June 2001. In honor of his years as a music educator, former students from Ladue wanted a way of saluting and thanking him for his dedication to music education. Through the creation of an endowment fund, an award of $250.00 has been established to be applied toward summer study at a music camp or seminar of the student's choice. This award will go to an individual who is a current band student in grade 9, 10, or 11 and is based on merit and need.

James R. Waechter Band Award

James R. Waechter came to the Ladue School District in 1987 and served as Director of Bands for the high school and middle school until his retirement in 2011. During his tenure he also directed the musical orchestra, was department chair for the Fine and Performing Arts Department, and was the district music facilitator. His dedication and leadership built the band program into one of the premier programs in the state. In honor of his years of dedicated service, the Senior Class of 2011 began this award to recognize his leadership and tenure with the Ladue School District. This award, named in his honor, is presented to the senior or seniors who have actively participated in the band program and should be striving for excellence in themselves and others. The students should take advantage of extra-curricular musical opportunities, encourage others to do their best, and demonstrate qualities that are similar to those of James R. Waechter. The award will also include a $500 scholarship toward the student's future education.

Daniel K. Bruns Scholarship

Daniel K. Bruns (1981-2003) was a member of the Ladue Band program until his graduation in 2000. As a tuba player he achieved great success having been awarded the George M. Turmail Band Award and selected to the Missouri All-State Band, St. Louis Suburban District Honor Band, and the St. Louis Youth Symphony Orchestra. He studied privately with notable tuba players such as Jim Martin, Rex Martin, Gene Pokorny, Mike Sanders, and Alex Saratowski. Dan was a student with a love and passion for music. He was able to touch many peoples' lives through this passion. Dan demonstrated that people from different backgrounds can come together in their appreciation of music. His perseverance and creative spirit allowed him to develop into an accomplished musician. In memory and recognition of Dan's contribution to the Ladue Band program a scholarship fund will be established in his name. The student who receives this award should be striving for success, have a passion for music, and a respect for the individuality of his/her fellow students. This scholarship is to be used for private lesson study to enable the recipient to achieve their goals on his/her instrument and achieve success similar to that achieved by Dan. This scholarship will be presented to an individual who is a current band student in grade 9, 10, or 11 and best represents the character, desire, and passion of Daniel K. Bruns. The amount of this scholarship will be $250.00 and is based on merit and need.

Bill Brackman Distinguished Service Award

Bill Brackman came to the Ladue School District in 1963 and taught until 1993. He served as elementary band director, marching band director, junior high band director, and orchestra director. His dedication and enthusiasm for teaching was exemplary during his 30 year tenure with the Ladue School District. This award is presented to the senior or seniors who have been involved with the band program over the past four years and who has/have demonstrated instrumental proficiency. The student should participate in other activities such as the musical orchestra or jazz band and be an individual who consistently thinks of the group first, never expecting anything in return.

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HANDBOOK FORM
Please sign in the appropriate areas and detach this page. Return to Mr. Faris/Mr. Lehde/Mr. Harris by Friday, August 23, 2013. If you have questions, please feel free to call or email. This assignment is worth 100 points and is part of your classroom grade.

I have read and understand the information contained in the Ladue Horton Watkins High School Band Student Handbook. Parent/Guardian Signature: Parent/Guardian Email: PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Student Signature: Student Email: PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Date:

In addition to signing and returning this handbook form, please complete, sign, and return the two field trip forms attached to this handbook. In order to receive the full 100 points for this assignment, return the following by Friday, August 23, 2013:

Band Handbook form Student School Excursion Form Emergency Form

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SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF LADUE LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SCHOOL EXCURSION FORM
During the school year, it is frequently desirable for different groups of students to visit places of educational interest in and around St. Louis. Only students who have the written approval of their parents will be included in these excursions. If you wish to have your son or daughter included in the trip described below, please sign your name and return this slip to the school. Dr. Donna Jahnke SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Mr. Brad Griffith PRINCIPAL

PARENT/GUARDIAN PERMISSION ____________________________ may accompany his/her group on the educational Students Name excursion described below. _______________________________________ Parent/Guardian SignatureDate Please list any allergies and their treatments:

FIELD TRIP INFORMATION

Date Leaving SEE BELOW Date Returning SEE BELOW Group taking field trip Field trip sponsor Time Leaving Time Returning T.B.A. T.B.A. a.m./p.m. a.m./p.m.

BAND Transportation by School Bus

Field trip destination Football Games Sept. 12/Oct. 11/Nov. 1/Nov. 16/Nov. 23 location TBA; Faris/Lehde/Harris/Solomon

TEACHER INFORMATION
Students participating in this field trip will be given a school-approved absence, thus not counting as an absence in classes they miss. Teachers must be notified prior to the excursion so that they may mark their records accordingly. DO NOT MARK STUDENTS ATTENDING FIELD TRIPS ABSENT. Notification must be indicated below by a teacher signature for each class to be missed. This Excursion Form is not complete without these teacher signatures.

BLUE DAY 1. _______________________ 2. _______________________ 3. _______________________ 4. _______________________

WHITE DAY 5. _______________________ 6. _______________________ 7. _______________________ 8. _______________________

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF LADUE Ladue Horton Watkins High School 1201 South Warson Road St. Louis, MO 63124 (314) 993-6447 EMERGENCY FORM Student Name ___________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name ____________________________________________________ Phone Number (H) _________________________ (W) _________________________ Name of Contact Person, in case of emergency, other than parent/guardian _______________________________________________________________________ Phone Number (H) _________________________ (W) _________________________

Medical Information List medication(s) and dosage(s) that your son/daughter will be taking while on the trip.

List any allergies and their treatment.

List any other pertinent medical or health information.

Should medical treatment be necessary due to an emergency, I grant permission for my child to receive such treatment and will bear the ensuing costs. Parent/Guardian will be notified immediately in case of emergency. ________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________ Date