HS Band Handbook
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Elkhart ISD
High School
Band Handbook
Band Policy and Mission Statement
In order to assist band members and parents in understanding areas of responsibility, a statement of band policy is herein set forth. Becoming familiar with this policy will enable each individual to make the most of this great opportunity to be a member of the Elkhart High School BIG RED Band, becoming a better person and a better musician.
We firmly believe that each student should improve through regular practice. When the student has lost the will to improve him/herself or to make a better contribution to the band, he or she is wasting the time and effort of fellow members. The happiest music student is one who improves through regular habits of practice and daily progress. He or she must not only know right from wrong, but must be able to stand for principles and develop a high sense of purpose toward which he or she is willing to work. Responsibility is the focus behind any level of achievement within this program. We intend to conduct ourselves in a manner that will facilitate the learning of all students.
Objectives of the Elkhart BIG RED Band Program
- To teach music through performance in band
- To develop performance skills on the various wind and percussion instruments
- To provoke for the musical needs of the school and the community
- To develop discrimination with regard to the selection of music
- To acquaint the students with music theory/history and how history and musical composition relate to students' lives and musical experience
- To provide all students with the opportunity for worthy use of their time, a means for self-expression, and a healthy social experience
- To develop the ability to function as a responsible member of a group, enhance interaction and develop espirit de corps
- To foster leadership skills within each student
- To foster a life-long love of music appreciation and music performance
Twelve Benefits of Music Education
(by: Carolyn Phillips)
1. Early musical training helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning. It is thought that brain development continues for many years after birth. Recent studies have clearly indicated that musical training physically develops the part of the left side of the brain known to be involved with processing language, and can actually wire the brain's circuits in specific ways. Linking familiar songs to new information can also help imprint information on young minds.
2. There is also a causal link between music and spatial intelligence (the ability to perceive the world accurately and to form mental pictures of things). This kind of intelligence, by which one can visualize various elements that should go together, is critical to the sort of thinking necessary for everything from solving advanced mathematics problems to being able to pack a book-bag with everything that will be needed for the day.
3. Students of the arts learn to think creatively and to solve problems by imagining various solutions, rejecting outdated rules and assumptions. Questions about the arts do not have only one right answer.
4. Recent studies show that students who study the arts are more successful on standardized tests such as the SAT. They also achieve higher grades in high school.
5. A study of the arts provides children with an internal glimpse of other cultures and teaches them to be empathetic towards the people of these cultures. This development of compassion and empathy, as opposed to development of greed and a "me first" attitude, provides a bridge across cultural chasms that leads to respect of other races at an early age.
6. Students of music learn craftsmanship as they study how details are put together painstakingly and what constitutes good, as opposed to mediocre, work. These standards, when applied to a student's own work, demand a new level of excellence and require students to stretch their inner resources.
7. In music, a mistake is a mistake; the instrument is in tune or not, the notes are well played or not, the entrance is made or not. It is only by much hard work that a successful performance is possible. Through music study, students learn the value of sustained effort to achieve excellence and the concrete rewards of hard work.
8. Music study enhances teamwork skills and discipline. In order for an orchestra to sound good, all players must work together harmoniously towards a single goal, the performance, and must commit to learning music, attending rehearsals, and practicing.
9. Music provides children with a means of self-expression. Now that there is relative security in the basics of existence, the challenge is to make life meaningful and to reach for a higher stage of development. Everyone needs to be in touch at some time in his life with his core, with what he is and what he feels. Self-esteem is a by-product of this self-expression.
10. Music study develops skills that are necessary in the workplace. It focuses on "doing," as opposed to observing, and teaches students how to perform, literally, anywhere in the world. Employers are looking for multi-dimensional workers with the sort of flexible and supple intellects that music education helps to create as described above. In the music classroom, students can also learn to better communicate and cooperate with one another.
11. Music performance teaches young people to conquer fear and to take risks. A little anxiety is a good thing, and something that will occur often in life. Dealing with it early and often makes it less of a problem later. Risk-taking is essential if a child is to fully develop his or her potential.
12. An arts education exposes children to the incomparable.
In addition, research from the University of Toronto showed that children who studied music have higher IQ’s as adults. Music feeds the soul and brightens imaginations. Music is a tremendous vehicle to open up your child’s mind to many new wonders.
Elkhart Band Curriculum
Elkhart High School
Marching Band
Membership in the marching band requires strenuous physical exercise and the ability to play the difficult literature encountered in the activity by memory. All students enrolled in the band program are required to participate in the marching band. The marching band is the primary performance group in the fall semester. Required performances include all Elkhart pep rallies and football games, local parades, invitational style marching contests and the UIL Region 21 Marching Contest. Participation in Elkhart Summer Band Camp is mandatory for this group.
Color Guard
Students who are interested in dance, choreography and movement may choose to audition for our marching auxiliary unit: The Elkhart Color Guard. The color guard is an extension of the band program and as such the members are required to attend all full band rehearsals and performances in addition to any color guard specific rehearsals that occur.
There are several prerequisites for auditioning for The Elkhart Color Guard. You must have at least one (1) year in the marching band to gain fundamental marching experience and you must have passed ALL classes during the previous school year.
If there is an instance of ineligibility during the previous school year, it must be cleared with the band directors BEFORE the audition. If a current color guard member becomes ineligible and has to miss ANY performance, they will not be allowed to audition in the following year.
Members are required to purchase their uniform (the uniform changes every year to suit the theme of the marching show) as well as any accessories that they may need for performance. Auditions usually take place in Late April/Early May and a $100 deposit (to be refunded if the student does NOT get selected for color guard) is due before auditions begin. If the $100 deposit is not made, the student may not audition for color guard.
Concert Band
Once marching season is done, concert season begins and the concert band becomes the primary performance group at Elkhart ISD. Concert band ends the fall semester and continues through the spring semester. Students should have the performing ability to play grade 1 (easily), grade 2 (slightly challenging), grade 3 (challenging…this is the grade level that we strive to attain) and grade 4 (very challenging) music. Required performances include the Winter and Spring Concert, invitational style concert contests and the UIL Region 21 Concert and Sight Reading Contest.
Marching band and concert band are different functions of the same group. HS Band includes marching band, concert band and all auxiliary performing groups (that is The Elkhart Color Guard and Drum Line). The HS Band meets 1st period (8:00am-9:00am) and has additional after-school rehearsals depending on the season.
Leadership Team
The Elkhart High School BIG RED Band Leadership Team is integral to our success. Students are chosen for this service position based on attitude, leadership capabilities, teaching potential, instrumental pedagogy and student relations. There is no tryout for the Leadership Team, instead the band director will choose who is best suited for the job. The Leadership Team is NOT a social club...it is a very important and hard-working position that requires a lot of time, effort and humility. Not only does the Leadership Team do a lot of the "manual labor" of setting up the band rehearsal space (as well as numerous other tasks), but they must be exemplary in every other arena as well. Leadership Team members are abassadors of the band, even outside of the band setting, and must adhere to our strict standards at ALL TIMES.
Leadership Team members, because of their position and the high standards it requires, must also understand that removal from the leadership team is also removal from band itself. If a Leadership Team member does anything that would require removal from the Leadership Team, they must also be removed from band as well. This is a very strict policy, but it is also understood that a place on the Leadership Team has MUCH more responsibility than that of a "normal" band student. As a result, members of the Leadership Team are disciplined at a much higher level as well.
Applied Music/Music Theory
Applied Music class is a smaller, more individualized music class. Students MUST be currently enrolled in band and must participate in several required individual performances, including auditioning for the ATSSB All-Region Band, performing at the UIL Solo & Ensemble contest, performing in our BIG RED Pep Band for HS Varsity district basketball home games as well as performing at our Elkhart Student Recital.
Applied Music students will also receive some basic music theory training. More advanced students and potential collegiate music majors will gain the most from Applied Music as it will help them to "dig deeper" and improve musically as well as help to prepare them for college level music theory and/or a music scholarship audition.
While more advanced students will get the most out of Applied Music, struggling students will also find the more individualized and intense rehearsal times very beneficial. Applied Music students make up the bulk of All-Region band students from Elkhart and the class has placed 90% of its membership in the ATSSB All-Region band over the last few years. In other words, Applied Music will greatly increase your chance to become a member of the All-Region band and its primary purpose is to make the students better individual musicians.
All-Region, All-Area, & All-State Band
All Elkhart BIG RED Band students are eligible and highly encouraged to audition for the ATSSB (Association of Texas Small-School Bands) All-State Band. The ATSSB auditions are considered an individual event and not a full band event. Audition material should be prepared by the student outside of normal band rehearsal time. Band directors are here to assist the students with the preparation of All-Region music, but it is on a first come-first served basis and an appointment must be made with a director in advance.
This process begins with All-Region auditions in early December. Students are given a series of musical etudes and will perform these etudes to a panel of 5 judges who will rank their performance alongside their peers from other schools in the region according to their level of performance. Students who place high enough in the All-Region band are certified to the All-Area auditions in early January where the student will be given the opportunity to audition for the ATSSB All-State Band.
Students who make the All-Region band will perform a concert in January while All-State students will do an additional concert in San Antonio in February. Needless to say, membership in the All-Region and All-State Bands are a huge accomplishment. Auditions for ATSSB is not required, but highly encouraged.
Solo and Ensemble
All Elkhart BIG RED Band students are eligible and highly encouraged to prepare and perform either a solo or an ensemble for the UIL Region 21 Solo & Ensemble contest. While this is a UIL event, it is still considered an individual event and music should be prepared by the students outside of normal band rehearsal time. Similar to All-Region music, the directors are available for help.
Students are given a solo or ensemble chosen by the band directors to rehearse and perform for UIL. Solo students have access to a music program called SmartMusic that will also act as their accompaniment for UIL. The students will have access to SmartMusic at school before and after school as well as any other time throughout the day when the full band is not in rehearsal. Students in a small ensemble have no need for SmartMusic.
In addition to the region level of UIL Solo & Ensemble, students who memorize and are awarded a 1st division on a Class 1 solo are then able to perform their solo at the State UIL Solo & Ensemble contest in late May. This contest is much higher profile and the best performing students in the state are awarded the "Outstanding Performer" medal and are considered individual state champions in that event!
Elkhart Student Recital
The students have another performance option through their solo or ensemble music. Our Elkhart Student Recital is an avenue for students to perform their music for parents and community members. This is not a competitive event, just a relaxed atmosphere where the students can perform their solo or ensemble for an audience of parents, staff and peers. The student recital is mandatory for members of the Applied Music class at the High School, but other students may opt to perform if they choose.
Summer Camps
There are several summer band camps that Elkhart students regularly attend. They are Elkhart Color Guard Camp, Northwestern State University Drum Major/Color Guard/Drumline Camps, University of Texas at Arlington Leadership Camp, George N. Parks Drum Major Academy and Elkhart Summer Band Camp.
- Elkhart Color Guard Camp meets during the first week of June and is taught by our color guard choreographer. During this camp, color guard members will review and rehearse basic guard, rifle and dance fundamentals as well as learn the choreography for the upcoming field show. Camp times are 9am-5pm and attendance is mandatory for all members of the color guard.
- NSU Drum Major/Color Guard/Drumline Camp is located on the campus of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA. The Elkhart drum major, color guard members and drumline members attend this camp at no cost. Since the school pays for this summer camp, it is a requirement of all color guard and drumline members. During this 4-day camp, the students will continue to refine their skills and learn new skills. The camp ends with an exhibition to showcase what the students have learned.
- UTA Leadership Camp is located on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington in Arlington, TX. Leadership team members and color guard members are required to attend this camp (as the school pays for this camp also). The color guard portion will continue to build on the fundamentals that they have learned in their two previous camps. The leadership portion teaches the students how to set marching drill as well as hone their leadership skills.
- George N. Parks Drum Major Academy is located on a different college campus every summer. In 2009, it was located at Tyler Junior College in Tyler, TX and in 2010 it was located at Texas Women’s University in Denton, TX. The Elkhart drum major attends this camp and leadership team members can opt to go at a slightly reduced rate. GNP is a very demanding and arduous camp designed for drum majors and drum major teams. Leadership is heavily stressed at this camp.
- Elkhart Summer Band Camp is required of all Elkhart BIG RED Band members. A preliminary Rookie Camp meets during the last 2 weekdays in July from 9am-2pm and is mandatory for all incoming freshmen and all leadership team members. This portion of camp is designed to get incoming freshmen up to speed on our marching and musical fundamentals so that our regular summer band camp goes more smoothly.
Starting on the first day of August (first weekday) and lasting for two (2) full weeks is the Elkhart Summer Band Camp. All band members are required to attend the Elkhart Summer Band Camp. The camp times are 9am to 3pm. During this camp, we will review marching fundamentals as well as learn “The Book” for the upcoming marching season. ("The Book" refers to all of the music that we will play during marching season).
Also during the Elkhart Summer Band Camp we will start putting our show on the field. By the end of the Elkhart Summer Band Camp, we will have at least 1/2 of the marching show set on the field with music. This is why attendance to Elkhart Summer Band Camp is so important. At this level, even one absence can put a student VERY far behind and it will be very difficult to catch up as well as slow the band’s progress down. Please make every effort to attend every rehearsal.
Private Lessons
As one might expect, private lessons on a musical instrument are the best way to improve individual performance skills. The one-on-one approach allows the student to benefit from individual attention as opposed to being one in a class of more than fifty. A recent survey of students in the All-State Band revealed that approximately 80% of the students in band studied privately. Students are generally more inclined to practice diligently for a weekly music assignment, and this discipline increases the student's enjoyment with the instrument. The band directors will be more than happy to assist in the selection of a private teacher.
General Rules and Procedures
All school rules laid out in the EISD Student Handbook must be observed within the band program.
Attendance Policy
The only excusable absences are prearranged school conflicts and those that would be excused by the school for regular attendance records, e.g., illness, a death in the family, or a religious holiday. Individual needs will be addressed as they occur. This system is subject to modification by the director.
For all absences, the following procedure must be followed by the student as well as the parent:
- The director must be notified in advance
- For illness, a parental note or doctor's note must be submitted
- Although cleared by the school office, absences from a band activity that same day must be cleared with the band director as well - please call the band hall
- In extreme cases, a phone message may be left on the band hall voice mail with a follow-up personal call
- Follow-up is the sole responsibility of the student and/or parent
All performances and rehearsals are mandatory and attendance is of the utmost importance. If a student must miss a performance for ANY REASON, the band director must be notified as far in advance as possible. Please keep in mind that notification of an absence is a professional courtesy and does not insure that the student's grade will not be altered. In extreme cases, skipping a performance may result in being removed from the band program altogether.
Conflicts With Band
Resolving conflicts between band and other activities or events is the responsibility of the student. Rehearsal and Performance schedules are given out well in advance and are on the band's website for reference. This is done so that students can plan their schedules and arrangements can be made to attend each band rehearsal and performance. Students should have a band calendar and be aware of all band dates well ahead of schedule.
It is the policy of the band director to assist students when conflicts occur within the scope of the band policy. Students are reminded that band is a very demanding activity and that involvement in outside activities should be limited to those compatible with the band schedule. All conflicts with performances must be resolved in favor of band participation. Work is not an excuse for missing any band activity.
When there is a conflict between two school-sponsored events, allow time for the band directors and the conflicting sponsor to work it out. This takes time, so make sure you look ahead to any future conflicts so that the sponsors will be able to plan around it and resolve the scheduling conflict. Plan ahead.
Grading Policy
Grades are assigned for the band class and performances, which are considered co-curricular.
Participation (50%) - If a student attends class punctually, has all of their materials every day (instrument, music, pencil), and is not a disruption in class, they will receive a “100”. Tardiness, lack of effort, lack of preparation and/or missing equipment will result in points taken off.
Rehearsals/Performance (30%) - All after-school rehearsals (Monday night & Thursday morning) are graded rehearsals and as such are considered test grades. Attending and being on time to these rehearsals will result in a “100”. For every minute late to the rehearsal that a student is, points will be taken off of the grade. Not attending the rehearsal will result in a “0” for that rehearsal.
The same basic policy applies to performances. Missing a performance, without prior notification of the band directors, may also result in removing the student from the field show.
Music playoffs and Tuning Charts are also considered within this grading category. Both music playoffs and tuning charts are a “100” if you do them on time and a “0” if you don't. If you play your music off late, there are harsh grade penalties, but a “0” can be avoided if you play it off late. Tuning Charts cannot be made up.
There will be times when show music is graded on a performance basis, meaning that your grade will reflect your performance. Those grades will vary depending on proper preparation of the music. Scoring is subjective.
Six Weeks Test (20%) - Usually the Six Weeks test is a big performance within that six weeks grading period. Any UIL band event will be graded as a six weeks test. During a Six Weeks grading period in which there is no UIL band event, the last test of the Six Weeks will be considered the Six Weeks Test.
Semester Tests - The Winter Concert acts as a fall semester test while the Spring Concert acts as a spring semester test. The grade is based on attendance and punctuality. Points are taken off for tardiness and a “0” is given for non-attendance. Students are expected to attend the entire concert for full credit. TEA mandates that the students are taught how to behave as well as critique a live concert environment, and this is our way of fulfilling that specific TEKS for band.
Eligibility
All public performances are subject to eligibility status. UIL has a “no pass/no play” rule that means if you make below a 70 in any class during a 6 weeks grading period, you cannot perform with the group until you regain eligibility either through the progress report at the 3 week mark, or through a passing report card at the end of the next grading period.
Eligibility is a very big deal. Not only are you letting the entire band down by forcing them to perform without you, you are also jeopardizing passing a class for the year which could affect your graduation date.
As a courtesy to band students who become ineligible because of a failing grade(s) on their report card, a “50” is given for every performance that the student must miss because they are ineligible to attend. We do this so that the student will not fail band. Their grade will be significantly lower during the time that we have performances while they are ineligible, but that is an accurate reflection of their contributions to the band during that time. Bottom line: Don’t fail a class and become ineligible.
Stay on top of your class work. Go to tutorials. Turn in all of your work. Keep a good attitude in your classes and it will be difficult for you to fail. 9 times out of 10, failing to do one of those things is the reason that you failed a class in the first place. “I’m not good at math…” is not the reason you failed that class. Get some help and do your best at all times.
Ineligibility during marching season may result in a permanent loss of your marching spot.
Equipment
All students must attend every rehearsal and performance with all of their necessary equipment. Instrument, music and a pencil is mandatory for every rehearsal. Failure to have any of these items will result in disciplinary actions of various degrees ranging from writing sentences (I have a really good sentence!!!) to an office referral. Please make having all of your equipment a top priority!
If a student's personal instrument is in the repair shop and not available to the student, a parent note explaining the nature of the repair and when the instrument will be back in action is mandatory. Without a parent note, the student will be disciplined as if the instrument were merely forgotten and left at home. When it comes to having an instrument repaired, the band director MUST be informed in writing.
Most instances of “forgetting an instrument” happen because the student is not in a habit of taking their instrument home to practice and bringing it home the next day. If home practice is not a consistent part of their day, then the student WILL attend class unprepared whether they have their instrument or not.
Financial Obligations
All Band Students
- Pencil (Probably not real expensive)
- Metronome/Tuner (~$30…the Korg MA-30 & the Boss TU-80 are good choices)
- Basic maintenance items (valve oil, cork/slide grease, slide cream, key oil, polishing cloth, or other instrument specific maintenance supplies)
- A "Foundations for Superior Performance" book for their specific instrument. We call this "the blue book" and it is our foundational warm-up and technique book. We will play out of this book every day and it is very important that the student have their own book. This is a one-time purchase...students may use the same book year-to year. (Instrumentalists - $8, Percussionists - $12)
- Reed players (clarinet and saxophone) and double reed players (oboe, bassoon) should have a good supply of reeds…at least 4 working reeds in their case at all times. Reeds break and must be perceived as consumable items that will need to be replaced regularly. A reed will NOT last a full year…even if it remains unbroken.
High School Band Specialty Items
- Black Band Shoes (~$35) - should not be a yearly purchase unless the shoes become worn out or outgrown.
- Long Black Socks
- Themed High School Band T-Shirt (~$10)
- Uniform Cleaning Fee (one-time fee of $40/year)
Color guard members must also provide money for their uniform, gloves, equipment bag, etc. Prices will vary depending on the cost of the uniform and amount of equipment needed.
When it comes to general band membership, it is our policy to NEVER let a child miss out on a music education because of financial difficulties. We can and will do whatever we can to help out financially. Please communicate to us and allow us to help. Communication is key!
Band Uniforms
Our band uniforms are a source of pride of this organization, and as such should be treated with care and respect. The uniform, when not in use, should ALWAYS be hung neatly on a quality hanger inside the uniform bag. Uniforms should never be balled up and put in the bottom of the uniform bag. This not only wrinkles the uniform, but also shortens its lifespan…and it shows a complete lack of pride and respect for this organization.
A one-time fee of $40/year will be charged for cleaning of the uniform throughout the year. This fee is due at the beginning of the year. Parents will NOT be asked to dry-clean the uniform at the end of the school year. The $40 fee covers all cleaning/dry-cleaning of the uniform throughout the school year. All washing and dry-cleaning will be done by the band directors/band boosters.
Students will fit for uniforms during the Elkhart Summer Band Camp. Once a uniform is fitted to the student, he/she will be issued a card with their specific uniform information on it. The uniform will then be joined together in a uniform bag and hung in the uniform room.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL A BAND UNIFORM GO HOME WITH A STUDENT!!
This means that a student will have to get to the band hall early enough to change into their uniform before we meet/leave for a performance. This also means that the student/parent must budget enough time to change out of their uniform after a performance before they go home.
Students must also keep up with their uniform information as it will not only be used to check-in the uniform, but will also be used to identify the uniform during the year.
If a student is checked out from an event and as a result must take their uniform home with them, the uniform is to be hung neatly on a hanger, placed in the uniform bag as quickly as possible and hung up at home until they can bring it back to school and hang it in the uniform room. The uniform must be brought back to school at the earliest convenience.
Performing In Uniform
When we are in uniform, all parts of the band uniform must be worn correctly. No other pants or shorts are to be worn under the black bibber pants. Current band-themed t-shirts are to be worn under the jacket so that in the event that we remove the uniform jacket, the band continues to look uniform.
No jewelry is allowed when a student is in uniform. This includes, but is not limited to rings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, or earrings. We must take our uniformity seriously.
Parts Of The Uniform
- Black Uniform Pants
- Uniform Jacket
- Uniform Hat (With a hatbox)
- Two (2) Gauntlets
- Black Plume *
- Long Black Socks (A pair of long black socks are the responsibility of the student)
- Black Marching Shoes (We use Super DrillMasters. The shoes are bought by the student through the school to ensure uniformity and get the best price)
- Uniform Bag with correct Hangars (the hangars that came with the uniform must stay with the uniform. Do NOT lose the hangars!)
* Plumes are a part of the uniform that are only worn during performance. Plumes should NEVER be stored in a hatbox and should always be placed back in the plume storage box immediately after each use.
Students will take a plume from the plume storage box prior to a performance and will return the plume to the storage box immediately after the performance. Plumes will not be checked out to a student, as they will likely pull a different plume every time.
Behavior While In Uniform
It is critical that you realize that when you are wearing our band uniform, or any part of our band uniform (3rd Quarter break without the jacket, for instance), you are representing the Elkhart BIG RED Band, Elkhart High School and the community of Elkhart itself. It is unacceptable to behave in a way that brings negative views to our organization. This includes your speech as well as your actions.
There is NO PDA of any type while in uniform. Please control your actions. People are watching, and people form opinions of the Elkhart BIG RED Band based on your individual choices. Make the right choice.
On a side note, the same concept applies while in your band shirt, whether at a performance or on your own time.
Instruments
School-Owned Instruments
School-owned instruments will be checked out on a needs-only basis. Please understand that the school district has invested a large amount of money to supply quality instruments to our band program. It is our responsibility to treat each instrument with care and respect. This is not only a responsibility issue, but an issue of pride. Please have pride in the instrument that you've been supplied.
The school will pay to have the instrument serviced as well as any normal wear-and-tear maintenance that may be required. Normal wear-and-tear issues include torn or worn pads, broken springs, torn corks, etc. The student is responsible to pay for any repairs to a school-owned instrument that is not considered normal wear-and-tear. Anything that would jar the solder joints loose or dent/scratch a slide, valve casing or any other part of the horn is NOT considered normal wear-and-tear.
Currently, we do not charge students a "rental fee" for the use of school-owned instruments. This is a courtesy and will remain in effect as long as the school instruments continue to get treated with care and respect. A rental fee of an undetermined amount may be added at any time if students do not display pride and care when dealing with their instrument.
All High School marching brass instruments are supplied by the school so that we will have a unified, silver brass horn line on the field. Brass players are expected to keep their instrument clean and shiny throughout the marching year. A polishing cloth is a must. Other instruments (flute, clarinet, and saxophone) are checked out during marching season on a needs only basis. During concert season, all low brass and low woodwind instruments are supplied by the school. Any other instruments will be checked out on a needs only basis.
All percussion equipment, including sticks and mallets, are provided by the school. Our percussion equipment is good, and will be treated with the utmost of respect. Our sticks and mallets should not be used in any way that would render them useless. The stick bag is a privilege and at any time a percussionist may be asked to provide his/her own sticks or mallets if our equipment is continually mistreated.
Student Owned Instruments
Each student is highly encouraged to purchase his/her own instrument. We believe that a student will take more pride in their music education if they have an instrument of their own. This also reduces the strain on the band budget when it comes to supplying instruments to students.
If the student is still using the instrument that was purchased for beginner band in 6th grade, it is also recommended that the instrument be upgraded to "Intermediate" or "Advanced/Professional" for the High School level of music. Beginner level instrument quality has inherent mechanical and intonation problems that will start to hold the student back if it is not upgraded. This is not an issue when they are beginning to play, but as they improve, the instrument needs to improve along with them. The band directors can help locate a good instrument and help you find it with the best price. Remember, this is an investment. When that instrument helps pay for 4 years of college, it really starts to look like a smart investment.
Extra Trips
The band takes a "fun trip" every year. This is an extra expense, but this expense can be offset by our annual Cookie Dough fundraiser. Trip cost will vary from ~$25-30 for a group-rate Six Flags over Texas ticket (we do Six Flags every other year), to $500+ for a Disney World Trip to Orlando (every 4 years), and can land anywhere in between depending on location.
Our past and planned future trip destinations are:
2003 – Six Flags over Texas
2004 – Disney World in Orlando, FL
2005 – Six Flags over Texas
2006 – Nashville, TN (Country Music Hall-of Fame/Hermitage/Graceland)
2007 – Six Flags over Texas
2008 – Disney World in Orlando, FL
2009 – Six Flags over Texas
2010 – San Antonio, TX (Schlitterbahn/Sea World/Alamo)
2011 – Six Flags over Texas
2012 – Disney World in Orlando, FL
2013 – Six Flags over Texas
2014 – Big Overnight Trip To Be Determined in 2013
2015 – Six Flags over Texas
2016 – Disney World in Orlando, FL
2017 – Six Flags over Texas
Duties of the Band Member
- Be on time to all rehearsals and performances. Early is on time, on time is late, and late is completely unacceptable!!!
- Upon entering the rehearsal setting, get your instrument and other equipment, and go directly to your seat.
- Make sure you have all of your materials with you at all times. This includes a pencil.
- When the director or staff member steps on the podium or asks for your attention, all talking and playing should immediately cease.
- Come to the rehearsal with a good attitude.
- There should be no excess playing (e.g., making ugly sounds on your instrument), only good, solid material. Practice the way you perform!
- Make a real effort to improve on a daily basis, and establish a good practice routine. Have pride in yourself and your band.
- At the end of the rehearsal, put all of your materials in their proper place and completely latch your instrument case.
- Maintain a strong academic standing in all of your classes.
- Become responsible for and assume responsibility for your own actions. Admit when you are wrong.
- Have proper respect for yourself and those in authority.
- Read and play music with insight - have musical expectations.
- Keep yourself healthy. If you are injured or sick, this basic rule applies: Do the very best that you can. We will never ask you to further injure yourself, but if you are healthy enough to come to school, it stands to reason that you are healthy enough to participate.
The Importance of Attitude
The greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or organization is attitude. The kind of person you are in as individual choice, and how you feel about something is one of the few actual independent choices you have in life. It takes intense dedication to reach goals. Students should learn to discipline themselves to practice fundamentals daily.
The right attitude must be present along with sincerity, concentration, and dedication as the basic foundations. Such an attitude makes an artistic performance inevitable and is the difference between a winning organization and a mediocre group. The band can do much for you. Make the most of it in every rehearsal and performance.
Attitude is the only real thing in your life that you have direct control over.
The Importance of Discipline
Because of the nature of the organization, band discipline must be strict. Band students and parents must believe in the ideals, principles, and philosophy of the organization. Each member must always be aware of good behavior and think for him or herself.
Any and all misconduct casts a bad light on the school, community and the band program. Any member who discredits the organization by his or her conduct or actions in band, in another class, or on a trip shall be subject to dismissal from the band program or may lose a privilege within the program. This may include the chance to go on our spring trip. This decision will be at the director's discretion.
Discipline not only includes making good choices and acting with maturity, but it is also the discipline to practice your craft. You will only be as good as the amount of work that you put into it, and you will only receive back from band what you put into it. The more you work at it, the more you will enjoy it…it doesn’t sound logical, but it’s the truth. All band members are expected to have the self discipline to practice and rehearse on their own.
Students' Responsibility...
…to the Band
As members of this organization, you have a great deal of responsibility. These expectations coordinate with the privileges, rewards and duties of the band program.
…to Ourselves
You have the primary responsibility of developing your own abilities. The benefits of a good instrument and private instruction can never be overestimated. What you put into it is what you will get out of it. The director is always available for your guidance and encouragement - just ask!
…to the School
The school district provides us with the resources for rehearsals, performances, and equipment. The band booster club also provides a support network, both financially and philosophically. We have the responsibility to provide the best possible services to our community.
…to Music
Music has always been a part of our culture. We must take what we have and use it for the betterment of that culture. No one expects you to be virtuoso musicians, only to do the very best you can. The great composer Gustav Mahler once said that only 10 percent of a piece of music is on the page. If that is the case, we as musicians have the duty of creating and producing the other 90 percent. The joy of music is not in everything that is apparent. It must be discovered and created.
…to Each Other
We must always do what is best for the welfare of the group. There can be no selfish acts solely for the benefit of the individual. Respect each other. If there are conflicts, find a way to resolve them. Never insult another band member's integrity. The word "band" implies that we are banded together without divisions.
Parents' Responsibility to the Band
It is the responsibility of every parent and guardian to see that the policies outlined in the handbook are followed and that the form in the back is signed and returned. This form states that you understand the policies set within and that any questions or concerns are to be directed to the band director by making an appointment. Each parent is responsible for the attendance of his or her child at all band functions. It is the responsibility of each parent to see that the child practices his or her instrument daily. The hands of the directors are tied without the help of the parents.
How Parents Can Help
When a band question arises, it is important that you get factual information before discussing it with others. We do more harm to ourselves, the band family, when we talk about things that contain one or more falsehoods presented as facts. If questions arise, it is important to remember this axiom: If it is a performance issue or anything dealing with the band proper, contact the band director directly via a phone call, email or an office visit.
Parents can also help in the following ways:
- Show an interest in the musical study of your child
- Arrange a regular time for your child to practice
- Find a quiet place where he or she can practice without interruption
- Listen to performances of practice material when asked to do so
- Help the student keep a daily record of practicing
- Come up with a reward system for daily practice
- Encourage practice (can you tell that practicing is important?)
- Keep the instrument in good repair
- Make sure your child has at least 4 good reeds at all times (for saxophone and clarinet students...2 good reeds for oboe and bassoon)
- Get your child a metronome & tuner
- Be extra careful with school-owned instruments. Repair costs are high
- Teach your child to be prepared and on time to each rehearsal or lesson
- Provide private instruction
- Make faithful attendance at all band activities important
- Buy your child a personal planner for marking important dates
- Keep this handbook in a safe place and refer to it often
- Notify the teacher if the student is to be absent for rehearsals or lessons
- Double check to make sure students bring their instrument home to practice and that they bring it back to school for the following day's rehearsal
- Visit rehearsals occasionally
- Make sure all fund-raising money is turned in on time
- Attend booster meetings, concerts, games and contests…yes, you are welcome to attend all of our events!
Please do NOT punish your child’s bad behavior, bad attitude or poor decision making by taking away musical privileges. If your child really enjoyed math, you wouldn’t try to discipline your child by not allowing them to do their math homework, would you? It makes just as little sense to take their practice time away from them in order to discipline them. Make them practice more!
In the same way, do NOT keep them out of an after-school band rehearsal because they are “grounded”. Please know that our rehearsals are mandatory and graded. They are a part of our curriculum. Also, our rehearsals are very strenuous, disciplined and focused. It is not what I would consider “fun”. We work VERY hard.
If your child is having behavioral problems, I can help. Please contact me and allow me to step in and assist you. By removing your child from band activities, you are effectively removing my influence and the discipline that I require of the band members. The band program is steeped in self-discipline and pride. I believe that these traits will inevitably work themselves out in their personal life.
Complaint Department
Please understand that there will be conflict, frustration, misunderstanding, miscommunication and a myriad of other problems that can occur within our very busy schedule. It is not our mission to hurt, embarrass, exclude, or put down any student…as a matter of fact, it is contrary to our “family” atmosphere that we work hard to establish. That said, sometimes feelings get hurt and there is a very high chance of miscommunication or misunderstanding of the situation.
We must, as adults, be willing and able to work out any conflict in a mature manner. If you have any complaint that you would like to voice, please follow proper due process.
Proper due process is: first, schedule an appointment and talk directly to the band director, especially if that is the source of your complaint. If a resolution is not made with the director, then proceed to make an appointment and talk to the campus principal. Again, if there is no resolution, then the next step is to talk to the superintendent and then on to the school board.
Again: 1 - Band Director, 2 - Campus Principal, 3 - Superintendent, 4 - School Board…in that order.
There is no logical reason to go straight to the principal, superintendent or the school board if NO contact has been made with the band director first.
General High School BIG RED Band Calendar of Events
The dates on the website are as accurate as possible. For a more complete list of up to date and accurate calendar events, please visit the band website at:
www.elkhartisd.org/Band
Remember: Make sure you are accessing the correct calendar of events. For all High School events, make sure you click on the High School Calendar tab. A paper copy of the current year’s calendar is available if you do not have internet access. Please contact the band director for that information.
Changes/Alterations to this Handbook
All changes and alterations to this handbook will officially be made online on the school website. The handbook posted online will be the newest and most accurate version of the handbook. For the latest release of this handbook, please refer to this online handbook instead of the printed out paper version.
High School TEKS
(Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills)
All of the activities of the high school band are utilized to fulfill our state mandated TEKS. The TEKS are online, but for your convenience, the HS version of the TEKS is listed below.
Chapter 117. Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Fine Arts
Subchapter C. High School
Statutory Authority: The provisions of this Subchapter C issued under the Texas Education Code, §28.002, unless otherwise noted.
The provisions of this subchapter shall supersede §75.67 of this title (relating to Fine Arts) beginning September 1, 1998.
Source: The provisions of this §117.51 adopted to be effective September 1, 1998, 22 TexReg 4943.
§117.60. Music, Level I.
(1) Four basic strands--perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage, and critical evaluation--provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire. In music, students develop their intellect and refine their emotions, understanding the cultural and creative nature of musical artistry and making connections among music, the other arts, technology, and other aspects of social life. Through creative performance, students apply the expressive technical skills of music and critical-thinking skills to evaluate multiple forms of problem solving.
(B) define concepts of intervals, music notation, chord structure, rhythm/meter, and musical performances using standard terminology; and
(B) identify and describe the uses of music in society and culture;
(D) define the relationships between the content, the concepts, and the processes of the other fine arts, other subjects, and those of music.
(6) Response/evaluation. The student responds to and evaluates music and musical performance. The student is expected to:
(A) design and apply criteria for making informed judgments regarding the quality and effectiveness of musical performances;
(B) evaluate musical performances by comparing them to exemplary models; and
Source: The provisions of this §117.60 adopted to be effective September 1, 1998, 22 TexReg 4943.
§117.61. Music, Level II.
(1) Four basic strands--perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage, and critical evaluation--provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire. In music, students develop their intellect and refine their emotions, understanding the cultural and creative nature of musical artistry and making connections among music, the other arts, technology, and other aspects of social life. Through creative performance, students apply the expressive technical skills of music and critical-thinking skills to evaluate multiple forms of problem solving.
(2) Creative expression/performance. The student sings or plays an instrument, individually and in groups, performing a varied repertoire of music. The student is expected to:
(A) exhibit accurate intonation and rhythm, fundamental skills, and basic performance techniques while performing moderately difficult literature, independently and in ensembles;
(B) perform expressively, from memory and notation, a varied repertoire of music representing genres and styles from diverse cultures; and
(B) define uses of music in society and culture;
(C) identify music-related vocations and avocations within the community; and
(C) exhibit concert etiquette during live performances in a variety of settings.
(a) General requirements. Students may fulfill fine arts and elective requirements for graduation by successfully completing one or more of the following music courses: Band III, Choir III, Orchestra III, Jazz Band III, Instrumental Ensemble III, Vocal Ensemble III, the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Music Theory, International Baccalaureate (IB) Music SL, IB Music HL (one credit per course). The prerequisite for IB Music SL and IB Music HL is one credit of any Music II course. The prerequisite for all other Level III music courses is one credit of Music II in the corresponding discipline.
(1) Four basic strands--perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage, and critical evaluation--provide broad, unifying structures for organizing the knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire. In music, students develop their intellect and refine their emotions, understanding the cultural and creative nature of musical artistry and making connections among music, the other arts, technology, and other aspects of social life. Through creative performance, students apply the expressive technical skills of music and critical-thinking skills to evaluate multiple forms of problem solving.
(3) Creative expression/performance. The student reads and writes music notation. The student is expected to:
(A) sight-read major, minor, modal, and chromatic melodies;
(B) read and write music that incorporates complex rhythmic patterns in simple, compound, and asymmetric meters; and
(C) interpret music symbols and terms referring to dynamics, tempo, and articulation when performing.
(4) Creative expression/performance. The student creates and arranges music within specified guidelines. The student is expected to:
(A) improvise musical melodies; and
(B) compose or arrange segments of vocal or instrumental pieces (manuscript or computer-generated).
(5) Historical/cultural heritage. The student relates music to history, to society, and to culture. The student is expected to:
(A) classify by style and by historical period or culture representative examples of music, justifying the classifications;
(B) identify and describe the effects of society, culture, and technology on music;
(B) exhibit informed concert etiquette during live performances in a variety of settings.
(a) General requirements. Students may fulfill fine arts and elective requirements for graduation by successfully completing one or more of the following music courses: Band IV, Choir IV, Orchestra IV, Jazz Band IV, Instrumental Ensemble IV, Vocal Ensemble IV, the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Music Theory, International Baccalaureate (IB) Music SL, IB Music HL (one credit per course). The prerequisite for IB Music SL and IB Music HL is one credit of any Music III course. The prerequisite for all other Level IV music courses is one credit of Music III in the corresponding discipline.
(b) Introduction.
(2) By reflecting on musical periods and styles, students understand music's role in history and are able to participate successfully in a diverse society. Students analyze and evaluate music, developing criteria for making critical judgments and informed choices.
(c) Knowledge and skills.
(1) Perception. The student describes and analyzes musical sound and demonstrates musical artistry. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate independence in interpreting music through the performance of appropriate literature;
(B) analyze musical performances, intervals, music notation, chordal structure, rhythm/meter, and harmonic texture, using standard terminology; and
(3) Creative expression/performance. The student reads and writes music notation. The student is expected to:
(A) sight-read major, minor, modal, and chromatic melodies;
(B) read and write music that incorporates complex rhythmic patterns in simple, compound, and asymmetric meters; and
(C) interpret music symbols and terms referring to dynamics, tempo, and articulation when performing.
(4) Creative expression/performance. The student creates and arranges music within specified guidelines. The student is expected to:
(A) improvise musical melodies; and
(B) compose or arrange vocal or instrumental pieces (manuscript or computer-generated).
(C) explain a variety of music and music-related career options; and
(B) exhibit concert etiquette during live performances in a variety of settings.
Source: The provisions of this §117.63 adopted to be effective September 1, 1998, 22 TexReg 4943.