Band Manual

Burleigh Manor's band program is a comprehensive program that performs at the highest conceivable level of quality.

In band we are in an evolutionary process. No matter how good you are, you can always improve. As students develop this evolution will mean many changes. For me, change is not perceived as a stressful crisis, but rather as an opportunity for exciting growth, and I encourage students and parents to view it similarly. My primary objective is to prepare each student musician to appreciate music as a performer and listener. Helping students develop adequate musical skills and promoting growth in musical understanding and appreciation are two of the most important factors in obtaining this objective. In accordance with this goal, instrumental music is taught so as to develop in each student:

• The ability to perform on a musical instrument
• The ability to persevere in musical accomplishments, whether working individually or with an ensemble
• An aesthetic satisfaction, sensitivity to beauty resulting in emotional responsiveness to the arts
• An appreciation and understanding of quality in all types of music and its performance
• The desire and ability to help perpetuate the cultural asset of society
• A lasting interest in music which will develop during the period of formal education and beyond, so that music will become a firmly established facet of daily living
• An interest in the creative possibilities in music which will encourage a continuous exploration in this process
• A sensitivity to and understanding of the basic elements of music: tone, melody, rhythm, harmony, and form

Rehearsal Procedures for Band

To develop a standard of musical proficiency and attitude which reflects credit upon you and the band, as well as Burleigh Manor Middle School, the following principles are to be established to maintain discipline, pride, and cooperation from all members.

• Arrive at rehearsals on time with everything you will need.
• At rehearsals and lessons, get your music and instrument in an orderly manner and be seated immediately. Adjust your chair and stand so that you can see the music as well as the conductor.
• Sit with good posture, that is, both feet flat on the floor, legs uncrossed, and back away from the back of the chair. This enables proper breathing.
• Do not eat, drink, or chew gum when you play.
• Warm up your instrument quietly by sustaining long tones in the middle register. Talking should be minimal.
• When the conductor come to the podium stop playing and talking.
• Stop when the conductor cuts you off and listen for directions.
• Do not touch any instrument other than your own unless instructed to do so.
• Your name must be on your case and music at all times.
• Prepare for every rehearsal and lesson. Make sure that your instrument works and that you have your music, practice record, and a pencil.
• At the end of rehearsals put your chair, and stand back in place, pick up the area around you, and leave the room in an orderly manner.
• Arrive to your next class on time.
• Your instrument and music must be kept in the instrument storage room and music folder cabinet respectively.
• Your instrument and music must go home each day.

Program Format

In band, unlike other disciplines, if the individual student has any weakness in their knowledge and/or skill ability the entire group suffers. In band proper placement is critical to the success of the group, and the individual. If students are placed in a class beyond their abilities they often become frustrated, give up, and/or act out inappropriately. Conversely, if students are not challenged the result may be the same.

The band format is:

1. A Wind Ensemble, comprised of 6th, 7th and 8th grade students which rehearses for a 60 min. class period three out of four school days.
2. A Concert Band, comprised of 6th, 7th and 8th grade students which rehearses for a 60 min. class period three out of four school days.
3. A 6th grade Preparatory Band which receives lesson instruction. Preparatory students will join with Concert Band for performances.

Emphasis is on developing top musicianship through drill in ensemble technique, musical skill, and style. We perform quality literature, in most cases taken from the Maryland Band Directors Association list of music which is of a level of sophistication so as to be challenging as well as educationally appropriate.

Students receive only one lesson every six school days in which they are pulled out of their P.E. or Related Arts class on a rotating basis. Instruction is on band or lesson material as needed. Emphasis is on tone, intonation and technique. We work on individual development through the use of a lesson book, scales, and rhythm charts.

We have two Jazz Ensembles that will rehearse after school from 2:30 to 3:30. The intermediate ensemble rehearses on Mondays and the advanced ensemble rehearses on Wednesdays.

Throughout the year we put together many solos, duets, and ensembles that perform at the solo and ensemble festival. We perform a winter and spring concert as well as performing at adjudications and band showcases. The Wind Ensemble performs at the elementary schools in our feeder program. We receive invitations to perform at many other places and events and traditionally accept a few of these also.

Band Requirements

Band is a commitment of time, money, and emotion. Students need to develop a sense of responsibility and perseverance. Band is a group performance centered class and as such all members are crucial to the overall success of the ensemble.

Students involved in band are making a primary commitment for the entire school year. We recognize the importance in students lives of extra curricular events such as sports, dance, scouts, drama, etc. but student's curricular commitments must be primary. Students who miss a concert or night rehearsal unexcused can no longer be considered performing members of the ensemble. Howard county public schools recognize; 1-Serious illness, 2-Death in the family and 3- Court appearance 4- School visitation 5- Religious observance as excused absence.

Concerts

Band is a performance class and as such will perform concerts at appropriate times. Concerts are announced well in advance in writing. Attendance at all concerts and rehearsals is mandatory of every member. A band is a team and without every member the team can not be successful. A big part of teamwork is being able to count on one another. Remember, the group is only as strong as its weakest member. Each member must fully prepare ( practice) for each concert.

Concert dress is a white shirt or blouse with a collar, black pants or skirt/dress, and dark shoes and socks/hose. Wind Ensemble students will be issued a cummerbund and bow tie for performances. Students are responsible for the care and return of cummerbund and bow ties. The goal of concert dress is to focus attention on the group as a whole without visual distractions and is appropriate for the setting. It also aids in creating team spirit and helps appropriate behavior. Concert dress is required at all concerts. At appropriate times we invite guest artists, alumni, or selected incoming students to perform with us.

Always allow yourself plenty of travel time for a concert. Typically students will have to arrive 45 min. prior to a performance to warm up and tune. The concert hall is opened 20 min. prior to the performance. Concert etiquette dictates that no one enter or leave a concert hall while a performance is in progress. Flash cameras will distract the performers. So that all may enjoy the concert there should be no talking, eating, drinking, or smoking while a performance is in progress.

Rehearsals

Students must be prepared for rehearsals. They must have their instrument (in good working order ie. lubricated valves, slides, keys, and corks; and at least three good reeds), music and a pencil everyday. Instruments and music must go home each day for security and practice. At times extra rehearsals may be needed after regular school hours. They will be kept to a minimum and announced in writing well ahead of time. Typically we have four night rehearsals per year from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the evening. One about two weeks prior to the winter concert, two about three weeks prior to band night or festival, and one prior to the spring concert. We invite other band directors to these rehearsals to give us feedback and hire guest clinicians and conductors. In order to be fully prepared attendance is required at all rehearsals. Students must be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of rehearsals. Please mark all events on your calendar at the beginning of the year.

Due to the nature of Band as a performance class, all students must be successful! "D" and "E" work is unacceptable and must be made up.

Unexcused absence from a concert or evening rehearsal will result in a failing grade for that quarter.

Some band activities may have prerequisites. For example, students must attend all night rehearsals and performances to attend the Music Celebration Field Trip. Student participation in events such as the Music Celebration Field Trip, and performing chamber music at Tersiguel's may be dependent upon the student first successfully completing other activities in Band. Students cannot meet a Band prerequisite or requirement through other endeavors such as Choir, G/T, or outside activities.

Factors Which Make-Up a Grade

Attitude

• Attitude is the single greatest factor that will determine the musical success of any individual.
• In general an "A" student shows positive leadership and interest in assisting rehearsal procedures.
• He or she shows independence and resourcefulness in assisting rehearsal procedures.
• He or she is self-disciplined, punctual, dependable, and cooperative.
• The "A" student has outstanding progress in self-improvement through constant individual practice and ensemble participation.
• In summation, the student cares deeply, wants to succeed, and demonstrates this through quality work.

Demonstrated Performance
Demonstrated performance is how well a student plays compared to their ability. Letter grades are given.

Practice
A grade is based on how many minutes of home practice per week.

• 150 min. = A
• 120 min. = B
• 90 min. = C

Written Tests
A grade is given on written exams at least once per quarter.

Playing Tests
Grades are given on performance of assigned material with the following criteria:

• A - The best conceivable performance of the material. Careful attention was given to style, phrasing, tempo, articulation, tone, and intonation.
• B - A good performance of the assigned material. All rhythms and notes are correct but some limited problems on additional musical factors.
• C - A fair performance of the assigned material. Some problems on notes and rhythms.
• D or E - Unacceptable performance. Little or no work done. Must be brought up to level to continue in the performing ensemble.

Awards

There are many activities and factors which are highly encouraged and contribute to the success and quality of the individual's and ensemble's musical growth and performance which cannot be directly grade related. Therefore, in keeping with the idea that you don't get something for nothing, and as a positive motivational tool, band awards are given at the end of each year at a pot-luck awards dinner. We will invite family and friends, alumni, incoming students, prior elementary and forthcoming high school band directors to have a great meal in a social setting. We will have guest speakers and award certificates, pins, plaques, and trophies. All students who successfully complete the year will receive something. The awards are graduated in size and importance based on a point system.

• Participation with an average grade of: A-20 points, B-15 points, C-10 points.
• Student aide: 5 points
• Participation in an extra ensemble or clinic outside of school: 10 points.
• Participation in Jazz Ensemble: 10 Points
• Participation in the solo and ensemble festival: 10 points and an additional 5 points for each additional event.
• Section Leader: 10 points per quarter.
• Auditioning for All-State Band: 10 points.
• Performing with the All-State Band: 20 points.
• On going private lessons: 10 points per quarter.
• Attending music concerts as a listener: 5 points per concert, 20 points max.
• Performing outside of school- church, community, etc.: 5 points per concert, 20 points max.

Points may be lost by:

• Keeping your music or instrument out of place: -5 points.
• Carelessness with your instrument: -5 points.
• Failure to keep up instrument care: -5 points.
• Lost music: -5 points.
• Negative comments about another band member: -10 points.
• Conduct unbecoming to a band member: -10 points.
• Handling an instrument other than your own: -10 points.

Parental Help

To be successful, your child will need parental support. I would like to offer some suggestions of how parents can help.

Practicing Conditions

As students advance in musical study, the regularity and quality of their practice increases in importance. This can be promoted if parents see that students have favorable practice conditions. Students must have a music stand, tuner and metronome.

1. Schedule a regular time or times each day for practice.
2. A quiet place with good lighting and ventilation aids concentrated practice. A music stand is a necessity.
3. The instrument must be in first rate mechanical condition. The higher the quality of the instrument and mouthpiece the higher the possibility of quality sound.
4. Praise work well done. A congratulatory remark may be interjected during a practice session, or later at meal time.
5. Plan activities ahead, knowing that your child's participation in rehearsals and concerts is not only required, but most importantly is vital to the success of the entire ensemble. Band is a team and as such we must be able to rely upon the other members of our team.
6. Never use practicing as a punishment, or use band as a tool to improve another area of your child's life.

Practice

Many parents who do not play an instrument feel as though they cannot help in correcting problems. In some instances, this is true, however, many times parents can help musically. Also, private lessons greatly help student musicians progress.

1. Isolate the problem spots and work these out. Do not just start at the beginning every time.
2. Identify the problem and come up with a plan to correct it. If it is a pitch problem students should finger the part first. If it is a rhythmic problem, students should count and clap it or perform it on only a single pitch first.
3. New material should be practiced first. Students should not play the same songs that they have mastered every day. They will never progress.
4. Short sections of music, a few measures, should be completely worked out at a time. As the saying goes, you eat an elephant one bite at a time.
5. Slow practice must precede rapid playing.
6. Avoid boredom. Students should not stay on one thing too long. They should also play something that they like in its entirety each practice session.
7. Work hard! Students should work on each aspect of their playing each day. Play long tones for range, strength and endurance, work on tonguing and flexibility. Work on technique, sight-reading, and musicality.
8. Have Fun. If it starts to drag down, stop and take a break.

Instrument Information

Flute
Recommended brand: Yamaha - open hole, low b, sliver head
Required Accessories: Cleaning rod and cloth
Recommended Accessories: Pad savers

Oboe
Recommended brands: Fox Renard
Recommended Reeds: Must be hand made, see me
Required Accessories: Cork Grease, Swab, Reed Case
Recommended Accessories: Reed making tools if studying privately

Clarinet
Recommended brands: Buffet, Yamaha
Recommended Mouthpiece: Van Doren B-45 w/rouvner H. ligature (Required for Wind Ensemble)
Required Accessories: At least 5 Mitchell lurie or Van Doren #2 1/2 to 4 strength
reeds in a case, cork grease, swab, mouthpiece cap
Recommended Accessories: pad savers and mouthpiece mouse.

Bass Clarinet
Recommended brands: Vito
Recommended Mouthpiece: Van Doren B-45 w/rouvner H. ligature
Required Accessories: At least 5 reeds #2 1/2 to 4 strength reeds in a case(Brands Hemke Ten Sax, Van Doren, Lavoz, cork grease, swab, mouthpiece cap.
Recommended Accessories: mouthpiece mouse.

Bassoon
Recommended brands: Fox Renard
Recommended reed: Must be hand made, see me
Required Accessories: Seat strap, Crutch, swab paraffin or cork grease

Sax
Recommended brands: Selmer mark VI, Yamaha
Recommended Mouthpiece: Selmer C** w/rouvner H. ligature (Required for Wind Ensemble)
Required Accessories: At least 5 Hemke (Bari Sax Van Doren or LaVoz) #2 1/2 to 4 strength reeds in a case, cork grease, swab, mouthpiece cap, cloth mute for bell
Recommended Accessories: pad savers and mouthpiece mouse.

French horn
Recommended brands: Holton Farkas
Recommended Mouthpiece: Holton MDC
Required Accessories: Rotary Valve oil, slide grease
Recommended Accessories: Non Transposing Mute

Trumpet
Recommended brands: Bach Strad., Yamaha
Recommended Mouthpiece: Bach 7c
Required Accessories: Roche Thomas valve oil, slide grease, snake, valve cleaning rod, rag
Recommended Accessories: Mutes, see me

Euphonium
Recommended brands: Wilson, Besson, Yamaha
Recommended Mouthpiece: Bach 6 1/2 AL (Required for Wind Ensemble)
Required Accessories: Pillow for instrument rest, Roche Thomas valve oil, slide grease, snake, valve cleaning rod, rag

Trombone
Recommended brands: Bach Strad, King 3b
Recommended Mouthpiece: Bach 6 1/2 AL (Required for Wind Ensemble)
Required Accessories: Rotary valve oil, slide oil, slide grease, snake, rag
Recommended Accessories: slide cleaning rod,

Tuba
Recommended brands: Alexander, Mirophone, Yamaha
Recommended Mouthpiece: Bach 22
Required Accessories :Roche Thomas valve oil, slide grease, snake, valve cleaning rod, rag

Percussion
Recommended brands: Ludwig, Remo
Required Accessories: Vic Firth 2b bolero sticks
Recommended Accessories: See me

Guidelines for School-Owned Instruments

1. You are responsible for proper care of the instrument.
2. You are responsible for any repair or replacement from damage.
3. The instrument must be returned at any time requested.
4. Due to the limited number of school-owned instruments, the student's use of this instrument may be precluding another musician from using it, therefore the student must agree to be a positive contributor to the band by practicing, and maintaining proper demeanor.
5. Unless instructed by the director, the student will perform on this instrument for the entire year.
6. To help insure the positive musical contribution of students using the limited number of school-owned instruments, private lessons are recommended.