“In Pursuit of Perfection”
2012-2013
Mr. John Szczerowski
Director of Bands
September
4
October
10
17
November
10
December
3
4
February
9
21
28
First Day of School – ½ Day
MSBOA Marching Band Festival, 5-9 PM, RCHS Football Field – Volunteers
needed!!!
Marching Band Festival – Rain Date
MSBOA Middle School Solo and Ensemble (7,8 Only)
@ Morley Stanwood – Performance Times Vary
Holiday Concert – 7pm – RCMS Gym (6,7,8)
MSBOA MS Honors Band (7,8 Only – must have received 1st
Division Rating at Solo and Ensemble) @ Shelby – Time: TBA
RC Band Carnival – Volunteers Needed!!
Pre-Festival Concert – 7pm – RCMS Gym (7,8 Only)
MSBOA District 1 Band Festival (7,8 Only) - Time: TBA
April
18
6th Grade Recital Night – 6pm – RCMS Café
9
14
27
6th Grade Performance at GT Norman – During School
Spring Concert – 7pm – RCMS Gym (6,7,8)
Memorial Day Parade – Time and Location: TBA
(8th Only)
End of year picnic – Westerburg Park – Time: TBA
May
29
***PLEASE RESERVE ALL DATES IN YOUR
FAMILY CALENDAR NOW***
EVENTS IN BOLD ARE REQUIRED FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND
STUDENTS OF THE INDICATED BAND (6,7,8)
Introduction
Welcome to the Reed City Middle School Band Program. There is an exciting year ahead of us and I’m
pleased you’ll be a part of my class this year! I have high expectations for all Middle School Bands, and
as we work together, we will continue to build upon the Reed City Band’s tradition of excellence.
This handbook seeks to clarify for every band member what is expected of them in the band program
and to outline as many of the procedures as practical that govern the operation of the band. A
successful tradition starts with an attitude of success. As parents, band members and band director,
all of our efforts need to be directed toward creating a positive experience for the young men and
women in our band program. A positive experience must start with an understanding of the
expectations for those who participate in the band. The following information explains these
expectations.
Band classes hold a unique place in the school curriculum. While it is an academic class in the sense of
having a definite curriculum and expected competencies, there are some aspects of band membership
that require student participation outside of the normal school day. Students and parents must
understand that the success of the band program depends on the commitment of every band member
in performing their responsibilities. This participation is required of each band member.
There are many benefits that students can realize by being a member of the band program. The
intense concentration and training required to perform in band is the same kind of training that
produces success in any field of study. Band invariably has a high percentage of the school’s topranking academic students because scholarship and musicianship go hand in hand.
Band is a year-long commitment. If you have questions about this, please contact the band director
rather than the main school office. Should you contact the main office, they will direct you to speak
with the band director.
Through the cooperation of every student, parent and teacher we can have many enjoyable
experiences affording musical growth, accomplishment appreciation and recreation. With this
achievement, students should develop a sense of pride and respect necessary for the continued success
of the Reed City Middle School Band Program.
Attendance
Participation in a performing arts class necessitates attendance at all performances during and after
school. Absences negatively influence the effectiveness of the entire group. Adherence to a strict
attendance policy is necessary for the integrity of the ensemble. The following guidelines must be
followed:
1.
2.
A student should submit a note from a parent on the date that he/she learns that they will not
be able to attend an after school performance. For any known conflict, written notification
must be received at least THREE WEEKS before the performance date. Excuses must be in
writing and must be thorough enough to clearly indicate the need for the absence.
Performances should only be missed in cases of illness or death in the family. Absences will not
be excused for reasons such as transportation problems, conflicts with non-school activities
such as work conflicts, parties, shopping or visiting relatives. In case of emergency, call or
e-mail the director to notify.
General Rules and Discipline
1. Respect others and their property.
2. Keep the band room, music library and storage lockers neat, clean and uncluttered at all times.
Please use trash and recycling receptacles as needed.
3. Please refrain from throwing away plastic bottles and other recyclable materials.
4. Running and horseplay are prohibited in the band room.
5. Backpacks, gym bags, large winter coats are not allowed in the band room or music library.
6. Do not bring materials for other classes to the band room – they must be stored in your locker.
7. If forgotten clothing items are not claimed, they will be donated to a local charity.
8. Gum, pop, food, candy are not allowed in the band room. Only water in a secure plastic bottle
is allowed. Failure to follow this rule will result in a grade reduction.
9. No person shall remove music from the music library without consent from the director.
10. Be in your seat with all materials (including chair and stand) and ready for warm-up at the
beginning of class.
11. The school insurance policy does not cover private instruments; therefore, the school cannot
assume responsibility for private equipment. Instrument storage facilities are provided for use
during school and are not intended as permanent or long-term storage.
12. There will be no switching of instruments in the band room…EVER!
13. Excessive unexcused absences/tardies, mistreatment of school music, misuse of school
equipment will not be tolerated and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
14. If a student is being disruptive, the director reserves the right to send the student to the office
for the remainder of the period.
15. Talking while the director is instructing will not be tolerated.
16. There is no room for complainers – if you have a concern that directly affects you, approach
the director in a POSITIVE manner and you will ALWAYS be heard.
17. All rules in the Middle School handbook will be enforced.
PLEASE NOTE: Any violation of these classroom rules can and will result in a reduction of the
student’s weekly grade and/or final grade.
Rehearsal Expectations
1. Rehearsal will begin when the director stands on the conductor’s podium. At this time, it is
expected that it will immediately become quiet and an atmosphere of learning will be
established. Anyone who is not seated and/or does not have proper equipment will be marked
tardy and will lose points from their weekly grade.
2. Students must have all necessary equipment and music ready at the beginning of rehearsal.
3. An honest effort must be given at each rehearsal.
4. Do not speak while the director is instructing.
5. Play in rehearsal ONLY when instructed.
6. You are expected to have a sharpened pencil on your stand each day. Mark your music in
pencil ONLY!!
7. Have music in order (the order will ALWAYS be written on the board) and ready to go at the
rehearsal’s downbeat.
8. Proper posture will be utilized during rehearsal.
9. Use the restroom before rehearsal. Excessive requests to use the bathroom will be denied.
10. Requests to get a drink will be denied – bring a water bottle to class.
11. If you are unable to participate because of an injury or other health-related reason, you MUST
have a medical excuse signed by a physician. You will be expected to have all required
equipment and materials. Wind players should have their instruments assembled and in their
hands to follow the music during the rehearsal. If there is an injury that prevents you from
participating an alternate responsibility will be assigned.
12. Never ask this question: “How does this go?” I will not answer that question.
13. No cases will be allowed in the band set up. Assemble your instrument and grab all necessary
supplies and return case to your instrument storage cubby.
Class Evaluation Procedures
1. Grades will be decided on the accumulation of points - there are no weighted portions in the
grade breakdown.
2. Practice cards – Graded on a credit/no credit basis (Please see “Practice Cards” below
3. Each student may earn up to 25 points per week for a daily rehearsal grade during each
marking period. These points are met by meeting the classroom rules and rehearsal
expectations previously listed. (Please see “Daily Rehearsal Grade” below)
4. Performances are usually 100 points each – special cases may arise at the director’s discretion.
These points are earned by being on time, prepared with all necessary equipment and uniform,
and displaying proper conduct on and off stage during the performance, etc.
5. Playing and/or written tests (point total will vary according to the given test.) These points are
earned by preparing all material given to the best ability of each student. Most of these tests
may be retaken as often as the student deems necessary to achieve the highest possible score.
Retakes must be completed in the same marking period in which they were assigned.
6. All final percentages will be given a grade in accordance to the Middle School grading rubric.
Practice Cards
The reason we practice is to prepare for a performance, and to become successful musicians – each
student MUST spend time on their own, at home, practicing…PERIOD. It’s normal to dislike
practicing. As your band director, even I sometimes don’t feel like practicing. Over the years, however
(16 years since I joined band in 6th grade!), I’ve learned how focused, meaningful practice can lead to
events that are more rewarding than anything else I’ve experienced in my whole life!
The expectation I have for middle school students is to practice for a duration of 15-20
minutes, on at least five separate occasions during the week (100 minutes at once is NOT
effective practice!)
As mentioned in “Class Evaluation Procedures,” practice cards are graded on a credit/no credit basis –
completed practice sheets are worth a total of 10 points. They will be due each Monday for the
preceding week’s practice time. Practice Cards will be given full credit if turned in on time, with a
PARENT’S SIGNATURE, even if the practice card has recorded zero minutes. A “zero minute”
practice card is still communicating something very enlightening to me!
Students need help from parents to become responsible, successful adults. With instruction from
teachers at school and encouragement from parents at home, each student can fulfill our bands’ high
standards of performance.
As parents, you need to know that I will work to help your child be successful. You also need to know
that you can support your child and help them learn the life skills of disciplined work and
perseverance through encouraging their instrumental music practice. (See next page for some
practicing tips)
“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of
strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” – Vince Lombardi
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert
Collier
“The difference between talent and success is perseverance.” - Anonymous
Daily Rehearsal Grade
This includes behavior, effort, and coming to class prepared. Students must have the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Their instrument (sticks and mallets for percussionists)
Sheet music and/or method book
A pencil
All necessary supplies
- 3 working reeds and cork grease for clarinet and saxophones (these may be purchased
from your director)
- Valve or slide oil for brass players (these may be purchased from your director)
If a student has a medical excuse signed by a doctor and cannot participate, they are still expected to
pay attention during rehearsals and follow the music. Under no circumstances will students be
permitted to do other work or go to the library during band class.
Extra Credit
This is given when a student goes above and beyond what is expected for them in band class. I believe
extra credit should be a reward for furthering musical horizons – playing a challenging solo, working
hard for an honors band audition, or experiencing a quality performance, etc. Extra credit will be
given for the following:
• Fall MSBOA Solo and Ensemble Festival
• Honors Band(s)
• Attending outside performances such as other school band concerts, professional orchestras,
etc.
• Performing in church, etc.
Tips for Practicing
ESTABLISHING A ROUTINE!!!!
“Only practice on days that you eat!”
1. Always practice at the same time
• “Everyday before Spongebob I’ll practice for 20 minutes; if I don’t get it done, I miss
Spongebob that day.”
• “Before I play video games, I’ll practice for 20 minutes.”
• “If I practice for 20 minutes every day this week I get to do one less chore on the
weekend!”
SET GOALS
“Learning a song is like putting a puzzle together: first work on the outline, then isolate chunks, put
the chunks together and pretty soon your puzzle is done!”
1. Set a goal to fix one hard spot in a song.
2. Set a goal to improve one particular area of your playing (tone, rhythm, etc.)
3. Set a goal to prepare for a lesson, class or performance!
TRICKS TO PROVIDE A PLAN FOR PRACTICING
“It’s not mastered until you can play it 3 times in a row with no mistakes!”
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Roll a dice to see how many times you play a piece.
Put the names of your pieces in a hat and draw one to see which one to practice.
Play a concert for Mom, Dad, relatives, neighbors, pet dog….whoever!
Practice in front of a mirror.
Set a timer for every two minutes and check your posture, embouchure, and grip when it goes
off.
6. Set goals for yourself, like “by the time I’m done practicing today I will be able to play Mary
Had a Little Lamb,” etc.
School-Owned Instruments
Students/families that use school owned instruments are financially responsible to the school
district for any damage, loss or repair (other than normal “wear and tear,”) that occur while
the instrument is in their care. Using a school instrument is a privilege that can be revoked if
abused. All students and parents using a school-owned instrument will sign an “Instrument
Sign-Out Contract” which records serial number and condition at time of check-out.
Students using a privately owned or rented instrument should keep a personal record of the
serial number and model of the instrument. You may consider adding the instrument to your
family’s insurance in the form of a rider on your homeowner’s insurance. Private equipment
is NOT covered on the school insurance policy and therefore the school is NOT
RESPONSIBLE FOR THEFT, LOSS, or DAMAGE.
Equipment Care
All equipment must be kept in proper working condition. We cannot possibly hope to perform our
best if our equipment is not properly cared for. This includes, but is not limited to:
1. Lubed valves and slides (BRASS)
2. Proper reeds – WOODWIND PLAYERS MUST HAVE THREE WORKING REEDS AT ALL
TIMES – ABSOLUTELY NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!!
3. Lubed corks and springs (WW)
4. Keeping the instrument clean – especially mouthpieces!
5. Percussionists – we will have a separate conversation ☺
The director reserves the right do random “instrument checks.” If your instrument is not in proper
working order, a grade reduction is likely. Please see your director with any questions – there is no
benefit to me if your instrument isn’t working!
Chairs and Playing Tests
In 6th, 7th and 8th grade band, seating is determined by chair tests (playing tests.) Once Mr.
Szczerowski sets the chairs, they will remain in effect until the next chair test. Not every test
will be for chairs. Chair testing will usually occur once or twice a month, sometimes fewer (or
not at all) if there is an upcoming concert. It’s important to practice regularly and in a focused
way for continual improvement, because the next test is always right around the corner. ☺ I
am ALWAYS wiling to help teach students good practice habits in addition to those we work
on in class.
Private Lessons
Although not required, private lessons are an excellent way to assist your child in succeeding in music
study. One-on-one instruction is beneficial to all types of musicians. If you are unable to locate a
professional musician with whom to study, notify Mr. Szczerowski and every effort to find a suitable
private lessons teacher will be made.
Uniforms
PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY AND PLAN AHEAD OF TIME FOR YOUR
CONCERT ATTIRE!!!!!
For a band to perform their best, all must look uniform! It has been my experience that judges at
festivals are either initially impressed by a group’s appearance, or feel that their “stage deportment”
detracts from the performance. Our groups will ALWAYS give a great first impression to the audience,
and our community! ☺ Please ensure that your child follows our uniform code:
•
•
•
•
SHOES MUST BE ENTIRELY BLACK, without any logos, or anything else distracting. Even a
tiny “swoosh” is definitely visible to the audience.
NO WHITE SOCKS OR “TOED” SANDALS – “black to the floor” means below the waist is
entirely black, NO TOES SHOWING, SOCKS MUST BE BLACK!!
NO DISTRACTING OR FLASHY JEWELRY. Small, conservative items are acceptable at the
director’s discretion.
ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY NO JEANS!!!!! A concert is a special occasion and we all need to
look the part! ☺
6th Grade Band
1. Solid white dress shirt – no ties, please!
2. “Black to the floor” – LONG all black dress slacks/skirt (NO JEANS!!!), all black
socks/stockings, all black shoes – NO SNEAKERS PLEASE!!
7th and 8th Grade Band
1. Red RCMS Polo Shirt (provided by school – but you must provide your own, all white,
undershirt.
2. “Black to the floor” – LONG all-black dress slacks/skirt (NO JEANS!!!), all-black
socks/stockings, all black shoes – NO SNEAKERS PLEASE!!
**Red “RCMS” Polo Shirts will be issued by Mr. Szczerowski shortly before the Holiday Concert and
will stay in your possession for the remainder of the year – LOSS OF SAID SHIRT WILL COST $20**
Contact Me
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me!
Mr. John Szczerowski
Director of Bands
Reed City Area Public Schools
231-832-6174, ext. 144
[email protected]
Reed City Middle School Band Membership Agreement Form
_________________________
Student Name – Please print first and last
Please thoroughly read and discuss this handbook in its entirety before
signing.
As a Parent/Guardian, I have read, understood and agree to comply with the information
presented in this handbook. I have received a copy of the tentative schedule and understand that my
child is expected to attend all required events. I also understand that my child will be given updates to
bring home regarding performance details, expectations and/or changes. I am also aware that
anything in this handbook is subject to change at the director’s discretion.
Parent or Guardian Signature
Date
________________________________________________ Parent email
As a Student in the Reed City Middle School Band, I have read, understood and agree to comply
with all information stated in this handbook. I acknowledge all expectations, rules and consequences
stated in this handbook and agree to attend all required events and will be responsible for taking home
updates and communicating any performance details, expectations and/or changes.
________________________________________________________________
Student Signature
Date
Parent Names(s)
Home Phone
Work Phone
Address
YOUR FIRST ASSIGNMENT: Complete and return this form to Mr.
Szczerowski!!
Due: Wednesday, September 12th 2012
Worth 50 Points!! That’s an easy A if it’s on time – half credit if late
RCMS BAND PARENTS
Are you interested in helping out with the band this year? Let Mr. Szczerowski know!
My name ____________________________
My Child’s name _________________________________ Grade _______
Telephone _________________________
Cell ______________
Email _______________________________________________________
The preferred way to reach me is:
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Email
I have expertise/interest in the following areas:
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
___
Uniform inventory/check out/return – may require daytime availability
Chaperoning events (festivals, trips, etc.)
Becoming a Band Booster
Assisting with Marching Band Festival (October 10th, 2012 @ RCHS)
Assisting with Band Carnival
Monitoring students at a concert
Ushers during concerts
Assisting with paperwork (typing databases, concert programs, etc.)
Assisting with equipment moving needs before performances
Serving as “historian” – taking photos and videos of the band throughout the
school year
Assisting with public relations (write articles, information on upcoming events)
Coordinating fundraisers
___
OTHER: __________________________________________________
If you selected any of the above areas, please return this form with your student to Mr.
Szczerowski!! ☺
Thank you in advance for your dedication to the RC Band Program. It is because of
considerate family members such as yourself that our students succeed
Most Sincerely,
John Szczerowski
Director of Bands
Reed City Area Public Schools
More Tips for Band Parents
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Your role as a parent of a beginning band musician: be patient! And Praise! Praise! Praise!
Encourage good practice habits and posture!
Remind students to clean their instrument after practicing!
Help student find a quiet place to practice!
Overall encouragement – practice, practice, practice!! ☺
Attend concerts with enthusiasm, praise, and applause!
Enjoy the ride – band has the potential to be one your child’s fondest activities and
memories!
Private Lessons
Private lessons are very worthwhile for any student of any level of progress or ability. They serve to
supplement and enhance the learning in which your student is already engaged. The one-on-one
attention is an ideal form of instruction and can increase your child’s confidence in his/her playing. If
you are interested in private lessons for your child at any time, I can help put you in contact with the
right people. Although they are not required, those students that take private lessons find it beneficial
and enjoyable!
Concerts in the Community
Take your students to concerts of professional orchestra and band musicians. This can really excite
them and generate enthusiasm for their instrument!
•
Brass Band of Battle Creek, Grand Rapids Symphonic Band, Grand Rapids Symphony
Orchestra, WMU, CMU, GVSU, MSU Band or Orchestra Concerts, Reed Cit High School
Concerts, Con Brio Voce Chamber Brass of Big Rapids, etc.
Music Gift List (Great Ideas for Birthdays and Christmas)
-
-
Instrument cleaner/polish, music note flash cards, metronome, tuner, instrument Tshirts, etc.
CD’s of professionals on their instrument (See Mr. Szczerowski for suggestions)
Sheet music – pop, movie, jazz, etc. (Check Marshall Music or Online at
jwpepper.com!)
Look at Marshall Music for more ideas or talk to Mr. Szczerowski!