Chopticon High School
Concert Ensembles Manual
“The Showband of Southern Maryland”
2014-2015
www.chopticonband.org
Table of Contents
Table of Contents………………………………………………………………………….1
Introduction………………………………………………………………………………..2
Concert Ensembles……………………………………………………………….………..3
Fees…………………………………………………………………………………...........8
Other Information………………………………………………………………………....9
Band Participation Contract……………………………………………………………...10
Video/Audio Release Form………………………………………………………………12
Booster Volunteer Form………………………………………………………….………14
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Introduction to the Chopticon High School Band Program
Welcome to the Chopticon High School Band Program. The program continues a long tradition of
excellence that is incessantly developing each year. It has been recognized
by adjudicators, clinicians, and the general public for their musicianship and demeanor at many performance
venues. There are nearly 100 students that make up the Chopticon High School Band Program, and we
continue to grow. The program requires a commitment in time, parental support, and financial contributions.
Marching Band
The “Showband of Southern Maryland” is an elective taken after school for ½ credits.
Made up of musicians enrolled in the concert ensembles, members rehearse after school and in the evenings
to perform at five to six football games, five to seven competitions, and four parades each fall. Mandatory
rehearsals begin in late July and continue through the middle of November.
Color Guard
The Chopticon High School Color Guard is a team within the marching band. Placement
in the guard is by audition only. Auditions occur in May. Practices and performances coincide with the
marching band.
Concert Band
The Chopticon High School Concert Band is an ensemble made up of students with
previous band experience. The basics of musicianship, music theory, and instrument pedagogy will be
reinforced through the performance of new and classic band literature at concerts and school assemblies.
Evening rehearsals are a requirement for this ensemble.
Symphonic Band
The Chopticon High School Symphonic Band is an ensemble made up of students with
previous band experience. Advanced musicianship, music theory, and instrument pedagogy will be
reinforced through the performance of new and classic band literature of a mature nature at concerts, school
assemblies, regional performances, and festivals. Evening rehearsals are a requirement for this ensemble.
Entry into this ensemble is by audition only. There may be times when certain musicians will not be placed
in this ensemble due to over instrumentation.
Jazz Band
The Chopticon High School Jazz Band is made up of students with previous band
experience. Students learn jazz theory, improvisation, and instrument pedagogy through listening, emulating,
and performing standard jazz music at concerts, festivals, assemblies, and “gigs.” Entry into this ensemble is
by audition only and evening rehearsals are a requirement.
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Concert Ensembles
Ensemble Auditions (Symphonic, Concert, and Jazz Bands)
Students with previous band experience are given an opportunity to audition for placement in one of the above
ensembles. Eighth grade students (incoming freshmen) are to be evaluated on the following:
1. Band Music
2. Scales
3. Sight Reading
Current band members will be given audition materials in the spring of each year for placement in the
appropriate ensemble for the next academic year. Eighth graders can request these materials from their
middle school director if they wish to audition for Symphonic Band. These will be comprised of the
following:
1. Prepared solo for your instrument (provided)
2. Scales
3. Sight Reading
Ensemble Placement
Symphonic and Jazz Bands
The Symphonic Band and Jazz Band represent the advanced students of the band program. These
concert ensembles get the most performance opportunities, work with respected guest clinicians, and
perform the most mature music. The standard that we maintain is a high one and is not to be taken
lightly. Without a doubt, these are the ensembles that everyone wants to be a part of. Once you have
made it in, you are not guaranteed to stay a member unless you take your responsibilities seriously.
While auditions will be held annually in the spring, you are being evaluated throughout the year on
your contribution to your current ensemble and on your character. Your character presents a larger
view of how you will develop as a player and person.
There are times when some students may not be placed in these ensembles due to overinstrumentation. Jazz Band members are selected by the director from Symphonic Band members. If
there are scheduling conflicts that prohibit participation from these members, auditions will be opened
to Concert Band members.
Concert Band
Generally speaking, students placed in this ensemble require more time to reinforce the fundamentals of
musicianship. The performance schedule for this group is less vigorous in order to provide time to
build a solid musical foundation.
Practice Time
Our ensemble members will be focusing on tone quality, intonation, clarity of articulation, dynamic contrast,
instrument timbre, performance style, and many other characteristics of an advanced musician. In order to
truly achieve this goal, you will need to do your part outside of class by practicing a minimum of 45 minutes
per week, per ensemble.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are strongly recommended, as we will eventually be performing advanced high school and
college level music. Many of the music stores in the area have private instructors. Do not be afraid to ask me
for extra help during the day. The importance of studying privately cannot be stressed enough! You have
all been playing for many years and are all very talented, but in order to take your playing to new levels, you
must seek guidance from professionals.
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Evening Rehearsals
Evening rehearsals are not an option; they are a requirement so plan accordingly. Rehearsals outside of the
scheduled day allow us to focus on ensemble concepts, have dress rehearsals, and bring in guest clinicians and
conductors who will critique us so that we can be sure we are giving a wonderful performance on concert day.
Rehearsals begin at 5:00 pm for Concert Band and 6:30 pm for Symphonic Band once to twice a week for
several weeks before an event so as not to hinder involvement in athletics. Rehearsals and performances
account for 70% of your grade.
When is an Absence Excused?
All authorized absences must be approved in writing and in advance of the event by at least TWO (2) WEEKS.
Please refer to the St. Mary’s County Public School’s Student Handbook for examples of legal excused
absences. Only in emergency situations may notes be submitted after the absence has occurred. In this case,
the director must be notified within five (5) days of the student’s return to school. If notification has not been
received, the absence will automatically become unexcused.
Good communication is the key to assuring that no unfortunate circumstances arise with regard to attendance.
Communicating a potential conflict with any one event is the responsibility of the student. CONTACT MUST
BE MADE WITH THE DIRECTOR PRIOR TO THE EVENT BY A WRITTEN NOTE FROM THE
PARENT. A note will not be accepted after the fact. Dates are made far in advance and students are expected
to make necessary arrangements. The following are examples of excuses that are unacceptable:
“I already know my part, I don’t have to come.”
“I get out of practice at 5:30, I needed to go home and eat.” “I could not get a ride.”
“Sports practice ends at 6:00 and I can’t be two places at once.” “I had driver’s ed.”
Performance Policy
All performances are mandatory. No exceptions will be made for sports, extra-curricular
activities, or doctor’s appointments. If a student is absent and presents a note citing one of the excuses for
absenteeism in the St. Mary’s County Public School’s Handbook, they will be required to complete an
assignment determined by the director.
Grading Policy for Concert, Jazz, and Symphonic Bands
HAC-Process 30%
Classroom Participation
• Students can earn up to 5 points per class toward their participation grade (Present on
time to rehearsal (2), proper materials (1), and
positive participation/rehearsal etiquette).
• Students with an excused absence (illness with medical note, athletic event, etc.)
will receive 3 points for the day.
Class Work
• Class work is comprised of classroom assignments, homework, and daily exercises.
HAC-Product 70% Performances
• Performances are designed to show comprehension/application and can include:
Competitions, Concerts, and Community Events.
Attendance
• Students will receive a daily attendance/participation grade (5 points). Please see
attendance policy for questions regarding excused/unexcused absences.
Any student not maintaining an “A” average may not be permitted to perform in an ensemble at
the discretion of the director.
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Any unexcused absence from a performance may result in a failing grade.
Chair Auditions
Symphonic and Concert Bands
Chair auditions will formally take place twice throughout the year. The first audition material will be
passed out once students return to school. This should give students plenty of time to prepare for
auditions during the first week of October. A second audition will take place for spring concert and
festival music following the winter concert. Symphonic Band chair auditions take place in front of an
audience of your peers. Concert Band musicians give their first audition in front of the director in
October, and the second in front of their peers in December. This is an extra incentive to be prepared.
If you do not prepare, having the mentality that you will just take last chair, you will not be allowed to
perform with the group at the next performance. This will also be held against you for ensemble
placement the following year.
Jazz Band
The director will determine placement on parts, matching student ability with the appropriate pieces.
Challenges
Symphonic and Concert Bands
In order to stimulate a spirit of competition and promote fine musical standards,
the challenge system is available to students every three weeks. Challenges for seats must be
consecutive with the exception of a multiple challenge. Approval must first be granted by the
director. The challenger must notify the director of their intentions no later than one week prior to
the challenge day. Challenge material typically consists of band music, but may be supplemented, or
replaced by music of another kind such as etudes, solos, or scales. The director will make the
decision for each challenge. If the appointment is missed by the student challenged, the position is
forfeited and granted to the student challenging. The director reserves the right for spot
challenges at any point during the year, so know your parts at all times!
Personal Behavior and Responsibilities
In order to properly function in today’s society, you must possess a high degree of discipline and common
sense. Common sense will help you make many critical decisions that even young adults face. If you have a
desire to be a contributing member of our band, then it will also be your responsibility to improve the
discipline of our band. Be sure you have a positive attitude. It is very difficult to remain in the right frame of
mind after many hours of rehearsing, but this is called discipline.
With a complex program such as marching band, the director cannot waste time on discipline problems. The
following rules serve as only a few guidelines that will help our program rum more efficiently:
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Refer to the St. Mary’s County Public School’s Code of Student Conduct
(Handbook)
No gum, ever!
Inappropriate language or references will not be tolerated
Your instrument is your responsibility. Make sure it is in proper playing order and clean before
you arrive.
No running in your uniform
No displays of public affection are permitted
Remember you are representing your band and school at all times
No one is permitted it play someone else’s instrument or guard equipment
Make sure your instrument is stored properly in your assigned locker
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Discipline
The nature of band requires us to be extremely organized. We never have quite enough rehearsal or
performance time and it is difficult for us to progress to our full potential unless everyone is on the same page
as far as expectations and rules.
Occasionally, a student challenges the rules or expectations band members. Insubordination will
not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Professionalism
Always arrive early to every rehearsal. If it is a rehearsal during the school day, be in your seats, ready to go
within two minutes of the bell. Check the board to see what we are rehearsing and begin to warm up your
instrument. Percussionists should use this time to set up for the pieces being rehearsed. Rehearsal time is to be
used to fit your prepared parts with the rest of the ensemble. Let us use our time wisely as a group.
Instrument Lockers
Every student will be assigned a locker where they will be permitted to keep their instrument and accessories.
No books, food, or anything else should be kept in your instrumental locker. It is the responsibility of every
student using a locker to supply their own lock. You may not use instrument storage room until you have
provided a lock. You must supply your own lock by the end of the second week of school. Chopticon High
School, SMCPS, and Mr. Burroughs are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged instruments.
Required Materials
Woodwinds:
1. Four working reeds of professional quality (Vandoren, Mitchell Lurie, etc. with a strength of 3-4).
NO Ricos! Students must keep their reeds in hard plastic case.
2. A tuner AND metronome.
3. Swab for cleaning your instrument.
4. ALL music (provided by director)
5. Pencil.
Brass:
1. Mouthpiece/Mouthpiece Cleaner.
2. A tuner AND metronome.
3. Symphonic Technique for Band by Claude T. Smith.
4. Valve/Slide oil.
5. Cleaning kit
6. ALL music (provided by director).
7. Pencil
Percussion (ALL percussionists are expected to provide his/her own sticks/mallets for the instruments
utilized in class and performances. They will be kept in a stick bag provided by the student.):
1. Snare drum sticks (Vic Firth SD-1).
2. Marimba mallets (Vic Firth M03 Yarn Mallets).
3. Bell mallets.
4. Xylophone mallets (Vic Firth M133 Mallets).
5. Timpani mallets (Vic Firth T1).
6. A tuner AND metronome.
7. Drum key (optional)
8. Tuner or pitch pipe for tympani.
9. ALL music (provided by director).
10. Pencil and Stick/Mallet bag.
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Clarinet:
1. Mouthpiece: Vandoren B45 Traditional Model
2. Ligature: Rovner Dark or Bonade Inverted
Saxophone:
1. Mouthpiece: Selmer Paris S80 C* or Meyer Hard Rubber 5M
2. Ligature: Rovner Dark
Trumpet:
1. Mouthpiece: Bach 3C, Schilke 9, or Yamaha 11 are good places to start. Try a
2. bunch at a music store.
3. Mutes: Tom Crown Aluminum or Copper Straight Mute
French Horn:
1. Mouthpiece: Schilke 30 or Holton-Farkas Medium Cup
Trombone:
2. Mouthpiece: Bach 6 1/2AL or 5G Mouthpiece or Larger (No 12C’s!!)
Tuba:
3. Mouthpiece: UMI Helleberg or Miraphone Rose Orchestra
Concert Attire
Symphonic and Concert Bands
Men will be issued a pair of black tuxedo pants, tuxedo jacket, and bowtie and cummerbund. Students
will supply the following:
 White tuxedo shirt
 Black socks
 Black dress shoes
Women will be issued concert dress. Students will supply the following:
 Black shoes that allow you to walk elegantly across the stage.
Jazz Band
Students will supply the following:
 White dress shirt/tie
 Black dress pants
 Black socks
 Black shoes
Concert Attire General Guidelines
Concert, Jazz, and Symphonic Bands
1. No earrings, nose rings, or any other visible body piercings can be shown while you are in
concert uniform. No jewelry of any kind can be visible.
2. No colored nail polish (clear is ok) while you are in concert dress.
3. No flashy hair-ties, clips, scrunchies, bows, etc. can be worn that will make you look out of
uniform with the rest of the ensemble.
4. Please have hair return to a natural color on concert day. Wear your hair in a style that will
allow you to blend in with your fellow band members, not make you stick out. Please plan
accordingly.
5. Our goal is to look like a uniform group. Keep these things in mind before you attempt to
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challenge the director on any of the above rules. Remember: “Strive to be classy, not class
E.”
6. No eating in concert attire. No defacing of concert attire. No gum chewing in concert attire.
No rowdy, abusive, rude, disruptive, impolite, and all around inappropriate behavior.
Uniforms/Uniform Check-Out
Our Concert/Symphonic Band uniforms are excellent condition and must remain that way.
Each student will be assigned a uniform, uniform bag, and uniform number. Once checked-out,
the student becomes solely responsible for their uniform. It must remain stored in the correctly
numbered uniform bag. Do not cut the tuxedo pants or dresses. They are to be hemmed with a
needle and thread only. The hem will need to be removed when the uniform is returned at the end
of the school year. You are responsible for any damage done to the uniform.
Remember, you are representing your school and every member of the Chopticon High School
Band Program; Past, Present, and Future!
Fees
$55.00 Performance Fee: This fee is payable to Chopticon High School and should be deposited into
account #801. If a student participates in band, chorus, orchestra, or piano lab classes, they are required to pay
one performance fee of $55.00 for each subject area.
$35.00 Uniform Maintenance Fee: This fee is payable to Chopticon High School and should be deposited
into account #801. This fee covers both the marching and symphonic band uniforms (minus socks, gloves,
and shoes). If a student performs in multiple band ensembles, they will not have to pay this fee more than
once. If a student participates in band, chorus, or orchestra, they are required to pay the respective uniform
fee for each group.
Instrument Rentals
St. Mary’s County Public Schools provides the following instruments for student use with a small annual
user’s fee:
$20.00
Piccolo, Oboe
$25.00
Bassoon, Alto Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, French Horn,
Baritone, Trombone, Tuba, Concert Percussion, Marching Band Instruments.
All marching and concert percussionists are required to pay the rental fee.
Students who have not paid the fees by Thursday, August 28 will be placed on the debt list.
Graduation Performance and Rehearsal
Every year the Symphonic and Concert Bands perform for our graduates. Attendance at both graduation
practices and graduation itself are mandatory. These are official performances of the Chopticon High School
Band Program. Arrangements will need to be made with other teachers about missed class work or tests that
are given during graduation practice. There is ample time to make up class work and tests. It is the student’s
responsibility to make these arrangements. If there is a problem, parents or students should contact the
director.
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Band Boosters
Band Boosters meet once a month. Parents will be notified by email with dates and times for each band
booster meeting. Everyone is strongly encouraged to attend. The band boosters exist for the support of all
the bands, not just the marching band. A parent volunteer form has been included.
Fundraising
It is the responsibility of every band member to participate in all fundraisers. Attendance at car washes,
selling pizza, and involvement with other fundraising events is strongly encouraged. As traveling costs,
instrument needs, etc. continue to rise, we need your support more than ever to ensure we continue to offer a
quality musical experience for your child.
Band Contract
In order to be sure that we are all communicating accurately, you are asked to sign and return the contract
after reading the Band Manual. Please read the manual with special attention to: band calendar, rehearsal,
concert, and grading policies.
The contract must be signed and returned to the director no later than Monday, August 26, or the
student will lose their participation grade for every school day it is late. Your signature and return of this
contract is a requirement of the St. Mary’s County Board of Education.
A roster of all students in the band department who wish to be included is printed at the beginning of the year.
If you do not want your information printed, please mark this at the bottom of the contract. It is helpful to
have information in order to arrange transportation and to assist with booster activities, but we respect your
right to privacy. Please do not leave the form blank; it may be necessary for me to contact you throughout the
year.
For the safety of your student, please make sure that you review, sign, and return the medical permission
form attached. If you do not have medical insurance it can be purchased from the school, information
regarding insurance will be handed out in all homerooms.
Band Calendar
Every effort is made to keep parents, students, and staff members updated of all events well in advance. With
this manual, you will receive a calendar listing all events for the Fall Semester. Please make notes of
performance, rehearsal, and due dates. A calendar with Spring Semester dates will be sent to
parent(s)/guardian(s) in late October or early November. I will make every effort to notify
parent(s)/guardian(s) and students of any changes to the calendar at least two weeks in advance. However, as
a high school band program, we are often asked to perform at a moment’s notice. Hopefully, those situations
will be few and far between.
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Chopticon High School
Band Participation Contract
2014-2015
I have read and understand the policies of the Chopticon High School Band Department
as outlined in the Band Manual. This contract is due by Thursday, August 28, 2014
Name of Parent/Guardian (printed)
Parent/Guardian Signature
Parent/Guardian Home Phone
Parent/Guardian Email Address
Name of Student (printed)
Student signature
Student Email Address
Please check one of the following:
. . I want my phone number/email address published in the band roster.
. . I DO NOT want my phone number/email address published in the band roster
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Chopticon High School Band
Photograph & Video/Audio Recording
Release Form
I,
, the parent/ guardian of
Parent’s Name
, hereby give
Student’s Name
permission to the St. Mary’s County Public Schools to photograph or record my
son/daughter while involved in activities authorized by the principal. I understand that
these photographs/videos/recordings may be used for publication in material of local,
state, or national distribution and I, hereby, authorize their release for such purposes.
Signed
Date
Parent Signature
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Chopticon High School Band Boosters Club Parent Volunteer Form
Parent/Guardian Name
Student(s) Name(s)
Ensemble(s)
Phone Number (Home)
(Work/Cell)
(Optional)
Parent Email
Volunteer Opportunities:
Please check any areas in which you would be willing to help.
Phone Tree
Uniforms
Chairperson for Concert Receptions
Hospitality for Reception after/during Concert
Fundraiser Helper
Chaperone
Webmaster
Pit Crew/Trailer Towing
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