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| Symphonic BandCourse Overview 2009-10The following information is meant to provide you with an overview of the course. Please read it carefully and sign the last page. Download this document as a Word file. Outline
Course DescriptionSymphonic Band (Band III/IV) is the most advanced band class at Athens Drive, with membership granted by audition only. It is expected that participants are enrolled in the course for the entire year, that they are serious about music, and that they will practice as needed outside of class in order to perform successfully. The Symphonic Band performs a wide variety of literature, from relatively simple band standards to works programmed by college/university groups. The Symphonic Band rehearses every day for one period (block) and performs several concerts throughout the year including State Festival in March and Graduation in June.MaterialsEach student will be provided music and instructional books. It is the students’ responsibility to provide instruments in good condition and accessories such as reeds, oils and mutes. Members are also expected to purchase concert attire; please see the section entitled “Concert Uniform” later in this letter. Students who have the privilege of playing school-owned instruments are expected to perform regular maintenance (swab, oil) and store/transport these instruments carefully so they will last many years. Students will be charged for unreturned materials and repair/replacement of equipment due to neglect or damage. At the beginning of the school year, students will complete forms releasing the school district from responsibility for securing personal property (individually owned instruments) as well as forms detailing students’ responsibility for securing/maintaining school-owned equipment. Fair Share AssessmentIn order to cover many of the unique expenses necessary to operate a fine Wind Ensemble, each student is required to contribute an $95 “fair share assessment” for the course. Students who are participating in the course for only one semester are required to contribute $50. The assessment covers the cost of a wide variety of music, maintenance and acquisition of larger instruments, guest instructors, and transportation to State Festival and Graduation. Unfortunately, we receive very little funding from WCPSS for these needs.The assessment can be paid in two ways: 1) remit the entire $95 by Friday, Oct. 2; or 2) remit $50 by Oct. 2 and the remainder ($45) by Feb. 5. Checks should be made payable to “ADHS Band Boosters.” You may also email our booster treasurers at treasurer@adhsband.com to authorize the deduction of this expense from your account (applicable to students enrolled in marching band or those working fund-raising events). Grading Rubric/Contract (NEW for 09-10)This year, we will be piloting a new system of grading in our class band ensembles based upon a grading rubric/contract which the students will receive during the first week of each quarter (see sample rubric at end of this letter). Points will be earned for attendance, quality of participation, written assignments, and practice/performance outside of class. The advantage of this system is that students will be better able to understand what is expected of them per grading period. It is hoped that this system will also encourage a bit of “extra-effort” by all.Playing Proficiencies (“Check-ups”)Playing proficiencies (“check-ups”) will be scheduled throughout each semester to monitor progress. The purpose of this check-up will be to assess progress, provide individualized assistance with music, and offer advice concerning musical opportunities. Students will be expected to be prepared; results of check-ups will influence chair placements and future leadership positions.Honors CreditHonors credit is available in the Spring semester for sophomores, juniors and seniors. Students may receive this weighted credit for Wind Ensemble provided that they perform/complete specific assignments. Information about honors credit will be distributed in the latter half of the first semester. Students will sign-up for honors credit through the band office during the first two weeks of the Spring semester. Concert UniformBoys – black shoes, black socks, black dress pants, white tux shirt, black cummerbund and bow tie. For your convenience, a representative from Savvi Formalwear (Crossroads Plaza) will be visiting our school during the next few weeks to measure and provide the tux shirt, cummerbund, and bow tie to interested students (cost is @$30). More information about this service will be provided under separate cover. Girls – you will be measured for a uniform black dress during the first 3 weeks of school. The cost of the dress is @$60 and is due upon receipt of dress (early October). More information about the dress option will be provided under separate cover. You will also need to provide black, closed-toe shoes. Only small jewelry may be worn. Students will be inspected before each concert begins for proper attire. Students who are not dressed appropriately may be denied permission to perform with grade deduction. Final ThoughtsWe are very fortunate to offer this course at Athens Drive. Due to the “team” aspect of this course, as well as the fact that it is considered an “elective,” students who repeatedly break course policy (making it more difficult for others to learn) will be dismissed. Thank you—in advance—for our support and enthusiasm. Wind EnsemblePlease sign and return by Friday, Aug. 28 acknowledging that you have read these course guidelines and will follow the policies contained within to the best of your ability. Students must inform the band office immediately if there is a serious conflict with the schedule and/or if there is a problem procuring the concert attire or fair share assessment. Student signature ____________________ Parent signature ____________________ (For best printing: cut and paste the above section into a word processing program and print from there.) Grading Rubric
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