Murphy High School

Murphy High School

Band Handbook

2007 - 2008 School Year

Doug Estle, Principal

Stan Chapman, Band Director

Darren Smith, Assistant Band Director

Table of Contents

Music Department Philosophy

Band Fees

Membership Requirements

Marching Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band,

Color Guard, Jazz Band, Winter Guard, Winter Percussion

Grading Procedure

Parents Duties

Staff and Chaperone Duties

Summer Band

Marching Band

Behavior Guidelines

Attitude

Contests and Festivals

Instrument Care

Uniform Information

Leadership Team/Band Council Duties

Drum Major, President, Vice-president, Secretary, Sgt. At Arms,

Class Representatives, Band Captain, Field Captain, Brass Captain, Woodwind Captain

Band Awards

Student Account Guidelines

Bus Rules

Murphy Band Agreement

Instrumental Music Department Philosophy

Music education is a primary means by which an educational institution can transmit to students the cultural heritage of society. Music transcends barriers of ethnic background, economic status, language, and even literacy in its power to reach the depths of the human soul. Experiences with music develop a student’s ability to make value judgments, to function logically as well as intuitively, and to utilize one’s innate creativity. Participation in performance organizations encourages initiative and leadership in students, stimulates goal-oriented thought processes, creates an appreciation and respect for the efforts of others, and assist students to develop a sense of responsibility to themselves, the organization, and in a broad sense, society.

We recognize that few high school musicians make music a career. However, the mental discipline and thought processes required in the study of music are applicable in all fields of endeavor.

General Objectives

To develop performing organizations that are a source of pride for the individual, the school, and the community

Band Fees

Band fees help with the day to day operations of the Murphy band program. It is important that all students pay their band fees. Two- thirds of the band fees must be paid in order to receive a band t-shirt. Band fees must be paid in full in order to participate with the Murphy band on any away trips, band banquet, all-state trip and any other activities that are based on the collection of band fees.

Membership Requirements

All students once accepted in the music program shall be required to perform in the Marching band in the fall semester and either the symphonic or concert band in the spring semester. Only members of the band program are eligible for trips. You must be enrolled in the band for the entire academic year to participate on trips and any other band activities or functions.

MARCHING BAND--

The Murphy Marching Band enjoys a reputation for musical excellence aesthetically complemented by vivid visual images and movement reflecting the mood and character of the music. The band has been recognized as one of the top programs in Alabama; to continue this tradition of excellence requires a high degree of dedication, effort, and pride on the part of each person involved. The style of marching the Murphy Band replicates is that of Drum Corp International. The Murphy Band will perform at football games, contests, festivals, parades and other performance opportunities in the area. Membership in the Murphy Band requires that students: 1) attend all rehearsals and performances; 2) pay full band fee; 3) be enrolled in band both semesters, and comply with all rules and regulations for Murphy High Band, Murphy High School and the Mobile County Public School System. There will be after school time required for music pass offs, rehearsals and performances.

CONCERT BAND--

This class will concentrate, on but not be limited to, developing basic playing skills such as tone production, rhythmic proficiency, intonation, and technical ability, as well as preparation and performance of fine concert band literature. This ensemble will perform on several concert programs and in concert festivals. There will be after school time required for music pass offs, rehearsals and performances.

SYMPHONIC BAND--

For advanced instrumentalists. This class will concentrate on the preparation and performance of the finest literature for the modern wind band. While students must already possess a high degree of ability to be selected, the further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble will be paramount to the success of the student and the organization. This ensemble will perform on several concert programs, concert festivals, and other performance opportunities in the area. There will be after school time required for music pass offs, rehearsals and performances.

COLOR GUARD--

Membership in the MHS Color guard is by audition only. Membership is open to both Male and Female students. All students must have a clean citizenship and academic record (Must obtain a 2.0 GPA) The audition will consist of learning flag and movement basic technique as well as a choreographed combination of each. Membership selection is based on performance, attitude, and attendance during all audition sessions. The guard interprets the musicality of the band through dance, drama, and equipment performance. Members of the color guard use equipment such as Flags, Rifles, and Sabres. The student agrees to attend all rehearsals and performances, including summer activities. Students in Color Guard will be enrolled in the appropriate band class period for the entire academic school year. Non-playing members will be required to learn to perform with one of the bands at the end of field season.

JAZZ BAND--

Membership in the MHS Jazz Band is reserved for those students enrolled in the regular band class/program for the entire year. Students must be enrolled in the band class to participate in jazz band.s

Winter Percussion Policies--

Membership is open to both Male and Female students that are members of the Murphy Band.

Membership selection is based on performance, attitude, and attendance during all audition sessions. Members of the winter percussion must be enrolled in the band program the full academic year.

Murphy Winter Percussion is a special opportunity for band members to participate in a musical ensemble like no other. The ensemble offers instruction in basic percussion technique, challenging drill, original music, and many performance opportunities. Throughout the season, roughly November to April, students will gain insights into improving their ensemble through with exciting competition and rehearsals. By the season the student will have improved percussion technique, a better ability in public performance, and gained a sense of pride.

Like with anything worthwhile, this ensemble requires a sincere commitment. A schedule will be handed out at the beginning of the season that gives a rehearsal and competition schedule. All rehearsals/competitions are required. If a student misses a rehearsal or competition then their grade drops by a letter grade. Three unexcused absences over the course of the season will result in a failing grade. Winter Percussion will make up 50% of the student’s total band grade. A list of unexcused absences is as follows. (Students must still notify instruction by phone.)

Car trouble

Students must show up early enough to be set up by rehearsal’s start. If a student is not ready by the beginning of a rehearsal they will be tardy. Three tardies equals an absence. If a student is more fifteen minutes late they are considered absent. Remember that an unexcused absence results in the drop of a letter grade.

It is customary to expect a fee in addition to the regular band fees to cover the additional cost of the winter percussion program. This fee will ensure that Murphy Winter Percussion maximizes it’s musical potential. Fund-raisers will be planned to help students pay this fee if requested.

Members of Winter Percussion are expected to treat equipment with proper care. Students that are not able to adhere to this policy may be removed from winter percussion. It is also everybody’s responsibility to set up and put away equipment. If a member repeatedly disregards this rule they will be removed.

In conclusion, Murphy Winter Percussion is an opportunity to grow as and individual as a musician. The policies outlined above are the key to out success. If the students follow these policies Murphy Winter Percussion Will thrive.

Grading Procedure

Band is a unique course at Murphy High School. It has curricular requirements, just as other academic discipline, but it also has out-of-class time requirements. The strength of the band program is the consolidation of these requirements into one performance based, academic course of study. The level of commitment from each individual student is the driving force behind the organization and is reflected in the level of achievement reached by the individual and the program.

Rehearsals

Band is a learning activity. Rehearsals, whether during or after school, are the means by which students learn, and by their very nature cannot be reproduced or made-up. Therefore it is imperative that students be present unless the absence is absolutely unavoidable. In the event of having to miss a rehearsal, for any reason, the student or parent should call the band room and either speak with the director or leave a detailed message on the answering service. Rehearsals are not optional, and are reflected in the student’s daily grade. Failure to notify the director(s) prior to missing a rehearsal will result in the student not being able to perform with the band at the next performance and a lowering of the daily grade by ten points.

Performances

Performances are viewed as major tests: a performance is a learning experience that cannot be duplicated in a rehearsal hall or practice room; the level of concentration required in a public performance assists each student to develop an insight into their own level of performance; a performance is an important evaluation tool, allowing comparison of a student’s performance in relation to classroom objectives presented and with past performances.

Students will be notified a minimum of two weeks prior to a performance. It the responsibility of the student to make plans to be in attendance at the performance. Absences from performances are only excused in the event of an extreme emergency; serious illness or hospitalization of the student, death in the family, religious holiday, or other reasons deemed excusable by the band director. In the event of an emergency and a student will not be in attendance, the student or parent should call the band room and either speak with the director or leave a detailed message on the answering service. All absences from performance must be approved by the band director in advance. Missed performances must be made up. The director will notify the student as to the number of work hours necessary to make up the missed

performance.

Failure to make up the hours of the missed performance will result in loss of performing privileges.

Failure to attend required performances such as marching festivals, contests, district festival, state festival, winter concert and spring concert will result in the lowering of the final grade by forty (40) points.

Band members are expected to be in the band room (or other designated area), seated or in assigned position, with equipment ready, at the time designated by the director(s).

Arrive early. Leave enough time to get all equipment prepared, be dressed and ready to warm-up or load when so instructed.

Once you are in the band room, keep noise to an absolute minimum. No horseplay.

After any performance, put away all equipment properly.

On concert performances, if your portion of the program is over before the entire concert ends, this does not mean you are dismissed. It is very rude for you to leave before your friends and peers have completed their performance.

Finally, we take our job as a band director very seriously. The band as an organization provides a medium through which students progress academically, musically, and socially. Musicianship, attitude, attendance, punctuality, conduct, and a desire for excellence are and preparation are essential. No other discipline in education requires the high level of achievement from all participants as does musical performance. Through the level of commitment required we hope to better prepare our students for the responsibilities encountered throughout their lives.

Parents

Parents are an important part of the Murphy Band, and have a vital role to play. Without the assistance and cooperation of Band parents, there would be no chance for the level of success we want the band to reach. There are many things parents can do:

Upgrading to a better instrument for your child.

Staff and Chaperones

Everyone on the staff of the Murphy Band has been selected due to the skills and qualities they possess and for the benefit they can bring the band program, and should be considered an extension of the directors. They are to be treated with the highest level of courtesy and respect.

Chaperones are also extensions of the authority of the directors. Without the dedication of our chaperones and other adults that assist with the band, we could not travel or perform in the way we do. These people work hard, and the only payment they receive is our appreciation. Be respectful, polite, cooperative, and remember that the words “Thank You” cost you nothing but are highly valued by the recipient.

If you disagree with something a chaperone asks you to do, you are not to argue with the chaperone. You are to do as you are asked and then inform a director as soon as possible. This policy will be strictly enforced. (In the extremely unlikely event that a chaperone’s instruction would cause you to violate civil law or moral standards, the student should ask to be taken by that chaperone to a director immediately) If a chaperone has to report a student for being uncooperative or for any other reason, that student is subject to removal from the band.

Summer Band Activities

Workouts--Workouts are designed to help prospective students of the Murphy Band to become familiar with school and spirit songs. Workouts also will assist students in learning the materials that are used for the audition process for the Murphy Band. Marching terminology, skills, techniques and procedures are taught in order for rookie camp to move more quickly.

Rookie Camp--This is a series of rehearsals for the new members of the Murphy Band. It will cover playing fundamentals required to be successful in the band program as well as other important aspects. There will be a one-hour lunch break daily at 12:00 noon. The band room will be open during the lunch break. Students may either bring their lunches (there are soft drink machines on campus) or, if you prefer, walk to several fast food outlets near the school. The students will be exposed to all of the playing skills necessary to perform with the Murphy Band during this week of Rookie Camp. Also there will be an audition time at the end of the week for students who have not been part of the Mobile County All-County Honor Band (students who have been members of the Honor Band are automatically part of the Murphy Band.)

Band Camp--The band camp will be a week long camp starting at 8:00 AM to 12 noon and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights. The following week there will be another set of night rehearsals on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM. Students not attending Band Camp will not have a place in the show.

BAND ROOM RULES

No eating or drinking in the band room. No chewing gum or eating candy in the band room. The band room should be kept clean. Students eating in the band room will clean the band for an hour. Only band members or those that have classes in the band room are permitted in the band room. Other students are not allowed in the band room.

Marching Band

The Murphy Marching Band follows a regular rehearsal schedule; any changes are announced well in advance. This allows students to plan other activities and obligations around the schedule.

Punctuality is a trait that will serve you well in any endeavor. Plan to arrive well in advance of the beginning of rehearsal...don't try to squeak in at the last second. The Murphy Band has a

limited amount of rehearsal time when compared to other groups against which we compete. It is essential that we make efficient use of the rehearsal time we have. This can only happen when every band member is present and working to improve. The band member that misses rehearsal cannot improve, and the other band members around them have a less effective rehearsal due to the absence. We all depend on each other to "carry our fair share of the load" in order for us to achieve the level of proficiency for which the Murphy band has become noted.

Rehearsals are never canceled due to inclement weather. We will not usually rehearse outdoors in the rain, unless it is just a drizzle or intermittent light rain. In the event of steady rain, we will rehearse indoors and go out at the first opportunity. Students should dress for the weather. Not having the proper attire is not a satisfactory reason for having a poor rehearsal. Students should wear comfortable shoes (preferably low-topped tennis shoes) and socks for rehearsals. This is important in that the style of marching step we use requires that the foot and ankle be permitted to move freely. Flip flops, sandals, and bare feet are not acceptable for marching. Caps and sun block are recommended. Water will be provided but you may bring water, etc. for breaks. Horseplay, throwing ice or water, and other such activities will not be permitted.

Each member is expected to have all necessary equipment, in working order, along with all music and coordinate sheets at all rehearsals. Students are expected to have a flip folder with their name on it in which to keep music and coordinate sheets.

Absences from band rehearsals or performance are unexcused unless due to (a) personal illness, (b) death in the family (c) an emergency, or (d) special permission of the Director obtained in advance by the parent or guardian. Students must exhibit consistent responsibility in these areas. Excessive absences for any reason may result in being removed from performance status.

Behavior Guidelines

1. All band members are expected to follow the instructions of any teacher, staff member or chaperone without question unless said instruction is a violation of civil law or moral standards.

All school rules and policies are in effect at all band functions.

2. Any band member possessing or using any controlled substances, which include tobacco and alcohol, before or during any band function is subject to immediate removal from the organization, referral to school authorities, and if applicable, the appropriate law enforcement agency.

3. Band members will not play on or play with the equipment of other. This practice can lead to potential damage and a general lack of respect for the property of others. If you see someone picking up an instrument or equipment that is not theirs, remind them.

4. Destructive activity will not be tolerated, whether it be something as seemingly innocent as playing on a wall, locker, or door with drumsticks, or bumping things with horns or equipment, or something overt as deliberately damaging equipment, throwing objects, writing on walls or leaving trash around. An organization with class, mature members, and pride will not permit acts such as this. It is the responsibility of everyone to see that these types of things do not occur. If you see it, stop it. If they refuse to stop, notify a director, staff member, or chaperone immediately.

5. Band members should not remove, play with, hide, or take all or part of the uniform of others. The uniform is obviously an essential part of the performance. If you have problem with your uniform, don’t take someone else’s. See the uniform people for assistance. Take care of your own uniform.

6. All students travel to any off-campus activity on the bus. If you wish to ride home from an event with your parents, you must be signed out by them, in person, at the conclusion of the event, and you will be removed from the bus roster. Students will be released only to parents or guardians. Only directors may release students, not chaperones or staff. Please be aware of this policy --it is for your protection as well as ours.

7. Band members are expected to use good judgment and show respect for others in displaying affection. An impassioned embrace or more ardent demonstration of feeling is best kept for private moments. Band trips and activities are not “carte blanc” make out opportunities. Keep your raging hormones in check and don’t embarrass your friends or cheapen your relationship by taking things beyond the limit of common decency.

8. Any time there is a critical incident involving our people, our people and other band members, our people and “civilians”, or any incident involving police or other authorities, the directors are to be notified immediately.

9. Any injury that occurs during a band function should be reported to the director without delay.

10. At any band contest, festival, trip, or other function, band members should move from place to place in a group. Do not go off by yourself, especially after dark. To leave the site, you must have permission from the director(s).

11. Food and drink are not allowed in the stands at football games. You will be given a snack during the third quarter break. When you re-enter the band section, get rid of your food and drinks without being told. Leave no trash behind in the third quarter break area.

12. Students remain in their own row when in the stadium. It is important to present the image of discipline and pride at all times.

13. The band plays only as a group, except when the percussion section plays in support of the cheerleaders. There should be no individual, indiscriminate playing.

14. Band members only in the Band section of the stadium.

15. When the Murphy Band “falls in/stand ready “ to march to or from any location, there is to be absolutely no talking. When we march in formation, we are observed by the public and by other bands, and our tradition of success demands that you exhibit the highest level of personal and ensemble discipline at all times. You are “performing” whenever you are in public, whether you are getting off the bus, marching into a stadium, or on break. Do not embarrass yourself and your friends by acting in an immature manner.

16. Following any football game, festival or competition, it is your responsibility to insure that all your equipment is put away correctly. Non-band personnel should wait outside the band room to help limit confusion and expedite dismissal.

Tardiness

Tardiness can be defined as arriving late to a specific time established by the band director or an appointed band council member. Members of the band are considered tardy when arriving late to:

1. Rehearsals (during school. Out of school)

2. Breaks (water, 3^rd quarter)

3. Performances

4. Uniform Call

Failure to arrive promptly has consequences. For every minutes the band member is late, two minutes of standing at attention will be given as an outcome. The field captain will observe this penalty, at a given time, usually at the end of the rehearsal or performance.

Attitude

Those who have a positive attitude, regardless of their individual skills, will always have a place in the Murphy Band. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive, if you are not doing your personal best to make the group successful, you should not be a part of this band. In facet, students who do not project an attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to change their personal perspective or else leave the organization. Those who have pride in themselves will generally project a positive attitude.

Characteristics of a positive attitude include a generally cheerful outlook toward rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and maintenance of equipment and facilities, and an eagerness to do what is necessary to be successful. In short, the ideal band member is someone who is always willing to give their best for the good of the organization.

Contests and Festivals

Contests, festivals, and other adjudicated activities are important features of the Murphy Band program. Through these activities we obtain valuable feedback about our progress as individuals and as a program. Although we never “live or die” by any one judge’s or any panel’s opinion of our performance, it is important that we learn the value of giving maximum effort and standing by the results as our best possible effort that day.

Competitive performances are packed with emotion. Because of the time, work and discipline required to produce award-winning performances, we develop great camaraderie within the organization. We share hardship, discomfort, tedium, fatigue, oppressive heat, chilling cold, long bus rides, disappointment, tears, success and joy. Along these emotions go high levels of tension, which often causes students to react immaturely. We learn to avoid these normal pitfalls and channel our energy and attention toward the goal of performance excellence and the ultimate

success that will follow.

The band’s image is based on each individual. Our public reputation is based on our appearance, our actions, and our projection of pride and organization. It is the responsibility of each member to insure that we present the best possible image at all times.

Instrument Care

Individual instruments must always be maintained in top playing condition. Always show the director (s) your instrument before taking it for repairs.

Woodwind players should have a minimum of four (4) working reeds at all times.

Remember that horseplay can cause damage to instruments and equipment. Be careful with your own instrument, place it out of harm’s way if it is necessary for you to put it down, and never play around with or play on anyone else’s instrument.

Uniform Information

When you are in uniform, you are no longer just an individual, but a representative of our Band, School and Community.

Your uniform is to be complete at all times when in public: you will receive detailed guidelines regarding the proper manner to wear the uniform, with which you will be expected to conform. The only headgear worn with the uniform is that provided by the Band. Baseball caps, bandannas, sweat bands, do rags, etc. will not be tolerated.

Uniforms are to be transported in a uniform bag...ALWAYS. Shoes should not be placed in the bag with the uniform. Shoes should be placed in the shoe bag provided with the shoes. Any lost, damaged, or destroyed articles of the uniform must be paid for by the student.

All band members must have black marching shoes and black socks for performance. Shoes can be ordered through the band. Shoes will be clean for each performance.

The way you wear your uniform reflects the pride you have in your band. Our uniform, when worn properly, projects and image of pride and dignity. It is everyone’s responsibility to see that all members respect and care for the uniform and that the uniform is worn properly at all times.

Leadership Team/Band Council

Drum Major

Drum Major tryouts will occur every year and are open to upcoming sophomores, juniors and seniors. The tryouts will consist of marching skills, voice commands, interview, speech, conducting, all scales and arpeggios, sight-reading, and any other requirements deemed appropriate by the director(s).

Band Council

The positions of band council are as follows: Non-Elected Positions: Drum Major, Band Captain, Brass Captain, Woodwind Captain, Percussion Captain, Guard Captain. Elected Positions: Band President, Vice-president, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, Class Representatives. Appointed positions are Inspirational Leader, PRC, and Parliamentarian.

Job Descriptions

Drum Major- Able to run the rehearsals successfully and makes sure that all materials are properly prepared for each rehearsal. Oversees all discipline. Drum Major should be the voice between the band director(s) and student, so that the voices of both halves are appropriately represented.

Band Captain- Ensures discipline within the band and takes care of any necessary concerns of the drum major and band director(s). Band Captain should also call meetings of all appointed band council to ensure that all discipline issues are taken care of.

Woodwind/Brasswind Captains- Ensure that the section leaders are using correct protocol during rehearsal and performances, and to ensure that all section leaders are following through with the demands of the field and band captain. It is the job of these individuals to ensure that all field and stand music has been properly passed off.

Section Leader- Ensure discipline within the section assigned and to make sure that it is being enforced, and also to be able to rehearse the music in sectionals and be prepared to teach marching fundamentals to those who do not exhibit the correct protocol or to those who do not know. The section leader only has power to discipline those in his/her section and should report lack of discipline from other section to the corresponding captain. Section Leader should make sure each student knows all appropriate information and follows through.

Squad Leaders- Assume the assignment of the section leader in their absence and to ensure that discipline is being enforced within the section also. The squad leader has the authority to discipline those in the assigned section and to also teach marching fundamentals to those who do not exhibit the correct style or mechanics or to those that do not know.

It is an obligation of the leadership team to keep directors and staff informed about any situation which might hinder the progress of the Band program. Members of the leadership team never ask a member of their section to do anything they are not prepared to do. You should be the first at rehearsal, the first on the field, the first to have music memorized... in short, you should be first at everything.

Members will not be allowed to apply for appointed position in the band council for anything other than guard-related positions unless they are members of the symphonic band at the time of application.

Leaders must set the right example every day. Immaturity will often encourage us not to push ourselves to achieve our personal best until the week of a major performance. Unfortunately, that is too late. Success is built a piece at a time, every day. Lead your sections this way.

Students who wish to have leadership roles should act and set their goals accordingly. Remember, directors and staff are watching for future Murphy Band leaders throughout the year.

Band Awards

Each student that participates in the full band program at Murphy High School, including Marching and Concert activities, will receive a band award at the annual Band Banquet. Band letters are given when the following requirements have been met: (1) Audition for two honor bands, (2) Perform two (2) hours of band service. Those students meeting the requirements for a band letter will receive a band letter. Each subsequent year they receive a panther paw signifying another year’s service and letter requirement. An unexcused absence from rehearsal or performance will automatically disqualify the student for band awards.

Band awards will be awarded at the band banquet. Students that have paid their band fees in full may attend the band banquet free of charge. Parents and guests of the students will be charged accordingly.

Individual Opportunities

All-State Band, All-State Jazz Band, All-District Honor Band, All-County Honor Band, Solo and Ensemble, and other Honor Band activities provide students with the opportunity to excel individually on their instrument and to receive recognition for their musical achievements.

There are always outstanding musicians in the Murphy Band, and we strongly encourage widespread participation in these activities. Often, colleges and universities use membership in these organizations as partial criteria for music scholarship consideration. Other “Honor Band” activities may be available to Murphy Band students through the year, either based on audition or application. Students will be notified of these opportunities.

All-State Honor Band

Students that audition and are selected to be a part of the all-state honor band will have their trip to all-state paid for by the band booster organization. The booster organization will pay for transportation to and from the all-state site, as well as registration fees and hotel costs.

Solo & Ensemble

Solo and Ensemble Festival, held in April, also give students an opportunity to excel individually or in small instrumental groups. Students may select their own music (with Director approval) or Directors will assist in the selection. There is an entry fee for each participant.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are the key to developing an outstanding musical organization. Students who study their instruments privately with a professional show rapid improvement in individual musicianship. As these students improve, their excitement towards practicing increases, they continue to improve and they become a stronger contributor to the overall success of the band.

Private instruction has a great impact on the individual student and on our band program both this year and in the future. Directors will assist you, if needed, in selecting a private instructor. The key to satisfactory results from private instruction is to start as soon as possible... SO START NOW.

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