Loogootee Bands 2020 2021 https www loogootee k

Loogootee Bands 2020 -2021 https: //www. loogootee. k 12. in. us/

Band Director Contact Information: Band Director: Mrs. Amy Hamm Loogootee Community Schools 201 Brooks Ave Loogootee, IN 47553 812 -295 -3254 ext. 461 Email: [email protected] k 12. in. us Cell: 812 -674 -1695 Information will also be posted to your respective Band Google Classrooms. Remind will be used to “remind” you of upcoming events or other important items.

Seniors 2020! Shealyn Arthur, Austin Brittain, Maria Chestnut, Samantha Cook, Zane Cropp, Karissa Hunt, Macy Mc. Atee, Matthew Poole, Jase Riley, Ryleigh Wessel, Conner Wilcoxen STOP! COLLABORATE AND LISTEN! These are your student leaders in the band. They know all the inner workings of the band. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions! If they say something, then listen to them. This is how we grow as a group.

Shared mission, shared goals The Loogootee Band Department represents an important part of the educational AND social experience at Loogootee Community Schools. The Band Department is one of the most visible parts of the total school program. It’s appearances at concerts, festivals, athletic events, parades, and other community functions as they arise make it essential that an image of a well-trained and disciplined organization be conveyed at all times. The program is designed to promote musicianship, pride, discipline, time management, tradition, loyalty, and a sense of accomplishment. In order to achieve these objectives, sacrifices on the part of every individual are essential. Only through the hard work and dedication of every individual can the organization achieve its objective.

Our Philosophy It gives the student a chance to explore an emotional means of communication and discover how to express his/her own feelings in a positive and appropriate manner. We study music because it is a unique form of knowledge and communication. Performance is the primary means of learning in the band program. Through performance, a student achieves musical independence through the development of technical ability, listening skills, ensemble skills, and theoretical knowledge.

Philosophy Continued Participation in the concert band is the primary vehicle for this musical development. Marching band, jazz band, pep band, ensembles, and solos enrich the overall musical experience for the students. In such a program, students are exposed to a wide variety of the finest in musical literature, and therefore learn to appreciate the value of music. Besides achieving true musicianship, students gain an understanding of their musical heritage and develop their creative abilities. Each activity in the band program contributes to a well-rounded musical education and helps students experience the joy and satisfaction of music making.

EVERY STUDENT IS IMPORTANT TO THE QUALITY OF OUR PERFORMANCES!!!!! Attendance: In order for us to have a quality music program, everyone must attend all rehearsals and performances in which they are participants. Participating in a musical organization is similar to being on a team in the sense that everyone has to do their assigned job for the band to sound good. If one person is absent from a rehearsal or performance, the overall sound changes and it affects the whole band.

Attendance Policy: Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory. This is part of your band grade. Performances can include parades, festivals, concerts, athletic performances, band days, competitions, and graduation. Events occur throughout the year that cannot be added until the date is available. The director may add performances that are not reflected in the school calendar due to a particular organization’s schedule. If changes are made, then you will be notified immediately.

Absences Any absence MUST be reported directly to the band director via Remind message, or by phone call to my office or cell. Excused absences include: personal illness or death in the immediate family. A message from parent must be received within 3 days following the performance or it will be unexcused and you will receive 0 points for that performance. Work will never qualify as an excused absence for any performance or rehearsal. Make sure to pay attention to the schedule.

Important Information for Absences If a student has a conflict with a concert or rehearsal that does not fall under the above excused absences, the director reserves the right to handle each individual case based on the best interest of students and educational purpose. Some events will require a project in order to earn points for performance missed. It depends on reason for absence. Being in a small school with a small band, every student is essential to the success of our band sound. It is the responsibility of the parent and student to communicate with the director in such instances at least 2 weeks prior to the conflict.

Grading Policy Grades will be based upon playing tests and quizzes, written tests and quizzes, work ethic, attendance to performances and daily classroom preparation. On the event of an E-Learning Day, look at the school website for information regarding your E-Learning assignment for your band class. Failure to complete assignment will result in a ZERO. Grading Scale: The standard grading scale is included in the student handbook. Each band uses the A-F grading scale, except Sixth Grade Band which is Credit or No Credit.

Grades Continued: Let’s Break It Down Performances: 50% of your grade Playing and written tests/quizzes: 35% of your grade Daily participation/effort: 15% of your grade (10 pts/day) *In the event we go completely online, these percentages may change. We may still be able to do a type of performance either as a whole ensemble or in smaller ensembles. We will be practicing this in the very beginning. I want your online band experience to be more interactive and enjoyable than it was last year.

Performances All performances are required. Each song is worth 100 points. This value is due to the performance being the test after weeks of working on the material for the performance. Students will lose points for the following: Late - 50 points Talking during performance - 50 points Not in proper concert attire - 100 points No music, instrument, reed, percussion equipment - 25 points for each one

Performances Continued If there is a conflict with a performance, then parent/student must notify the director at least 2 weeks prior to the performance. It is at the discretion of the director to determine if the reason is acceptable. If it is excused, then a project will be required to be turned in BEFORE the missed performance. The director will provide provisions of the assignment/project. In the event of illness or family emergency, it is up to the parent to contact the director immediately. Additionally a note must be turned within 2 weeks concerning the illness or emergency. A project will be given in order to make up points for missing performance as well.

Performances Continued In addition to the project required for a missed performance, the student will also be required to play the performance pieces for the director in order to receive credit. Failure to complete these requirements will result in a “zero” for the performance, even if proper notification was received. Concerts are a unique experience that cannot be replicated. You must take responsibility to know your schedule and communicate any conflicts with the director.

Playing Quizzes and Test Information Students will have some playing tests which will recorded through their chromebook. These will be submitted through your Google Classroom. It is up to the student to make arrangements with director to record in the bandroom. I will also do playing tests during class in groups. Students will have a deadline to submit all tests. All playing tests are worth 100 points due by 7: 00 p. m. (not midnight) of date due! If you miss the deadline, it is an automatic 0. Tests must be done on time!! If the student has a major emergency and is unable to get the test done, then the director must be notified immediately. It is up to the director to decide what is an emergency.

Playing Quizzes and Tests Continued Students can record over until they are happy with their recording before submitting their performance. This allows for students to achieve their highest grade based on the quality of the work they put into it and preparation for each test. These tests are used as a method of personal evaluation.

Participation/Effort Grade Classroom participation includes participation in classroom discussion and performance. This includes: a. Cooperative, teachable attitude b. Instruments and percussion mallets in working condition. c. Reeds, mouthpieces, straps, mutes, and other accessories. d. Music or assigned materials. e. A sharpened pencil.

Deductions from Participation/Effort Excessive talking-5 points Gum – 5 points Drink in class- 5 points No instrument -10 points Music or book not in class-10 points No pencil -5 points Late to seat – 2 points No reed – 10 points

Chair Placement in your section will be based on playing ability. All bands will have chair tests on the 3 rd week of each semester. If you are absent, you must play the day you come back. After spots are set, students will move chairs based on their playing tests each week. If you want your chair, you will continue to work hard and turn in your playing tests on time. Chairs will be set after the 1 st nine weeks. We will do the same thing 2 nd semester.

Solo and Ensemble Contest Each year Indiana State School Music Association sponsors solo and ensemble contest at area schools. The contest allows for students to learn and perform a solo and/or ensemble for professional judges. Students are adjudicated on their performance. There are several group levels depending on the student’s grade and level of playing ability. Students who perform at the most advanced level will go in Group I. In Group I students compete at the district level and state level. They only move on to the state level if they receive a Division I Gold rating at district. Sixth Grade students are only allowed to go if the director recommends it. Cost: Solos are $15, Ensembles are $7 per member Piano Accompaniment: If the student would like a live accompanist rather than a recording, then there will be an additional fee of $30 payable to LHS Activities to help cover the cost of hiring an accompanist.

IBA All-Region Honor Band Students in grade 7 -9 can participate in All-Region Jr. High band. Students must fill out the online application before the deadline. All-Region Jr. High band is made up of students from Southern Indiana held at South Knox. Students are chosen on the basis of their application. Once chosen they can not back out. Students will receive music early and work with the director learning the music. They will attend the weekend and work with the guest conductor for two days. If selected you must attend all rehearsals and the concert on Sunday. Information will be given to students in class. There is a $43. 00 fee to attend. When funds are available the Band Boosters will pay for it.

IBA All-District Honor Band Students in grades 9 -12 can participate in All District band. Students must fill out the online application. All District band is made up of students from Southern Indiana. Students are chosen on the basis of their application. Students will receive music early and work with the director learning the music. They will attend the weekend and work with a guest conductor for two days. If selected you must attend all rehearsals and the concert on Sunday. Information will be given to students in class. There is a $43. 00 fee. When funds are available the boosters will pay for it.

IMEA Honor Bands IMEA JR. HIGH HONOR BAND IMEA Convention will also host an honor band for Jr. High students. This will be handled the same way as the All-Region Honor Band. Information will be given at a later date. Only 7 -9 th grade band students are eligible. IMEA Honor Band, Orchestra, and/or Percussion Ensemble: Students in grades 9 -12 can participate in IMEA group each year. Students will fill out the proper form and audition for these ensembles. Students who make one or more of these groups will perform at the Indiana Music Educators State Convention with students from all over the state of Indiana. They will also have the opportunity to perform under a guest conductor. The convention is located in Ft. Wayne. All information will be given at the appropriate time.

Vincennes University Concert Band Vincennes University allows high school students to participate in their concert band. The concert band meets every Monday from 6 -8 p. m. The concert band is under the direction of Ms. Sharon S. Jackson. Concerts are performed in the Red Skelton Theatre.

Florida 2020 The HS Band plans a trip to Florida to perform at Disney every 4 years as long as money is raised for the charter bus (over $13, 000 each). While this trip has never been required in the past it is highly encouraged. Every student is important to the quality of our performances. The band must audition in order to be chosen to perform in the Florida parks, and we need all students to be able to attend to have the best performance. In the event that too many are unable to go the trip may be cancelled. Follow this link to our website to see our “Orlando Proposal” regarding prices and events.

Expectations and Discipline As with any school organization, all students in the band department are to follow the rules established by the school handbook. All rules apply for classroom and field trips as stated in the handbook. 1. Students should become quiet when the teacher is talking. 2. Students should put all equipment and music away at the end of rehearsal. 3. Students are not allowed to have gum, food, or drinks in class at any time. (Respect the space we have so we can prove we can take care of nicer things) 4. All students should be in their seats with instrument out and getting music ready by 3 minutes after the bell rings or immediately at the end of announcements. Students will be docked 2 points from their participation grade if they are not ready when rehearsal begins. 5. Students will be given a warning for any infractions of the above. If undesirable actions continue, then I will contact parent(s) to discuss the issue. 6. If the behavior continues after parent contact, then student will receive lunch detention, Thursday School or after school detention. If the behavior continues after that students will be removed from class to discuss further options. 7. If the student continues to cause problems that interfere with the learning environment, then they will be removed from class permanently. (With an F for the semester)

Facility Use In order to maintain the facilities and keep them neat, clean, and orderly, the following rules must be followed. This includes practice rooms, uniform room, percussion cabinet, and instrument storage rooms. a. There is to be absolutely no gum. b. Food, drinks, candy, etc. are not allowed in the room. c. Do not leave paper, broken reeds, and trash lying around in the room. I have been known to call students from their next class to pick up their mess. d. Do not keep your wardrobe in your instrument slot. e. After all rehearsals, music stands should be neatly put away according to directors instructions. f. All music folders should be put in the folder storage units.

School Owned Instrument Rentals Students using school owned instruments will pay $150 per year. The rental fee is used to help pay for the repair and maintenance of these instruments. If there is damage done to the instrument or equipment due to negligence, then you are responsible for that expense. These instruments are maintenanced every year so that we can keep them in good working condition for other students to use them for many years to come.

Reeds and Supplies Reeds are available for purchase in the band room. Reed cost depends on what instrument the student plays and the brand of reed. It is posted in the band room office. Each student will have at least 3 good reeds at all times. Students will be asked to pay for their bill at the end of each semester, or it will be taken from their trip account. Valve oil, slide grease, etc is also available for students to purchase. There are no IOU’s for these supplies. Supplies must be paid for at the time of purchase.

Percussion Supplies All percussion students are required to have their own snare drum sticks ($9. 99), marimba mallets ($17. 29), xylophone mallets (hard and soft) ($20. 29), and a stick bag. The band provides all the equipment’s as well as bass drum, bells, and all auxiliary sticks. The band will provide marching equipment sticks. At the beginning of the year, the band director will order equipment for the students who need additional equipment. Parents can contact Paige’s music or Chops percussion at their website (paigesmusic. com or chopspercussion. com). There is a $75 fee for all percussionists. This is to help with the cost of maintenance, repairs, and replacements parts as necessary.

Fundraising Every year there is only one required fundraiser which is the Butter. Braids. The profit from this fundraiser is placed into the ECA fund that helps with purchasing new music throughout the year for concerts, contests and pep band. It helps pay for competition entry fees. We also need to look into purchasing new wind instruments (both brass and woodwind) as well as new percussion instruments and marching equipment. The Loogootee Band Boosters work tirelessly to provide every opportunity possible for students to raise money for the Florida trip. This is a 4 year cycle that starts from the very beginning with a big push the year of the trip. NONE OF THESE FUNDRAISERS ARE REQUIRED. These are only to help reduce the financial burden on our students and their families. We will also be fundraising for NEW BAND UNIFORMS, a $40, 000 expense!

Dress Code for Performances Each band has a particular uniform to wear for certain performances. Uniforms that need to be ordered will be taken care of at the start of school year. Sixth Grade Band T-shirt and khaki pants, shorts, skirt or capris Jr. High Band: Long-sleeved concert black outfit (no jeans), black socks, and black dress shoes (no athletic wear) High School Band: Marching Band uniform is provided Concert Dress: Long-sleeved concert black outfit (no jeans), black socks, and black dress shoes (no athletic wear) HALLOWEEN CONCERT -- Yes, you still have the option to dress up in costume!

Uniform Care for High School Band Please take care of the bag assigned to your for you uniform. Band shoes should be kept in the back pocket of uniform bag NOT inside with uniform. Make sure that you return the uniform bag at the end of each performance Please hang your uniform up properly after being worn to reduce wrinkles. If you are unsure how to hang the pants, then ask an upperclassmen, band booster, parent or band director. After a performance DO NOT place the uniform INSIDE the bag.

List of Fees 6 th grade band: Band T-shirt $10 HS Band: Pep Band shirt $10, Festival of Bands $11, Uniform cleaning $6 Freshmen will also need to purchase the following: Lyre(for marching) $412 depending on the instrument, Marching shoes buy $20 or rent if available $10 Contact band director if there any questions or concerns. *There are other fees for speciality groups such as honor bands and solo and ensemble contest. See those slides for those particular fees.

Emergency Procedures ● Teacher is the first to leave the room. You must follow the teacher. This was new last year, but not enforced. ● Tornado - exit doors to the cafeteria and down the stairs to the bottom of the gym, then head to boys locker room ● Earthquake - move to the high school instrument room and sit prepared to cover your head from falling debris ● Fire - Exit 1 through doors opposite cafeteria and up the stairs to the gym heading outside. Exit 2 through cafeteria doors and out the main entrance gate ● Active Shooter - QUIETLY sit in the dark away from windows and doors. If time allows we will move to the high school instrument room.