Band+Handbook

=JAHHS Band Handbook=

Updated for 2014-2015

__FORWARD__ CONGRATULATIONS on your decision to be part of the fine tradition of the John A. Holmes High School Band! This booklet is designed as a guide for both parents and students to give specific details concerning all aspects of the band program. For any further information, please feel free to call the JAHHS High School Bandhall at 252-482-8426 ext. 234.

__ATTENDANCE EXPECTATIONS__ Each band student is important to the success of our many activities. We expect 100% attendance at these rehearsals and performances. If a family emergency occurs unexpectedly, PARENTS, please call the JAHHS bandhall at 252-482-8426 ext. 234 or Mr. Shaw’s Cell Phone at 252-209-7905.

Occasionally, there may be family commitments (weddings, graduations, etc.); in which case, we will try to be flexible and work with you on an individual basis. This must be approved in writing in detail well in advance (at LEAST two weeks). Student job commitments are NOT reasons for an excused absence from band performances or rehearsals! Many band students work and participate successfully in band. We suggest that these students take a copy of the Band Calendar to his/her employer and clear all band performances and rehearsals. Ninety-nine percent of employers are very understanding and are flexible if they know of band commitments well in advance, and they understand that band performances are a required and vital part of the course work (We are glad to talk to employers to validate student commitment.). If a band student has an unexcused absence from a rehearsal, they are subject to their grade being lowered and a parent conference. An unexcused absence from a performance may result in the student losing their marching spot, and a lowered grade for the Nine Weeks.

__REHEARSAL EXPECTATIONS__ In band rehearsals, we not only deal with a creative process, but with a great deal more students at one time than do other classroom teachers. Because of this, it is imperative that band students be organized and prepared for every rehearsal. When an individual is not able to play his/her musical instrument during a rehearsal, it hurts the GROUP as well as the individual. It is important that the student’s musical instrument is in good working condition, that (s)he has a pencil to mark their music, and that (s)he has important accessories such as mutes, reeds, and valve oil for EVERY rehearsal. It is also obvious that the creative process in which we are involved cannot take place unless there is a quiet, attentive atmosphere in the classroom. Students who do not live up to the high rehearsal expectations of the John A. Holmes High School Band will be counseled, and, if necessary subject to school/band discipline consequences.

__GRADING__ Grading in band is based upon participation and playing evaluations. Grades for band students are usually higher than the norm which is understandable, since we have the “cream-of-the-crop” of the student body in the band program. Students belong to our program because they “want to,” not because they “have to!” Band students receive a grade for each performance attended…. i.e., concerts, competitions, etc. Students will receive additional grades based on daily participation, sectionals, playing & written tests, etc. Students must have equipment in good working order and be present at all required rehearsals and performances for their participation grade. If these expectations are not met, the participation grade will be affected.

REQUIRED MATERIALS As in any class, having the necessary materials is essential for class participation. The following materials will be needed EVERY DAY. Instrument (in good playing order) Reeds, valve oil, sticks, mallets, neckstraps, mutes etc. (if applicable) Pencil (no pens allowed as we are all human and prone to error) Music Coordinate Sheets w/Lanyard (for marching band) Failure to have these necessary materials will result in the student receiving a lowered daily participation grade and the student being given an alternate classroom assignment. Proper marching shoes (For marching band only); No sandals, boots, heeled shoes on the marching field.

USE OF BANDHALL FACILITIES Students are welcomed to use the bandhall for practice before and after school. Sometimes, however, the number of available places is limited, since jazz combo, sectionals, and private lessons take place after school. Due to the many thousands of dollars worth of musical instruments that are in the band room, we do ask that ONLY band students come into the bandhall after school. Students must ask their friends who are not in the band to wait for them either in the school hallway or outside. The Bandhall is a “safe haven.” We stress to all band students to be responsible and keep their equipment in their cubbies at all times. Many times “clean-up” duty is assigned to those “untidy” housekeepers to help develop orderly skills.

SCHOOL INSTRUMENTS The JAHHS Band provides school musical instruments in the double reed and low woodwind section and selected low brass and percussion. These instruments are quite costly (example: concert Tuba - $7,000) and are not normally owned by individuals. Any damage or normal adjustment during the year is the responsibility of the band student who has signed for the instrument. We expect the instrument to be returned in the same condition as when issued. Dings, dents, and other damage will be repaired at the student’s expense. If the instrument is stolen while checked out to a student, it is the student’s responsibility to replace the instrument. Many parents carry an insurance rider to cover a checked-out school musical instrument.

BAND UNIFORMS It is a privilege to wear the John A. Holmes High School Band uniform. Make sure you have all parts of the uniform at each performance. KEEP YOUR UNIFORM CLEAN AND PRESSED! This uniform is a symbol of pride and will be worn accordingly. You must wear all of the uniform or none of the uniform! Most students choose to wear lightweight shorts and the band shirt (required) under their uniform, giving them the option to remove it at appropriate times. If a band member is seen wearing the uniform incorrectly at any time, the uniform will be asked of that student! Band uniforms are not to be worn at eating establishments, after games or performances, or to social functions. Eating and drinking soft drinks should be done before you put on or after you remove your uniform. Here are some do’s and don’ts that will help you and your uniform look great at all times:

DO: remember your band shirt, black socks, and black marching shoes each time you will be wearing your uniform.

DO NOT: remove any material from the uniform if alterations are necessary.

DO: take extra time and care when hanging up your uniform. Pants hang folded on the crease, not the seat.

DO NOT: attempt to wash and/or dry your uniform at home. They must be dry-cleaned by a professional.

UNIFORM ACCESSORIES The JAHHS Band uniform and all the major accessories (hat, sash) are provided by JAHHS. Band students will need to provide:


 * A pair of black Style Plus Band Shoes. (Tennis shoes or dress shoes are not acceptable.)
 * Black band gloves
 * A pair of tall, black socks, not ankle socks
 * A Band T-shirt to be worn under the marching jacket.
 * NO sleeveless or muscle shirts will be allowed
 * Shoe fitting and cost information will be provided during first few weeks of school. Shoes will be ordered in bulk to insure low cost and uniformity of style.

BAND SHIRT All band students are required to purchase a JAHHS Band Shirt at the beginning of the semester. These shirts are worn at pep rallies, trip activities, and at other performances where less formal attire is appropriate.

Student conduct on school-related trips: Self-discipline is the key element for a pleasant experience for both the sponsor and the student when the student is on a school-related trip. Students who are involved in a serious disciplinary offense on a school-related trip, such as the use, possession of, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol, stealing, fighting, going in the room of a member of the opposite sex, or some other serious offense will face disciplinary action which may include one or more of the following:

1. The student will be sent home from the trip at the parents’ expense. 2. The student will be held liable for damages to property. 3. The student may be removed from this school activity as well as other school co-curricular activities. 4. The student may be placed in In-School-Suspension (ISS) or Out-of-School-Suspension (OSS).

Students’ attire during school activities outside the school day should be in good taste. If there is any question of taste, the director’s decision is final. All adults on trips serve as sponsors/chaperones. Students will be expected to treat them with respect at all times. In the event a parent chaperone gives needed supervision, band students must honor that with utmost respect.

GENERAL – Even though you will not always have a band shirt on, people will find out where you are from. You have the opportunity to make a tremendous name for Edenton and for yourself. Be courteous and polite at all times. There is no way we can anticipate every possible scenario, so we ask for good judgment. Please remember three things: (1) Who you are, (2) Where you are, and (3) Whom you represent. Please use common sense. RULE OF THUMB: If there is any question in your mind as to whether you should do something or not…DON’T DO IT! It is better to be safe than sorry.

GETTING INFORMATION There are several ways for parents and students to find information, get updates, see the schedule, etc. for the JAHHS Band.


 * To receive updates from the band's cel.ly account (@jahhsband) on your cell phone, text this message ---> @jahhsband --- to the number 23559. Create a username that Mr. Shaw will recognize if you text him through cel.ly. If your texts normally include a signature, do not include your signature with this message.
 * The band’s website is located at http://jahhsband.wikispaces.com . There are links there to other sites, such as a Google Calendar for the band's events.
 * The band’s podcast site is at http://jahhsband.podomatic.com
 * There is also a jazz related site at https://sites.google.com/site/dshaw719/jam-session-page

These sites will be updated often to include information about schedules, performances, rehearsals, fundraising, and any other information about the band