Ï㽶ӰÊÓ

About band and the study of music…

The study of music has been proven to enhance the abilities of the human brain.  It provides a unique combination of physical science, physical coordination, math, science, social studies and foreign language.  The study of music exercises both hemispheres of the brain and provides an opportunity for the student to develop creative skills.

The LBC Middle School Band is a vital part of the school and community.  Its members perform at various school, county and state events.  The band’s appearance at such events showcases the musical excellence, discipline, morale and teamwork of LBC students.

Success is not measured by what we start, but rather by what we complete.  This principle is a bedrock for success in life.  By joining a school band, you are not just making a commitment to yourself, but also to an organization of your peers.  The success of the organization is dependent on each member contributing their personal best to the whole.

It’s okay to make a mistake when you’ve tried….

It’s a mistake not to try…

Band is more than just leaning to play an instrument.  It is a serious study of music.  Each student must come to class prepared to write.  There will be written work as well as instrumental work.  Students will learn music theory and history and have written as well as playing tests.  Student’s grades will be a combination of performance tests, written tests, class participation and homework.  Homework will generally be practice on musical assignments.  THIS is where you will learn to play your instrument.  You don’t learn to play your instrument in band class, you learn to play it through home practice.  At school you will learn the “how” to play, at home you will learn to play.  Consider carefully before signing up for band.  Band is a year long course and can not be arbitrarily dropped without extenuating circumstances.

The instrument you acquire for your child must have all accessories needed for playing and a care kit for cleaning and maintenance.  If you deal with a music dealer, they will let you know what you need to get started.  Otherwise, feel to free to contact me for information.  Beginning band students will also need to purchase their individual Band Method book.  “Essential Elements 2000 Book One” is the book used in 6^th grade.  Method books for 7^th & 8^th grade band students are provided by the band program.

Once a student has signed up for band and has been placed on an instrument, he/she is expected to stay on that instrument for at least two years.  Students are not allowed to change instruments between 6^th and 7^th grade.  The only exceptions are when we need an instrument that is not currently being played – i.e. tuba or bassoon.

LBCMS Band Code of Conduct

Follow all Aiken County BOE policies

Dress appropriately when attending a band function

No gum, candy, food, or drink in class, rehearsal, or performance

Be on time to all activities, rehearsals and performances

Show proper respect for instructors, parents, and staff

Show proper respect for band equipment and other materials

No horseplay in band.  One careless moment can result in hundreds of dollars in damage

Participate in all fundraising programs

Keep all personal band equipment in order

Rehearsals and performances are over when:

            All equipment is stored properly (improper storage will be addressed as a discipline problem)

            You are dismissed by the director

Band Equipment

School owned instruments will be assigned to students with the ability necessary for proper performance on these instruments.  At the time of issue, the parents will be asked to sign an instrument use/responsibility form.  There will be a fee of $30.00 for the use of a school owned instrument.  The student and parents (guardians) will be responsible for care and maintenance of the instrument and all its accessories.  The student will be held responsible to pay for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Personal instruments are subject to periodic inspections for performance readiness.  Individuals are expected to have their instrument in complete operating condition at all times.  Clarinet and Saxophone players should have a minimum of three (3) reeds available at all times.  Brass players should always have a supply of valve oil available.  All instrument cases are required to have a name tag.

Attendance

The attendance policy will be applied to each student with equal force.  Absences will be honored in accordance with LBCMS attendance policies.

All after-school rehearsals and performances are required as a part of the grade.  Absences due to severe illness or death in the family will be excused and must be accompanied by a note from the parent(s) within one week of the absence.  Excused absences from performances must be cleared by Mr. Parker as soon as you know of the absence and must be accompanied by a note from the parent(s).  However, the student is still responsible for all work and will be expected to complete an alternative assignment in order to receive credit towards the grade.  All other absences should be unexcused.  However, we understand that "things happen".  Parents are asked to try to schedule any appointments with doctors, dentists, orthodontists, etc. around band activities if possible.  Regardless, please notify Mr. Parker as soon as a conflict presents itself.  All absences will stand as unexcused until Mr. Parker is provided with a written excuse either from the office or the parents. 

Grading Policy

Each student's grade will be determined by the following:

1. participation = 40%
2. Quizzes = 20%
3. Tests = 20%
4. Projects = 20%

Extra-credit will be given for any voluntary musical activity in which the student participates.                  Examples:  concerts, private lessons, jazz band, etc.

Daily Practice

 The rule of thumb is "practice on the days you eat".

Individual practice is the heart of a band program.  Students can not progress if they do not practice.  Each student in the LBCMS band program is expected to practice thirty minutes each day.  We ask parents to encourage their children to practice.  The rewards of playing an instrument increases in direct proportion to the time invested in individual practice.  The key is to set aside a certain time every day for practice.  Make a schedule that insures practice time is an important part of your daily studies.

Concerts

Concerts are required as a part of the band grade and every student is expected to attend the entire concert.  Concert dress is either formal black or jeans and the band shirt, depending on the type of performance.

Awards

To be eligible for an award you must meet the following criteria:

1. Be enrolled in band class at LBCMS.
2. No unexcused absences from a performance.
3. No grade lower than a "B" in band for the entire year.
4. Show a positive attitude towards music and the band program.
5. Meet all requirements set forth above.

Booster Meetings

At the core of every successful band there is a strong and active booster program. Without a dedicated group of parents supporting the band, it would be impossible to accomplish our goals.  The main purpose of any band booster organization is to give the band the support it needs to accomplish those goals.  This support can be given by raising money, chaperoning trips and undertaking and supervising projects.  We do need the time, effort, and support of every parent that has a child in the band program.  Band is going to be an important time in your child’s life, so please volunteer your time and talents to make it a successful time.