2009-2010 freedom high school band handbook

FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOL BAND HANDBOOK -

2012-2013 Freedom High School Band Handbook

WELCOME

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Freedom High School Band Program. This handbook is designed to answer questions you or your

parents may have concerning the band program at Freedom High School. The band includes some of the most talented, hardest-working

student musicians in all of Loudoun County and I am very excited about the 2012-2013 school year. Please review this information carefully,

then sign and return the Band Handbook Acknowledgement Form.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Galway at [email protected] (preferred) or by phone at 703-957-4302. Additionally, check

www.freedombandboosters.org frequently for the latest news, events, and media.

Looking forward to a fantastic year!

INSTRUCTOR

Joel P. Galway, Director of Bands, B.M. in Music Education, Instrumental Emphasis, Magna Cum Laude, West Virginia University.

Additional graduate studies completed at Shenandoah University, University of the Arts, and University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.

BAND ROOM HOURS

The band room is open for practice and extra help from Mr. Galway during the following hours:

Fall (Marching Band Season)

Mondays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

Tuesdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM, 3:48 – 5:00 PM (Activity buses are available at 5:00 PM)

Wednesdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

Thursdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

Fridays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

Winter and Spring

Mondays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

Tuesdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM, 3:48 – 5:00 PM (Activity buses are available at 5:00 PM)

Wednesdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM, 3:48 – 5:00 PM (Activity buses are available at 5:00 PM)

Thursdays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM, 3:48 – 5:00 PM (Activity buses are available at 5:00 PM)

Fridays: 8:15 AM – 8:50 AM

COURSE OVERVIEW

Concert Band (Ensemble 1)

Consists of intermediate level brass and woodwind players

Membership is open to any student who has successfully completed three years of middle school band or by director’s consent

Repertoire includes intermediate level symphonic wind literature

Special emphasis is placed on individual musicianship through solo and small ensemble performance

Wind Symphony (Ensemble 2)

Consists of advanced level brass, woodwind, and percussion players

Membership is by audition or by director’s consent

Repertoire includes advanced level symphonic wind literature


Jazz Ensemble

Consists of advanced level saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass, guitar, and drum set players

Membership is by audition or by director’s consent

Repertoire includes advanced level jazz literature in swing, ballad, Latin, funk, and rock styles

Special emphasis is placed on the development of improvisational skills and performing improvised solos

Members of the Jazz Ensemble may be needed to fill out instrumentation in the Concert Band

Percussion Ensemble (Instrumental Methods)

Consists of intermediate and advanced level percussionists

Membership is open to any student who has successfully completed three years of middle school band or by director’s consent

Equal emphasis is placed on both snare drum and keyboard percussion performance

Members also serve as the percussion sections for the Concert Band and Wind Symphony.

Repertoire includes intermediate to advanced level symphonic wind band, percussion ensemble, and solo literature

http://www.freedombandboosters.org/



*All band classes are co-curricular ensembles and performances and rehearsals outside regular school hours are required and graded

CLASSROOM RULES

Rules

1. Follow directions the first time they are given.

2. Be in the room before the bell rings and be ready to play no more than three minutes after the late bell.

3. Bring your instrument and music to class daily.

4. Exhibit positive rehearsal etiquette at all times.

5. Do not touch or play anything that does not belong to you unless you have permission.

6. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

7. Do not chew gum, eat, or drink anything other than water during rehearsal.

8. All equipment must be properly put away at the end of rehearsal.

Consequences

1. Warning

2. Detention/Parents Contacted

3. Referral to Administration

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES

Dropping off instruments in the morning

The band room will be open at 8:15 AM each morning.

Store your instrument on a shelf in the instrument storage room, not on the floor

If for some reason the band room is not open when you want to drop off your instrument, DO NOT leave it in the hallway. Either wait

for the room to be opened or designate another student to take your instrument to the instrument storage room.

Part Rotation

We will not be using chair placements for the 2012-2013 school year. Instead, we will rotate parts from selection to selection so all

students have the opportunity to perform a variety of parts within the limitations of the students’ range and technical abilities.

Section Leaders

For each section, we will designate one or more Section Leaders whose primary responsibilities include coaching sectional practices

during class and providing assistance to members of their section.

Section Leaders will be selected by Mr. Galway. Section Leaders will be upperclassmen who have displayed strong performance

abilities and good leadership skills throughout their high school band experience.

Before class starts

Upon entering the band room, quickly begin setting up for class.

There is a no-playing policy prior to the start of class. We will play our first notes together as a group.

Class will begin promptly three (3) minutes after the late bell. Any student not seated and ready to play will be considered tardy.

Using the restroom

School policy states that students are not allowed to use the restroom for the first 15 minutes and last 15 minutes of class.

After the 15-minute no-restroom period, wait until there is a break in the action, i.e. in between pieces, to ask to use the restroom. Mr.

Galway will fill out the pass before you can leave the room. You must take the yellow pass with you when you go to the restroom.

Upon returning, hand the pass to Mr. Galway before taking your seat.

Please do not abuse the restroom policy. Being out of the room for an extended period of time and/or using the restroom at the same

time every day will raise suspicion.

Too sick to play

If you are too sick to play, you are probably too sick to be in school and will be sent to the nurse for dismissal.

While the above listed policy may seem harsh, it is amazing how many students are all of a sudden “too sick to play” when a big

homework assignment is due the next class period.

Doing “other” work in band class

Speaking of homework, students are not permitted to do homework, read, use electronic devices, or engage in any other non-musical

activities during band class.

I will make exceptions when your math, English, science, etc. teachers let you practice your band instrument in their classes.

Forgot your instrument

Since you cannot effectively participate in class without your instrument, this is considered a disciplinary infraction and will be handled

accordingly. Once is a warning. Subsequent infractions will result in detention, parents contacted, and/or an administrative referral.

Students without an instrument are expected to sit in their regular seat and participate in rehearsal as best as possible. Doing “other”

work is not allowed.


Forgot your music, reed, sticks…

We have extras students can borrow. Please ask before class begins. Reeds can be provided for a nominal charge ($3-4 depending on the

size) but please do not use us as a reed store. Purchase your reeds at a music store.

If you are borrowing materials daily, this will be considered a disciplinary infraction and will be handled as above.

When class ends

Students will be given three (3) minutes at the end of class to pack up and clean up.

Return your instrument to the storage room, percussion supplies to their proper storage locations, and music to the folder cabinets.

Remain in the band room (not the band room foyer or the hallway) until the bell rings.

Practice rooms

Practice rooms are strictly for practice. Students hanging out but not playing in practice rooms will lose the privilege.

Practice rooms will be kept locked when not in use.

Instrument storage room

Avoid using the instrument storage room as a locker. Store your coat, lunch, books, etc. in your actual locker.

Storing a change of clothing for marching band practice is OK.

Eagles Connect

If you wish to come in to practice during your Eagles Connect period, please visit Mr. Galway in the morning to obtain a pass. Do not

assume you are allowed to come unless you have a pass.

Students coming in during Eagles Connect are required to practice music. Stay in Study Hall if you plan on doing homework for other

classes.

Lunch Periods

Students must eat lunch in the cafeteria and are not allowed to spend lunch periods in the band room or practice rooms.

Before/After School Band Room Usage

See the schedule for band room/extra help availability at the beginning of this document.

If you need to use the band room at times other that what is listed, you must clear it with Mr. Galway in advance. Otherwise, all students

will be asked to leave at closing time.

INSTRUMENTS

Most students will supply their own instrument for classroom use:

Student-owned instruments must be kept in good state of repair. If a repair is needed, it must be taken care of promptly. Please ask for a

loaner instrument from the repair facility. If a loaner is not available, a school-owned instrument may be available so please bring your

mouthpiece, reeds, etc. to class.

Students can store instruments in the Instrument Storage Room during the school day, but leaving instruments at the school overnight is

not recommended. Freedom High School is not responsible for loss or damage to student-owned instruments.

Please make sure your instrument case is clearly marked with your name.

School-owned instruments are available on a first-come, first-served basis:

The rental cost for school instruments is $25 per quarter, $100 per year. The purpose of the rental fee is to cover the cost of maintenance

and repair.

The rental cost is $12.50 per quarter, $50.00 per year for students using a personal instrument for home practice and a school instrument

for in-school rehearsals.

Some students who play extremely large instruments will be issued two instruments at no additional cost: One to be kept at home and

one to be used at school.

An Instrument Loan Agreement form must be filled out upon issuance.

Students using a school-owned will be required to provide their own mouthpiece and supplies.

Percussion instruments:

Percussion instruments are available to students at no charge.

Percussion students are expected to treat all school-owned percussion instruments with extreme care. Students who mistreat school-

owned property will be held financially responsible for repair or replacement.

Percussion students are required to provide concert snare drum sticks and a practice pad.

Fees can be waived in the following circumstances:

Financial hardship. Please contact Mr. Galway for further details.

The student owns his/her own instrument but is placed on a different instrument at the request of the director.

SUPPLIES

In addition to an instrument, students will need to provide a quality mouthpiece, reeds, ligature, and any other supplies necessary for

your instrument.

It is highly recommended that all students upgrade their mouthpiece to a high-quality, advanced-level mouthpiece. Upgrading

the mouthpiece is the easiest way to improve one’s tone quality without having to purchase a new instrument. Sample mouthpieces are


available for the students to try before purchasing. A list of recommended mouthpieces, reeds, and ligatures is available from Mr.

Galway upon request.

Reed players must have 4 working reeds at all times. They should be rotated, i.e. use reed #1 on Monday, reed #2 on Wednesday,

reed #3 on Friday, etc. When not being used, reeds should be stored flat in a reed case or reed guard. If you follow this procedure, your

reeds will last significantly longer.

Brass players (except trombone players) must have valve oil. Valves should be oiled every other day at a minimum. Trombone

players should use a lubricant specifically designed for use on trombone slides. A spray bottle with water will be needed to

‘activate’ the lubricant.

Brass players must have and use a lanolin-based tuning slide grease. Tuning slides should be greased as needed to avoid having

them get stuck.

Percussion players must provide a pair of general drumsticks such as Vic Firth SD1 or Innovative Percussion IP1 and a practice

pad. Specific practice pad recommendations will be made in class during the first week.

Pencil, brought to class daily

We will not be using a method book this year.

Where to Obtain Necessary Supplies:

Contemporary Music Center

14155 Sullyfield Cir Ste J

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 817-1000

www.contemporarymusiccenter.com

Chantilly Music

14511 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 222-8986

www.restonmusic.com

Music & Arts

8029 Sudley Rd

Manassas, VA 20109

(703) 361-0149

www.musicarts.com

Melodee Music

46077 Lake Center Plz

Sterling, VA 20165

(703) 450-4667

www.melodeemusic.com

Online Retailers

www.amazon.com

www.wwbw.com

www.interstatemusic.com

www.steveweissmusic.com (great source for percussion supplies)

MUSIC

All sheet music is the property of Freedom High School. Below are the guidelines for music:

1. Keep your music in your school-issued music folder. Do not keep your music in your case, in a paper folder, or in your backpack.

2. Store your folder in the folder cabinets when not in use.

3. Do not fold, tear, or mutilate music.

4. Use a pencil when marking music.

5. Music should be taken home daily for home practice.

6. Students will be held financially responsible for lost or damaged music. Replacements for lost or damaged music costs $2.00 - $5.00

each depending on the selection.

CONCERT ATTIRE

Concert Band and Concert Percussion

Ensemble (Student-Provided)

Wind Symphony and Symphonic

Percussion Ensemble (Mostly School-

Provided)

Jazz Ensemble (Student-Provided)

Ladies:

White button-down blouse

Black dress pants or skirt. Skirt length

must be below the knee

Black dress flats or pumps

Men:

White long-sleeved button-down dress

shirt

Black dress slacks

Black dress shoes with black socks

Ladies:

Black concert gown (school-provided)


Men:

Black tuxedo (school-provided)

White pleated tuxedo shirt with wing

collar


Ladies:

Black button-down blouse

Black dress pants or skirt. Skirt length

must be below the knee


Men:

Black long-sleeved button-down dress

shirt

Black dress slacks


School-Owned Concert Attire Guidelines:

1. School-owned concert attire may be altered without cutting any part of the garments.

2. Always store the garments on a hanger. This will eliminate the need for constant pressing.

3. Concert attire must be pressed prior to each performance. To avoid constant pressing, see #2.

4. It is the students’ responsibility to keep school-owned concert attire clean. Tuxedos must be dry cleaned; dresses should be washed

according to the directions on the label.

5. Before turning in school-owned garments, all alterations must be undone and the garments must be clean.

6. Loss, damage, or failing to dry-clean school-owned concert attire will be the financial responsibility of the student.

GRADING

60% Assessments: Assessments will be used to assess mastery of a wide variety of musical skills and state standards:

http://www.contemporarymusiccenter.com/

http://www.restonmusic.com/

http://www.musicarts.com/

http://www.melodeemusic.com/

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.wwbw.com/

http://www.interstatemusic.com/

http://www.steveweissmusic.com/


Tone Quality

Intermediate Level Courses Advanced Level Courses

II.2 The student will produce tones that are clear, free of

tension, sustained, and unwavering in pitch.

IAD.2 The student will produce tones that are clear, free of

tension, sustained, and unwavering in pitch.

Intonation


II.3 The student will adjust intonation and match pitches. IAD.3 The student will adjust intonation and match pitches.

Tempo and Rhythm


II.4 The student will incorporate tempo changes and a

variety of rhythms and meters in materials being

studied.

IAD.4 The student will incorporate tempo changes and a

variety of rhythms and meters in materials being

studied.

Scales


II.6 The student will perform major scales, ascending and

descending, in eighth notes (M.M. quarter note = 72).

1. Play D, G, C, F, B-flat, E-flat, A-flat, and D-flat

one-octave scales on wind and mallet

instruments.

2. Play C, G, D, A, B-flat, and A-flat two-octave

scales on violin.

3. Play C, G, D, E, F, and E-flat two-octave scales

on viola or cello.

4. Play C, G, D, A, E, F, B-flat, and A-flat one-

octave scales on string bass.

II.8 The wind/mallet student will perform a chromatic

scale, ascending and descending, in eighth notes

(M.M. quarter note = 72).

IAD.6 The student will perform all major scales and

selected melodic minor scales with one-octave tonic

arpeggios, ascending and descending, in eighth notes

(M.M. quarter note = 72).

1. Play e, a, d, g, c, f, b-flat, and e-flat melodic

minor scales and one-octave tonic arpeggios on

wind and mallet instruments.

2. Play g, a, b-flat, and c three-octave melodic

minor scales and one-octave tonic arpeggios on

violin.

3. Play c and d three-octave melodic minor scales

and one-octave tonic arpeggios on viola or

cello.

4. Play e, f, and g two-octave melodic minor scales

and one-octave tonic arpeggios on string bass.

IAD.8 The wind/mallet student will perform a chromatic

scale, ascending and descending, in sixteenth notes

(M.M. quarter note = 72) throughout the practical

range of the instrument.

Rudiments


II.7 The percussion student will perform multiple bounce

roll, five stroke roll, nine stroke roll, flam, single

paradiddle, drag, drag paradiddle, flam accent, flam

tap, flamacue, single drag tap, double drag tap, and

lesson 25 from the Percussive Arts Society (PAS)

International Drum Rudiments, open-close-open.

IAD.7 The percussion student will perform the 40

Percussive Arts Society (PAS) International Drum

Rudiments, open-close-open.

Dynamics and Technique


II.9 The student will use dynamic contrast and technical

skills as means of expression.

1. Use vibrato, alternate fingerings, trills, and

grace notes when performing on wind

instruments.

2. Use multiple mallets technique on two timpani,

and techniques on auxiliary instruments when

performing on percussion instruments.

3. Use shifting (violin or viola—up to third

position; cello or bass—up to fourth position),

alternate fingerings, and vibrato when

performing on stringed instruments.

IAD.9 The student will use dynamic contrast and technical

skills as a means of expression.

1. Use vibrato, alternate fingerings, trills, and

grace notes when performing on wind

instruments.

2. Use three-mallet technique when performing on

mallet percussion.

3. Use multiple percussion techniques when

performing on auxiliary percussion instruments.

4. Use timpani technique on three or four drums,

tuning drums to reference pitches and making

changes during performance of an instrumental

work.

5. Use shifting (violin or viola—up to fifth

position; cello or bass—up to thumb position),

alternate fingerings, and vibrato when

performing on stringed instruments.


Phrasing


II.10 The student will demonstrate musical phrasing

through the use of dynamics, tempo, and melodic

contour.

IAD.10 The student will demonstrate musical phrasing

through the use of dynamic emphasis and tempo

modification.

Sight-Reading


II.12 The student will sight-read music of varying styles

and levels of difficulty, in accordance with VBODA

Level 2-4.

IAD.12 The student will sight-read music of varying styles

and levels of difficulty.

Singing


II.13 The student will sing a part while other students sing

or play contrasting parts.

IAD.13 The student will sing a part while other students sing

or play contrasting parts.

Instrument Maintenance


II.15 The student will identify and repair minor problems

of the instrument being studied.

IAD.15 The student will identify and repair minor problems

of the instrument being studied.

Improvisation


II.17 The student will embellish four to eight measures of

a folk song by creating rhythmic and melodic

variations.

IAD.17 The student will improvise a melody to a I-IV-V-I

chord progression.

Composition


II.18 The student will compose an eight-measure melody,

using available technology, within teacher-specified

parameters.

IAD.18 The student will arrange accompanying harmonies or

counter melodies to a given melody.

Written Theory


II.19 The student will read and notate music.

1. Use a syllable, number, or letter system to read

and write simple melodies in the appropriate

clef, individually and in large ensembles.

2. Use a syllable, number, or letter system to read

and write rhythmic patterns that include whole,

half, quarter, eighth, and sixteenth notes, rests,

and dotted notes, and triplets in simple and

compound meters.

3. Identify, define, and demonstrate standard

notation symbols for pitch, rhythm, dynamics,

tempo, articulation, and expression.

IAD.19 The student will read and write rhythmic patterns in

complex meters, demonstrating technical facility and

precision commensurate with VBODA Level 4-5.

IAD.21 The student will identify, define, and apply music

terms and symbols from materials being studied.

Exploring Careers in Music


II.20 The student will identify career and vocational

options in music.

IAD.20 The student will research career and vocational

options in music, using available technology.

Music History


II.21 The student will identify and analyze cultures, styles,

composers, and historical periods from materials

being studied.

IAD.22 The student will compare and contrast materials

being studied in its historical and cultural context.

Evaluation


II.22 The student will evaluate individual and group

performances.

N/A


Interdisciplinary Studies


II.23 The student will describe concepts common to music,

the other fine arts, and other disciplines.

IAD.24 The student will discuss relationships between music

concepts and the concepts of other disciplines.

1. Identify how the characteristic qualities of

sound, visual stimuli, other stimuli, movement,

and human interrelationships can influence the

fine arts.

2. Describe interrelationships between music and

other disciplines.

Music Advocacy


II.25 The student will discuss musical performance and its

value to the community.

IAD.26 The student will articulate expressive qualities of

music.

Types of assessments:

Formative assessments

Formative assessments are quick check-ups on the students’ musical progress. Formative assessments do not count towards

the students’ quarter grade, rather they are designed to point out areas for improvement prior to a summative assessment.

If a student does extremely well in a formative assessment, they can become exempt from the accompanying summative

assessment.

Summative assessments

Summative assessments are used to assess mastery of the standards and do count towards the students’ quarter grade.

The primary types of summative assessments used in band classes are as follows:

o Playing Assessments

Playing assessments are used to assess mastery of the concert literature or other assigned exercises.

Playing assessments are generally submitted via recording. It is highly recommended that students obtain

recording software to use at home. This provides students ample opportunity to re-record until they are happy with

the result. The recording in .mp3 (preferred) or .wav format can then be sent to Mr. Galway through the Vision web

site or via email.

Audacity is a great, FREE recording software program and can be downloaded at

http://audacity.sourceforge.net/ You will need a computer with a microphone to use the software.

Students who are unable to record at home can record at school either during class or before/after school.

o Scales/Rudiments Assessments

Scales/Rudiments assessments are used to assess mastery of memorization of required scales.

Scales/Rudiments assessments are generally done live in front of Mr. Galway, either individually or in small groups

as directed.

o Sight-Reading/Rhythm Assessments

Sight-Reading/Rhythm assessments are used to assess students’ ability to perform music by sight.

Like Scales/Rudiments assessments, Sight-Reading/Rhythm assessments are generally done live in front of Mr.

Galway, either individually or in small groups as directed.

o Written Assessments

Written assessments are used to assess the students’ mastery of written theory concepts.

o Other Assessments

Other assessments will be used periodically to assess students’ mastery of a wide variety of state standards. When

assigned, details of the specific requirements and standards assessed will be made known well in advance.

Most summative assessments will be graded via rubric. Rubrics for each assessment will be made known well in advance.

Certain other assessments will be graded using a point system.

Retakes

Students will be given the opportunity to retake assessments for a higher grade as long as the following criteria are met:

1. Before a retake will be permitted, the students must either complete a 15-minute extra help session on the retake material

from the either the student’s section leader or Mr. Galway, OR the student must complete a practice log demonstrating 30

minutes of practice on the retake material outside of class time.

2. If the assessment contains concert literature, the retake must be completed prior to the concert.

3. If the assessment is not on concert literature, i.e. scales, sight-reading, etc., the retake must be completed prior to one (1)

weeks before the end of the grading period.

http://audacity.sourceforge.net/


15% Performances: As a co-curricular ensemble, performances outside of regular school hours are required as stated in the LCPS Program

of Studies. By signing up for a band class, you have made a commitment to attend all performances. A calendar will be provided well in

advance. Extreme special circumstances for missing a performance or extra rehearsal must be discussed with the director at least two weeks

in advance so part substitutions can be made. Students on school sports teams should bring potential conflicts to the director’s attention as

soon as they are known. In the case of emergency situations (personal illness, death in the family, etc.), a parent must contact the director by

phone or email to explain the circumstances. Freedom High School band members can expect 6-8 performances per school year. A detailed

calendar containing all required rehearsals and performances can be found on http://loudounvision.net/ and at www.freedombandboosters.org

For each performance, students are assessed in their mastery of the following state standards:

Performance


II.14 The student will perform music from a variety of

cultures, styles, and historical periods.

II.16 The student will demonstrate increased learning

through a variety of music activities.

1. Maintain attendance with required materials.

2. Demonstrate completion of assignments and/or

practice.

3. Participate in concerts, performances, cross

disciplinary activities, and co-curricular

activities.

4. Demonstrate concert etiquette as a performer

and listener.

II.24 The student will demonstrate concert etiquette as an

active listener.

IAD.14 The student will perform music from a variety of

cultures, styles, and historical periods.

IAD.16 The student will demonstrate increased learning




practice.

3. Participate in activities such as concerts,

performances, marching band, jazz ensemble,

chamber ensembles, and All-District, All-

Region, and All-Virginia events.


and listener.

IAD.23 The student will diagnose and correct personal

performance errors.

IAD.25 The student will demonstrate concert etiquette as an

active listener.

Should a student miss a performance for a legitimate reason approved by the director, a make-up assignment must be completed in order to

receive credit. The make-up assignment is designed to replicate the performance experience and will assess each of the standards listed

above.

15% Extra Rehearsals: Just like performances, rehearsals outside regular school hours are required as stated in the LCPS Program of

Studies. The purpose of extra rehearsals is to combine winds with percussion prior to an important performance. A detailed calendar

containing all required rehearsals and performances can be found on http://loudounvision.net/ and at www.freedombandboosters.org For each

rehearsal, students are assessed in their mastery of the following state standards:

Rehearsal Skills


II.1 The student will demonstrate proper posture,

embouchure, hand position, and playing position.

II.11 The student will demonstrate ensemble skills.

1. Blend instrumental timbres.

2. Match dynamic levels, style, and intonation.

3. Respond to conducting gestures.





practice.



activities.


and listener.

IAD.1 The student will demonstrate proper posture,

embouchure, hand position, and playing position.

IAD.11 The student will demonstrate ensemble skills.

1. Blend instrumental timbres.

2. Match dynamic levels, style, and intonation.

3. Respond to conducting gestures.

4. Use conducting gestures.





practice.


performances, marching band, jazz ensemble,

chamber ensembles, and All-District, All-

Region, and All-Virginia events.


and listener.

Should a student miss a required rehearsal, a make-up assignment must be completed in order to receive credit. The make-up assignment is

designed to assess each of the standards listed above.

10% Artistic Growth and Development Projects: These projects are designed to assess the students’ mastery of musical skills and apply

those skills towards performance opportunities beyond the classroom. All band members must complete one Artistic Growth and

Development Project per quarter. These projects will assess mastery of the following standards:

http://loudounvision.net/





Artistic Growth and Development






practice.



activities.


and listener.





practice.


performances, marching band, jazz

ensemble, chamber ensembles, and All-

District, All-Region, and All-Virginia events.


and listener.

Projects include:

Participation in one or more co-curricular band activities: Marching Band, Indoor Drumline, Winterguard, Jazz Lab, Instrumental

Ensembles, Pit Orchestra for the Spring Musical, etc.

Private lessons on your primary instrument

Auditioning for honors ensembles (All-District, All-Virginia, etc.)

Participating in an honors ensemble

Participating in Solo & Ensemble Assessment

Participating in a performing group outside of school on your primary instrument (Loudoun Youth Symphony, AYP, Church groups,

etc.)

Preparing and performing a graded solo, duet, or small group ensemble (director-provided)

Preparing and performing lessons from the Rubank Intermediate or Advanced Method or other director-approved method books

Switching to a new instrument

Other projects with the director’s approval

Midterm and Final Exams

The midterm and final exams are summative assessments of the students’ knowledge accumulated over the course of the semester.

VISION COURSE, CLARITY, AND THE BAND BOOSTERS WEB SITE

Vision, http://loudounvision.net/, will be used as the primary online resource. Important class resources such as assignments, audio

recordings, and reference guides will be posted on Vision. All students must enroll for the Vision course for any band class they are enrolled

in. The registration key is galway for all classes. Parents can log in as a guest using galway as the enrollment key.

Clarity is the gradebook software program used by all Loudoun County teachers. New for 2012-2013, parents will be able to view students’

grades in Clarity through the Parent Portal. Please visit http://www.lcps.org/domain/12160 or http://www.lcps.org/fhs > click on Clarity in

the top menu, for more information.

The Freedom High School Band Boosters web site, www.freedombandboosters.org, is our public web site which will contain a calendar,

photos, videos, and information about fundraising, co-curricular opportunities, special events, and general information about the band

program.

It is recommended students check all three web sites frequently to stay up to date.

FUNDRAISING

The Freedom High School band program is a very large and expensive program to operate. We are very proud to be able to offer the students

a variety of experiences while keeping the amount of necessary fundraising to a minimum. However, as costs continue to rise and as we

continue to add enrichment opportunities for our members, there is always a need for more funds. Neighboring school systems typically

charge members of band classes large fees to cover expenses. Fortunately, we have been able to keep fees at a minimum due to past

fundraising success.

The Freedom High School Band Boosters do two different types of fundraisers:

1. General Account Group Fundraisers: These fundraisers are team efforts completed by the band as a whole. The Band Boosters

General Account covers the nuts and bolts expenses of the Freedom High School Band Program. Money from this account is used to

cover general band expenses such as music, clinicians, instruments, equipment, concert attire, buses, competition fees, maintenance,

repairs, and many other things. Loudoun County Public Schools does fund its curricular band programs, but the level of funding is the

bare minimum and does allow for the enhanced opportunities we provide at Freedom. The fundraiser for the General Account is Tag

Day.

2. Individual Fundraisers: Individual fundraisers enable students to raise money individually to cover be placed into an Individual Band

Boosters Student Account or to cover their fair share amount (see below). The money from the Student Account can be used to pay for

Spring Trip expenses and Marching Band/Indoor Drumline/Winterguard fees. Participation in Individual Fundraisers is completely

optional. We have offered a wide variety of Student Account fundraisers over the years including selling fresh fruit, poinsettias, desserts,

candy, coupon books, and online coupons. The Mattress Sale also offers members the opportunity to earn money for their student

accounts.


http://www.lcps.org/domain/12160

http://www.lcps.org/fhs



The required fundraising responsibilities for all 2012-2013 Band Members are as follows:

1. Participation in Tag Day: Tag Day is our largest fundraiser of the year. Tag Day 2012 will be held on Saturday, September 8 from

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. For Tag Day, parent volunteers drive students into the community and members in small groups go door to door to

solicit donations. Lots of parent volunteers are needed for this event. If you are able to help, please visit www.freedombandboosters.org

and sign up on the Sign-Up Genius link.

2. Fair Share: In order to maintain the level of excellence we have become accustomed to, each student will be required to do their fair

share of individual fundraising for the benefit of the band as a whole. The total dollar amount each student is responsible for is $20

per semester, $40 per school year. Students can contribute their fair share by taking advantage of the many Individual Fundraisers

provided by the Band Boosters. Any amount raised beyond the fair share will be placed into an Individual Student Account. Students

who do not wish to participate in Individual Fundraisers can provide their fair share via check made payable to Freedom High School

Band Boosters or via PayPal at www.freedombandboosters.org Fair share funds go directly into the Band Boosters General Account to

cover expenses listed above. If raising this money causes financial hardship for you or your family, please contact Mr. Galway to

arrange for confidential financial assistance. No student will be denied membership because of financial hardship.

SPRING TRIP

The Spring Trip is the culminating activity for a year’s worth of hard work. This year, we plan on traveling to Myrtle Beach, SC April 25-

28. The Spring Trip is entirely student-funded. Participation in Individual Fundraisers is highly encouraged to help reduce the out-of-

pocket cost to your family. In the past, we have had several students who did enough Individual Fundraisers to cover 100% of the cost of

their trip. All students are encouraged to participate!

BAND BOOSTERS

Freedom Band Boosters is a tax-exempt organization dedicated to supporting the band program at Freedom High School. Parents of

Freedom students in the band program are automatically members of the Band Boosters. This is a volunteer organization that supports the

entire band program.

Support activities include raising money to provide equipment and fund teaching staff not provided by Loudoun County. The Boosters

provide countless hours of volunteer support including trip chaperones, uniform maintenance, providing refreshments and logistical support

moving the bands. There is always a job to be done to support the band program.

Parents: The best way to become involved with the bands' many activities is to become active in the Band Boosters. All band parents are

invited to come to Band Boosters meetings which are held once a month, usually on the second Monday of the month, from 7:00pm

to 8:30pm in the band room. (There are occasionally a few exceptions with the dates - please check the calendar at

www.freedombandboosters.org) Attending meetings is the best way to find out what is going on with the bands, what our future plans are,

and where the band program is heading. The Band Boosters helps decide how fundraising will be done, and has input into how the

money will be spent. Please come and find out what is going on with all of the FHS bands and how YOU can get involved! There is always

a lot to be done, and help is always appreciated.

OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

All Freedom High School Band members are encouraged to pursue musical opportunities beyond the classroom. These opportunities

include:

Private Lessons - “The average tutored student outperforms ninety-eight percent of students taught only under standard classroom

group instruction.” - Harry K. Wong, renowned education expert.

Most, if not all All-District, All-Regional, and All-Virginia band members study privately. If you are even remotely considering

majoring in music or continuing with music in college, private lessons are a must. Private lessons make playing an instrument far more

enjoyable because success fosters appreciation. It’s more fun to be really, really good at something than it is to struggle. Over the years,

I have seen many average and below-average musicians improve dramatically after beginning private lessons and many of these

students went on to participate in honor bands, perform in college bands, and in some cases, earn college music scholarships.

We are very lucky in Northern Virginia to have lots of wonderful private teachers close by. Many members of the local military bands

live near South Riding and are happy to offer their services. Local music stores such as CMC Contemporary Music Center and Chantilly

Music have wonderful teachers on staff. The director will bring in many of these great teachers periodically to conduct master classes

and sectional rehearsals.

If you are interested in studying privately, talk to the director for recommendations. If you want to be the best musician you can be,

private lessons can make it happen!

Chamber Ensembles – We offer several chamber ensembles to challenge musicians and provide opportunities to explore various kinds of

music within small-ensemble settings. We hope to have a flute choir, clarinet choir, saxophone quartet, woodwind quintet, brass quintet,

brass choir, jazz combo, and traditional (Dixieland) jazz band. Chamber ensembles will begin at the conclusion of the Marching Band season.

Spirit of Freedom Marching Band - This award-winning group is a co-curricular ensemble that performs at home football games, local

parades, and regional marching band competitions. Rehearsals begin in early August and conclude at the end of the football season (late

October-early November). Membership is open to any Freedom High School musician. Members do not need to be enrolled in a band class in

order to participate.



http://freedombandboosters.org/freedom2011/index.php?page=concert-band



Winterguard - The Freedom Indoor Winterguard is a co-curricular activity open to any Freedom High School student who is interested in

dance and movement. Membership is highly selective with auditions being held in November. Rehearsals begin in late November/early

December and the competitive season runs through late March/early April. Rehearsals are held several times per week. The group performs

at Atlantic Indoor Association Regional Competitions held on Saturdays.

Indoor Drumline - The Freedom Indoor Drumline is a co-curricular activity open to any Freedom High School musician who plays drums or

keyboard percussion. Membership is highly selective with auditions being held in November. Rehearsals begin in late November/early

December and the competitive season runs through late March/early April. Rehearsals are held several times per week. The group performs

at Atlantic Indoor Association Regional Competitions held on Saturdays.

Senior Regional Orchestra - The All-Regional Orchestra consists of the finest wind, percussion, and string players in the North Central

Virginia region. Auditions are typically held in September and consist of the previous year’s All-Virginia etude and scale/rudiment

requirements. The event is typically held in early November. Students who make this ensemble qualify to audition for All-Virginia Band and

Orchestra.

All-Virginia Jazz Ensemble - The auditions are held in late September, early October. If selected, participants will perform at the Virginia

Music Educators Conference in November.

All-District Band - The All-District Band is made up of the finest Loudoun County instrumentalists. Auditions are held in January and

consist of scales/rudiments (All-Virginia requirements), sight-reading, and a prepared etude. The event takes place in February. Students who

earn high chairs in All-District qualify to audition for All-Virginia Band and Orchestra.

All-District Jazz Ensemble - The All-District Jazz Ensemble consists of Loudoun County’s finest jazz musicians. Auditions are held in mid-

February and consist of a prepared selection and improvisation. If selected, students are expected to attend 6 evening rehearsals and perform

at the District Jazz Festival held in late April.

All-Virginia Band and Orchestra - The All-Virginia Band and Orchestra consists of the finest students in Virginia. Auditions are held in late

February and the performance takes place in early April. Auditions consist of scales/rudiments, sight-reading, and a prepared selection.

Students qualify to audition for All-Virginia by making the Senior Regional Orchestra or placing into a high chair in the All-District Band.

District Solo & Ensemble Assessment - The District Solo & Ensemble Festival is held in mid-April. All band members are encouraged to

prepare a solo, form a duet, trio, quartet, etc. and participate in this exciting event.

Let’s have a great year!


HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Student Name _____________________________________________________________

Instrument _______________________________________________________________

Grade: 9 10 11 12

Class Period(s): 2 3 4 5 8

By signing below, I affirm the following:

1. I understand the classroom rules and procedures.

2. I agree to obtain necessary supplies.

3. I have read the policies regarding instruments and understand that Freedom High

School is not responsible for loss or damage to student-owned instruments.

4. I have read the concert attire policy and agree to obtain non-school provided

supplies.

5. I understand the grading policy and acknowledge that attendance at concerts and

extra rehearsals is mandatory.

6. I understand the necessary fundraising obligations.

___________________________________________ ____________________

Student Signature Date

___________________________________________ ____________________

Parent Signature Date

Student-Owned Instrument Information

Instrument Make (Brand) ___________________________________________________

Serial Number (Etched somewhere on the body of the instrument) __________________

2009-2010 freedom high school band handbook

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