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Centennial HS Band Handbook

2017-2018

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Table of Contents

I. Introduction…………………………………………………………pg. 3

II. Grading……………………………………………………………..pg. 3-5

III. Classroom Rules……………………………………………………pg. 5

IV. Absences……………………………………………………………pg. 5-6

V. Performances………………………………………………………..pg. 6-7

VI. Music and Equipment………………………………………………pg. 8

VII. Marching Band……..……………………………………………….pg. 8-9

VIII. Jazz Band……………………………………………………………pg. 9-10

IX. Concert Band………………………………………………………..pg. 10

X. Syllabus………………………………………………………………pg. 11

XI. Substitute Rules……………………………………………………...pg. 11

XI. Severe Rules…………………………………………………………pg. 11

XII. Conclusion………………………………………………………….pg. 11

XIII. Signing Page………………………………………………………….pg. 13

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I. Introduction

This handbook was written by the director following school and district guidelines to

create a set of rules and goals set forth to be followed throughout the year. By reading and

signing to each section of this handbook you are agreeing to follow everything in this book. The

director may use her discretion when something occurs that is not covered in this handbook. If

you have any concerns with this handbook, please contact Mrs. Menasco before signing the

handbook. Once you have signed it, everything is final. Also keep in mind that participation in

this band program is severally limited without signing this handbook.

PHONE: 623-412-4442 office; 520-329-5299 cell

EMAIL: KaMenasco@pusd11.net

WEB PAGE: To find us on the Internet, our web address is: www.CeHSBandAides.net

II. Grading

Grading Guidelines:

Everything members do together as a band will be part of a grade. Incomplete tasks will

result in a loss of points. At the end of the quarter, point totals are created, and compared with

the maximum total to determine a final grade. Along with participating in concerts and

rehearsals, there will also be written work.

The following will count toward 80% of your final grade:

50% = Performance and Related Tests / 30% = Daily class work

Play your assigned music (in the classroom, in concert, or while marching) at the

expected level of mastery.

1. Perform daily assignments at the expected level of mastery using your own music,

pencil, and musical instrument that is in proper working condition.

2. Critique our performances and the performances of other ensembles.

3. Perform in "concert" using the appropriate attire for the event. Proper attire is

required to demonstrate your ability to perform the requirements for a

"concert/marching performance" assignment.

4. Perform at the expected level of mastery at a required festival event (invitationals,

regional, and state marching / concert festivals)

The following will count toward 20% of the final course grade

5. Multiple Choice Knowledge Test- 7%

6. Responding to Art Written Test- 6% (students do not take this test but it is placed in gradebook for weighting purposes)

7. Individual Performance Test- 7%

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MARCHING BAND CLASS

The Marching Band class is considered a co-curricular activity. The required work for this

course includes both “in-class” and “out-of-class” activities. All marching band students will be

evaluated on the basis of work completed both in school and after school. Students will be

required to attend after school rehearsals and performances as a part of their grade for the course.

All students and parents must agree to this policy in order to participate in the marching band.

Example assignments:

- Music Checks/Playing Tests

- Drill folder Checks

- Performances at events

- Final Exam

Attendance & Participation: All rehearsals and performances are required. Sectionals are an

important part of the rehearsal process – each section will hold a weekly sectional and all section

members must be in attendance. Each section will do their best to schedule this so that it

conflicts with the fewest members, and only in rare cases will a student be excused from their

sectional. Students must get any planned absences from sectionals approved by the director.

Missing a rehearsal or sectional may result in being benched from a Friday night performance or

competition. Marching band is physically demanding and students should take care of

themselves. A student may only sit out of a rehearsal / performance with a doctor’s note.

Playing Tests: Throughout the semester, there will be several playing tests. The tests will be

designed for the student to demonstrate appropriate mastery of the sections of music required,

and at times, music memorization. Students must pass these playing tests in order to be eligible

to perform at half time or competitions. Students can make-up the tests if they do not perform at

or above a passing grade. Students may also test early to ensure their success. If a student fails

more than two tests during the season and does not retest to a passing grade, they may be

ineligible to perform on the field for the remainder of the season. All students will be able to

perform in the stands regardless of playing test status.

CONCERT & JAZZ BAND CLASSES

Though not as time-intensive as the Marching Band, the Concert Band and Jazz Band are still

considered co-curricular activities. Therefore, students will be graded on both in-class and out-

of-class assignments and participation. Students will be required to attend in-school practices,

and also some after-school or weekend performances.

Attendance & Participation: All rehearsals and performances are required. Students who are

consistently making an effort to participate at their maximum ability will have no problem.

Students who misbehave, disrupt rehearsals, or are consistently tardy will lose some or all of

their participation points on that day. Students are expected to come prepared to class with their

music, instrument and equipment, a pencil, and any other necessary materials. Students are also

expected to keep up with ongoing assignments related to music preparation.

Music Preparation: As the goal of the ensemble is to perform at the highest possible level,

each individual student must prepare him/herself for rehearsals. Students are expected to

practice outside of class in sectionals as well as at home. Students may be frequently tested on

their ability to perform their part in the music, and will also be expected to perform all 12 major

scales (and other scales & modes, depending on the ensemble) by the end of the semester.

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Other Work: Throughout the semester, various other assignments will be given to supplement

our knowledge of the music we are performing. These will focus around composers and

performers, periods of music history, music theory, or other topics relevant to class.

Final Exam: As per school policy, a final exam will be given in this class. The test is given in

three parts. The first part will require the student to play individually for the director. The

second portion of the final will be a written test in which the student will critique the

performance of an ensemble. The third portion will be a multiple choice knowledge test.

III. Classroom Rules

Whether rehearsing in the band room, outside on the field, or at a guest host site for a

concert, there are rules that everyone must follow. These rules will be posted in the band room,

but will also be followed no matter when we are together.

The rules are as follows:

1. Show respect at all times, this means having a respectful attitude toward others (students,

staff, boosters) and respect of equipment

2. Be on time

3. Be prepared

4. No phones during rehearsal

5. No food or drink allowed in the band room area except water

Violations of these rules will result in the following

Step 1- Warning

Step 2- Conference with director, call to home

Step 3- Conference with parents, and administrators

Step 4- Evaluation of Role in Class, possible removal from class if deemed necessary

Electronic Devices – this will be heavily enforced

Electronic devices will be permitted to be used in class, ONLY when the teacher requests

their use or gives permission to do so. Electronic devices are not needed for class but may be

used to assist the student with certain assignments. If the device is seen when it is not permitted:

Step 1- Warning

Step 2- Device taken for the remainder of the hour

Step 3- Device given to front office for the student to pick up

Step 4- Device given to front office, referral written

IV. Absences

Missing a rehearsal can be very costly to the group in terms of how well they perform

and the amount you as a member learn. Absences and tardies effect class participation.

Repeated absences may result in being benched at a game, competition, other performance, or in

severe cases, dropped from the class.

Some absences are unavoidable; these are called excused absences. Excused absences

include severe illness, death of family member or friend, or extreme emergency causing absence.

This is verified with a doctor’s note or appropriate paperwork. Sometimes there are certain

school functions that qualify. In any case the school handbook and district policies are in effect.

All other absences are unexcused absences.

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If you have been absent or are facing an absence, you need to do the following:

1. Notify the director immediately of the absence

2. Find out if the absence is excused or unexcused, if excused, make-up work will be

available

3. If not excused, or if you do not notify the director of the absence within one week

of the absence, there will not be a chance to make up the points

Absences are taken seriously, please notify the director if an absence is going to occur, or as

soon as possible from returning from an absence.

Missing/ Make-up work

When students are absent, they will have the same amount of time to make up an assignment that

they were absent for. An excused absence can be made up for full credit. If the make-up is late,

it will receive a 50% deduction. Make up work for unexcused absences will receive a 50%

deduction. For work to receive any credit, it is due before the grading period ends.

Tardies

If you are late to class, the director will inform attendance and you will be marked tardy.

Repeated tardies will receive a consequence.

V. Performances

All of the classes offered in the Band Department are performing classes. Members are

expected to perform in these classes and at every performance. Members are part of a very

special team, and everyone is important to that team’s success. Without every member, the band

would be a different group.

At the beginning of each semester, the director will give each member a schedule of all

known performances, call times, and what is expected at each performance.

a. Call times are mandatory and being late will affect your grade

b. Proper wear of the uniform is required and what that means will be spelled out for

each performance

c. Band members need to be well rested and eat properly before any performance.

ELIGIBILITY

Any judged competition or festival that the bands go to is sanctioned by the Arizona

Band and Orchestra Directors Association. This means that in order for the bands to play

at these events, or festivals, everyone participating must be passing all their classes as of the

last grading report. In other words if you are failing a class you will not be allowed to play

in the event though your attendance is still expected of you. Additionally, your grades will

be monitored weekly. If you receive a “red card” you will not be able to march with the

band on that Friday night and will be “benched” until your grades improve.

Any student who changes a class from credit status to audit status during the term

will be ineligible under the No Pass / No Play regulations through Saturday of the following

week. If you are failing or are in danger of failing, please get assistance. Talk to a friend, a

teacher of that subject, or Mrs. Menasco. Help is available, all you need is ask. We want

everyone to succeed, not fail, so please seek help before you get into trouble with a class.

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Physical

Marching band is a physically demanding activity and it has been requested by the

director that you obtain a physical in order to participate. Dates, times, locations, and cost will

be given to you in the next couple of days so you can get this done. You have until rookie

rehearsal / band camp to have completed this request and bring proof to the director. This will

also cover all travel for the marching band throughout the season.

Athletic Playoffs

Football playoffs are all but guaranteed at Centennial. The marching band needs to plan

as if these events will happen. Play-offs do happen during Thanksgiving break. If there is a

problem, please notify the director before the first regular season game so the director can plan

accordingly. Once it has been determined that this event is occurring, it will be added to our

schedule and considered mandatory. The director will deal with absences from these events on

an individual basis.

Re-scheduled performances/ Short-notice events

Things happen and having to move performances is unavoidable at times. The director

will notify you of changes in advance as the information becomes available. If the notice for an

event is given 10 school days before it is to happen, it is mandatory. If something was planned

before the notice that cannot be altered, please see Mrs. Menasco WITHIN 24 HOURS.

Otherwise please expect to be in attendance and your participation at this event as part of your

grade.

Traveling

In town or same day: We will follow the same rules as sports for traveling. School buses will

be provided by the district. All school rules apply when on a bus.

Out of state/overnight: For travel that requires the group to stay somewhere over night, the

group will usually travel via charter bus. The same rules apply for travel overnight or out of

state. These trips will include extra information, meetings, and other material to ensure that

everyone understands how these trips are put together, what is expected, and how they are paid

for. For these trips, students are expected to be passing all their classes at the time of the

trip. Grades will be checked one week before the date of travel. If the student’s grades

are not passing at that point, the student will not travel.

Rules of travel:

At times the band may travel out of state or somewhere in the state that requires the band

to stay somewhere for a night or more. When on these trips, all rules from the handbook and

from the school handbook apply. It is expected of every band member to be on his or her best

behavior on such trips. It is up to the discretion of the director to determine when these rules

have been broken in excess, and when this occurs the student will be sent home at the parents

cost. Trips are a privilege and are to be earned by the band. All members need to treat trips as

such and do their best to represent the band and Centennial High School.

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VI. Music and Equipment

1. Members are responsible for all equipment and music assigned to them.

2. Members should always have instrument in good repair, music free of marks other than

those in pencil, and a pencil at all rehearsals.

3. Lost music must be replaced at whatever the cost the publisher charges the school. Some

music cannot be replaced. Usual cost is between $1 and $5 per page.

4. Members are responsible for all personal instruments and property. The school provides

storage space to be used at your own risk and may not be held liable. Be sure to use the

locker room, obtain a band-provided lock, lock your locker at ALL times, and do not

share.

Instrument Check Out:

There are a select number of instruments that the school can provide. Those students who have a

financial need that would require them to use a school owned instrument, or are using an

instrument not common to rental (marching percussion, marching brass) will be allowed to check

out a school instrument. The fee is $25 for an instrument per semester. If the need for

instruments is greater than the number available, a random drawing will be done until all

instruments are checked out.

VII. Marching Band

Stands- While at football games, the band will play music during the game to bring enthusiasm

to the crowd as well as the team and the cheerleaders. While in the stands, there are also rules to

follow.

1. There is assigned seating in sections, your section will sit together, where it is assigned,

at all times. No outside friends may sit within the band, they will be asked to sit

somewhere else.

2. You need to stay in your area unless you need to go to the bathroom. Please notify the

director or the band staff if and when you need to go and bring a buddy. No more than 2

people may be out at the restroom at a time.

3. The 3rd quarter is traditionally used for Band Council. Those students who have attended

the week’s meeting will be eligible to travel to meet the other band council. If we are

invited to watch other bands, or meet with them, we will do so during this time.

Appropriate behavior is expected at all times. The band is expected to play during 3rd qtr.

4. The director and drum majors can call tunes. If there is something a section wants to

play, it must be first approved by the director. Do not dispute a tune when called.

5. You are expected to be playing your instrument in the stands at the appropriate times. It

is your responsibility to check that you have all the stand tunes and have practiced them

on your own time.

Breaking of these rules will result in a warning and possible suspension from Friday night game.

Uniform

The Marching Band Uniform is the symbol of pride for Centennial High School. There are

certain rules to follow when wearing this uniform to properly and effectively represent

Centennial High School and the Peoria Unified School District. With this in mind, here are some

simple rules to follow:

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1. The uniform is to be worn properly at all times unless instructed by the director to do

otherwise. This means having black shoes and black calf length socks on your feet, pants

to proper length which is just touching the top of your shoes, suspenders on shoulders,

jacket on and closed all the way, all buttons fastened, shako with plume, black gloves on

hands, and hair is to be pulled up if it is longer than the collar.

2. While in the stands for football games and competitions, only the shako may be removed,

everything else will stay on and be properly buttoned. Exceptions will be made

according to the weather, which will be determined by the director.

3. There will be no roughhousing, disruptive behavior, disrespect, or misconduct while in

uniform.

4. Headphones are NOT a part of the uniform.

5. Please keep the uniform clean. The uniform may be dry-cleaned throughout the season,

but it is your responsibility to ensure it stays clean when in use.

6. The uniform will be checked in and out for each event. When checked in the uniform

must be placed in the uniform bag correctly. The uniform cleaning will be done by Band

Aides, students are not to take the uniform to get cleaned.

7. NO eating or drinking while in uniform except for water.

Breaking of these rules will result in loss of the privilege to participate in Friday night games or

other uniformed performances. Members of the Marching Band represent Centennial High

School every time the uniform is put on, and until it is taken off, members must do their best to

represent the school with pride.

Tuesday Night Rehearsals

Students must be in attendance during Tuesday night rehearsals to be eligible to march the show

for the Friday night game and the Saturday Competitions for that week. If a student is late due to

an emergency the student needs to be at rehearsal by 7PM.

Extra Parts

You will be expected to make some small purchases of items to add to your uniforms. Everyone

will need to have a band shirt from this year, at least 2 pairs of gloves, and one pair of marching

band shoes. The shoes and gloves can be ordered during Band 101 in July, if you cannot attend

please make alternate arrangements with Mrs. Menasco and/or Band Aides.

VIII. Jazz Band

Auditions may be needed to place students appropriately in one of the Jazz Ensembles. The

following items can be a part of the audition:

WINDS

modes (Ionian, Dorian, Lydian,

Mixolydian) – from memory

prepared tunes

improvisation over a Bb or F Blues

sight reading

FOR BASS, PIANO, & GUITAR:

all of the above “comping” changes of Bb or F Blues

FOR DRUM SET & AUXILIARY PERCUSSION:

prepared tune

performing several different styles

(at various tempos) on set

sight reading on set

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Towards the end of February each year, the Jazz Band may travel up to Flagstaff to perform at the NAU

Jazz Festival; this is a required performance. This is an overnight trip and we stay in a local hotel. The

cost of the trip includes a ticket to the guest artist performance and the cost of the hotel (4 students per

room). Usually this cost is around $60 per student. If the cost of the trip will cause a financial strain on

the student’s family, please contact Mrs. Menasco as soon as possible. Tax credit can be used to pay for

this trip. Parents and guests are welcome to attend our performance (free admission). This festival is

judged, and we receive a 30 minute clinic with a professional jazz musician, in addition to taped

comments about our performance.

Uniform

Guys and Ladies will need to own: Black slacks, black long sleeve dress shirt, black shoes, black socks.

IX. Concert Band

Uniform

Gentlemen- Le Suer’s Tuxedo Company will be coming out to fit students for a tuxedo. Pricing

will be given in another flyer. The tuxedo is to be worn at all concerts unless otherwise stated. The

tuxedo is owned by the student and if the student needs a different size at any point during the time he is

in high school, the tux can be turned in and a new one can be bought for $10.

Ladies- A dress has been selected from a national vendor. There will be a date for size measuring.

The dress cost information will come out in another flyer. The dress will be owned by the student. The

dress will be worn at all concert events unless otherwise stated.

Please contact Mrs. Menasco if there is a financial need with the uniform cost. We are working on some

options for those who need help; students/parents are encouraged to work Rojo to help offset costs.

Regionals and All-State

During the course of the year, the Arizona Band and Orchestra Director’s Association puts on festivals

and competitions. These events are very beneficial to you and are a wonderful experience to be a part of.

Regional Band/Orchestra Festival: This event allows students to audition to perform in a group

comprised of the top musicians in the region. The audition consists of playing three etudes, the chromatic

scale, and a couple of scales ranging up to 5 sharps and 5 flats. Being selected for this group is an

amazing experience. You get to perform with the top musicians and be taught by a renowned educator in

the field. The concert happens usually three weeks after the audition and there are two days of rehearsal

to prepare for the concert.

All-State Band/Orchestra Festival: From those who made it into the Regional Band and Orchestra,

another audition takes place with all the regions to select the top students in the state. Another amazing

experience, you would rehearse with the group for two solid days with a well-known educator, and

perform a concert. Aside from making new friends, you get to see how you compare in the state and what

you need to do to make yourself a better musician.

All of these events are HIGHLY encouraged by the director. There is so much to be learned from

any or all of these events. Also keep in mind that the spring audition material for concert band will

usually, but not always, come from these etudes. So practicing the etudes for audition will only seem

natural to do. There is a small fee for participation, and some financial assistance can be provided.

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X. Course Syllabus

Each of the band classes has a course syllabus that summarizes the important information for the

ensemble. It includes items needed, concert dates, concert attire, and other related information. Each

student is given a copy and it is their responsibility to get it to their parents. A PDF of the syllabus will

also be sent home through email, but not all addresses in our system are not correct. If you do not receive

a copy by the fifth day of class, please contact me so I can give you information on how to fix your email

address with the school.

XI. Substitute Teacher Rules There are times when Mrs. Menasco will be out. Most of the time these absences are planned and

a music sub is found who can rehearse the group. There will be times that these are unplanned and

another sub will be found. On any day that there is a substitute teacher, every student is expected to be on

his or her best behavior and help the sub in any way possible. If there are any reports from the sub that

are negative, those students listed will not be allowed to travel with the group for the remainder of the

semester.

XII. Severe Rules

There are some rules that if broken will result in immediate intervention and possible removal

from the program and possible removal from Centennial High School. Members should not participate in

the following:

1. Possession, use of, or under the influence of alcohol or other illegal substance.

2. Possession of pornographic material of any sort.

3. Possession of firearms or using any object to hurt someone else

4. Harassment/bullying of another band member, a band parent, a staff member, or the director.

5. Deliberate destruction of school property or the property of another person.

The behavior of the bands is monitored at all times, whether at Centennial or away. When in doubt,

members should ask themselves, “Would I do this if Mrs. Menasco were standing right here?” Utilize the

Golden Rule: Treat others as you’d like to be treated. Make good decisions during school hours.

XIII. Conclusion

This handbook was designed to help create a positive learning environment for everyone. By

agreeing to the rules and terms of this handbook, you are aiding in creating such an environment. Please

understand that your following of the rules set forth in this handbook is vital to the success of every

ensemble at Centennial High School. Take the time to re-read this document before signing if you need

to. I will be holding firm to everything in this handbook and I expect you to do the same.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Kate Menasco

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Signing Page

Please initial for every section of this handbook and sign below, then remove the page and turn into Mrs.

Menasco. The initial and signing means that you have read and understand every section of this

handbook and agree to all the rules and terms set forth under the direction of Mrs. Menasco.

Section Student’s Initials Parent’s Initials

Introduction ___________ ___________

Grading ___________ ___________

Classroom Rules ___________ ___________

Absences ___________ ___________

Performances ___________ ___________

Music and Equipment ___________ ___________

Marching Band ___________ ___________

Jazz Band ___________ ___________

Concert Band ___________ ___________

Course Syllabus ___________ ___________

Substitute Rules ___________ ___________

Severe Rules ___________ ___________

Students Signature _______________________________________ Date ___________

Students Name (please print) _______________________________________________

Parent’s Signature ________________________________________ Date ___________

Parent’s Name ___________________________________________________________

Web picture release:

With the introduction of new technology we have the opportunity of placing material on the band

web page. We would like to put pictures from our rehearsals and events on this site. We will not put

names with the pictures. If you are allowing us to post photos of your son/daughter, please sign below.

By signing, you are allowing Mrs. Menasco / Band Aides to post photos from rehearsals and

events on the band’s webpage, social media, or on the district page. Additionally, you consent to Mrs.

Menasco sharing your email address with Band Aides for communication purposes (student email

optional). Your information will not be sold to a 3rd party.

Parent Name (please print) _________________________________________________

Parent’s Signature ________________________________________ Date ___________

Parent’s Email 1 (print clearly)_______________________________________________

Parent’s Email 2 (print clearly)_______________________________________________

Student’s Name (please print) ________________________________________________

Student’s Email (print clearly) ________________________________________________