MURCHISON MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA

HANDBOOK

2016-2017

DIRECTORS

PAUL ROBERTSON paul.robertson@austinisd.org

512-841-1395

Dana Wygmans dana.wygmans@austinisd.org

512-414-6341

Paul Robertson Dana Wygmans paul.robertson@austinisd.org dana.wygmans@austinisd.org 512-841-1395 512-414-6341

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students, Welcome to the Murchison Middle School Orchestra Program! We are proud of the many honors the orchestras and their individual members have received in recognition of their excellent performances. Orchestra students develop in many areas including: responsibility, self-discipline, social skills, confidence, leadership, and dependability. Participating in orchestra will give students a sense of accomplishment and pride as well as developing musical skills that will enrich their lives. We know that you will be a valuable part of the group and that you will discover the joy that comes from a fine musical performance. Orchestra classes include the study of violin, viola, cello, string bass, and harp. Harp students must have at least two years of experience playing the harp prior to playing at Murchison. All of the other instruments require no previous musical experience. In the Beginner Orchestra, we emphasize the fundamentals of music and the basic skills required to play your instrument. Mastery of these fundamental skills helps students progress smoothly through the orchestra program as higher-level skills are introduced. In the more advanced orchestras, students continue to perfect skills while learning new and more challenging aspects of music and music performance. This orchestra handbook has been written to present important information concerning the various activities, policies, and regulations of the Murchison Orchestras. All orchestra members and their parents are asked to read the entire handbook carefully at the beginning of each school year so that they may be informed and conflicts with the policies and rules stated herein may be avoided. Please keep the handbook for reference throughout the year. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to call or email. We are looking forward to an exciting and successful year!!! Sincerely, Paul Robertson paul.robertson@austinisd.org 512-841-1395 Dana Wygmans dana.wygmans@austinisd.org 512-414-6341

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

1. Be on time. 2. Bring the following materials to each class: instrument, binder, rosin, music, a pencil, and homework. 3. Gather your materials when you walk into the classroom, move directly to your seat, and begin

preparing for class. 4. Be responsible for and expect to assume the consequences of your actions. 5. Be courteous and respectful to teachers, guests, and other students and their property. 6. Be honest and fair with others concerning equipment, music, and school life in general. 7. Contribute positively to your music education and that of others by the best use of your talents. 8. Keep fingernails short. Students cannot play in tune with proper technique if they have fingernails

extending beyond the end of the finger. Students will be required to keep the fingernails trimmed so as to achieve an optimal sound.

9. Make a real effort to improve each day and practice, practice, practice! 10. Feel free to practice in the orchestra room before or after school if the orchestra directors are present

and there are no activities taking place. Students are expected to behave in a mature and appropriate manner.

CLASSROOM RULES

1. Keep gum, food, and drink out of the orchestra room. 2. Refrain from talking, playing, or plucking while someone else is talking or playing. 3. Raise your hand if you have a question or comment. 4. Respect orchestra property (instruments, stands, walls, stools, lockers, etc.) 5. Do not touch or play an instrument that is not yours without permission from the director. 6. Respect others by staying positive and optimistic. 7. Walk in the orchestra room; stay aware of your surroundings.

CONSEQUENCES

1. Warning 2. Discussion with the teacher 3. Call to parent 4. Parent-Teacher Conference 5. Loss of class celebration or trip privileges 6. Referral

PRACTICE Practice is necessary to learn and maintain skills on any instrument. Conscientious, daily practice is expected of all orchestral students. Instruments and music should not be left at school, except on rare occasions. Although 30 minutes of daily practice is most desirable, the quality and consistency of the practice is more important. It is helpful to have planned practice sessions with set goals, a daily scheduled time, a music stand, a comfortable chair, and a specific place conducive to successful learning. Parents can help a great deal with positive encouragement and helpful criticism.

DISCIPLINE Orchestra is an elective class and is also a performing ensemble. Therefore, the expectation for behavior is very high. Students are expected to have a high degree of self-control and take responsibility for their actions. The Murchison Orchestra will represent the whole campus when we perform in public. It is extremely important that we represent our school with pride and integrity. If there is a problem with behavior, we will immediately involve the students’ parents in resolving the problem. If the problem persists, we, along with campus administration, will have to evaluate whether or not the student should participate in concerts and other orchestra related events. ATTENDANCE A calendar of events will be given to each student at the beginning of the school year. It is vital that all orchestra members be present for all required events. The orchestra concert is the musician’s “final test” following many hours of preparation and study. It is a team effort. In an orchestra, each musician is important to the total sound. When people are missing, the group sound changes dramatically, often with disastrous results. If schedule conflicts occur, please notify the directors as soon as possible. Since a conflict may sometimes involve a large number of students, advanced notification is important if the concert or rehearsal needs to be rescheduled or cancelled. Of course, absences due to illness will be excused. The directors will make final decisions about excused and non-excused absences. ORCHESTRA UNIFORMS A pleasing appearance builds pride in an organization, and pride will improve the quality of the performance. The basis for selecting the Murchison orchestra uniform is appearance, availability, and cost. Orchestra students should not deviate from the required clothing as this will defeat the purpose of having a uniform. If this will cause a financial problem, please contact the directors privately. Beginning Orchestra Students (most 6th Graders): Beginning orchestra students will participate in a Fall String Festival in November for which they will be required to buy a t-shirt. This shirt will be used for all performances during the school year. The t-shirts will be purchased during October and information will be sent home prior to ordering.

All beginners:

Fall String Festival t-shirt (as mentioned above)

Blue jeans (blue please – no other colors)

Shoes (any type of shoe is fine, but no sandals or flip-flops) 7th and 8th Grade (non-beginners) – FORMAL ATTIRE 7th and 8th graders will be issued a black vest and bow tie for which they will be responsible during the school year.

Ladies:

White tuxedo shirt. Please look specifically for a tuxedo shirt. A white button-down shirt is not the same thing. Shirts must have long sleeves.

Black bow tie and vest (issued by the school)

Black slacks or black skirt. If a skirt is chosen, it must hang below the knees when sitting. Cellists may not wear skirts.

Black dress shoes (no sneakers or flip-flops)

Gentlemen:

White tuxedo shirt. Please look specifically for a tuxedo shirt. A white button-down shirt is not the same thing. Shirts must have long sleeves.

Black bowtie and vest (issued by the school).

Black slacks.

Black dress socks and dress shoes (no sneakers or flip-flops). MURCHISON MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

One 1-inch black 3-ring binder with two pockets Pencil to be kept in folder Extra set of strings (violin and viola only; optional but handy if you happen to break one) Rosin (bass players make sure it is bass rosin) Shoulder rest for violins and violas (Kun or Everest) Rock stop for cellos and basses Soft cloth for cleaning the instrument Music stand for home practice (an inexpensive fold up stand is sufficient)

RENTING OR PURCHASING AN INSTRUMENT Many music stores have rental plans where your monthly payments go toward the purchase of an instrument. Most allow you to trade up an instrument size within the rental plan. Please check with the orchestra director if you are purchasing an instrument that is not from one of these stores. Used instruments may require more repairs than the instrument is worth. Also, instruments found online may not be well crafted and could impede student success in orchestra. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS WHEN LOOKING FOR AN INSTRUMENT:

Music store’s service policy

Warranty

Loaner instrument to use while yours is in the shop

Pick-up and delivery to school

Required accessories in the price quote

Interest rate and length of lease

Rental credit towards a step-up instrument

GETTING AN INSTRUMENT AND ACCESSORIES There are a number of excellent instrument dealers in our area. They carry new and used instruments which are on the recommended list for sale of lease-purchase, and they service instruments of all types. They also carry accessories and textbooks needed for our classes. Blackerby Violins 1111 W. Anderson Lane, 78757 512-469-9343 Violins Etc. 6013 Burnet Road, 78757 512-452-5617 Terra Nova Violins 7795 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757 512-640-4072 Austin Strings 13276 N Highway 183 # 201, 78759 512-918-1863 Westbank String Shop 6301 Manchaca Rd., 78745 512-326-4898 INSURANCE Most music shops will have insurance available for their instruments. Check with the shops for more details. RENTING AN INSTRUMENT FROM THE MURCHISON MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA We have a limited number of instruments to rent from the school. Please contact us if you are interested in renting an instrument from the school. The rental charge for a school instrument is a yearly fee of $80.00. This fee can be waivered if your child is part of the free or reduced lunch program. GRADING PROCEDURES: During each six weeks grading period, grades will be calculated using the following criteria: 50% Daily Participation/Rehearsal Work - This includes (but is not limited to) positively contributing to rehearsals, attending rehearsals, having appropriate music and supplies, maintaining a working instrument, following standard procedures, preparing music through home practice, etc.

Regular rehearsals are an extremely important part of our activities and must be as productive as possible. Rehearsals will begin promptly after the tardy bell, and everyone will be expected to be present with all of the instruments, supplies, and music necessary to make a positive contribution to our success. Every student will rehearse every class day unless he/she brings a note from a family physician or parent describing a medical condition which would prevent participation. Anyone who is excused from playing their instrument in rehearsal will be expected to sit in his/her assigned chair and actively observe and participate to the extent that is possible. In some cases, the directors reserve the right to assign written or other form of work in addition to active observation if a student is excused from playing during rehearsals due to a medical condition.

Sectional rehearsals are an important extension of the classroom and students will be expected to be present, punctual and prepared to contribute positively to our musical efforts. Since sectionals are an extension of the classroom, they will be graded activities. Students who will be participating in sectionals will be given a schedule in advance.

40% Written/Playing Assignments & Performances - This includes (but is not limited to) playing assignments, written assignments, chair tests, theory assignments, performances at concerts and contests. Please note that chair placement does not necessarily reflect grading. It is possible to perform well, make an “A,” and not receive one of the highest chairs in the section. Most sections are very skilled and many students perform very well.

All performances of the Murchison Orchestras are important and successful participation will contribute to the student’s grade. Musical performance in concerts is an extension of the classroom curriculum and is a required part of the student’s responsibilities in all MMS Orchestras. Failure to participate in either rehearsals or performances may result in a failing grade, reassignment to another ensemble and/or removal from the orchestra program at the discretion of school personnel.

Concerts consist of three parts: warm up/tuning, performance, and listening. The concert begins for the student at the warm up. Punctuality is essential. All students are expected to remain at the performance until it concludes. A concert concludes when the last group performs, and the directors have dismissed the students.

We do realize that extenuating circumstances can occur. They will be evaluated by the directors on an individual basis. In the event of such circumstances, students will be expected to notify the director of their ensemble in writing at least two weeks in advance of any possible conflicts except in the case of emergencies.

10% Practice - Students will be expected to practice each week on current musical assignments made during class each day. It is the responsibility of each student to be able to perform his or her music.

Practice Logs will be assigned on a weekly basis. There will be one practice log per week. Practice logs will start on Monday (A-Day classes) or Tuesday (B-Day classes) and should be signed by a parent or guardian, completed and returned by the next Monday or Tuesday in class. Late practice sheets should be put in a designated folder and will have 15 points deducted from the grade. Practice sheets not handed in by the end of the week will receive a grade of zero.

Practice Logs will count the number of practice sessions a student has per week. A practice session consists of the following time percentages:

● 5% Tone Study (long tones/smooth bows) ● 25% Technical Study (scales, etc.) ● 60% Music that is challenging to the student ● 10% Music that is fun to play but not necessarily challenging to the student.

The best judge of accuracy and learning is the number of times a student can perform a measure (group of notes) without mistakes in a row. We suggest five times in a row without mistakes before moving on to a new portion of music. For most students, the number of practice sessions in a week will be at least five times to maintain their progress and development. Students who wish to attain a competitive level of performance skill will likely need more practice sessions.

CARE OF THE INSTRUMENT String instruments are delicate and subject to damage from temperature extremes, humidity, and careless handling. The following suggestions are offered for their care.

1. Do not touch the hair of the bow as moisture, perspiration, oil, or dirt from your hands, face, or hair will spoil the bow hair.

2. Always loosen the bow after you play. 3. After playing, use a soft cloth to wipe rosin from the top of the instrument, bow stick, and strings. 4. Do not expose your instrument to excessive heat or cold. 5. When you are not using the instrument, always store it in the case. 6. Never put books or music in the case unless there is a pocket specifically for that. 7. Never polish the instrument with furniture polish. 8. Be sure to latch the case. 9. Check your bridge often. If it is not standing straight, ask your teacher to adjust it. 10. Do not let other people play your instrument. 11. Never use glue on any part of your instrument. 12. Do not attempt your own repairs. Only an expert repairman has the skill and experience to do a good

job. FESTIVALS AND COMPETITIONS AISD FALL STRING FESTIVAL AISD hosts a city-wide festival at Zilker Park on election day in November for all first-year orchestra students. Every beginning student from every school in the Austin Independent School District learns the same pieces and comes together for a giant concert! This happens during the school day and parents are encouraged to attend. REGION ORCHESTRA Texas Music Educators Association sponsors this event. Auditions occur on a Saturday in October. Participation is optional although all advanced students will be required to learn the music. Audition music is handed out to interested students at the beginning of the school year. Students pay their own entry fee and must be passing all their classes to be eligible to participate. Murchison students compete against string players from all over Region 18, which includes the Austin Independent School District and the surrounding area. Those selected for membership in the Region 18 Orchestra participate in a clinic and concert in November and receive a patch. More information about this will be sent home at a later date. Only students who have been playing one or more years are eligible. UNIVERSITY INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE (UIL) ORCHESTRA CONTEST Three selections are prepared through concentrated work in class, extra rehearsals, and a “practice” concert , (Pre-UIL). In addition, each orchestra is required to “sight-read” a composition. Both performances are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being the highest rating. Trophies are awarded to orchestras receiving the 1 rating in either concert or sight-reading, with a Sweepstakes trophy awarded for a rating of 1 in both areas. This competition is only for students who have been playing one or more years and is part of the non-beginner curriculum. This event is usually held in March and students must be passing their classes in order

to attend. AISD SOLO AND ENSEMBLE This optional event, usually held in the spring, allows students to display their individual talents. All students are encouraged to enter. They must pay their own entry fee. Preparation should begin more than a month before the event. Students can elect to play a solo (with piano accompaniment) or an ensemble (small group). Either the private teacher or the orchestra director will assist in the selection of appropriate music. ELIGIBILITY Students and parents should be aware that state law limits participation in any out-of-school activity to those receiving 70 or above in every class. This law applies to Region Orchestra Auditions, Region Orchestra Clinic and Concert, UIL Orchestra Contest, and AISD Solo and Ensemble. The law does not apply to school concerts as they are an extension of the classroom activities. AUSTIN YOUTH ORCHESTRA (AYO) Austin Youth Orchestra is a group for all Austin area students interested in performing string and full orchestra music. Auditions will be held for new students in September and January. Students meet one day a week on Monday evenings at O. Henry Middle School. There is a fee per semester. We highly encourage students to participate in this group. You can find more information at www.austinyouthorchestra.com PRIVATE LESSONS

Private lessons are available for students who would like a one-on-one weekly tutorial instruction on their particular instrument. Private lessons are a great way to excel more quickly on your instrument and are a great supplement to the orchestral experience here at Murchison. Although encouraged, private lessons are in no way a requirement for membership in any Murchison orchestra ensemble.

Murchison Orchestra Private Lessons

We will have private instructors available to teach students once a week during part of the orchestra class. Private instructors will be coming on a specified day once per week and 30 or 45 minute lessons will be available. This is a great opportunity to help your child learn and accelerate more quickly on their instrument. Please find the teachers and their contact information below. We encourage you to contact them about prices and payment plans for lessons. Payment for lessons will be made directly to the private instructor. Time slots may fill up quickly, so let the orchestra directors know if you are interested in taking lessons during class.

We ask that if you decide to provide lessons for your child that you commit to continuing through at least the whole semester.

Private Lesson teachers that teach at Murchison during the school day:

Violin and Viola Cindy Thane, 512-779-7237, cthane1@austin.rr.com

Cello Anna Park, 847-372-4271, annaparkcello@gmail.com

Bass Lauren Pierce, 770-365-6619, laurenpiercebass@gmail.com

Murchison Orchestra Private Teacher List (North and Central Austin) Students are also able to take lessons outside of school. The following is a list of teachers in the area. Again, we highly recommend private lessons for orchestra students. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us! Violin/Viola Teachers: Cindy Thane 512-779-7237 Cecilia Calvelo 512-284-4080 Alexis Buffum 512-497-0960 Sonja Larsen 612-554-0769 Katharine Saunders 706-249-6974 Daniel Gee 631-839-9782 Alexander Serafimov 512-258-6367 Elise Winters 512-484-3165 John Moon 512-796-5677 Andrew Noble 512-517-7101 Shana Essma 512-608-7211 Kristi Mano Washeka 512-740-0852 Tim Washeka 512-740-0852 Valerie Graves 512-477-0732 Kay Mueller 512-255-7194 Angela Robertson 512-773-5928 Leah Nelson 512-689-3210 Katie Nott 512-918-1863 June Rhee Solomon 512-293-7544 Hikari Van Dam 512-258-0750 Jenna O’Connor Ross 512-825-6800 Lauren Pierce 770-365-6619 Catharine Van Zanten 512-567-9836 Jenny Yang-Gee 512-310-1748 Cello Teachers: Marie Pantina 678-662-0950 Betsy Sanders 512-918-0805 Anna Park 847-372-4271 Valerie Fischer 512-626-4912 Shu-yi Huang-Scott 512-249-5526 Frank Jenkins 847-372-8437 Jen Mulhern 512-917-7216 Lori Faerber 512-918-1863 Kathleen Hamilton 512-417-3179

Bass Teachers: Lauren Pierce 770-365-6619 Matt LaCour 512-496-7200 Jessica Gillian-Valls 512-350-4477 David Dawson 512-416-1548 Lindsey Verrill 512-696-4120 Chris Flores 773-960-3850 Alex Scott 512-249-5526 Rob Jenkins 512-374-9433 David Kline 512-791-1387 Phil Spencer 970-227-0028 Music Stores With Private Teachers: Blackerby Violin Shop, 512-469-9343 1111 W. Anderson Lane 78757 Violins Etc., 512-452-5617 8620 Burnet Rd. 78757 Orpheus Music Academy, 512-231-8999 3918-C Far West Blvd 78731 Austin Strings, 512-918-1863 13276 N Highway 183 #201, 78750 Westbank String Shop, 512-326-4898 6301 Manchaca Rd. 78745

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MURCHISON ORCHESTRA HANDBOOK SIGNATURE PAGE Please detach and return this page within one week of receiving the handbook. _________________________________________________ PERIOD #_________ Student’s Name - PLEASE PRINT!

Mother’s Name: Father’s Name:

Home Phone: Home phone:

Work phone: Work phone:

Cell phone: Cell phone:

E-mail: E-mail:

Other:

Relationship to student:

Home Phone:

Work phone:

Cell phone:

E-mail:

PARENT VOLUNTEERS

Yes, send me emails regarding opportunities to volunteer for the Murchison Middle School Orchestra! You can choose which activities you would like to help with based on your availability and interest. Email: ________________________________________________

This handbook has been assembled to provide you with an overview of the expectations and requirements for participation in the Murchison Middle School Orchestra program. Its purpose is to give students and parents a clear and concise understanding of the workings of our orchestra program. We, the undersigned: • Have read and thoroughly understand the expectations/requirements outlined in this handbook and

agree to comply with these policies. • Have read and understand my commitment to take part in all orchestra events required for my

ensemble. • Agree to obtain a new copy of this handbook if it is lost or destroyed. • Understand that this manual is to serve as a reference for student participation. Policies will be

reviewed and checked periodically as a required part of the orchestra curriculum. • Understand that this page must be returned within one week of distribution of this handbook.

Student’s Signature Date

Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

Please fill out the “Other” section if there is information for another family member we need to be aware of.