Stacy Clark, Director of Bands Kelsey Lien, Junior High Band Director

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1 Page 1 Stacy Clark, Director of Bands Kelsey Lien, Junior High Band Director

2 Table of Contents Introduction Staff General Regulations Performance Special Problems/Excuses Eligibility Supplies Instruments (personal/school owned) Interpretation of Policies and Regulations Award Jackets Tobacco Games of Chance Band Travel Chaperones Membership Music Marching Band Attendance Policy Alternates Home/Away Games Leaving Away Games Uniforms Cell Phone Policy Color Guard Stadium Line Conduct Football/Marching Band Schedule Wind Ensemble Symphonic Band Jazz Band Important Dates to Remember Band Leadership Team Closing Forms that need to be turned in: Handbook Form Student Info & Health History Sheet UIL Acknowledgement Form Page 2

3 La Vernia High School Band La Vernia, Texas The La Vernia band program has been developing a tradition of excellence through the hard work and effort of its members. It is the job of each director and student member to see that this tradition is continued and improved upon each year. The success of the Mighty Bear Band will only be determined by the dedication, determination, discipline, and pride displayed by its members and the collective staff, parents, and community. It is important to remember that each member represents what is best about young people, our community, and involvement in a musical organization. The goal of the band staff is to provide students with the best music education possible while directing students to develop their character to the fullest extent through hard work, goal setting, cooperation, and responsibility. The high school band program consists of several ensembles including the Marching band, the Color guard, the Stadium Line, the Wind Ensemble, the Symphonic Band, and Jazz Band. Active membership in the Marching Band is required in order to participate in any of the other bands. Prior training in a junior high school band or in another high school band must be established to become a member of the LV High School Band. (An audition for seating will be necessary for transfer students). The membership of the marching band includes all members of the high school band program. Individually, members will have the opportunity to perform solo literature for their instruments and to perform in various chamber ensembles. These groups will perform at school and at UIL solo and ensemble contest. Band students also audition for various TMEA and/or ATSSB honor groups such as All-Region Band, All-Region Jazz Band, All-Region Orchestra, and All-State Band. Being selected as a member of these organizations is among the highest honors a high school musician can attain. Dedication, determination, discipline, and pride, It is important to understand that these are not simply words. Their meanings do not change from day to day, nor do their definitions change to accommodate one s own personal wants and desires. For our greatest goals to be met, we must be dedicated to our cause, determined to succeed, and have the discipline to work hard and make progress each day. Welcome to the LA VERNIA HIGH SCHOOL BAND! This handbook will clarify all of the expectations that go with being in one of the top performing bands in the state. Please read the entire handbook with your parents, sign the forms on the last few pages and return them to the band directors when specified. Sincerely, Stacy L. Clark Director of Bands La Vernia High School Page 3

4 Staff Stacy Clark Director of Performing Arts/ Director of Bands Kelsey Lien Junior High Band Director Dr. Tom Harvey Superintendent Diane Fisher Assistant Superintendent Cheryl Barron HS Principal Steven Verm HS Assistant Principal Kimberley Martin HS Assistant Principal Bill Mikeska JH Principal Victoria Baldwin JH Assistant Principal Page 4

5 General Regulations - All Bands As prescribed by TEA, students may not combine two 1/2 credits in different Fine Arts subject areas for the one-credit Fine Arts requirement in the Recommended and Distinguished Achievement Programs. Band is a full year course. Half credit is not given for completing half a year of band. Performance/Rehearsal: Throughout the school year, each band will present several public performances. Each performance is very important and attendance by the members of the band is required. Band members are expected to make all rehearsals and performances; it is a performance class as described in the Curriculum Handbook. Attendance will be taken at every rehearsal and performance. Only two reasons for missing a performance/rehearsal will be accepted. 1. Severe illness, which must be attested to by a physician. 2. Death in the family. Examples of UNEXCUSED absences and tardies include, but are not limited to: 1. Work 2. Transportation not arranged 3. Anything deemed unexcused by LV administration The Director of Bands must be notified, in writing, of any absence or it will automatically be considered an unexcused absence. An unexcused absence will result in disciplinary action. Repeated unexcused absence from rehearsals and/or performances will cause the student to be dismissed from the program. Special Problems/Excuses: Problems of a specific nature or excuses from attendance should be presented in advance to Ms. Clark. Eligibility: (No pass- No play) The band program takes pride in the fact that band students are among the highest achieving students academically in the school and are also among the most active in other organizations. Extra-Curricular Activities Most of the activities that are associated with marching band are extra-curricular including football games and contests. Events that are considered extra-curricular include: Any event with paid admission Any event that is inter-school competitive Any event that is not on a LV I.S.D campus or another LV I.S.D site Curricular Activities Most of the work that our students do outside of marching is considered curricular and NOT SUBJECT TO ELIGIBILITY. Free concerts, section rehearsals, concert rehearsals, and private lessons are all considered curricular. Page 5

6 Band students who are ineligible for extra-curricular functions will still be eligible for curricular events. Students who are having problems academically are encouraged to take part in tutorials that are held after school. Students who are in danger of failing are required to attend tutorials. Since there is a no pass/no play rule in Texas, members of the band who fail one or more classes will not be able to perform with the band at half time shows and other marching contests. If you fail a class, you are ineligible for any extra-curricular activities. This includes football games, pep rallies, parades, district/region band auditions, Solo/Ensemble Contest, and any type of group/team competition. Attendance is still required at all rehearsals for ineligible students. Ineligible students will be assigned as alternates during contest preparation time. Supplies: The following items are required at every band rehearsal during Marching Season. Most supplies can be purchased online at All purchases will be delivered to the school. Brass: valve oil and slide grease, B.E.R.P., all music, flip folder, lyre, pencil, drill book, water bottle, pivot points (will be provided), instrument in working order Woodwinds: 3 working reeds, swab, all music, flip folder, lyre, pencil, drill book, water bottle, pivot points (will be provided), instrument in working order Percussion: Percussion students are expected to have drill books, water, pivot points (will be provided), and carry the following sticks and mallets (or comparable sticks and mallets approved by the director) in their stick bag daily: Snare Sticks: Vic Firth (white) Corpsmaster Ralph Hardimon with Wooden tip BassDrum Mallets: Drum 1- MB0H, Drum 2- MB1H, Drum 3- MB2H, Drum 4- MB3H TenorMallets: Vic Firth Corpsmaster Multi-Tenor Stick Scott Johnson Vega Percussion Ensemble: see the required sticks and mallets for Concert Season. The following items are required at every band rehearsal during Concert Season. Brass: valve oil and slide grease, B.E.R.P., Foundations Book, all music, pencil, instrument in working order Woodwinds: 3 working reeds, swab, Foundations Book, all music, pencil, instrument in working order Percussion: Foundations Book, Percussion students are expected to carry the following sticks and mallets (or comparable sticks and mallets approved by the director) in their stick bag daily: Snare Sticks: Vic Firth SD-01 Generals ($9.60) Bells and Xylophone: Vic Firth M133, 134 or M141 (approx $31.00) Concert Yarn Mallets: Marimba Vic Firth M2, M203, M204 or Musser M7 ($30.38) Timpani: Vic Firth T1 General (33.60) Page 6

7 What you need to order and purchase: Students will need a pair of Viper Marching Shoes (in Black), a clear poncho, two pair of long wristed black cotton gloves, DriFit Shirt, and a band polo. Make checks payable to La Vernia High School Band. If you miss the order date all of the items below, minus the apparel, can be ordered at o There is a long sleeve DriFit option for $12 LV Band Polo LV Band Shorts....$15.00 LV Band Garment Bag....$26.00 o o o o ** Students that play Percussion, Drum Majors, and Color Guard members do NOT need to purchase Band Gloves. Instruments (personal): Instruments must be kept in good playing condition at all times. Up-keep is an individual responsibility! The following music store is recommended for repairs: High School Music 2106 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX (210) or (800) Please try to take instruments to the repair shop during school holidays. Instruments (School Owned): School owned instruments are the responsibility of the student to whom they are checked out. Page 7

8 All school instruments are repaired before being checked out to a student. Any repairs that are necessary during the time an instrument is checked out to a student are the responsibility of the student. The student must notify the band staff if a repair needs to be made. Any student who is issued a school instrument must return an Instrument Check-out Form to the director. The form must be signed by the parent/guardian and the student. Interpretation of Policies and Regulations: This handbook has been prepared as a general guide to the operation of the Band Department in the La Vernia School District. It must be understood that the students with whom this department deals with are all individuals. Therefore, it is necessary to understand that every infraction is unique, and the Director of Bands has the authority to render all judgments concerning any matter pertaining to the overall band program and its operation. Award Jacket: 1. Students must have been a member of the high school band for at least two years prior to receiving a jacket, and are a current Junior member signed up in the band class for the upcoming school year. They will be measured for jackets in May. 2. Any student dismissed from band for any reason will not receive a jacket. 3. Students must meet the above requirements to receive an award jacket, or meet one of the following criteria: a. Any student, any classification, advancing and participating with TMEA/ATSSB Area Band auditions, TMEA Area Orchestra auditions, or TMEA/ATSSB Area Jazz auditions. b. Any student, any classification, advancing and participating/performing with TMEA/ATSSB All-State Band, TMEA All-State Orchestra, TMEA/ATSSB All-State Jazz Band. Use of Tobacco, Narcotics, Drugs, and Alcoholic Beverages: Any student caught violating School Board Policy, is subject to immediate removal from the program. Any student caught with Tobacco, Narcotics, Drugs, and/or Alcohol (at any time) is subject to immediate removal from the program. The School Board shall prohibit the use of alcoholic beverages at school related or schoolsanctioned activities on or off school property. [Education Code (a)] The School Board shall attempt to provide a safe alcohol-free environment to students coming to or going from school. The Board may cooperate with local law enforcement officials and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission in attempting to provide this environment and in enforcing the alcohol-free zone provisions in the Alcoholic Beverage Code. [Education Code (b)] If the majority of the area of the District is located in a municipality with a population of 900,000 or more, the Board may petition the commissioners court of the county in which the District is located or the governing board of an incorporated city or town in which the District is located to adopt a 1,000-foot alcohol-free zone. [Education Code (b); Alcoholic Beverage Code , ,109.59] A person commits an offense (a Class C misdemeanor) if the person possesses an intoxicating beverage for consumption, sale, or distribution while: Page 8

9 1. On the grounds or in a building of a public school; or 2. Entering or inside any enclosure, field, or stadium where an athletic event sponsored or participated in by a public school is being held. [Education Code ] A person commits a criminal offense (enhanced) if the person knowingly or intentionally possesses a controlled substance listed in the Health and Safety Code, chapter 481: 1. In, on, or within 1,000 feet of any real property that is owned, rented, or leased to a school district; or 2. On a school bus. [Health and Safety Code ] In addition to the above prohibitions, no student shall inhale, ingest, apply, use, or possess an abusable glue, aerosol paint, or substance containing a volatile chemical with intent to inhale,ingest, apply, or use any of these in a manner: 1. Contrary to directions for use, cautions, or warnings appearing on a label of a container of the glue, paint, or substance; and 2. Designed to affect the central nervous system, create or induce a condition of intoxication, hallucination, or elation, or change, distort, or disturb the person s eyesight, thinking process, balance, or coordination. [Health and Safety Code ] No student shall intentionally manufacture, deliver, or possess with intent to manufacture or deliver abusable glue, or aerosol paint that does not contain additive material in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner of health. [Education Code ; Health and Safety Code ] No student who is 18 or older shall intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly deliver abusable glue or aerosol paint to a person who is younger than 18 years old. No student who is 18 or older shall sell or deliver a substance containing a volatile chemical to a person younger than 18. [Education Code ; Health and Safety Code ] No person shall intentionally or knowingly use or possess with intent to use inhalant paraphernalia to inhale, ingest, or otherwise introduce into the body an abusable glue, aerosol paint, or other substance that contains a volatile chemical. [Education Code ; Health and Safety Code ] Upon receipt of written notification from the parents or legal guardians of a student, the District shall withdraw the student from any program or activity funded under the federal Safe and Drug- Free Schools and Communities Act. The District shall make reasonable efforts to inform parents or legal guardians of the content of such programs or activities funded under the Act, other than classroom instruction. [No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, 20 U.S.C. 7163] Games of Chance: Games of chance are prohibited by school policy; therefore, they are not permitted. Band Travel: Band trips are taken only following the approval of the Board of Trustees. All school, band, and Page 9

10 board policies are in effect during trips and/or travel. Students who violate regulations while traveling will be subject to disciplinary actions upon return and/or may be sent home from the trip. Any student caught violating school/band policy is subject to being sent home (at guardian s expense) and immediate removal from the program. Trip Schedules: Schedules will be prepared and sent to parents in advance of any trip. These schedules will include the housing location(s) of the band, telephone numbers, and approximate event times. Trip Curfew: Reasonable curfews will be set for each night. At the time of curfew, each student is expected to be in his/her assigned room and to remain there until the morning release time. After curfew no one is allowed in or out except in emergencies. A student found outside of his/her assigned room during curfew hours, except in the case of an emergency, will be disciplined. Chaperones: Adults are requested to travel with the band on some travel functions and trips. They are chosen from the membership of the Band Booster Club and the school district staff. They travel as guests of the band and receive most of the same benefits from the trip, as do the students and the directors. A chaperones primary function is to assist the directors and help with band needs that the director has approved. They are given complete instructions prior to departure. Chaperones shall consider themselves to be under the direction of the Director of Bands. Membership: Beginning students are accepted on the basis of application to the directors. Membership in band groups above the beginning level is subject to assignment by the directors. Instrumentation needs will be observed and students may gain membership in a particular group, either through audition or assignment. On the high school level, no student may participate in the program if he/she has not maintained membership in the marching band. Music: Music is provided free of charge to the students. However, if the student loses their music they can be charged 25 cents per copy. The student will be expected to care for the music and be responsible for turning it in when requested. Marching Band The most active of bands, it requires extra rehearsals, summer rehearsals, and some weekend time in the fall. This group is composed of every high school band member and lasts through the duration of football season. Marching band activities include playing at all LV Bear football games and pep-rallies, community parades, area marching festivals, and UIL marching contest. However, contest performances will be limited to those students who demonstrate the most advanced skills for performance. The Marching Band rehearsal schedule is set by the Director of Bands and can change or be modified at any time. Rehearsal is normally after school from 4:00-6:00pm every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. They also rehearse during the class day. All rehearsals are required. Any appointments, doctor visits, or outings need to be scheduled on Thursday s. See the Attendance Policy below. Page 10

11 Materials that are required for all marching rehearsals are as follows: Proper footwear. No flip-flops or loose fitting shoes that will easily fall off. Drill Book/Flip Folder with music Water Bottle (camel pack, thermos, etc.) Instrument and YOU!! Attendance Policy The band is dependent upon all of its members. Unlike most other classes where individuals are accountable only for their own success or failure, a band student s success is dependent on the full participation of all the members. During marching season, an alternate will replace members who are absent, excused or unexcused. During concert season, a student may be removed if they are habitually absent from rehearsal. The following rehearsal guidelines have been established so that each band member can fully understand what is expected of him/her. 1. Be present for all rehearsals and performances. 2. Be on time in your designated place. 3. Have all required materials and equipment at each rehearsal or performance. 4. Do not talk or distract during rehearsals. 5. Follow directions of instructors as well as all school policies. Unexcused Absences may affect the grade as follows: 1-2 Grade of B (80-89) 3-4 Grade of C (70-79) 5+ Grade of F (69-below)/ and possible removal from program Rehearsal Attendance Policy Page 11 Marching Season: Members, who are absent, excused or unexcused, will be replaced by an alternate during marching season. Upon return to rehearsals, members who have been absent will become alternates. No member of the band has a "guaranteed" position in band drills. Concert Season: Every band member is required to attend all scheduled rehearsals/sectionals. As noted above, the out of town excuse will be accepted only during summer band practice and will be permitted only in cases of unavoidable conflicts and family vacations. School-related conflicts will be dealt with on an individual basis. Any and all absences, tardies, leave early from practice requests must be documented. The Director of Bands must receive written notification concerning ALL absences, of any kind, or it will automatically be unexcused. If you need to leave early from rehearsal this

12 must be put in writing and given to the Director of Bands prior to rehearsal. Band relies heavily on the participation of all students during rehearsal, and grades can be given based on participation. Performance Attendance Policy All eligible students must attend each scheduled performance; during marching season, this includes students who may or may not be marching in the show (alternates). During concert season all eligible students must attend all scheduled performances. In the event of an unexpected absence, only the following excuses will be considered: Death in the family or other severe family emergency the expectation here is that you or someone in your immediate family has been taken to the hospital SERIOUS personal illness must be documented by a doctor s excuse Any other absence must be approved in advance by the Director of Bands and is subject to his/her decision. To receive approval, the director must receive written notification concerning an absence prior to the event. Work, homework, babysitting, driver s education classes, or transportation problems are never accepted as excuses for missing a rehearsal or a performance. Marching Band Alternates An alternate is simply a student who does not currently have a place on the field in a numbered position. Students are not designated as permanent alternates unless they have not complied with the attendance rules OR have been subject to other disciplinary action. Therefore, alternates may be worked back into the performance as places open or as it may be necessary to replace those who have difficulty. In this way, it is hoped that everyone will have the opportunity to perform and gain experience. Younger or new students and those with little experience can expect to be alternates more often than upperclassmen. Selection of alternates will be done one week at a time and may change at any time during the week. Students who are alternates at any given performance are still an integral part of the performance and will assist the directors with field equipment and organizational needs. Should there be pre-game ceremonies, all students, including alternates will perform. (Students placed in permanent alternate positions because of disciplinary reasons will not participate at any time.) The Director of Bands is responsible for selecting all members of the band who will actually march at half time and/or pre-game activities. Although it is hoped that every member could perform every week, this is not possible. An alternate squad is maintained during marching season. Absence from a marching rehearsal or performance will cause a member to be automatically assigned to an alternate position. Once a band member has become an alternate, he/she is moved back into the marching band show only upon the instruction of the director. Every effort will be made to have every band member march at least once each season. Home Games/ Away Games: A performing entry will be standard procedure for all games. Due to this policy, no purses, cases, blankets, etc., may be carried into the stands. It will be necessary for other arrangements to be made to care for these items. Non-band members will not be allowed into the band formation in the stands. Non-band members will not be allowed to sit in the band formation in the stands. The band will perform in the stands for approximately ten minutes following the conclusion of each game. Page 12

13 The band will leave the stands as a unit. Members may not leave directly from the stands. Leaving Away Games: In some instances, a member of the band may wish not to return from an away game with the band. This will be allowed if written permission is turned in to the Director of Bands prior to the game trip departure. This permission must be signed by a parent/guardian and must include a telephone number where the parent/guardian may be reached for confirmation. Students may leave only with their parent/guardian. They may not leave with boyfriends, girlfriends, aunt, uncle, grandma, cousin, etc. Students who do not ride home with the band will be released to the parent or guardian at the busses following the game. Students must check out with a member of the band staff. The student is also in charge of making arrangements to get their instrument off the trailer. The band uniform must be brought back to school on the next school day. Uniforms: The uniform is property of La Vernia ISD. It should be considered an honor to wear the uniform and it will be treated as such. By accepting membership in this ensemble, you agree to serve as a representative of the LVHS Music Department and the spirit, pride, and traditions expected at LVHS. All students are to remove ALL jewelry while in the LVHS band uniform. In addition, there is no eating in full uniform and members are only allowed to drink water while in uniform. This policy will be strictly enforced. Any damage due to mistreatment or poor care of the uniforms will be the responsibility of the student, and parents. The individual cost of a uniform is in excess of $500. Uniforms will be cleaned on a systematic basis decided by the Director of Bands. Uniforms are fitted, as closely as possible, to each student. Where alterations are needed, the uniform must NOT BE CUT!!! Band students must purchase a pair of black marching shoes. Band shoes are Vipers with the rolled heal. In addition, students must also purchase long wristed black gloves, black socks, and a band t-shirt. These items will be ordered during summer rehearsals in August. Color Guard items will be discussed on a yearly basis. These uniform items are custom made and often change each season. The school will take care of having the uniforms cleaned. However, it is the student's responsibility to take care of the uniform (hanging it up properly after use). Gloves and the T- shirt need to be washed each week. If the student is abusing the uniform (consistently hanging it up improperly) the Director of Bands can charge the student a cleaning fee. Cell Phone Policy: With an understanding that we are at football games and other athletic events to work, students are expected to behave in the most professional manner possible. Having said that, no cell phones are allowed during football games or rehearsals. As you can imagine, talking on cell phones and text messaging during events not only looks unprofessional but also takes your focus off of the job that you should be focused on. Students who fail to adhere to this policy will be subject to disciplinary action by LVISD administration and/or the Director of Bands. Color Guard: Membership in the color guard is through audition each spring and is open to any student enrolled in, or will be enrolled in, LVHS. Applications next year will go out April 22, 2013 and will be due back to Ms. Clark by Friday, April 26, Page 13

14 The color guard performs with the band at pep-rallies, varsity football games, parades, and competitions. Guard members are considered band members and will be required to adhere to all band rules as well as guard rules. Band/CG members will play their instruments in the stands at football games. Non-Band/CG members will be expected to sit with the band in the stands at football games. All members should expect to keep grades at a C average or better. All Band CG members will be required to practice their instruments on a regular basis during marching season and will be required to attend and participate in solo and ensemble and/or ATSSB tryouts. Guard members are also required to attend summer guard camp that the director will set up. Guard Captain will be chosen through audition that begins with trying out for Section Leader. Members of this group will be responsible for some expenses such as pep rally uniforms, t- shirts, shoes, and other miscellaneous supplies. Color Guard Member Try-out will consist of three sections. The prospective members will be expected to perform fundamentals, the prepared routine, and show that they can take instruction in a small group setting during the officer try-outs. 1. Required fundamentals that will be used during the try-out: a. Jazz run b. Jazz walk c. Flats (4 sets of 8 counts) d. Angles (4 sets of 8 counts) e. Slams (4 sets of 8 counts) f. Figure 8 s (4 sets of 8 counts) g. Flourish (left and right) (4 sets of 8 counts) h. Drop Spins (4 sets of 8 counts) i. Hitch Toss j. Single Toss 2. In a large group setting, perform a 1:30 3:00 minute prepared routine. This prepared routine will be taught during practices prior to the try-out. Color Guard Officer Try-outs: Must meet the prerequisite of having been a member of the color guard for at least one year. 1. Officer Application and Reference Sheets are due no later than Friday, April 26, 2013 to Ms. Clark. Late applications will not be accepted. 2. Officer candidates will go through the prospective Color Guard Member try-out. 3. Interview Question a. The small group will be asked to leave and the officer candidate will be asked several What would you do if.. type of questions to see how well you think on your feet and handle making decisions. Stadium Line: Perform at all pep rallies, football games, and parades. Depending on the needs of the Marching Band there may or may not be a Field Line. Must be willing to attend drum clinic during the summer. Must be a member of the band at time of try-out. Page 14

15 Must maintain an average of at least a C. Information will go out to students on April 22, All interested percussion students will be responsible for attending a weekly practice on Mondays from 3:30-5:30pm (exact times will be given April 22th). Students will be trained on all aspects of the drumline. There will be three weeks of training followed by the Final Evaluation on May 13 th. All directors will listen to the students and rank their abilities on the instruments they are most interested in playing. After the Final Evaluation all directors will meet and total scores. Students will be placed on what they were strongest playing. Students may or may not be placed on their first choice of instruments. Conduct: The various bands within our program are ambassadors of the school, the district and the community. We expect that the band members will always be aware of the need to conduct themselves properly. Bands from LV have always received the highest praise for their excellent manners and conduct. We expect this tradition to continue! Page 15

16 Marching Band Performance Schedule (Please remember that ALL dates are subject to change.) August 24 LV Marching Preview 8pm LVISD Stadium August 31 Medina Valley 7:30/Away September 7 Calhoun 7:30/Home September 14 Canyon Lake 7:30/Away September 21 Wimberley 7:30/Home September 28 Bandera 7:30/Away October 5 Taylor 7:30/Home October 6 USBands Festival New Braunfels HS October 12 Pleasanton 7:30/Home October 13 UIL Marching Contest East Central October 19 OPEN October 26 Poteet 7:30/Away (October 27 UIL Area Marching Contest) November 2 Sam Houston 7:30/Home (November 5-6 UIL State Marching Contest) November 9 Somerset 7:30/Away April Possible Fiesta Event TBA May 18 Bluebonnet Parade 9:15am report time Page 16

17 Wind Ensemble: The Wind Ensemble is the Varsity competing concert ensemble. Selection into this ensemble is by competitive audition and director approval. This organization rehearses during the school day and also has extra after school band rehearsals that will be setup by the Director of Bands. There will also be one hour section rehearsals for each individual section once a week. The section rehearsal schedule will be decided on by the student members, and attendance is required. For questions concerning attendance policies please see the Attendance Policy section of this handbook. Certain sections may be combined at the director s discretion. Members selected into this ensemble are expected to maintain the highest standards of performance, effort, and discipline. They are also required to try-out for the ATSSB All-Region Band, and highly encouraged to participate at the UIL Solo & Ensemble contest. This organization performs at several invitational concert contests as and the University Interscholastic League Concert and Sight-reading Contest. Students must maintain a consistently high level of musicianship and meet eligibility requirements of H.B Symphonic Band: The Symphonic Band is the non-varsity competing concert ensemble. Selection into this ensemble is by competitive audition and director approval. This organization rehearses during the school day and may also have extra after school band rehearsals. For questions concerning rehearsal/performance attendance policies please see the Attendance Policy section of this handbook. Members selected into this ensemble are expected to maintain the highest standards of performance, effort, and discipline. They are highly encouraged to try-out for the ATSSB All-Region Band and participate at the UIL Solo & Ensemble contest. This organization may perform at several invitational concert contests as well as out of state festivals and the University Interscholastic League Concert and Sight-reading Contest. Students must maintain a consistently high level of musicianship and meet eligibility requirements of H.B Jazz Band: The Jazz Band is a small performing ensemble open to active members of the HS Band by audition. Students must be enrolled in the Marching Band/Wind Ens/Sym Band program in order to participate in Jazz Band. Students who display the necessary skill level on their instrument may be placed in Jazz Band, which is offered throughout the year. The jazz ensemble may also compete at various area jazz festivals. Individually, students have the opportunity to perform with the All-Region Jazz Band. This group will learn and perform music in the jazz, rock, dance, and pop idioms. Members are expected to maintain a high level of musicianship in order to retain their positions in the Jazz Band. The Jazz Band may perform for: U.I.L. Solo/Ensemble Contest, Christmas Concerts, Spring Concert, and at least one non-u.i.l. Contest. At no time will the activities of the Jazz Band be allowed to take precedence over any of the other bands at La Vernia High School. Any possible conflict will always be resolved in favor of the larger ensemble. Page 17

18 Important Dates to Remember: (Please remember that ALL dates are subject to change) September 15 September 22 ATSSB Region/Area/State Jazz Auditions Cuero HS TMEA Region/Area/State Jazz Auditions Judson HS October 13 UIL Region Marching Contest East Central HS October 27 UIL Area Marching Contest TBA November 5-6 UIL State Marching Contest 3A-5A Alamo Dome November 17 TMEA 5A District Band Auditions MacArthur November 26 ATSSB Region Band Auditions Navarro HS November 27 TMEA 5A Region Band Auditions Judson HS November 29 TMEA 4A Region Band Auditions TBA December 3 ATSSB All-Region Band Clinic/Concert Canyon Lake HS December 8* Christmas Concert LVISD Auditorium January 12 TMEA Area E Auditions NBHS & Oak Run MS January 12 ATSSB Area Auditions Orange Grove HS January ATSSB/TMEA All-Region Jazz Clinic/Concert Judson HS February 2 UIL Band/Orchestra Solo & Ensemble Sam Houston HS February TMEA/ATSSB All-State Clinic/Concert San Antonio, TX February 23 UIL Vocal & Piano Solo & Ensemble TBA March 5-6 UIL Concert & Sightreading Canyon Lake HS May 6* Section Leader Try-outs LVHS May 7* Drum Major Auditions LVHS (May 9) (JH Spring Concert) (LVISD Auditorium) May 13* Drumline Auditions LVHS May TLU Band Festival TLU May 18 Bluebonnet Parade La Vernia, TX May 20* Color Guard Try-out LVHS May 21 or 23* HS Spring Concert LVISD Auditorium May 28* HS Band Banquet LVHS *denotes the date is subject to change Page 18

19 Page 19 Band Leadership Team Student leaders are an integral part of our band program. There are 3 different types of student leaders: Drum Majors, Section Leaders, and Elected Officers. All prospective student leaders are expected to participate with the Drum Major Try-outs as well as the Section Leader Try-outs. All Band Leadership Team Members are expected to participate in all-region tryouts and other events through out the year. Failure to participate in these activities could result in the student s removal from office. Drum Majors (DM) Must be at least an upcoming junior band student (or current sophomore); Approval from the directors; G.P.A. of C or better. They will be judged by outside judges, a panel of non-school related persons of the Director of Band s choice. Applicants must apply and try-out for Section Leader as well. DMs are the ultimate SL.SLs teach, and the DMs are responsible for the SLs meaning the DMs need to be like a SL. Drum Major candidates will be adjudicated on their marching and conducting fundamental skills, verbal skills and pose during the live conducting, teaching, and interview phases. 1. Tryouts will consist of the following: a. Each candidate will step forward, one at a time, and do the following: i. Salute-The creation and length is up to the candidate. ii. Vocal Commands- Attention, Horns Up, Horns Down, Left Face, Right Face, About Face. b. All candidates will then perform the following at the same time. i. Conducting with metronome 88, 112, and All candidates will conduct a total of 16 measures of each time signature. 2. 4/4 will be first. 3/4 will be second. 2/4 will be last. 3. The metronome will be on for 8 measures and then it will be turned off for the last 8 measures. The candidates will be responsible for keeping tempo on the last 8 measures. c. Live Conducting Each candidate will go into the main band hall, one at a time, and be expected to conduct the band playing the School Song. d. Teaching The teaching scores from the Section Leader Try-outs will be made available to the judges. e. Interview with judges i. Drum Major candidate will be asked several What would you do if type of questions to see how well you think on your feet and handle making decisions. ii. Questions may also be asked about your answers on the BLT Application. Section Leaders (SL) must also attend and assist with Drum Major Try-outs. Section Leaders will be chosen by audition and will be named based on their marching and playing fundamental skill, their demonstrated responsibility, maturity and effort with their role as a band member, as well as their ability to communicate and teach. They will assist in the teaching of the marching and playing fundamentals, drill learning, and music section rehearsals during the Fall semester. 1. Section Leader candidates must have submitted an Application by the due date. 2. The try-out will consist of the following: a. Marching Proficiency i. Will be graded on the following routine, once without playing and once while playing: (Start at attention, horns down) 1. Hold 8 (horns up on 5, 6 breath 7, 8) 2. FM 8 (play Remington 1A [F, E, F]) 3. Hold 4 4. Left Forward Slide 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, Eb, F]) 5. Hold 4 6. BM 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, D, F]) 7. Right Forward Slide 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, Db, F]) 8. Hold 4

20 Page FM 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, C, F]) 10. Hold BM 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, B, F]) 12. FM 8 (continue Remington 1A [F, Bb, F]) 13. Halt ii. The routine will be judged on the following criteria: 1. Technique 2. Body Control 3. Carriage/Posture 4. Playing fundamentals while on the move 5. Routine memory w/metronome b. Playing Proficiency students will be asked to sign up for times with a director to pass off their Playing Proficiency the week prior to the Try-out. Brass will play for Ms. Clark; Woodwinds will play for Mr. Lien; Percussionists will play for Mr. Fry. Color Guard Capitan applicants will have to perform for all directors on a date to be later decided. i. Will be asked to play 1 or 2 of the following 96: 1. Remington Ex. 1A, 1B, or 1C (half, half, whole, 4 beats of rest) ii. Will be asked to play 1 or 2 of the following 132: 1. Articulation studies on Remington Ex. 1A, 1B, or 1C. iii. Will be asked to play the following 116 (extra credit for memorization): 1. Woodwinds Warm-Up Set 3 Opt 3 (four beats of rest in between each 2 measure phrase) 2. Brass Warm-Up Set 3 Opt 3 & Opt 5 (four beats of rest in between each 2 measure phrase) iv. Color Guard ONLY Applicants will choreograph an original routine to music. The routine will be no shorter than 2 minutes but no longer than 4 minutes. c. Teaching Component i. Each candidate will be given a squad of approx 8 members in which to teach, review, and perform a series of marching fundamentals (drill) that will be given at the time of the try-out. ii. Candidates will have 1 minute to memorize the drill. 1. Drill may look like: a. (Start at attention, horns down) b. Hold 8 c. FM 8 d. Hold 8 (Horns up/right shoulder on counts 5, 6, 7, 8) e. FM 8 f. B Left Slide 8 g. Halt h. Horns Down iii. Candidate will then have 3 minutes to teach it and then perform it. Elected Officers applicants must turn in an application by the deadline, attend and assist with Section Leader Try-outs, attend and assist with Drum Major Try-outs for their name to be put on the ballot. Officers will be chosen by election during the HS 4 th period band class. Elected Officers are the representatives of the band in all situations. They are responsible for setting band goals, planning social activities, and keeping the band facility clean and organized at all times. 1. President a. Must be a junior member of the band at the time of election. b. Is the elected spokesperson of the band and is expected to openly discuss any problems with the director. c. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale in the band. d. Is responsible for supervising (making sure things are done properly) the records of attendance, uniform distribution, etc. e. Will schedule regular Band Leadership Team meetings. f. Will be the representative of the band to the student council.

21 Page 21 g. Will serve as the representative of the band to visiting bands and on any other occasion necessary. h. In charge of organizing uniform distribution before and after every performance. 2. Vice President not an elected position a. Will assume the duties of the president in his/her absence. b. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. c. Will supervise the placement of podium, loud speakers, yard markers, etc., for marching rehearsals or inside rehearsals during marching and concert season. d. Is responsible for weekly inspection of all trophies, plaques, pictures, awards, band set (chairs, stands, etc.). e. Assist in organizing uniform distribution before and after every performance. 3. Secretary a. Must be at least a sophomore member of the band at the time of election. b. Will be responsible, under the supervision of the president, vice president, and directors for keeping the Attendance Binder accurate and organized (roll check will be taken at all rehearsals and performances of the band). c. Will be responsible for keeping an accurate record of minutes from Student Leadership Team meetings. Those minutes will be kept in the Attendance Binder. d. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. e. Assist in the distribution of uniforms before and after every performance. 4. Librarians (2) a. Must be at least freshman member of the band at the time of election. b. Will be responsible for issuing and filing all music and folders. c. Responsible for maintaining the library inventory. d. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. e. Assist in the distribution of uniforms before and after every performance. f. **if possible will need to schedule an Applied Music class** 5. Historian a. Must be at least a freshman member of the band at the time of election. b. Will be responsible, under the supervision of the president and vice president, for keeping a scrapbook and making a video of all LV band activities which will be made available at the end of the year for the band banquet. c. Will be responsible for taking photographs or having a representative photographer at all LV band activities. d. Will be responsible for collecting and keeping all newspaper articles concerning the LV band program e. Will be responsible for collecting and keeping copies of all concert and contest printed programs. f. Will be responsible for all correspondence and publicity. (posters, flyers, thank you notes, announcements, etc. All of which must be approved by the director before made public.) g. Assist in the distribution of uniforms before every performance. 6. Quarter Master (Band Manager) a. Must be at least a sophomore member of the band at the time of election. b. Will be responsible for the set-up and orderliness of the band halls and all rehearsal areas. c. Will be responsible for the transfer of equipment from the band hall to the practice field, stage, etc. d. Will supervise the Field & Loading Crew for all events. e. Is responsible for, under the supervision of the director, assigning the freshman duties of the week and making sure those duties are done properly. f. Will be responsible, under the supervision of the director to make sure all equipment is loaded when traveling. g. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. 7. Property (2) a. Field Crew Captain i. Must be at least a freshman member of the band at the time of election.

22 Page 22 ii. Will be responsible, under the guidance of the Quarter Master (Band Manager) and director, for selecting a Field Crew. iii. Will be responsible, under the guidance of the Quarter Master (Band Manager) and director, move equipment to field, stage, etc. iv. Will be responsible for the care and maintenance of all band properties. (i.e. drum major podium, yard markers, etc.) v. Will be responsible for assisting the loading crew if needed. vi. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. b. Loading Crew Captain i. Must be at least a freshman member of the band at the time of election. ii. Will be responsible, under the guidance of the Quarter Master (Band Manager) and director, for selecting a Loading Crew. iii. Will be responsible, under the guidance of the Quarter Master (Band Manager) and director, for loading and unloading of all equipment. iv. Will be responsible for the care and maintenance of all band properties. (i.e. trailer, blue tubs, tie down straps, etc.) v. Will be responsible for assisting the Field Crew if needed. vi. Is responsible for maintaining a high spirit and morale within the band. 8. Chaplain a. Must be at least a freshman member of the band at the time of election. b. Responsible for leading or appointing someone to lead prayers at contest or before a performance. c. Responsible for leading, under the guidance of a faculty sponsor, the La Vernia Fellowship of Christian Musicians chapter. d. Responsible for giving the invocation at specified football games. e. Responsible for maintaining spiritual morale within the band. f. Assist in the distribution of uniforms before every performance.