CARIO BAND HANDBOOK 2017 ~ 2018

Transcription

1 CARIO BAND HANDBOOK 2017 ~ 2018 OUR DIRECTORS Jeff Scott Director of Bands Samantha Mumford Assistant Director of Bands jeffrey_scott@charleston.k12.sc.us director@cariobands.org samantha_mumford@charleston.k12.sc.us assistantdirector@cariobands.org ADDRESS THOMAS CARIO MIDDLE SCHOOL CARIO BAND BOOSTERS 3500 Thomas Cario Blvd 1121 Park West Blvd., Suite B, #224 Mt. Pleasant, SC Mt. Pleasant SC WEBSITE: WEBSITE: PHONE NUMBERS: Band Office (843) Fax: (843)

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME... 5 PHILOSOPHY... 5 GOALS... 5 GENERAL INFORMATION... 6 IMPORTANT DATES... 6 BAND PARENT NIGHT... 6 CARIO BAND BOOSTERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS... 6 PRACTICE CHARTS... 6 SMARTMUSIC... 6 HOW PARENTS CAN HELP... 6 IN THE CLASSROOM... 7 BAND ROOM RULES AND EXPECTATIONS... 7 CLASSROOM AND REHEARSAL BEHAVIOR... 7 CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR... 7 CONCERT ETIQUETTE... 8 ADDITIONAL BAND MEMBER EXPECTATIONS... 8 REQUIRED FORMS... 8 DAILY CLASS MATERIALS... 9 SUPPLIES PROVIDED BY THE BAND PROGRAM TH GRADE TH GRADE TH GRADE... 9 ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES... 9 COPIES OF SHEET MUSIC... 9 REPLACEMENT MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES... 9 INSTRUMENTS RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS UPGRADING TO A STEP-UP OR PROFESSIONAL INSTRUMENT SPECIAL SUPPLIES AND CARE OF INSTRUMENTS PERCUSSION SCHOOL INSTRUMENT RENTAL INFORMATION INSTRUMENT RENTAL AGREEMENT FORM INSTRUMENT STORAGE LOST OR STOLEN INSTRUMENTS ACADEMICS, CURRICULUM AND GRADES GRADING RUBRIC PARTICIPATION AND CONCERTS PLAYING TEST CBHandbook.docx Page 2 Revised: 8/17/2017

3 WRITTEN TEST PRACTICE CHARTS EXTRA CREDIT PRIVATE LESSONS HOMEWORK SMARTMUSIC ASSESSMENT SOFTWARE HOW SMARTMUSIC WORKS SUBSCRIPTION PASS-OFFS TH GRADE HONOR MEDAL SMARTMUSIC REQUIREMENT TH & 8 TH GRADE HONOR BAND AWARD SMARTMUSIC REQUIREMENT OUTSIDE CONCERT ATTENDANCE PRIVATE INSTRUCTORS & LESSONS ACADEMY PRIVATE LESSONS LESSONS ACADEMY PREFERRED INSTRUMENT LIST FOR CARIO BAND STUDENTS DON T BUY CHEAP INSTRUMENTS ~ YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! REHEARSALS AND CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL TIME POLICY ON ABSENCES FROM REHEARSALS OR CONCERTS PERFORMING GROUPS AT CARIO TH GRADE BEGINNER BAND TH GRADE CONCERT BAND TH GRADE CONCERT FESTIVAL BAND TH GRADE CONCERT BAND AND JAZZ BANDS SYMPHONIC BAND BEGINNER STUDENTS IN 7 TH OR 8 TH GRADE CONCERT ATTIRE TH GRADE TH AND 8 TH GRADE TH GRADE JAZZ BAND AWARDS AND RECOGNITION CHAIR PLACEMENT TH GRADE CONCERT AND 8 TH GRADE CONCERT BANDS TH GRADE BEGINNING BAND TH AND 8 TH GRADE CARIO HONOR BAND AWARD REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HONOR BAND AWARD HOW POINTS ARE AWARDED TH GRADE CARIO HONOR MEDAL EVENT DESCRIPTIONS CBHandbook.docx Page 3 Revised: 8/17/2017

4 POLICY CONCERNING AUDITIONING FOR HONOR BANDS COUNTY, REGION AND ALL-STATE QUALIFICATIONS TO REGISTER ALL-COUNTY BAND REGION 4 BAND SOUTH CAROLINA ALL-STATE BAND CONCERT FESTIVAL SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FLORIDA MUSIC FESTIVAL CAROWINDS MUSIC FESTIVAL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS BAND FEES PAYMENT OPTIONS FAIR SHARE ASSESSMENT (FSA) STUDENT ACCOUNTS BALANCE CARRYOVER TRIP DEPOSIT AND REFUND POLICY FUNDRAISING SCHOLARSHIP FUND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SCHOLARSHIP FORM & APPROVAL GUIDELINES CARIO BAND BOOSTER ORGANIZATION CONTACT INFORMATION SCHOOL YEAR CBHandbook.docx Page 4 Revised: 8/17/2017

5 WELCOME The Directors and Band Boosters wish to welcome both the new and returning Cario Band students. Our awardwinning middle school band program consistently produces many of the area s most outstanding young musicians. We are proud of our students achievements and look forward to continuing the pursuit of excellence through music with your child. This handbook has been designed to provide comprehensive information about the band program. Parents and students are asked to read the handbook as the first step in becoming familiar with the band policies, procedures and events. Both the student and the parent will be asked to sign and submit a Statement of Responsibility acknowledging that they have read and understand the policies and the expectations of the program. For your convenience, we have included our annual band calendar and contact information for our booster board. Please check the band website ( regularly for updates to events throughout the year. Keep this handbook in your band box to refer to if you have questions or forget any of the procedures. PHILOSOPHY We believe the study of instrumental music is a vital part of our middle school curriculum and is beneficial for students in many areas of their lives. Learning to play an instrument and being a part of a successful school band fosters discipline, cooperation, self-esteem, creativity, critical thinking, leadership, and personal responsibility. For many students, experience in a middle school band leads to a lifetime of participation in music and the arts. GOALS To provide a comprehensive music education experience for all students who demonstrate the aptitude and interest in learning instrumental music To benefit the school and community through the public performance of quality music To model and encourage the development of strong character traits like personal responsibility, integrity, hard work, and respect for others To provide students with a positive group experience where they may grow socially as they learn and help one another succeed in music 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 5 Revised: 8/17/2017

6 GENERAL INFORMATION IMPORTANT DATES The calendar for the year is included in the back of this handbook. Please make note of these important dates so that conflicts may be avoided. BAND PARENT NIGHT Band Parent Night is a courtesy organized by the Band Boosters so that students and parents may have a successful start to the year. CARIO BAND BOOSTERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Cario Band Booster Board volunteers their time to assist the Directors with managing the band program. We are busy parents (just like you) and we will respond to you as soon as we can. The band is a busy organization! There is always something to do and we would love to have your help. Volunteering is the best way for a parent to learn about band. PRACTICE CHARTS Practice charts are due each Friday and must be signed by a parent or guardian. The charts may be downloaded from our website at the following link: Practice charts count as 10% of the overall band grade. SMART MUSIC The Band Boosters provide the subscription to Smart Music for all students. The 7 th & 8 th grade students will receive a code to download the software. The 6 th grade students will receive a subscription code and instructions. Students will receive their assignments in class, and will be able to submit them through this software. Smart Music counts as 30% of the overall band grade. HOW PARENTS CAN HELP Read the handbook and sign and return the Statement of Responsibility Form. Return all required forms and make your Fair Share deposit by Friday, September 12th. It s a homework grade! Keep up with the band Fair Share Assessment (FSA) payment schedule or actively fundraise, if you choose to do so. Make sure your child is practicing regularly and sign the practice chart weekly. Don t have your child s efforts end up in the recycle bin because it s not signed or we can t read the handwriting! Check the website regularly and read the From the Band Room (FTBR) s. Volunteer ~ Watch for our volunteer s where you can sign-up on-line. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 6 Revised: 8/17/2017

7 IN THE CLASSROOM BAND ROOM RULES AND EXPECTATIONS All rules and regulations are designed to serve one of three purposes: to ensure the safety of the student; to protect and maintain the reputation of the organization; to allow the organization to meet its objectives. Students must adhere to the following: No food, candy, drinks, and gum in the band room. Only students enrolled in band are allowed in the band room. Instruments are to be placed in the storage room on the designated instrument shelf. The seating area should be kept clear of backpacks, cases, etc. Instruments are to be taken home at the conclusion of the school day. The band director, the school, and the booster club are not responsible for the safekeeping of student owned or school issued instruments left overnight in the band room. Cario Bands has an official Facebook page. Under NO circumstances can students create a Facebook page representing a group in the band. CLASSROOM AND REHEARSAL BEHAVIOR Students are expected to: Use the restroom either before or after class. Be polite to other students and instructors. Enter the band room in a quiet, calm manner and be on time for each class and rehearsal. Walk while in the band room and refrain from horseplay. Have their instruments assembled when the teacher begins class or rehearsal. Have their instrument, binder, music, and pencil in class each day. Not talk during instruction time. Follow the directions issued by Mr. Scott and Mrs. Wilkinson, clinicians, and chaperones. Handle your own instrument. Students causing damage to either Cario band equipment or another student s instrument will be held financially responsible for the repair or replacement of the damaged item. CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR 1 st Verbal warning from teacher 2 nd Ten minute time out in Mr. Scott s office 3 rd Chair demotion or detention, depending on behavior 4 th Discussion with parents, either through a phone call or parent conference 5 th Office referral 6 th Removal from the band program subject to administrative approval 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 7 Revised: 8/17/2017

8 CONCERT ETIQUETTE At various times during the year, students will attend or perform in concerts. The following are the standard set of manners to be used when attending a live performance: Dress nicely for all live performances. Arrive at a concert ten to fifteen minutes early. If you are late, wait until you hear applause before entering the concert area to find a seat. Clap when the conductor comes onto the stage as a sign of welcome to the musicians. Do not talk during the performance. Do not bring food, drinks, or gum into a concert area. Clap only at the end of an entire selection. If there are movements within a selection, wait until the conductor turns around and faces the audience before applauding. In a jazz concert, clap at the end of each song and clap after the end of each solo. Please NEVER leave performances until the entire program is complete. This is disrespectful to the other performers, so plan to make the concert night an evening to relax and enjoy the performance. ADDITIONAL BAND MEMBER EXPECTATIONS Because some band members may attend events that may include missing portions of the school day, additional conduct and grade expectations exist for these students. Band members represent themselves, the school, and the band program at all times. Band members who do not meet the following additional expectations may not be allowed to go on band field trips: Students are expected to maintain a strong academic standing in each class, as well as an 85 average or above in band to be eligible for trip participation. Prior to a band trip or activity in which participation involves missing all of or part of the school day, the student should make arrangements for the successful completion of all missed assignments. Students must submit all required paperwork for the trip in advance of the departure date. Students failing to do so will not be allowed to travel with the band. Fair Share Assessments must be paid in full to be eligible for band trips. REQUIRED FORMS Each school year, the following signed forms are required to be on file in the band room for all students: Student Information Sheet Statement of Responsibility Year-Long Permission & Internet Policy Form Uniform Agreement 7 th & 8 th Grade The CCSD Extra-Curricular and Medical Information Forms are required for all students attending out-of-state trips. The medical form must be notarized for students attending the Florida and Carowinds trips. Students will not be allowed to travel with the band until all forms are submitted and on file! 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 8 Revised: 8/17/2017

9 DAILY CLASS MATERIALS Students will receive music books, binders, and a SmartMusic subscription through the band program. SUPPLIES PROVIDED BY THE BAND PROGRAM 6TH GRADE 1 black three-ring binder plastic sheet protectors and a pencil Essential Elements 2000 Book 1 Rhythm Book 1 7TH GRADE Habits of a Successful Musician Essential Elements 2000 Book 2 Rhythm Book 2 8TH GRADE Habits of a Successful Musician Rhythm Book 3 ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES Additionally, it is recommended that students purchase a metronome and tuner. Tonal Energy is a great app for both of these ($3.99). The Smart Music software conveniently includes both for use at home also. COPIES OF SHEET MUSIC Sheet music should be placed in the plastic sheet protectors before being placed in the student s binder. At various times during the school year, sheet music will be issued to each student. If a student is absent, he or she is responsible for obtaining a copy of the music from Mr. Scott. REPLACEMENT MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES May be purchased at the following shops: Music & Arts Center (843) Savannah Highway West Ashley SC Southern Strings (843) Wando Park Boulevard #106 Mount Pleasant, SC Mt. Pleasant Music (843) Lansing Drive Mount Pleasant, SC CBHandbook.docx Page 9 Revised: 8/17/2017

10 INSTRUMENTS Unless otherwise notified, each student will need to purchase or rent an instrument from a local music store or other reputable source. Beware of poor quality instruments for sale at department, discount stores and EBay. A preferred instrument list is available in this handbook and on the Cario Bands website. We recommend you begin with Music & Arts and Instrument Doc (Trombone) as their representatives know exactly what instruments and materials are requested by our program. RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS We suggest some modifications to the standard rental equipment. Please check the list below and request that the music store make the change. Although other less expensive mouthpieces will oftentimes come with a rented or purchased instrument, these professional mouthpieces will help a child produce a more characteristic sound on his or her instrument. These materials are important in helping students be more successful during their first years as a musician. Local music stores have been notified to include the above equipment in the rental instruments; however, not all stores will do so. If they are not included, please ask the manager of the store to make the change. Clarinet players should purchase a Van Doren M13 mouthpiece. French Horn players should purchase a Holton Farkas MDC Saxophone players should purchase a Selmer C star mouthpiece. In addition, Clarinet and Saxophone players are recommended to use a Rovner ligature. Trumpet players should purchase a Bach 5C mouthpiece. Trombone and Euphonium (Baritone) players should purchase a Bach 6 ½ AL mouthpiece. In addition, Euphonium (Baritone) players need a black towel that they can roll up and use to help support the instrument. Tuba players should purchase a Bach 18 mouthpiece. Note: Parents are responsible for returning rented instruments to the music store if their child discontinues band. Do not drop off a rented instrument to the band room. The directors will not return the instrument for you and you will continue to incur the rental charges until it is returned. UPGRADING TO A STEP-UP OR PROFESSIONAL INSTRUMENT At some point, students will need to upgrade from a beginner instrument to a higher quality instrument. If you are considering a new instrument, please consult Mr. Scott prior to the purchase. SPECIAL SUPPLIES AND CARE OF INSTRUMENTS Clarinet and Saxophone Players should purchase silk swabs for cleaning the spitfrom their instruments. In addition, students should purchase a reed guard to protect and sustain the life of reeds when not in use. Students must provide their own reeds. A minimum of three working reeds is required in the case at all times. Valved Brass Instrument Players need to have a bottle of valve oil, tuning slide grease, and a snake for cleaning their instruments and a polishing cloth to remove fingerprints from the instrument. Once every six months, the student will need to give the instrument a bath in lukewarm water (hot water will cause the varnish to soften and peel.) Valves should first be removed. The student should add just a drop or two of dishwashing liquid to the water and run the snake through the slides of the instrument. After the bath, air-dry the instrument and then reapply the valve oil and tuning grease. Trombones Need to have a small can of Lemon Pledge and a small bottle of water with a spray nozzle in order to keep the slide in good working order. Follow the instrument bathing instructions for Valved Brass Instruments when washing the instrument. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 10 Revised: 8/17/2017

11 PERCUSSION Percussion students must purchase their own stick bags, which should include the following equipment (please confirm with the percussion teacher prior to purchasing equipment): Snare sticks (Vic Firth SD 1) Medium yarn mallets These items may be purchased from Music & Arts or The Instrument Doc. Percussion students must pay an annual fee for the use of school-owned percussion instruments and equipment. This fee is due at the beginning of the year and covers wear and tear on the percussion instruments; band owned sticks and accessories; and the replacement costs of the heads of the various percussion instruments. SCHOOL INSTRUMENT RENTAL INFORMATION The Cario Band Program has a limited number of school-owned instruments that may be rented through the program. Our rentals are generally the very large instruments that cannot normally be rented at local stores ~ Base Clarinet, Bassoon, Euphonium and Tuba. The parents and student renting the instrument then become responsible for all repairs needed to the instrument while in the student s possession. Rental fees must be paid before the instrument can be released to the student. INSTRUMENT RENTAL AGREEMENT FORM The instrument rental agreement form is available from Mr. Scott. Students will forfeit their use of a school-owned instrument and the rental fee for any of the following reasons: Negligent treatment of the instrument by the student. A failing grade in band for any grading period. Failure to comply with fees payment schedule. Procurement of a replacement instrument is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. INSTRUMENT STORAGE Students may store large instruments in the storage closet in the band room immediately before school begins each day. Instruments should be placed neatly on the designated shelf. All cases must be clearly labeled with the band student s name, address, and phone number on the outside. Smaller instruments, such as Flute, Clarinet, and oboe should be kept in the student s school locker. Instruments without labels are not allowed in the storage room at any time! This is for your own protection! Students should take their instrument home from school each day. LOST OR STOLEN INSTRUMENTS The band program, the school district, the directors, and the Band Boosters are not responsible for student-owned or rented instruments and materials that are lost or stolen. Each parent and student is responsible for recording the instrument s serial number at home and each student is responsible for making sure his or her instrument is always taken home at the end of the school day. Parents who rent their child s instrument from a music store or from the school instrument inventory are strongly encouraged to purchase insurance on that instrument. Parents who purchase an instrument are recommended to check with their homeowner s insurance policy regarding potential loss or theft of that instrument during the school day. If an instrument is lost or stolen: 1. Notify Mr. Scott immediately and provide the serial number of the instrument. 2. Determine where your child last saw the instrument. 3. Upon teacher request, file a police report. ACADEMICS, CURRICULUM AND GRADES The grade that a student receives in band will be determined by the homework grade, pass-offs, theory assignments, rehearsals and concerts, and teacher assignments that he or she completes, as well as the score of that completed work. On some assignments, the student may have the opportunity to re-submit the work to improve the grade received. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 11 Revised: 8/17/2017

12 Students who have unexcused absences from a performance will have their grade lowered accordingly. More than one unexcused absence from a performance may result in the student s removal from the band program. Note: An unexcused absence from a performance or rehearsal will significantly affect the student's final grade and possibly their continuation in the program. GRADING RUBRIC PARTICIPATION AND CONCERTS Daily participation grade (1 per grading period) (performing arts class) Rehearsal and concert performance. All Cario Band Rehearsals and Concerts are MANDATORY. Concerts will be counted twice in the grade book 30% PLAYING TEST In class playing tests and quarterly Smart Music assignment averages. 30% WRITTEN TEST Written musical vocabulary tests, written performance evaluations and written music theory tests. Outside Concert Attendance ~ Written Concert Evaluations are due twice during the year; at the end of the first Semester in January and at the end of the second semester in May. Counted as 2 grades during the second and fourth grading period (see page 15) PRACTICE CHARTS Weekly practice chart homework grades. Completed charts are to be turned in every Friday. 120 minutes per week = 100% for the weekly chart. There are 9 weeks in every grading period and we count 7 practice charts. 30% 10% EXTRA CREDIT PRIVATE LESSONS Extra credit may be earned by taking private lessons. Forms are available on the Cario Bands website for recording lessons and must be signed by the private instructor, noting the date, time spent, and material practiced. HOMEWORK Students are expected to practice at home 120 minutes each week. This is best accomplished by practicing 30 minutes per day, 4 days per week. Students should record practice time on practice charts each time they practice. Parents are required to sign the practice chart. Practice charts can be downloaded from the Cario Bands website and are due each Friday. This constitutes the homework grade. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 12 Revised: 8/17/2017

13 SMARTMUSIC ASSESSMENT SOFTWARE HOW SMART MUSIC WORKS Smart Music assessment software ( is simply the greatest technological advancement in several generations for the teaching of instrumental music. This amazing program allows students to receive instant feedback on their achievement level. It identifies their performance mistakes, allows them to record themselves (so they can listen to how they sound), assigns a grade for work completed and allows them to the results to the directors for grades. All student assignments are submitted through SmartMusic. In addition, SmartMusic will now allow students to pass-off their County, Region and State audition material, as well as their concert music. SUBSCRIPTION Part of the student s Fair Share Assessment (FSA) includes a subscription to Smart Music, so parents are not responsible for purchasing SmartMusic on their own. In addition, this program incorporates a tuner and a metronome, thus not requiring you to have to purchase them separately. The 6 th Grade students receive a Smart Music subscription code and instructions to load on a home computer. The 7 th & 8 th Grade students receive an access code to renew their subscriptions. Students must set up their SmartMusic accounts at the beginning of the school year to begin receiving assignments for class. A handout of procedures for the use of SmartMusic will be given out in class and posted on the Cario Bands website. Included in your first assignment is to send the Assistant Director your log-in and password. We cannot emphasize enough how important this program is. The students who use SmartMusic advance much more quickly than students who do not use the program. Several beginner students have completed both the 6 th and 7 th grade curriculum in only one year! The combination of using SmartMusic and private instruction is simply unbeatable! PASS-OFFS Pass-off assignments are a method of evaluating students progress while allowing them to progress individually in their musical development. Pass-off material will be from the Essential Elements method books and other materials available on SmartMusic. The directors will create assignments, and they are expected to be completed by the deadline. Material not passed off by the deadline will adversely affect the student s grade. 6 TH GRADE HONOR MEDAL SMART MUSIC REQUIREMENT While students may submit any score for their nine weeks grade, a score of 95 or higher with less than one red note is required to pass off the line for honor band credit. The metronome click must be on and the solo line must be turned off. 7 TH & 8 TH GRADE HONOR BAND AWARD SMART MUSIC REQUIREMENT While students may submit any score for their nine weeks grade, a score of 95 or higher with less than one red note is required to pass off the line for honor band credit. The metronome click must be on and the solo line must be turned off. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 13 Revised: 8/17/2017

14 OUTSIDE CONCERT ATTENDANCE Instruction in the musical arts may be experienced on many levels. Students learn to gauge their own level of play and to appreciate the talents of other performing groups by attending events and concerts offered by our neighboring schools and in the community. Because this is an integral part of the learning process, Cario band students are required to attend two outside concert performances per semester. This may include Cario band performances in which they themselves are not performing. Upcoming qualifying performances will be posted on the Cario Bands website and posted in the band room. Concert Evaluation Form To receive credit, students must turn in a program from the event and a Performance Evaluation Form. To be considered for 6 th Grade Honor Medal or the Honor Band Award (7 th & 8 th Grade) you must attend three concerts per semester, for a total of six concerts per year. Forms are available in the band room and on the Cario Bands website. Outside concert attendance is counted as a written test grade twice throughout the year (once at the end of the first semester in January and again at the end of the second semester in May). Programs and evaluations after the deadline will not be counted. Attendance at performances by Wando High School and Laing and Moultrie Middle School bands are encouraged to support fine arts in the East Cooper School District. PRIVATE INSTRUCTORS& LESSONS ACADEMY The Directors do not recommend students taking lessons from someone who does not play that instrument as their major instrument. Just because someone offers lessons does not guarantee the quality of the lessons. If students take lessons through a music store, the instructor must be a professional player on the instrument they are instructing. PRIVATE LESSONS Private lessons are the best way to improve performance skills on a musical instrument. The one-on-one approach allows the student to benefit from the individual attention that cannot be matched in a large classroom setting. A recent survey of students in the South Carolina All-State Band revealed that 80% of those students in the band studied privately. Simply put, private lessons work! At Cario, we encourage parents to consider private lessons for their child. Please consult the director for recommendations of instructors. LESSONS ACADEMY As a convenience to our parents, there will be a weekly private lessons program located at Cario Middle School. The Lessons Academy will offer Charleston s finest teachers in one location to provide our students the opportunity to excel in music, while making getting to those lessons more convenient for our band parents! Parents have found this program to be very beneficial, saving them time, gas, and frustration in obtaining private lessons. The private lessons staff consists of Charleston s finest teachers, symphony members and professional players. Each teacher has been approved by the band staff due to their track record of providing high quality lessons for the Cario community. In a recent study, over 80% of the students selected for All-State Band were enrolled in weekly private lesson instruction. Lessons are on Wednesdays starting at 4 pm with the last lesson at 7:30 pm (lessons are 30 minutes). We have two sessions, each lasting 16 weeks. There are only limited spots available for each teacher, and the instructors will establish the rate for each lesson. PREFERRED INSTRUMENT LIST FOR CARIO BAND STUDENTS In the past few years, everyone from Costco to Sears has begun to produce cheap student-line instruments that are much less expensive than the instruments available in the music stores. Even STAPLES sells musical instruments! 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 14 Revised: 8/17/2017

15 DON T BUY CHEAP INSTRUMENTS ~ YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! Although some people think off-brand products are improving, they are generally very inferior to the established music lines. I find it better to avoid them entirely. Quality instruments give your child a much better chance to succeed. Some of the off-brand names are so bad that I will not allow students to begin on them. They are made of cheap metal and poor materials that are not durable and play out of tune. Worse, no repairman can find any parts for these economy instruments when they need repair. Below is a list of the preferred instruments for the Cario Bands Program. I recommend these instruments because of their history of quality craftsmanship, high-grade materials, and the recommendations of the finest teachers. You may purchase these instruments with confidence. Instrument Brand Model Mouthpiece Quality Flute Jupiter CEF551 n/a Yamaha 481H n/a professional Yamaha 581H n/a professional Oboe Fox 333 n/a student Yamaha 211 n/a student Fox 400 n/a professional Bassoon Fox 41 FoxCVXbocal student Fox 222 FoxCVXbocal professional Clarinet Selmer CL300 VanDoren M13 student Yamaha YCL220 VanDoren M13 student Buffett R-13 VanDoren M13 professional Alto Sax Buffett BC8101 Selmer C* student Yamaha YAS62II Selmer C* professional Tenor Sax Yamaha YTS23 Selmer C* student Yamaha YTS62II Selmer C* professional Yamaha YAS875EX Selmer C* professional Trumpet King 601 Bach 5C student Yamaha YTR2335 Bach 5C student Bach Strad37/180 Bach 3C professional French Horn Holton 179 (silver) Holton Farkas MDC both Schilke 27 Trombone Jupiter 636 series Bach 6 ½ AL student Eastman ETB432/430 Bach 6 ½ AL student f attachment Yamaha YSL448G Bach 6 ½ AL student f attachment Bach 42BO Schilke 51 professional Edwards Schilke 51 professional Euphonium Yamaha YEP321 Bach 6 ½ AL both Tuba St. Petersburg N202 Bach 18 professional Percussion Kit Ludwig M651 n/a student both 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 15 Revised: 8/17/2017

16 REHEARSALS AND CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL TIME Rehearsals before and/or after school are essential in preparing for a concert. These rehearsals are the only time that the band meets as a full ensemble and each student s presence is vital. Student s grades are, in part, determined by attendance at rehearsals and concerts. NOTE: AS A MEMBER OF THE BAND, YOUR CHILD IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND ALL REHEARSALS AND CONCERTS. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR BEING AWARE OF CONFLICTS IN THE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS. Band is a year-long academic class and several band events are required for participation in the band program. Band events are graded school assignments. Every effort is made to provide notification of these events. Failure to be aware of them does not excuse the requirement. In order to be fair, the requirements are the same for ALL students in the program. POLICY ON ABSENCES FROM REHEARSALS OR CONCERTS NO MISSED REHEARSAL OR CONCERT WILL BE EXCUSED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN NOTIFICATION. Parents must submit a written notice to the band directors at least 72 hours in advance of the rehearsal. In the event of an emergency, written notice should be provided within 24 hours of the student s return to school. An excused absence will only be granted in emergency situations. Failure to arrange transportation, athletic practices, try-outs, or other events will not be excused. Students who have an unexcused absence for a concert will have their overall grade lowered in accordance with our grading policy. Furthermore, unexcused absences will affect the student s ability to maintain membership in honor ensembles. Parents are asked to check the band calendar and weekly announcements and to schedule appointments on days when conflicts will not arise. When a serious conflict is absolutely unavoidable, notify Mr. Scott immediately. Excused absences: Illness (excused only with a doctor s note) Death in the family On occasion, conflicts with other school activities, (based on the student s proper notification and attempts to resolve the conflict). Parents are expected to pick up their child promptly after each rehearsal or concert. Parents who are running more than 10 minutes late, or who have an emergency, should contact Mr. Scott so that he may be made aware of the situation. The directors will make all possible efforts to dismiss rehearsals and meetings on time. Note: Excused absences will not affect either the student s grade or their standing in their ensemble. Excused absences are granted at the discretion of the band director. An excused absence from a performance is issued only in very rare instances. More than one unexcused absence from rehearsal will result in a suspension from the performance. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 16 Revised: 8/17/2017

17 PERFORMING GROUPS AT CARIO Each band class meets five days a week for 45 minutes. Additional rehearsals are scheduled prior to performances. Check the band calendar for the concert and rehearsal dates. 6 TH GRADE BEGINNER BAND The 6 th grade Beginner Band at Cariois comprised of students in their first year of playing an instrument. Because there are two 6 th grade band classes (woodwinds and brass),it is necessary to schedule two or three additional rehearsals before or after school justprior to a performance. These rehearsals offer the only opportunity for the 6 th grade to come together as an ensemble. This ensemble may also include 7 th grade band students who are not members of the Concert Band. 7 TH GRADE CONCERT BAND The Concert Band is comprised of all eligible 7 th grade band students, and there are two classes (woodwinds and brass). Its membership may include 8 th grade band students who are not members of the 8 th Grade Concert Band. Students in this ensemble have at least one year on their instrument. 7 TH GRADE CONCERT FESTIVAL BAND The Concert Festival Band is the top performing group for 7 th grade. Members of this Band are selected by the directors and are members of the 7 th Grade Concert Band. Students assigned to the 7 th Concert Bandare invited to move up to this 7 th grade honor ensemble band during the 7 th grade year. Students who fail to maintain the standards of thisconcert Festival Band may be removed at the discretion of Mr. Scott. The 7 th Grade Concert Festival Band represents Cario Middle School in the South Carolina Concert Festival. 8TH GRADE CONCERT BAND AND JAZZ BANDS The 8 th Grade ConcertBand and Jazz Bands are separate classes at Cario. Members of the Jazz Band are selected through an audition process at the end of 7 th grade. Jazz Band students are expected to be enrolled in 8 th Grade Band. This Jazz Band performs at various school, civic, and educational functions. SYMPHONIC BAND The Symphonic Band is Cario s premier performing ensemble. Members of the Symphonic Band are chosen through an audition process from the 7 th Grade Concert Festival Band and the 8 th Grade Concert Band. These students are held to strict attendance requirements. Students who fail to maintain the standards of the Symphonic Band may be removed at the discretion of Mr. Scott. The Symphonic Band represents Cario Middle School in the South Carolina Concert Festival, as well as at regional and national music festivals. Symphonic Band members are encouraged to be enrolled in private lessons and to be available for rehearsals before and/or after school. Missed rehearsals and performances will affect the student s standing as a member in Symphonic Band.The 7 th Grade Concert Festival Band and Symphonic Band members are encouraged to audition for All-County Band, the Region 4 Honor Band, and the South Carolina All-State Band (if selected for a callback audition.) Chair placements are affected by audition results. BEGINNER STUDENTS IN 7 TH OR 8 TH GRADE On rare occasions, the band program may accept a beginner student in 7 th or 8 th grade. Students who join the band as a beginner after 6 th grade are REQUIRED to be enrolled in private lessons. The advanced class will continue to work on their appropriate coursework without interruption. Lessons will assist in bridging the gap between a beginning student and the rest of the class. The beginner student will perform at concerts with the beginner band until the band director deems the student ready to advance to either concert band or Symphonic Band. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 17 Revised: 8/17/2017

18 CONCERT ATTIRE Each student will dress in concert attire for each performance. Students not in full concert attire will not be allowed to perform. Contact the uniform chair for assistance at General Uniform Rules and Guidelines: Uniforms are to be neatly pressed and clean for each performance. Young ladies with long hair MUST pull their hair back for uniformed performances. No jewelry is to be worn with the uniform, other than discreet, stud type earrings for young ladies. Under no circumstances are any colors of tennis shoes, including black, considered appropriate. Parents are responsible for ensuring the uniform fits well and is hemmed appropriately. 6 TH GRADE The 6 th grade band polo shirt will be provided at the beginning of the school year and the cost is covered by the booster club. The uniform for 6 th grade is as follows: NOTE: 6 th Grade students that also participate in Chorus or Orchestra MUST purchase the pants. They wear their Chorus or Orchestra Uniform for the Winter Concert and the Band Uniform at the Spring Concert. Black Cario Band polo shirt (provided through band program) Black slacks (purchased by parents at Stagecoach Clothing Store, Mt. Pleasant) Black belt Black socks Black dress shoes 7 TH AND 8 TH GRADE The uniforms for 7th and 8th graders are a tuxedo for boys or a dress for girls. The tuxedoes and dresses are issued through the band program. Boys uniform: Boys uniform: Girls uniform: White pleated tuxedo shirt Black tuxedo slacks Black vest Black bow tie Black dress Black dress shoes Black dress shoes and black socks 8 TH GRADE JAZZ BAND The Jazz Band Uniform varies depending on the performance. They will wear Black & White (8 th Grade Uniform) when they perform with other related arts groups. They wear the Jazz Band Uniform when they perform at various school and educational functions. The Jazz Band uniform includes: Dark Blue Cario Jazz Band t-shirt (provided through the band program) Khaki pants and belt/ jeans and belt (depends on performance) 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 18 Revised: 8/17/2017

19 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION CHAIR PLACEMENT 7 TH GRADE CONCERT AND 8 TH GRADE CONCERT BANDS Chair Placement Tests will be given throughout the year, and students will be seated based on their results. In general, there will be four chair placements per year, one during each nine weeks. For 7 th and 8 th grade students, the Region 4 and All State auditions will be used to determine chair placement during the third nine weeks. Students will be seated in the order of the final seating of those bands. NOTE: 6 th grade students will not compete for chair placements until the third nine weeks. Be advised, the directors reserve the right to alter band chair placements based upon attendance, discipline issues, effort or the musical needs of the ensemble. All decisions of audition judges and the Cario band directors are final. 6 TH GRADE BEGINNING BAND There will not be an equal number of auditions for chair placement in sixth grade. While we will change chairs often, there will not be regular chair placement auditions. The emphasis on chair placements is not in the child s best interest in the beginner year. 7 TH AND 8 TH GRADE CARIO HONOR BAND AWARD The Cario Honor Band Awardis the most prestigious award given by the Cario Band Program. In order to receive thehonor Band Award, a student must perform at the highest levels of achievement throughout the entire year. REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HONOR BAND AWARD 1. Maintain an A/B average in band for each grading period, AND 2. Attend ALL band performances, AND 3. Attend at least three outside concert performances per SEMESTER (SIX TOTAL PER YEAR) AND 4. Score a minimum of 20 points from the list below: Region 4 Symphonic Band 5 pts Concert Festival ~ Excellent 5 pts OR All-State Band 7 pts o OR Superior 7 pts Smart Music Honor Pass-offs 5 pts Band Volunteer Merit ~ 3 hours 3pts HOW POINTS ARE AWARDED Students MUST BE seated in EITHER Region 4 Symphonic Band OR All-State. An alternate seat DOES NOT qualify for any of these bands. Students only receive points for either Region 4 or State bands, not both. Students in 7 th Grade who play in both 7 th Grade Concert Festival Band and Symphonic Band at Concert Festival will be given credit for the higher of the two scores. Students must successfully complete the clinic or event to earn Honor Band points. A student who misses a clinic or event, regardless of the reason, will not receive points for the Honor Band Award. For example, if a student chooses to attend another activity, school-related or otherwise, instead of the Region 4 or All-State Clinic, he or she will not earn the points for that event or clinic and may not be eligible for the Honor Band Award. Participation is required. The Band Volunteer Merit System is exactly that -- your student receives points towards the Honor Band Award when your family volunteers a minimum of three hours in service to the band. No partial credit is given; a minimum of three hours is required to earn these points. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 19 Revised: 8/17/2017

20 6 TH GRADE CARIO HONOR MEDAL In order to recognize significant achievement during 6th grade, the Cario 6 th Grade Honor Medal is given to students who have shown the highest levels of dedication and accomplishment during the school year.in order to receive the 6 th Grade Honor Medal, the requirements are: Completion of Essential Elements 2000, Bk. 1 (all required lines must be passed off) Maintain an "A/B" average in band for each 9 week grading period Attend three school concerts per semester (six total per year), i.e., Wando, Laing, Moultrie, or Cario,or a concert which includes the student s instrument. Cario performances the student participates in donot count toward the concert requirement. A concert program and evaluation form must be turned in for credit. A minimum of three hours of band volunteer service by the student s family. Complete ALL SmartMusic Honor Band Pass-offs. Must have 95% or higher AND 1 red note or less. Have no discipline referrals in band 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 20 Revised: 8/17/2017

21 EVENT DESCRIPTIONS Several audition opportunities will be offered during the year. Ask your child s private lesson teacher about specific audition requirements for your child s instrument or check the South Carolina Band Directors Association website at All-State from the menu on the left). Eligible students interested in participating in these auditions will be registered for the events by the band directors. Registration costs for these events are paid by the Cario Band Boosters, unless indicated otherwise. POLICY CONCERNING AUDITIONING FOR HONOR BANDS REGION AND ALL-STATE If a student auditions for any of these honor bands, they must do so with the knowledge that if chosen, they are required to attend all associated clinics, rehearsals and concerts. Failure to follow through with their commitment will affect their membership in the Cario performing ensembles. Simply put, they must fulfill their commitments. QUALIFICATIONS TO REGISTER Student must be in 7 th Grade Concert Band or 8 th Grade Concert Band to audition for All-County, Region 4 and All-State. In VERY RARE cases, auditions will be opened to a highly gifted 6 th Grade Beginning BandStudent enrolled in lessons at the Director s request. ALL-COUNTY BAND This Clinic will offer a Master Class with CSO Musicians, a Mock Audition Demonstration, and a Sight Reading Band. There is no audition for this. Any 7 th or 8 th grade student may attend with a $6 registration fee. REGION 4 BAND Region Bands are selected by audition from band students throughout South Carolina. Cario Band is a part of Region 4 and their auditions are held in January. The Region 4 Clinic is scheduled on a Friday and Saturday in February. Once the Region Band preliminary auditions results are announced, students with the top audition scores within each instrument from all the Regions are then called back to audition for All-State. Students called-back for an All-State audition, but not selected, are then seated in the Region 4 Symphonic Band. Students that auditioned for Region 4 and were alternates to the Region 4 Junior Symphonic Band are then seated in a Junior Concert Band so they can gain experience. Students selected for the Region 4 Symphonic Band and the Concert Band MUST attend the MANDATORY Clinic. NOTE: HONOR BAND POINTS ARE NOT AWARDED FOR THE CONCERT BAND. Students are responsible for their own meal expenses and transportation to and from the audition and the clinic. The clinic culminates in a concert on Saturday afternoon. Students selected for the band are required to attend the clinic. The audition, clinic and medal costs are covered by the Cario Band Boosters. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 21 Revised: 8/17/2017

22 SOUTH CAROLINA ALL-STATE BAND The All-State Band is a group of students selected by audition from the top one-third of each of the five Region Bands. This band is the highest individual honor available to a band student in South Carolina. It is a musical All-Star Team. Transportation to and from the audition, which is held in Lexington in February, is the student s responsibility. If selected, the student is required to attend the All-State Band Clinic held at Furman University in March. Meal and entertainment expenses at the three-day clinic are the student s responsibility. The Band Boosters fund the cost of transportation and accommodations for all selected students and 1 st and 2 nd alternates. Concert Festival (7 th Grade Concert Festival Band &Symphonic Band) This event is held usually in March and is the culmination of our year s preparation. It is equivalent to the PASS Test for academic classes. It is an adjudicated contest to evaluate our performance as a musical ensemble. Symphonic Band and 7 th Concert Band members are required to attend. Extra rehearsals will be scheduled for this event. SOLO AND ENSEMBLE (Selected students, all grades) This event is a performance opportunity for individual students and small group ensembles. It is a state-sanctioned event usually held in May. Students receive awards for Excellent and Superior performances. Students are responsible for paying the registration fee for this event, as it is NOT part of Fair Share Assessment fee. Students may register for up to two events. Private lesson teachers and the band directors can assist students in selecting appropriate music. NOTE: Students who register for a SOLO event, must coordinate and pay for a piano accompanist. The Directors can provide some names of accompanist, but you will need to contact them early. FLORIDA MUSIC FESTIVAL (7 th and 8 th grade) Cario Band travels to Florida annually to either compete in a musical festival or participate in a workshop. Eligible students have the opportunity tocompete in a musical experience designed for talented middle, junior high and high school music performing groups in an educational setting. Past trips have included multi-day visits to Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and water parks. CAROWINDS MUSIC FESTIVAL (6 th grade) The annual music festival at Carowinds in Rock Hill, SC is a reward trip for eligible students and offers a great opportunity to break in the beginner band to competitive band events. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 22 Revised: 8/17/2017

23 FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS The Cario Band Boosters manage the financial requirements of the band program. The Band Boosters is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and is incorporated. BAND FEES All band students are required to pay the Fair Share Assessment (FSA ~ description noted below) of $225 for the first student. A $25 discount is applied to each additional student in the family. Percussionists pay an additional $35for replacement of classroom percussion supplies (no discount applies) $100 deposit is due from all students by September 1, 2017 FSA must be paid in full by December 1, 2017 Students may earn partial credit from fundraisers (excluding the Cario Band Letter Writing Campaign) which can be applied to FSA and trip fees. Please note that the student s total sales are NOT applied to the account. Only a percentage of the profit from the sales is applied. Our goal is to have all students, regardless of financial situation, participate in band. If you have any concerns regarding meeting the financial obligations, please treasurer@cariobands.org for further assistance. PAYMENT OPTIONS There are three payment options available: 1. Band Parent Night (Check or Credit Card ONLY) 2. Locked payment box in Mr. Scott s Office 3. Mail to Cario Band Boosters, 1121 Park West Blvd, Suite B. #224, Mt. Pleasant, SC To ensure your payment is received and credited properly, please follow these guidelines: NO CASH PAYMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED! Make all checks payable to Cario Band Boosters, unless otherwise directed. Write your child s nameand the purpose of the payment on the memo line of your check. Enclose payment in an envelope and write your child s name on the envelope, in ink, along with the amount enclosed and what the payment is for, (i.e. fundraiser, All-State, lost music, band fees, etc.) FAIR SHARE ASSESSMENT (FSA) Because Charleston County School District funds only a very small portion of the band s activities, the Band Boosters must assess an annual Fair Share Assessment (FSA) amount for each student. While we strive to keep the cost of band to our band families as low as possible, it is necessary for everyone to contribute to the cost of maintaining a high quality band program. Included in the Fair Share Assessment are uniforms, event transportation when provided by the program, equipment and materials needed for the operation of the band program, music, supplemental instruction, SmartMusic and much more. Fair Share assessments cannot be prorated. Students who enroll in band are expected to remain in band for the entire school year. Students who drop band are still obligated to pay the Fair Share Assessment. 2016CBHandbook.docx Page 23 Revised: 8/17/2017