The Handbook of. Davenport West High School ORCHESTRA A handbook for the Orchestras at

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1 The Handbook of Davenport West High School ORCHESTRA A handbook for the Orchestras at Davenport West High School 3505 W. Locust St. Davenport, IA (563) x512 Director/Conductor of West High School Orchestras: Carlene Easley Davenport Director of Fine Arts: Mr. Steve Schwaegler

2 CLASSROOM RULES Classroom rules are designed to be simple and easy to follow. They are effective in keeping order during classes and rehearsals only when each member of the orchestra chooses to follow them. They are: When the bell rings, be in the rehearsal room with your instrument and with your music, notebook, pencil and any other necessary equipment (shoulder rest, rosin, rock-stop). EVERYONE must have their music at their seat every day. Respect the property of another individual. This includes instruments as well as music. You do not have permission to use anyone else s materials. Please do not assume that you do. No food, drink or gum is allowed in the orchestra room. Be courteous to everyone in the room that includes when and how you talk. There will be several opportunities for the orchestra members to participate in off-campus activities, both during the school day as well as after school. Students who are not able to consistently follow the rules will jeopardize their opportunity to participate in these events. *** (enrollment and attendance policy)*** ATTENDANCE Orchestra activities are planned so that the fewest other activities conflict. All students are encouraged to participate in as many social or optional activities as they wish, but at the same time, orchestra members are expected to participate in all required orchestra events, rehearsals and performances, remembering that a grade is given for each required event. IMPORTANT: In the event of a conflict, the student has the responsibility of submitting a signed note from a parent or the appropriate teacher or sponsor stating the reason for the conflict. Notes must be received within one week of announcement of the event to be considered. This note does not automatically excuse an absence. Each case will be considered individually and privately according to its circumstances.

3 All absences, whether excused or unexcused, must be made up. Only excused absences will be given full credit. Last minute excuses cause problems in scheduling and may not be excused. The only exception would be a student illness or death in the family. Not having a ride to or from an orchestra function does not qualify a student for an excused absence. If this occurs, please try to get a ride from another student. You have been given the Calendar of Events the first day of school for the school year. Please make efforts to make sure that you have reliable prearranged transportation to all activities. Note: the attendance guidelines do not apply to social events. AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSALS The Davenport High School Orchestra meets during a regularly scheduled class period each day. These rehearsals are the only time where we can rehearse as a full group in order to prepare for concerts. Events, which will be scheduled well in advance, will be required and will be a part of your grade. See the Calendar of Events. Please plan to attend all of these rehearsals and to arrive well before the start time so that you can tune and warm up and be ready to play on time. Students who are not ready to play on time will lose points in their grade. As the budget allows, we will also schedule guest clinicians to come in and work with the orchestra. SECTION REHEARSALS Section rehearsals, or sectionals, will be held, usually during class time in preparation for major concerts. These rehearsals are the equivalent of any other class. This is an opportunity for each section to work on their music as a section, highlighting specific problems in their music and their instrument. After school sectionals will be scheduled, as needed. Your attendance will be required for any after school rehearsal (any conflicts should see me.).

4 MUSIC All music performed by the Davenport West High School Orchestras will be provided by the school district. Any music used for solo or ensemble purposes will usually be provided by the student. When originals are used, they will remain the property of the Davenport High School Orchestras. Students are expected to take good care of all music. Markings should be made in soft lead PENCIL ONLY! Originals will be collected during the first class following a performance. Each student is expected to have his or her own personal copy of the music at every class and/or rehearsal. Even when a stand partner s copy of the music is being used, each student needs their personal copy of the music to make markings. Do not assume that if your stand partner s music is marked, yours will be as well. Furthermore, don t assume that you will remember them next time. Everyone needs to mark their music. From time to time, there will be an unannounced grade given for this. This grade makes up part of your class participation grade. *** (fees and care of uniform) *** UNIFORMS For all concerts, students will wear the appropriate uniform. Part of each performance grade will be based upon how you wear your uniform neatness, alterations, cleanliness, etc. Please check with your director if you are uncertain as to whether your own clothes are acceptable. When in uniform, either with the band or elsewhere, you are representing your school and orchestra. Your personal appearance and actions reflect upon you, your school, your orchestra and your community. The uniform is an asset and you will be held responsible for its care and appearance. Your uniform should be treated with the same consideration as the finest suit or dress. The school takes care to issue you a clean uniform. If the uniform needs cleaning during the school year, you are responsible for that cleaning. Students will pay for uniform items that are lost or damaged due to neglect or mistreatment.

5 TESTS AND EXAMS Tests and exams will usually consist of an assigned excerpt from the orchestra repertoire of the upcoming concert or a solo or etude assigned by your conductor. Three-octave scales will also be a part of the grading process. Semester exams are designed to measure the independent musical thought processes and abilities of the student. Accordingly, in many cases, the semester and final exams may be independent projects. In other words, class time will not be used to specifically review for the final ; however, students should feel free to ask specific questions regarding the exam. CHAIR PLACEMENT Chair placement assessments are generally held within two weeks after the opening of school. All orchestra students are required to participate. Chair placement assessments consist of two parts: 1. Scales: Scales will be judged on accuracy, tempo, number of octaves played, intonation and tone. 2. Excerpts: Selections will be provided by your instructor. Chair placement assessments will be done during your lesson time. The chair placement assessment is the equivalent of a test grade and will be done during the lesson time. Failure to participate within the lesson period will result in a zero. Deadline for completing your assessment is September 15, 2017.

6 GRADES Each student will be awarded points based upon the following scale. At the end of each six weeks grading period, points awarded can be divided into the points available to compute the average. Extra credit may be available for students who have a non-passing grade at the time progress reports are issued. TABLE OF GRADE POINTS: Activity Class Participation (daily grades) Concerts & Performances (major grades) Rehearsals & Sectionals (daily grades) Test (major grades) Weekly Lessons Exams Points 20 per day 100 each 100 each 100 each 100 each Variable Lessons Term Points Assignment 100 points are possible A A B B B C C C D D D- >60 - F 40 points are possible. Lesson points are earned. 5-Well prepared 4- Moderately well prepared 3- Poorly prepared 2-Very poorly prepared 0- No Show An average lesson point value is figured and multiplied by 8. Lesson points may be made up at the discretion of the lesson teacher by make up lessons or alternative assignments. Making up points is a student responsibility.

7 With the block schedule eliminating study halls from most student schedules, some lessons will have to come out of other classes. This will be a challenge, but we are still expecting to see students at least five times a term for a lesson and poor attendance will be reflected in grades earned. *** (weekly lessons)*** PRACTICE Individual home practice is an integral part of any musician s learning process. It is very important to the state of the orchestra that effort is being made by each student to learn their individual parts outside of the classroom. Ideally, class meetings and rehearsals are not to be used as a practice session, but as time for working out ensemble concerns. The Davenport West High School Orchestras are great because of the quality teaching you have received in the early years of your musical education. It becomes a superior orchestra when all of its members put hard work into it. If there is a problem in the music with which you cannot handle, please talk to your conductor. If she cannot help you, she will find someone who can. Awards Awards are intended as a positive incentive towards the fullest participation in the orchestra program. Letters Chenille Letters or Gold Bars will be awarded on the basis of points earned. 4 points are required for a letter and each subsequent bar. Point totals less than 4 are carried over to the next year. All points earned MUST be verified on the appropriate form. Private lessons taken on a regular basis from a professional teacher: Major instrument---1 per semester Minor instrument---1 per year Instrumental All-State Audition---2 Acceptance---2 additional Instrumental Solo and Ensemble Contest

8 Solo---2 per Ensemble---1 per Extra-Curricular Ensembles: Honor Orchestra (SEISTA etc.)---1 String Quartet---1 Attendance at approved Concerts---.5 Performance at out of school performances---.5 Special Services Contracted by directors Deductions from Point Totals Unexcused Absence from performance-- -5 School Owned Instrument Use Fee All students using school owned instruments will be charged a use fee of $40. This will be prorated for students using the instrument only part of the year and for students eligible for free or reduced lunches. The fee is due at the beginning of the school year through the main office at West High School. EXTRA CURRICULAR Events/Contests/Competitions All students are encouraged to participate in competitions outside the scope of the classroom experience. The Davenport West High School Orchestras have been represented well in these types of contests, and have enjoyed the successes of individual as well as collective performances. Many students elect to participate in the State events, such as solo and ensemble contests. Being in extracurricular activities, the events outlined in this section, cannot be considered in determining a student s grade. Students will not receive extra grade points for participation in any of these activities; however, you may choose to count these activities toward the earning of your letter award and pins for Orchestra. Furthermore, participation in any of these events cannot interfere with any work which is required for the class. Students desiring extra help in preparing for these events should see your director during your lesson time. In the event that you register for the extracurricular activity and you fail to perform (unauthorized scratch) you will be charged the full fees for any event(s) you missed.

9 PRIVATE LESSONS Students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons. In an orchestra program it is virtually impossible to meet the individual needs of each student. With private lessons, participating students can have the luxury of extra help on orchestral literature and instrument technique sessions on a one-on-one basis. If you do not have a private teacher and are interested in beginning lessons, a list of teachers in this area is available (please ask your teacher). To the Parents Parents are an integral part of our success. It is very important that you are informed about what is happening in the West High Orchestra Program. Please feel free to contact me at school with questions or concerns, or to visit the program at any time. The West High Band and Orchestra Parents' Club is an organization designed to support and give assistance to the instrumental music groups. The group is open to all instrumental music parents. There is a need for a lot of parental involvement to keep a band and orchestra program the size and caliber of West High's functioning. Your child will appreciate the interest you show, too. Some of the activities where parent help is needed: Distributing and collection of uniforms (beginning and end of year) Monitoring and chaperoning events Annual fruit sale Iowa High School Music Association Solo and Small Ensemble Contest If you are interested in joining the club and/or helping with specific events, please let any of the music directors know of your interest. Band and Orchestra Parents' Club Executive Board President Joan and Jon Meeks Vice President Lisa Bauer Secretary Jodi Williams Treasurers Robin Bennett The Club meets at 7:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month with the exception of December and May. In the Band and Orchestra Room (518), the first room on your right as you enter the far west doors of West High. Meeting Dates are: Sept. 5, October 3, November 7, January 2, February 6, March 6, and April 3.

10 FUNDRAISING In order to continue providing high quality supplies for the orchestra program, fund raising will be organized for the students. All orchestra students are strongly encouraged to participate in some manner in the fundraising. POLICIES CONCERNING BEHAVIOR OF DAVENPORT WEST HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA STUDENTS The following policies and rules apply to music students enrolled in Davenport West High School in grades nine through twelve (9-12). Students enrolled in a music program are required to participate in ALL performances of that group. Each student has a unique contribution and responsibility to the total performance of that group. Students therefore must attend ALL concerts, contests, and festivals. Scheduled performances are an integral part of the instructional program. A group presentation is not just a performance, but also an evaluation situation whereby the sum total of what the student has learned in past class periods, his/her individual lessons, and practice are demonstrated to the instructor. This learning is demonstrated in the students performance in the group presentations. Orchestra members are expected to attend all required performances. EXCUSED ABSENCE: Absences from performances will be excused for the following reasons: personal illness, injury, death or serious illness in the family or household. When a performance evaluation period is missed due to an excused absence, the student is expected to see the director for a makeup assignment. When a student does not turn in the make-up assignment by the due date, the student will receive zero points for that performance. That grade of zero will be used in the computation of the student s grade for orchestra. UNEXCUSED ABSENCE: Absences from performances for reasons other than the above will be treated as unexcused. These reasons would include, but are not limited to shopping trips, work, hair appointments, truancy, vacations and out-of-school suspensions. In the event of an unexcused performance absence, the student will receive zero points for that performance. That grade of zero will be used in the computation of the student s grade for orchestra.

11 EQUIPMENT: Music students are required to have the correct and necessary music tools at all rehearsals and performances. This includes, but is not limited to such items as proper dress, instruments, music and any special equipment which may be required. 1. Students lacking proper musical tools at rehearsals will be credited with an unexcused absence. 2. Students lacking proper musical equipment at performances will not receive full credit for the performance. CONDUCT: Students whose actions or conduct would degrade or be detrimental to the ideals, principles, or standards of the school shall be handled in accordance with the policies of the school, as set forth as follows: 1. Any student who is found guilty of, or admits to consumption, possession, acquiring, delivering or transporting alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or any controlled substance as defined by the Iowa code as amended, shall be considered to have committed conduct detrimental to the school and musical organization. 2. Any student who admits to, or is convicted of violating the law, except minor traffic violations, or is found to be delinquent, shall be considered to have committed conduct detrimental to the school and musical organization. TRANSPORTATION POLICY FOR ORCHESTRA EVENTS When events scheduled by the orchestra department are located outside of Davenport transportation will be arranged by school officials. 1. Students participating in the above-mentioned events will use the provided transportation en route to the event and on return unless conditions in #2 below are met. 2. If a participating student s parents or guardians will be attending an out-of-town event, the student may GO & RETURN with his/her parents if the following conditions are met: a. Before the day of the event the student must provide the instructor with a note from the parents or guardians stating that the student will ride with the parents. b. The student must bring parents or guardians to the instructor before leaving the event.

12 Davenport Community Schools Non-Discrimination Statement The Davenport Community School District (DCSD) provides equal educational and employment opportunities and will not illegally discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, ancestry, or actual or potential parental, familial, or marital status. DCSD will take affirmative action in recruitment, appointment, assignment, and advancement of women and men, members of diverse racial/ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities for job categories in which any of these groups of people are underrepresented. Inquiries related to this policy may be directed to Dawn Anderson Rascher, DSCD Equity Coordinator, 1606 Brady Street, Davenport, IA or by phone at Inquiries may also be directed to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, the Region VII Office of the United States Equal Employment Opportunities Commission, or the Region VII Office of Civil Rights, United States Department of Education.

13 Dear Parents and Students, There are policies and rules by which the Davenport Community School District and West High School operates. We want you to be aware of these policies and rules. Most of these have been in effect for many years; but, we feel that everyone needs to be aware of the policies found on the preceding pages of this orchestra handbook. After reading and discussing these policies and rules of the WHS music department, please sign the Acknowledgment below and return this form to your child s orchestra director. Your signature indicates your willingness to help us provide a good environment for music education. It also indicates a willingness to observe and abide by these rules, policies and the department s calendar. Participation in music is permitted only after this form has been signed and returned. Thank you for your willingness to help us provide a healthy environment for education. I look forward to working with you and your child this school year and anticipate the school year to be one of excellence and fun!!! Thank you, in advance, for your support of the Davenport West High School Orchestra program. Ms. Easley Director of Orchestras Davenport West High School (Please return to Ms. Easley by Friday, August 25, 2017) ACKNOWLEDGMENT Signed (Music Student) Signed (Parent or Guardian) Date Date We will/will not (circle one) allow photos of our son/daughter taken with the orchestra to be used in the yearbook, on our website, newsletters, newspaper, or other form of news. Signed (Parent or Guardian)

14 Davenport West High School Orchestra Member Information Student Name: (Please Print) Home Address: Telephone Number: (home) (cell) address: Date of Birth: Graduation Year: I live with: (please circle one) both parents/mother/father/other Parent s address: Mother Father Father s name: Father s place of work: Father s work phone number: Mother s name: Mother s place of work: Mother s work phone number: Instrument I play: Years played: Are you using a school instrument? Yes, No. If yes, Inst. # Do you study your instrument privately? Yes, No. If yes, Private teacher s name: How long have you studied privately with this teacher? How often do you have lessons? Other Instruments Played: Where were you born? How many brothers and sisters do you have? What are their ages? What s your favorite color? Do you have any pets? What? What is your favorite music? Do you speak any foreign languages? What? Are you fluent in the foreign language?

15 Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do in your spare time? Why are you in the West High School Orchestra? What are some things you would like to learn how to do? Name five places you would like the orchestra to travel to or be involved with and why Name five pieces of music you would like to learn how to play:

16 Your Name: Your Home Telephone Number: Your Cell Number: DAVENPORT WEST HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA PERMISSION AND HEALTH FORM As parent or legal guardian, I give permission for to participate in all school-sponsored activities of the Davenport West High School music department both in and out of the city during the school year. Transportation will be provided to out-of-town events. I authorize Ms. Carlene Easley or her appointed representative to seek any needed medical attention for my son/daughter. Parent or legal Guardian signature: Date: NOTE: Every attempt will be made to contact the parent/legal guardian in case medical attention is required. Please list names and telephone numbers of people who can be notified in the event you are unable to be reached. Name: Telephone Number: Please list any special instructions or special health conditions which should be noted.