Edison Preparatory School Instrumental Music Parent and Student Handbook 2016-2017 Guidelines for Superior Performance This handbook is available online at the Edison Preparatory High School Band Facebook Page and our website: Please review BEFORE signing and returning the Edison Preparatory HS Permission & Emergency Release form found at the end of this handbook. We must have a Permission & Emergency Release form on file for every student. Edison Preparatory High School 2906 East 41st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma 74105 Main Office 746-8500 Music Office 746-8518 Email: burnele@tulsaschools.org styerja@tulsaschools.org
Forward Congratulations on your decision to be a part of the fine tradition of the SCREAMIN EAGLES HIGH SCHOOL BAND! This booklet is designed as a guide for both parents and students to give specific details concerning all aspects of the band program. For any further information, please feel free to e-mail the Edison Band Directors (burnele@tulsaschools.org or styerja@tulsaschools.org). I. Screamin Eagle Instrumental Music Performance Organizations Concert Band The Concert Band is the main performing group and is comprised of grades 9-12. This group is open to all, with directors approval, and is subject to chair placement tests. Daily participation is a must and will be graded. This group spends the majority of the fall working on the marching show and the winter concert. The spring is dedicated to competing at the state level and performing for the spring concert, among other performances and contests to be scheduled, including an out of state trip. Marching Band The Screamin Eagles Marching Band performs at all football games and pep rallies, and competes at several contests throughout the fall semester. They are comprised of the Winds and Percussion from concert band as well as the color guard. Membership in the Sceamin Eagles Marching Band is required of all band students. Marching band commitment includes all summer activities including summer band camps, all rehearsals, pep rallies, football games, and marching competitions. Marching band rehearses from 7:00am through 1 st hour every week day and from 4:30pm to 7:00pm every Monday evening. Marching band students are eligible to receive a physical education waiver for membership in Marching Band (1.5 credits over 3 fall semesters.) Because of this, all students are required to complete a sports activity physical. Drum Line/Winter Percussion The Drum Line is an audition only group that is a part of the marching band, but may perform as an individual group at the directors discretion. Participation in concert band and marching band is required of all Drum Line students. To participate in the Drum Line, percussionists must know how to read both battery and mallet music. Placement on the line or in the pit is determined through audition and at the directors discretion. Participation in a summer drum camp is greatly encouraged. Color Guard The Color Guard is an audition only group that is a part of the marching band and adds color and drama to the marching show. To participate in color guard students must be enrolled in concert band, though exceptions will be made for those students whose schedules do not allow it. While some materials will be provided, the guard will be responsible for some costs including outfits and costumes. Winter Guard is a possibility with enough participation.
JAZZ BAND Jazz Band is an audition only group open to grades 9-12. Participation in a major ensemble (Concert Band, Orchestra, or Choir) is required to audition. This group contains up to 5-6 saxophones, 4-5 trombones, 4-5 trumpets, guitar, upright and electric bass, piano and drum set. This group prepares for several concerts and contests throughout the year including the out of state trip. The Jazz Band uses different uniforms which the students are responsible for obtaining. II. Participation Expectations A yearly band calendar is enclosed for your use in planning your family schedule for the 2016-2017 school year. EACH band member is important to the success of our many activities. We must be able to count on 100% attendance at all rehearsals and performances. If a family emergency occurs unexpectedly, PARENTS, please e-mail the band directors immediately. Occasionally, there may be family commitments (weddings, graduations, etc.); in which case, we will try to be flexible and work with you on an individual basis. This must be discussed with the directors in detail well in advance (a month or more!). Student job commitments and select sports are NOT reasons for an excused absence from band performances or rehearsals! Many band students work and participate in select sports and participate successfully in band. We suggest that these students take a copy of the Yearly Band Calendar to his/her employer and/or coach and clear all band performances and rehearsals. Ninety-nine percent of employers are very understanding and are flexible if they know of band commitments well in advance, and they understand that band performances are a required and vital part of the course work. Work with employers to clear the Monday night rehearsals from 4:30pm to 7:00pm. (We are glad to talk to employers to validate student commitment.) If a band student has an unexcused absence from a performance/rehearsal, they are subject to immediate removal from the band program. III. Edison Band Fees: To help fund our program and to cover the cost of uniforms, music, and drill, we ask for a nominal band fee. The band fee for freshman and new members is $180.00 and $120 for returning students. This fee is due by the first week of band camp and will be collected with the students medical release and physical forms.
IV. REHEARSAL EXPECTATIONS In band rehearsals, we not only deal with a creative process, but with a great deal more students at one time than do other classroom teachers. Because of this, it is imperative that band students be organized and prepared for every rehearsal. When an individual is not able to play his musical instrument during a rehearsal, it hurts the GROUP as well as the individual. It is important that the student s musical instrument is in good working condition, that (s)he has a pencil to mark his music, and that (s)he has important accessories such as drill books, mutes, reeds, and valve oil for EVERY rehearsal. It is also obvious that the creative process in which we are involved cannot take place unless there is a quiet, attentive atmosphere in the classroom. Students who do not live up to the high rehearsal expectations of the Screamin Eagle Band will be counseled, and, if necessary, moved to an alternate or removed from the band program completely. Rehearsal Procedures and Expectations Students are expected to arrive on time for rehearsals. On time means in their seats or on the field with all equipment needed at the called time. Students are required to maintain their personal instruments and keep them in working order. Students with school loaned instruments should inform the directors of any needed repair or problems at the earliest chance. When rehearsing inside, students are to bring their instruments, music, reeds/oils/accessories and a pencil to their seats. School books, cases and all other items are to be kept in their assigned lockers during rehearsal times. Students are expected to have all music prepared at the time of rehearsal. No food, gum or beverages are allowed in the band room during rehearsal with the exception of water. All students are expected to behave in a respectful manner during all rehearsals, refraining from talking, doing homework, or using an electronic device. Cell phones are expected to be turned off during rehearsal. Performance Procedures and Expectations Students are expected to arrive at the designated areas at the call time with all of their needed equipment in working order. This includes any necessary uniform pieces cleaned and presentable. Students must stay with the group at all times, unless permission is given by the directors. Students are to be on their best behavior at all times and follow all TPS rules and regulations. No outside visitors are allowed to ride the bus, sit with the band, or chaperone an event without the directors knowledge and approval of the booster Hospitality/Spirit chair member and the directors. Students will not be excused to leave an event without the directors being informed beforehand by the parents or guardians of the student. Even then, the parents or guardians must bring their student to the directors to have them excused.
V. Academic Eligibility and Grading All music organizations adhere to the eligibility rules and regulations as stated by Tulsa Public Schools and OSSAA (Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletics Association). These rules state that any student performer who is considered ineligible may not perform for games or OSSAA sanctioned contests. The Edison Band Staff will enforce all eligibility rules and regulations. Students who are ineligible will continue to rehearse during his/her band class, before and after school, and participate in curricular performances to earn his/her band grade. Ineligible students may not travel with the band or participate in extracurricular performances. An example of a curricular performance would be a spring concert or football game (though they will not be able to perform at halftime) and an extracurricular performance would be any type of contest. Students should always check on an event if there is a question of their participation. Be advised that excessive absences from school may also result in a student being declared ineligible. All Students, through participation, will receive a weekly participation grade. Student grades are based on two major areas: Musical Ability (25%) This grade consists of playing tests, memorization tests, practice records, and other playing requirements. Playing and memorization tests will be given out on a regular basis and will be graded. Practice records will be required to be filled out each week. Students will also be expected to play for a chair test, but this will not be graded. All decisions on chair placements are final. Citizenship (75%) This includes attendance, class participation, and attitudes are all vital qualities of a successful music program. Students who do not show up on time to rehearsals and/or do not have their equipment, music or supplies, cannot be expected to receive a full participation grade for the day. If a student s instrument is being repaired, the student must bring a note from the repair shop. Students who miss rehearsals or performances due to illness, must inform the director immediately. Any other excuses must be cleared by the band directors as stated above. Students must be at all parts of rehearsal to receive a full participation grade. Tardiness will result in a lowered daily participation grade.
VI. Uniforms Students are required to follow all TPS Uniform policies while rehearsing during school. Students will be given the following uniforms which are covered in their band fees. Students who do not comply with all of the uniform policies will receive a deduction in their grade. Band Show Shirt: The show shirt can be worn every Friday as spirit wear, and is to be worn under your marching uniform during games and contests. Marching Band Summer Uniform: Students will be provided an Edison Band Polo that is to be worn for Pep Rallies and to early summer football games. The polo can also be worn on Fridays as spirit wear. The rest of the summer uniform is comprised of khaki shorts (no cargo shorts), black socks and black marching shoes. These items are to be obtained by the student and are not included as a part of the Edison band fee. Edison Marching Band Uniform: Students will be measured and assigned a marching uniform and shako for the year. Each student is responsible for keeping their uniform neat and clean throughout the year. Students are not allowed to eat or drink anything but water while wearing the marching uniform coat. Students are expected to have black above the ankle socks and black marching shoes (White if they are the Drum Major.) Students and their parents will be responsible for any damage or extra cleaning fees if needed during the marching season. Band uniforms are to be worn intact at all times, and are NOT to be used for any purpose other than those specified by the directors. Students must wear light shorts and shirt under the uniform (NO Jeans, Sweats, etc.) Instruments with neck straps need to obtain a BLACK neck strap only. Items students will need to purchase for marching season: Khaki (Tan) Shorts Black above the ankle socks Black Style Plus Marching Shoes (White for DMs) Black Marching Gloves (White for DMs) Black neck strap or harnesses. Plain Blank white t-shirt for rehearsals (No Logos, markings, etc.) Concert Uniforms: Students will be expected to purchase a spring concert uniform. This consists of a preselected dress and tuxedo. Students will be measured during the marching season. Items student will need to purchase for concert season: Ladies: Black or nude hosiery and black dress shoes. Gentlemen: Black DRESS Shoes and black socks. Jazz Bands: Students in jazz bands may be asked to purchase a different uniform and will be informed of that the first day of school.
VII. Instruments It is expected that students will supply their own instrument and accessories as specified by the Director (i.e. drumsticks, reeds, mouthpieces, strings, and bows) as needed. Students may rent or purchase an instrument at one of the many music stores in Tulsa (Saied Music Company, Tulsa Band, or the Music Store). If you take your instrument to the repair shop, let the Director know ahead of time. Upon its return, you are REQUIRED to present the instrument repair receipt stating the date, store name, and what repairs were made. If you do not tell the Director ahead of time, or if you simply do not bring your instrument your daily grade will be affected. School owned instruments Edison PHS provides school musical instruments in the double reed, low woodwind section and selected low brass and percussion sections for $75 per year. These instruments are quite costly (example: concert Tuba - $6,000) and are not normally owned by individuals. All of these instruments are sent to the repair shop and reconditioned during the summer. Any damage or normal adjustment during the year is the responsibility of the band student who has signed for the instrument. We expect the instrument to be returned in the same condition as when issued. Dings, dents, and other damage will be repaired at the student s expense. The $75 fee covers the end-of-year flush and cleaning, as well as annual maintenance required of all instruments. If the instrument is stolen while checked out to a student, it is the student s responsibility to replace the instrument. Many parents carry an insurance rider to cover checked-out school musical instruments. VIII. Fundraising and Trips All out-of-town band festival trips (Football trips and OSSAA Events excluded) are funded completely by band members, either through private sources (student jobs, parents, etc.) or through student fundraising. All fundraisers done by the band go to support the band as a whole unless it is clearly stated that the funds go toward individual dues or trip funds. Students DO NOT have individual accounts with the band for the money they have raised through fundraising, but money will be ear-marked for students who raise money through specific trip fundraisers. It is extremely important for us to have 100% participation in all of our fundraisers. Our program receives no budget from the school or district and relies heavily on what we can raise through student lead fundraisers. The Edison band plans a large out of state trip every two years. Students and parents will be expected to sign a commitment letter and agree to a payment plan to pay for the spring trip. Students and parents must fulfill their end of the contract for this trip to take place.
IX. Student Leadership The band staff selects Drum Majors and Section Leaders for each school year. These appointments are subjective and based on a holistic evaluation of a student from every aspect of their band experience including, but not limited to: playing ability, attendance/promptness, citizenship, academic achievement, discipline, initiative, and leadership skills/potential as it relates to band environment. While all students have an opportunity to be considered for one of these appointed leadership positions, it should be understood that only a limited number of positions can be filled and will vary from year to year. As a member of the Edison PHS Band there is an expectation for ALL students to foster and develop positive leadership skills regardless of title. The following positions will need to be filled: Drum Major: Students will audition for the roll of drum major of the Edison PHS Marching Band. Auditions will take place during the end of year activities and students will audition in front of a panel of non-patrician judges. Drum major candidates must be high level musicians and marchers, must show responsibility during rehearsals and performances, and show respect to all members of the band and staff. Drum majors are responsible for directing the marching band on the field, in stands and at pep rallies, attend and help run all scheduled rehearsals and meetings, help manage section leaders during rehearsals, and run rehearsals in directors absence. The number of drum majors relies on the size of the band, but there are normally two. Section Leaders: Students will audition for the roll of section leader(s). Auditions will take place during the end of school year activities and will students will audition for the directors. Section Leaders must have a high level of musicianship and marching skill, must show responsibility during rehearsals and performances, and show respect to all members of the band and staff. Section Leader are responsible for keeping their section in good order during rehearsals and performances, running sectional rehearsals, taking attendance during rehearsals and performances, and maintaining a positive rehearsal environment. The number of section leaders relies on the size of each section, but there is normally one per section. Band Council: Band council is made up of the following: President, VP, Secretary, Treasurer, and class representatives. These positions are voted on during the end of school year band council meetings. Members of Band Council are responsible for planning student lead events (parties, lock-ins, etc.), organizing support groups for fundraising and events, and should be in attendance to every Edison Band Booster Meeting. Other leadership roles: The following roles will be assigned to those students who volunteer or show a high level of responsibility: Drum Line Equipment Manager Loading Crew Manager
Edison Summer/Fall Band Calendar 2016 May 2 nd -13 th 4:00pm 7:00pm: Newcomer Band Camp May 13 th 7:00pm Newcomer Band Picnic and Games May 10th 7:00pm Edison Spring MS/HS Band Concert June 13 th -July 5 th Edison Fireworks Stand (See Website for Schedule) July 10 th -13 th K State Leadership Camp July 18 th August 19 th 8:00am-3:00pm Edison Summer Band Camp Edison Football Schedule 2016 (Call Times Subject to Change) September 2 nd Edison @ Bishop Kelley (Away) September 9 th Edison @ Memorial (Away) September 16 th Edison vs. Claremore (Home) September 23 rd Edison @ Glenpool (Away) September 29 th Edison Homecoming vs. EC October 7 th Edison @ McAlester(Away) October 14 th Edison vs. Coweta (Home) October 20 th Edison vs. Shawnee (Home) October 28 th Edison vs. Noble (Home) SN November 4 th Edison @ Durant (Away) Call Time: 5:00pm Call Time: 4:30pm Call Time: 4:30pm Call Time: 4:00pm Call Time: 4:00pm Call Time: 3:00pm Call Time: 4:30pm Call Time: 4:30pm Call Time: 4:00pm Call Time: 12:00pm Edison Marching Band Contest Schedule 2016 (Dates Subject to Change) September 24 th Oologah Stallion Battalion October 1 st Broken Arrow Invitational October 8 th Pryor Band Day or Union Renegade Review October 26 th OSSAA Regional Marching Contest October 29 th OBA 5A Marching Contest
IN ADDITION TO THE RULES FOUND IN THIS HANDBOOK, STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FOLLOWING THE RULES AND GUIDELINES OF EDISON PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please return to the directors: My parents/guardians and myself have read and understand the rules and guidelines presented in the Edison Preparatory High School Instrumental Music Handbook. By signing this form, I agree to commit my time and energy to the Edison Band Program. I promise to make myself available for all rehearsals, activities and performance called by the directors. I will maintain a passing grade in all my classes, so as to remain eligible to participate in all events. I promise to do my best to maintain a positive environment and promote a good work attitude in everything I do. By signing this form, my parents/guardians also give me permission to travel on school or charter vehicles for scheduled music events. All buses will be chaperoned. Please sign and return this section as well as the medical release form to the directors immediately. Student signature Parent signature Date
MEDICAL RELEASE FORM Student: Teacher: Lee D. Burnes School: Edison Preparatory School Date of Birth: Date of last known tetanus shot: Known Allergies (drug or otherwise): Medication currently being taken Due to legislation and policies regarding public schools and student medications, we must know what the student is taking, how much, and at what time. The medications must be in the proper containers with the student s name, doctor s name, and dosage requirements. This includes all medications, whether over-the-counter or prescription. Please use the back of this page to list all medicines and information. Describe any history of heart condition, diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, rheumatic fever, etc. (Use the back of the page if necessary): Physical restrictions: Physician: Work phone: Relative: Home phone: Work phone: INSURANCE INFORMATION Medical insurance company: Identification / Policy number: Subscriber s name: Home phone: Subscriber s employer: Work phone: I,, hereby authorize any physician member of the Department of Emergency Medicine of an accredited hospital or any member of the medical staff of an accredited hospital to render medical treatment which in his or her judgment may be deemed necessary in the care of my child,, who is attending an Edison Music function, including travel to and from. This Medical release form is valid through June 1, 2017. Parent / Guardian signature Date