Note:

We hope that both students and parents will find this handbook useful and informative.

Please sign and return the bottom portion of this page to the Music Director after you have read the entire contents of the handbook.

We suggest that you keep the handbook in a spot where you can easily locate it for quick reference throughout the year.

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TO THE MUSIC DIRECTOR:

WE HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND WILL ABIDE BY THE RESPONSIBILITIES, OBLIGATIONS AND POLICIES OF MUSIC PROGRAM MEMBER AS STATED IN THIS HANDBOOK:

PARENT: ____________________________________ DATE: _____________________

COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS:

A student directory will be published on November 1, 1998. It will contain names, telephone and address information for all members of the instrumental music groups. This listing will assist ride sharing and facilitate better communication.

Please notify Paula Hill, TEMPO Publicity Chairperson, no later than October 26, if YOU DO NOT wish the information published. This directory is for TEMPO members only.

Welcome to the 1998-99 West Hills High School Instrumental Music Department. The purpose of this handbook/syllabus is to acquaint you with our program along with our policies and expectations in the hope your experience will be educational and positive. Through participation in our program students will:

1. Be more disciplined in their practice and performance.
2. Develop a better sense of responsibility and commitment.
3. Develop cooperation skills – working with other for a common goal.
4. Achieve greater respect for self and others.
5. Appreciate the value of music.
6. Have fun and enjoy high school.

Our booster club is called TEMPO (Totally Excellent Music Parents’ Organization)

Wayne Kitt - Instrumental Music Director

Mr. Kitt began teaching in 1976 after graduation from San Diego State University, following a four-year service with the U.S. Navy including three tours to Vietnam. Since that time he has taught at Greenfield Jr. High, Black Mountain Middle School in Poway, Grant Middle School, Rincon School, Rose and Orange Glen Elementary in Escondido and finally, all 10 schools in Santee School District. In the fall of 1996, he accepted the challenge at West Hills High School just four days before the start of school. He and his wife, Kathy (also a teacher), live in La Mesa with their four children (ages 10 to 15). Back To Top

Mr. Kitt thoroughly enjoys teaching instrumental music in high school with the reward being the musical and personal development of the students and seeing them reach for their full musical potential. He focuses his energies directing the various components of the West Hills High School bands and orchestra to superior performances. Those components include the Blue and Black Marching Brigade, Symphonic Band, Beginning/Cadet Band, Jazz Band 1, Jazz Band 2 and String Orchestra.

Stan Sonnabaum – Jazz Instructor

Mr. Sonnabaum joined the West Hills Instrumental Music staff in 1996 as a parent volunteer in jazz instruction. In 1997 he became a professional advisor, taking charge of Jazz Band 1 while Mr. Kitt took over the instruction of the newly formed Jazz Band 2. Mr. Sonnabaum’s professional experience as performing jazz musician and his enthusiasm for teaching has helped establish West Hills High School as a standard in jazz education with one of the finest high school jazz bands in San Diego County. Back To Top

Through Mr. Sonnabaum’s inspiration and direction, West Hills sponsors a Jazz Music Festival and competes in several outside jazz festivals. We are very proud of Mr. Sonnabaum and the heights of excellence he has helped the students achieve. He is also in the process of completing his credential requirements.

Tony Sewell – Color Guard Instructor

Michael Anthony Sewell came to West Hills in 1997 from San Diego State University where he was also the Color Guard Captain and drill writer for SDSU Marching Aztecs. He is in charge of the Color Guard and Winter Guard programs at West Hills. Through his insistence on excellence and capable leadership, the guard program has gone from a small drill team to a larger coed program. He is highly qualified instructor and dancer who also helped choreograph dance performances as well as assisting with the musical ‘Oklahoma" performed at West Hills last year.

Tony is pursuing a degree in the field of psychology with the eventual goal of a Ph.D. This year he is also working at Patrick Henry and Oceanside high schools.

Gary Backlund - Drill Writer, Marching Instructor, and Music Clinician Back To Top

Gary Backlund came to West Hills last year after the beginning of the marching season. He is responsible for marching instruction and drill writing for Field Show competitions. During the symphonic season, Gary will be assisting Mr. Kitt as a low brass and ensemble clinician. He comes to us with over a dozen years of experience in drum corps performance having been with Velvet Knights for some time as a low brass performer and is currently one of the directors on the staff of West Coast Sound, a drum corps based in San Diego.

Mr. Backlund is a superb musician and clinician and thoroughly enjoys working with West Hills High School Blue and Black Brigade. He is currently working on the completion of his music degree and teaching credential at SDSU.

Matt Ramey – Drumline Advisor and Percussion Instructor Back To Top

Matt Ramey is currently an upper division Liberal Studies student at SDSU but comes from Northern California. He was the drum major for his high School in Manteco, after which he worked with 4 competitive drumlines over the next two years with experience in mallets, battery line and orchestral percussion. He currently marches with the SDSU Marching Aztecs but also marches with the Sacramento Freelancers Drum Corps which placed 1^st in the WGI circuit last summer. Matt also played for two years in the San Joaquin Valley Symphony Orchestra. Matt is doing a great job working with our drumline and pit musicians. They have responded well to his instruction.

Throughout the year we offer a variety of performing groups. The focus in the fall semester is on the Blue and Black Marching Brigade (marching band and colorguard). From September to December this group performs at football games and competes in field show tournaments and band review (parades). In the spring semester the focus is on our concert and jazz groups. These groups perform at festivals, competitions and concerts.

Entrance to the performance groups is by audition and/or recommendation only. Being a part of the group is a privilege, not a right. Disruptive students will be removed from the program. All Marching Band members must be enrolled in Marching PE (7^th period) and Beginning/Intermediate Band (4^th period), Symphonic Band (6^th period). ColorGuard/WinterGuard must be enrolled in Marching PE (7^th period) and ColorGuard ("0" period).For info on Marching Pe Clink Here. To audition for ColorGuard candidates must have a 2.0 GPA. Jazz Band is a "Zero" period class and was created for those who are also enrolled in one of the other performing groups. Entrance is by audition only

Marching P.E. Credit

P.E. credit is given for Sophomores and Juniors who are enrolled in Marching P.E. Freshmen and Seniors are given Fine Arts Credit. In order to qualify for that credit, attendance to the class is mandatory, it is NOT an option! Please schedule doctor’s appointments, Driver’s Education, etc. at another time. Marching P.E. must fulfill the state requirements for P.E. It is an assigned class to which students must attend or lose the designated credit for the course.

Field Shows (Marching Band and ColorGuard)

A field show is a seven to eleven minute musical show made up of music and maneuvers that reflect the music on the football field. Percussion and soloists may be featured, but overall performance is judged on music, general effect and marching & maneuvering. ColorGuard units participate and may be judged separately at most tournaments and also contribute to the overall score. The Band and ColorGuard are both vital parts of this competitive group and one does not outweigh the other. For a Clear Course Description Of Marching Band Click Here

Band Reviews (Marching Band and ColorGuard)

A band review is a competition within the parade setting – parade block formation, marching on the street, performing a march while the ColorGuard provides tall flag and letter line support.

Festivals (Symphonic Band, String Orchestra and Jazz Ensembles)

A festival performance is a musical presentation of usually 2 to 4 musical compositions lasting a total of about twenty minutes. This presentation is of "serious" music rather than "pop" tunes. After the performance we receive a rating reflecting an established standard such as I – Superior, II – Excellent, III – Good, etc. Some Jazz Festivals may also include a ranking of 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd place, etc.

WinterGuard and Drumline

These groups perform in a separate competitive season during the early spring. Both groups travel throughout the Southland for 5 or 6 competitions and conclude the season with a championship event.

Course Description:

The instrument music performing groups are designed to develop and train individual and team related performance skills in a competitive, yet cooperative learning environment. Students will be encouraged to participate and develop at an accelerated rate.

Marching and ColorGuard provides students with an opportunity to experience movement, express creativity and enjoy success while at the same time increasing fitness and skill development. Subject matter will be presented in logical, sequential format so students will be able to acquire affective, psychomotor, aesthetic and cognitive knowledge about drill as an art form. Proper warm-up and conditioning will be stressed. Choreography, basic terminology, historical and cultural dimensions as well as drill performance and analysis will be introduced. This course will promote movement, musical skill and knowledge, self image and personal and social growth.

We need your help and support to be successful. There are lots of ways parents can help. We need help in chaperoning, moving equipment, working with uniforms and assisting students in their preparation for rehearsals and performances. We especially need your help in making sure your child has the materials necessary to help with their success.

Required Materials – All students must keep their instrument in proper working condition. Clarinet and Saxophone players should always have at least 4 to 6 reeds in their case, three of which need to be broken in and ready to use. Reeds usually last about 1 to 2 weeks. Percussion players need to provide their own sticks and pads. All Brass players should have their own bottle of valve/slide oil. Cleaning cloths, swabs and snakes are needed to keep the instrument clean and in working order.

Recommended Items – Metronome, chromatic tuner, additional music i.e., a method book a book of classic and/or jazz solos, a book of contemporary songs and the beginnings of a CD library of the type of music being studied in the various performance classes.

Private Lessons – Private lessons are strongly recommended. One-on-one instructions with a professional musician on the chosen instrument will help the student excel well beyond those who do not take private lessons. There are many qualified teachers in the area and they really do help.

Attendance at rehearsals and performances – The calendar of rehearsals and performances are posted before the beginning of school. It is very important for them to attend all our rehearsals and performances. Our rehearsals and performances outside the regular school day are part of the class. Please do not use attendance at them as a disciplinary tool.

Chaperones

On the bus – Before we leave please count the number of students on your bus. Before we leave our competition please count again. The bus driver is the #1 person on the bus. He/She is responsible for the safety of the passengers. Our job is to support them. We need to do everything they ask.

At the competition – Students are responsible for anything they use. It is not your job to pick up after them. We ask that you help them get ready and assist them in anything they might need.

Discipline – We have a lot of students in our group. I cannot possibly watch or know everything that is going on. I need you to be my eyes and ears. We want a group in which we can be proud. I need to know immediately if there is a problem. Students are expected to show respect and accept direction from the parent volunteers. If any student refuses to cooperate I need to know. Teenagers, as you obviously know, can sometimes be difficult. I’m in a better position to effectively deal with students having behavior difficulties. Again, our goal is to provide a positive experience for everyone on our trips.

Instrumental Music Council (IMC) – The IMC shall consist of student-elected president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, historian and publications; Drum Majors, ColorGuard leaders, section leaders, librarians, equipment manager (quartermaster) and one elected representative from each class not represented by those other leaders. The IMC shall act in those capacities as directed by the Directors. They will also assist in making many decisions concerning the organization.

Drum Majors/ColorGuard Officers – The selection of Drum Majors and ColorGuard officers will be made each spring based on leadership and performing abilities. The Drum Majors are responsible for conducting, instructing and training all marching band members. ColorGuard officers are responsible for contacting, teaching and assisting all ColorGuard members.

Section Leaders – Section leaders are appointed by the Band Director based on leadership abilities. Section Leaders are responsible for contacting, teaching and assisting all members of their section to ensure their ability to play their music and march the show. Section Leaders will be in charge of music memorization and preliminary check-off (playing exams on assigned music) for their sections.

Librarians – Librarians are appointed by the Band Director. They are responsible for all music including the copying, distribution, collection and organization of all music.

Quartermaster – (Equipment manager) – The quartermaster is appointed by the Band Director. He/She is responsible for assisting the Band Director in the issuing of band equipment to band members, repairs to damaged band equipment, the transportation of all performance related equipment, regulating the proper use of band equipment and maintaining the band room and all other storage areas. The Quartermaster will lead the Equipment Crew in working with the Parent Pit Crew.

Equipment Crew - Members of this crew will help move and set up equipment for all rehearsals and performances.

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Chair/Part placement – The Director will assign students to parts or chairs to achieve proper balance. Generally, Students will be placed on a part according to the student’s ability and/or class level.

Alternates/Shadows – There will be alternates for the Marching Band and ColorGuard. Performing members will be chosen on the basis of performing ability and participation. Performing members may become alternates at any time. Alternates must be ready at all times to fill a spot in the performing unit. Alternates will attend all rehearsals and performances.

John Philip Sousa Band Award – This nationally recognized award is presented each your to the outstanding band member who displays superior musicianship, merit, leadership, dependability, loyalty, cooperation and other positive qualities of conduct. This member receives a lapel pin, a certificate and a marble desk piece with medallion. The student’s name is placed on a plaque permanently displayed in the band room. The Director makes the selection for this award

Most Improved Player – This award plaque goes to the band member who has made the most musical improvement in one year. The director is responsible for selecting the best person to receive this award.

Director’s Service Award – This award plaque goes to a student in the band displaying unending dedication and service to the band. This individual is the person who gives extra and expects nothing in return.

National School Orchestra Award – This nationally recognized award is presented to the outstanding orchestra musician who has contributed the most to the program in every capacity of superior leadership, musicianship, and dedication to the group. The recipient receives a marble desk piece with medallion, a lapel pin and a certificate. The student’s name will also be placed on a wall plaque, which is permanently displayed in the band room. The Director makes the selection for this award.

Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – This nationally recognized award is the jazz equivalent to the Sousa award for concert/marching band. It is presented to the most outstanding musician in the Jazz Band, the person who has contributed the most to the program through leadership, musicianship, merit, dependability, cooperation, attitude and other positive qualities of conduct. The recipient receives a marble desk piece with medallion, a lapel pin and a certificate. The student’s name will also be placed on a wall plaque, which is permanently displayed in the band room. The Director makes the selection for this award.

Letters/Pins – Students may letter for Marching Band, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, ColorGuard and WinterGuard. There must be NO unexcused absences from any rehearsal or performance.

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Music/Notebook – Music will be checked out through our librarians. All music, this Handbook and other handouts must be kept in a 3ring binder. The binder/folder will be a part of the semester grade. All replacements will cost 25 cents a page.

Lockers – Lockers are available for use. We can not, however, guarantee the safety of their contents. Do not share your locker combination with anyone. If you use your own lock, the combination must be given to the Band Director of the lock will be cut off. Instruments must be kept in their cases in the lockers. Lockers found unlocked will be emptied, instruments not in their case will be removed and held for a period of time.

Instruments – The school does provide many large instruments for student use. There is a $20 per semester instrument usage fee, which is applied to emergency repairs or supplies, which might occur. Pay this fee in the ASB Finance. Students must supply accessories such as reeds, valve oil slide cream, lyres, flip-folders, etc. Students are responsible for the care of their instruments. Having supplies and caring for their instruments is a part of grade in all instrumental courses. All repairs due to misuse will be paid for by the student, e.g. dents or bent valve casings in brass instruments, broken or bent keys in woodwind instruments and broken drumheads in percussion instruments. Misused school instruments will be taken back. Instruments must be stored in their cases when not in use. Replacement of instruments which are lost or stolen will be paid for by those responsible (student and /or parents.), knowing that most large instruments cost many thousands of dollars.

Rehearsal Procedures – Our rehearsal time is very limited so we must accomplish a lot in a small amount of time.

1. Every member should bring instrument, music and/or proper equipment to every rehearsal or performance.
2. There is to NO playing of instruments to and from practice field during school hours. All individual percussion playing in the band room must be done on practice pads and not drum heads.
3. No gum chewing in the band room at any time.
4. Each student should be seated or standing in formation at the time designated by the director, or the student will be marked tardy.
5. Posture is of utmost importance. Students should avoid crossed legs or ankles and slumping down when seated in chairs.
6. Read the board when entering the rehearsal room for equipment and materials needed for each rehearsal.
7. Students are not allowed to write on the board or add anything to the bulletin board. Posted information should never be removed from the bulletin board.
8. Music folders, instruments and equipment should be kept in their proper storage places when not in use. Music and folders should not be left on the music stand.
9. All trash should be thrown in the waste container.
10. Disruptive behavior such as continual talking will not be tolerated.
11. Personal phone calls are not permitted on the office phone. It is for emergency use only. Rehearsal times are listed in advance, please make arrangements ahead of time.
12. Practice attire must meet the school dress code.

Thursday Night Rehearsals – There is a mandatory Thursday night rehearsal during the fall season from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

1. Roll will be taken in the band room or the field AT 6:00 PM. Those students not in their assigned seats or spots will be marked absent or tardy.
2. Students may not leave the practice field without the permission of the Band or ColorGuard Director.
3. Tardiness or an absence due to another school activity will be excused providing notice is given at least two days in advance with the appropriate times given.
4. Work will not be accepted as an excuse, as you know about the Thursday night rehearsals months in advance.
5. If you are absent from a Thursday night rehearsal before a Friday night football game or Saturday competition, you could lose your performing spot on the field for at least one week or more.

A schedule of performances was posted before the first week of classes. These performances are mandatory. Your grades and your participation in band will be affected if you are absent.

Home Football Games – We will perform at all home football games.

1. Once each student finds his/her seat, he/she should remain at attention until all members arrive and the drum major gives the command for the band to be seated.
2. Hats will be removed.
3. Uniforms are to be properly worn at all times.
4. Non-Band & ColorGuard members are not permitted within the section. Visiting Band & ColorGuard students or special guests are exceptions.
5. Students will be allowed to go to the bathroom during the game. However, no more than four students may be gone at one time.
6. Do not put your feet on the chairs.
7. Student conduct should be professional throughout the time spent in the stadium. Individual playing, "worming", or beating of the drums is not permitted.
8. The Band and ColorGuard will march in formation to the band room. Students will not play after they have been dismissed.

Student Pick-Up After A Performance or Rehearsal – Rehearsals will always end on time. We almost always return from performances on time. Students must be picked up on time. Schedule your pick up for 15 to 20 minutes after the posted time for the end of the performance or rehearsal. Students not picked up within 30 minutes will be given band community service.

Travel Policies – All students are required to travel to and from activities on district transportation unless proper written permission is obtained prior to the event and cleared by the Director. After performances students can be released to their parents, with prior written permission and depending on the reason for release. Arrangements must be made to ensure equipment and uniforms are properly stored upon return to the band room.

Uniforms – Band – Each student in the band will be issued a uniform and a hat. All uniforms and accessories will be kept in the uniform lockers. A chart will be posted with your name and identification of each item issued to you.

1. After each home performance you are to hang up your uniform properly: hang the pants with the creases matching and your coat zipped and hung with the curve of the hanger curving towards the back. Students who fail to hang up uniforms properly will, with the guidance of our uniform parents, pay for the pressing of that uniform.
2. Your band shoes are not permitted in the uniform lockers.
3. No makeup or jewelry will be worn while in uniform.
4. No facial hair is permitted during the competition season.
5. Long hair will be pinned up. It is your own responsibility to arrive at school for performance with your hair wetted down, put up and sprayed or jelled in place. IT IS NOT THE JOB OF OUR PARENTS TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR HAIR.
6. Eating or drinking (except water) is NOT permitted while in uniform.
7. You are to supply and wear with the uniform the following items: black marching shoes (available through TEMPO), black gloves, a Band T-shirt (or clean white T-shirt), black socks and gym shorts. Shoes must be kept shined. The shirt, socks and shorts must be clean. The Band T-shirt and gym shorts must be worn to the performance event as we usually do not have changing facilities. Those students who do not have a white or Band T-shirt, black socks and gym shorts on will not be allowed to put on a uniform.
8. If the Band and ColorGuard is traveling to a competition, a Brigade polo shirt and dark pants will be worn (with Band T-shirt and gym shorts underneath).
9. These uniforms require a lot to keep clean. Make sure your hands are clean before handling the uniform, especially if you have just been polishing your shoes or cleaning your instrument.
10. The student must replace all items checked out to him/her and lost. A complete uniform with hat is approximate $375.00.

Uniforms – ColorGuard

1. Members are responsible for uniform costs that exceed money allotted by the budget (e.g. the warm-ups and travel bags).
2. Eating or drinking (except water) is not permitted while in uniform.
3. Members must wear their warm-ups on Fridays or as assigned by the ColorGuard director.
4. Performances: Guard T-shirts are required along with the warm-ups.

Parents – In order to be successful, we need the help of parents. Parents are encouraged to support us by chaperoning and helping with uniforms, equipment help, etc. Students are expected to cooperate and accept direction from parents who help us in our activities. Please show them the appreciation they deserve for their help and support.

A disciplined Band is a Band of Excellence. Nothing is achieved without self-discipline. Although it is our philosophy that this will be most effectively accomplished through positive reinforcement, moral upbuilding and motivation, it is sometimes necessary to invoke consequences for unwanted behaviors. All school rules and policies will be enforced.

Consequences for Minor Misbehavior may include:

1. Changing or removal of chair position.
2. Removal from rehearsal
3. Band/Orchestra community service
4. Extra assignments such as copying our Handbook.
5. Student/Teacher and/or Parent/Teacher conference.
6. Failure to complete discipline assignments or service will result in after-school detention and parent contact.

Major Misbehavior and Consequences

1. Anyone caught possessing or using alcohol or dangerous drugs, or stealing, will be suspended or expelled from band and school and referred to the proper authorities.
2. Fighting will not be tolerated. Any physical contact as a result of fighting will result in the removal of the student from the rehearsal, parent contact and/or referral.
3. Defiance or refusal to obey will result in a referral for suspension and/or expulsion.

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Music Programs Sources of Income

The Grossmont Union High School District does not fund the Instrumental Music Program to the level at which it is expected to operate by that same district. To maintain a program such as ours at a high level, students must contribute to the program. There is a expense structure that distributes these cost as fairly and evenly as is possible amongst the students who are actively participating. The income and expenses of the program are administered by TEMPO; the West Hills High School instrumental music parents organization, a State and Federal non-profit group The funds of the Music Boosters Organization (TEMPO) support activities that are essential to a successful music program, including group learning experiences, clinicians, coaches, transportation, equipment, and other expenses.. The performance fees cover a portion, but not all, of the following expenses (percentages are typical but not necessarily exact):

Our typical budget is $40-50,000 depending on the number of students – as the program grows – so does the budget.

Expenses (approximate)

Fees for instrutor (not diretor) Coaches, Clinicians , Field Show Charting, Percussion Charting, WinterGuard Charting 44 %

Transportation expenses 21%

Uniform Expenses (cleaning and repairs) 8.2%

Competition Entry Fees, Band, Orchestra, Winter Guard, Drumline and Jazz Bands 7.5%

Music 6.5%

Color Guard/Winter Misc 6%

Drumline Equipment & Repairs 4%

Awards 3%

Symphonic, Orchestra and jazz miscellaneous incl

$473.00 cost /student

Costs are distributed differently among students depending on the section(s) in which they are enrolled. This year the student performance fee for Marching Band, Symphonic Band, ColorGuard and Drumline is $150. The cost for Orchestra and Jazz Band is $75. The maximum cost for any student is $150.

Revenue (approximate)

Performance Fees (student payments) 68%

Volunteer "Buy Out" payments;10%

Service America (working at Qualcomm Stadium)10%

Fund Raisers – Rehearse-a-thon, TEMPO Auction, Misc. candy sales,12%

Rummage sales, Car washes, Corporate Sponsors,

Family sponsors, etc.

Blue & Black Marching Brigade (marching band, colorguard, drumline)

Performance Fees* $150 (For entire year—due in increments by Jan 15

TEMPO Membership Fee ;$15/Individual or $30/Patron

Band Camp$25

Band Shoes $25

Gloves $6 (2 pair)

Polo Shirt $10

Rehearse-a-thon $75 Major Fund-raiser—must be raised by each student

Spending/Lunch Money $10**(Per all day/each tournament all day trip)

Private Lessons $50 (est.) per month**

Brigade tour in February Disneyland/Magic Mt./Medieval Times (tent. $ TBA)

Tuxedo/Dress $100 (est.) Symphonic Band only

Symphonic Band Spring Semester Tour To Be Announced

ColorGuard Students Only

Performance Fees* $150 (For entire year—due in increments by Jan 15

Warm-ups, Travel Bag, Garment Bag $167.50

Marching Uniform (estimated)

Shoes ;$30

Tights ;$5

Makeup ;$15

Rifle$30

Equipment Lease (pole/silk) $15/yr

WinterGuard Student Only

Marching Uniform (estimated)

Shoes;$30

Tights& $5

Make-up $15

Winter Guard Uniform $100 (approximately)

String Orchestra Students Only

String Orchestra Fee* $75

String-a-thon $50 Major Fund-raiser—must be raised by each student

Music Boosters Membership (TEMPO) $15

Tuxedo/Dress&$100 (est.)

Private Lessons $50 (est.) per month**

String Spring Semester Tour To Be Announced

Jazz Band Students Only

Jazz Band Fee*$75

Jazz-a-thon $50 Major Fund-raiser—must be raised by each student

Music Boosters Membership $15

Black Shirt/Black Pants$60 (est.)

Private Lessons $50 (est.) per month**

• All Fees may be scheduled over four months beginning in Sept 9
• **Optional, but strongly suggested.

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Marching Band: $150.00 per year

• October 15^th$75.00 (includes monies from Rehearse-a-thon)
• November 15^th$50.00
• December 15^th$25.00

String Orchestra/Jazz Band $75.00 per year

• October 15^th$25.00
• November 15^th$25.00
• December 15^th$25.00

Guard Students:$75.00 per Semester

• Same as Marching Band

All payments/checks payable to T.E.M.P.O. and may be mailed to:

TEMPO

P.O. Box 15038

San Diego, CA 92175

Place envelope in TEMPO’S locked box in in Band Room by the office

Make sure envelope contains all information needed.

During the fall marching season available fundraising opportunities are available at all home San Diego Charger games, working with Service America at Qualcomm Stadium. Please contact Mr. Mike Skimson at 443-8501 (evenings) to volunteer. This is a great opportunity to raise funds which will be applied directly to the Music Performance Fees.

NOTE: Tentative plans are being considered for two Spring travel trips. In February the Marching Brigade plans to take a trip to Disneyland and Magic Mountain. In late April/early May the Symphonic Band, String Orchestra and Jazz Band are tentatively planning a tour.

Every student has a right to adequate educational opportunities during his/her classroom instructional period. The student also has certain responsibilities as he/she represents West Hills High School in performances and competitions.

1. Responsibility to the school: The school district provides a set of guidelines for the general behavior of the students. Each student is responsible for following the school regulations, individually and while together as a unit. At each performance you are representing West Hills High School. Every performance should be your best and reflect the pride you have for your school.
2. Responsibility to each other: You have the obligation to respect the rights and feelings of others. Treat others as you wish to be treated. Your good behavior will influence others around you to do the same. This responsibility includes being able to take constructive criticism and use it to the best advantage within your own group.
3. Responsibility to the Performing Groups: The performing groups at West Hills include the Blue and Black Marching Brigade (Marching Band, ColorGuard, ID Line, Drumline and Pit Musicians), Symphonic Band, Jazz Bands I & II, String Orchestra, WinterGuard, and Competition Drumline. The success of these groups depends on your commitment, your effort, your attendance at rehearsals, and your promptness at all functions. Please arrange your schedule to fulfill these obligations. This handbook contains a list of required performances in the calendar section. Any necessary changes in the calendar will be given to you as soon as possible. Please arrange your schedules to avoid conflicts. If a conflict occurs, see your instructor immediately.
4. Responsibility for Attendance: Attendance at all regularly scheduled rehearsals and performances is mandatory. The West Hills High School Instrumental Music performance groups work as a team and cannot afford to miss anyone!
5. Responsibility for Instruments: Students must not use or play with any instrument they do not own or that has been checked out to them. Privately and school-owned instruments are the financial responsibility of the student and parent. Insurance for instruments can be purchased as a part of the parent’s homeowners’ policy. Students using school-owned instruments are required to provide their own mouthpiece, which will be maintained by the individual student. School instruments must be kept in good playing condition. Any damage to school instruments will be the student’s responsibility. The borrowed instrument will be returned to the band room when requested by the instructor. There is a $20 per semester, Fall, Spring and Summer, usage fee for all school owned instruments which helps defray a small part of the costs for immediate or emergency repairs.

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	Grades in all instrumental music classes will be determined through the use of a point system assigned to letter grades and weighted in four areas: attendance, attitude, successful participation, and tests of musical ability & routine content. Tests not made up or performances and rehearsals missed will negatively affect the student’s grade during each evaluation period.

• Attendance – each student will be expected to attend all scheduled rehearsals, sectional practices and performances, unless prior approval is granted.
• Work conflicts, dentist and doctor appointments, outside music lessons, etc., are not excuses for missed practices or performances.
• Director must be notified in writing of any potential performance conflicts as soon as possible, but no later than two weeks after receiving the performance schedules
• Director must also be notified of possible missed practices as soon as the conflict is apparent, but no later than one week before the practice.
• Attitude – cooperation during rehearsals, responsibility in the care of uniform, equipment and instrument are the qualities desired of the student.
• Successful Participation – The evaluation of the student’s performance and participation is accomplished through observation at performances and rehearsals with the intention of the final musical/dance, etc, activity being the key relative to the student’s potential.
• Tests of Musical Ability & Routine Content – tests on scales, assigned music, auditions, routine content, and written assignments will be included in the evaluation of each student’s accomplishment.

Grade Point System

LETTER GRADES WILL BE BASED ON THE TOTAL ACCUMULATED POINTS THROUGHOUT THE SEMESTER. POINTS MAY BE EARNED IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS:

NOTE:Due to the group nature of our activities, it will not be possible to make up or give alternate credit for unexcused performances and rehearsal evaluations.

Marching Band and ColorGuard

Performances (each) …………………………………………………………………... 50 points possible

Rehearsals (each) ………………………………………………………………….…... 25 points possible

Daily Participation (each day) ………………………………………………………… 15 points possible

Music Inspections (each) (ability to play and memorization) ………………………… 10 points possible

Symphonic/Jazz Bands, String Orchestra & Musical Productions

Performances (each) …………………………………………………………………... 50 points possible

Rehearsals (each) …………………………………………………………………….... 25 points possible

Daily Participation (each day) ………………………………………………………… 15 points possible

Tests of Musical Ability (each) ……………………………………………………..… 10 points possible

Points will be earned based on Participation, Preparation, Attitude, Punctuality, ETC.

100 – 90% of the total possible "A"

89 – 80% "B"

79 – 70% of the total possible"C"

69 – 60% of the total possible "D"

59% or below the total possible "F"

Citizenship Grades

After one warning for any inappropriate behavior during class period, students will receive a "check" in the roll book. Grades will be given as follows:

NO CHECKS"O"

1. 2 CHECKS "S"
2. 3-4 CHECKS"N"
3. 5 AND UP "U"

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Blue & Black Marching Brigade GRADING POLICY

The grade will be determined by a point system.

There will be 1300 points possible for the semester.

(All points were adjusted accurately for the 1st six week grading period).

Total

Pts ea.

Total Pts.

Grade Spread

DailyRehearsals

85

5

425

A

1235 - 1300 pts.

B

1170 - 1234 pts.

Afternoon Rehearsals

26

7

182

C

1105 - 1169 pts.

D

1040 - 1104 pts.

Thursday Rehearsals

14

15

210

F

< 1104 pts.

Performances

13

25

325

Testing

158

TOTAL POINTS

1300

(for entire semester)

The following points will be deducted for unexcused absences:

- from a Performance:

-50 pts.

- from a Thursday Rehearsal:

-20 pts.

- from an Afternoon Rehearsal:

-10 pts.

- from a Daily Rehearsal:

-7 pts.

Any absences from a performance or Thursday night will only be excused if:

1. Notice is given at least two weeks before the performance (one week for rehearsal)

in writing, in person or by telephone (596-3600 ext. 351, 24 hours per day voice mail).

The absence was unavoidable (a calendar of all rehearsals and performances was posted during band camp and given out again during the Rehearse-a-thon.

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