SMHS INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DEPARTMENT 2017-2018 STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK

A Guide for SMHS Instrumental Music Dept. Students & Parents

Marching Band & Color Guard | Pep Band Concert Band |Wind Ensemble | Jazz Band | Symphony Orchestra

String Orchestra | Winter Drumline | Winter Color Guard

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This handbook provides students and parents with key information about San Marino High School’s Instrumental Music Department. In order to ensure an enriching experience, it is important that both students and parents read over the information carefully.

Four Key Skills Developed Through Music Education

▪ The ability to overcome obstacles with innovation and determination ▪ The ability to create and maintain positive relationships with peers ▪ The ability to see both sides of an issue and come to a reasonable and objective conclusion ▪ The ability to express oneself through an artistic medium of high quality

SMHS INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DEPARTMENT COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND POLICIES

Titan Marching Band & Color Guard - Prerequisites: Intermediate playing experience. The SMHS Titan Marching Band is open to all SMHS students who show a general competency on their instrument. The Marching Band performs at the Varsity football games, and competes in SCSBOA Field shows during the first quarter of the school year (Aug.-Nov.). Rehearsals are every school day during ‘0’ period, Thursday evenings, lunchtime/after school practice sectionals, and on Saturday/No school days as needed. Concurrent enrollment in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band or Symphony Orchestra is required. Members of the Band can perform in the Pep Band at away football games, home basketball games, school pep rallies, Homecoming Parade, and other community events. This award-winning group has traveled to Calgary, Canada, Sydney, Australia and Orlando, Florida. Wind Ensemble - Prerequisites: Intermediate/Advanced playing experience and one year of Concert Band. Audition by Music Director. The SMHS Wind Ensemble is an audition-only group that performs traditional as well as contemporary wind music. Wind, brass, and percussion students are selected according to their performance level as well as their participation in Concert and Marching Band. One year of Concert Band is required for new and incoming students. Auditions are held each year at the end of May for the upcoming year. This group represents the highest level of wind performers at SMHS and performs at the Winter, Spring & Pops Concerts and the SCSBOA Music Festival. Every other year the Orchestra and the Wind Ensemble participates in an national or international concert tour. Past awards include straight superior ratings at district SCSBOA sponsored festivals as well as High Music and Sweepstakes Award at the Heritage Music Festival in Orlando, Florida. Students enrolled in Marching Band MUST be concurrently enrolled in WIND ENSEMBLE or CONCERT BAND for PE Credit. Concert Band – Prerequisites: Intermediate playing experience. The SMHS Concert Band is open to all SMHS students who desire to perform traditional band literature. The Concert Band performs at the Winter, Spring & Pops Concerts as well as at the SMHS Graduation. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band is expected. This group’s past accomplishments have included superior performances at SCSBOA district and regional music festivals as well as Sweepstakes and High Honors at the Heritage Music Festival in Las Vegas. The Concert Band has traveled to Orlando, Florida; San Jose, California; and Seattle, Washington. Students enrolled in Marching Band MUST be concurrently enrolled in WIND ENSEMBLE or CONCERT BAND for PE Credit.

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Symphonic Orchestra - Prerequisites: Intermediate/Advanced playing experience. Audition by Music Director. The SMHS Symphonic Orchestra is open all SMHS students who desire to perform traditional and contemporary orchestral music. String and Wind auditions are generally held the first week of November. It is expected that wind and percussion players have concurrent enrollment in Concert Band or Wind Ensemble. Rehearsals are held every day during zero period at 7:00 a.m. starting the second quarter of school (December). This group represents the level of orchestral performers at SMHS and performs at the Winter, Spring & Pops Concerts and the SCSBOA Music Festival. Every other year the Orchestra and the Wind Ensemble participates in a national or international concert tour. Past accomplishments include superior performances at district and regional music festivals and performances at the California Music Educators’ Convention in Sacramento and Pasadena as well as performing in Austria, Germany and Prague. String Orchestra - Prerequisites: Intermediate playing experience. The SMHS String Orchestra is a class focused on developing musical skills and knowledge, preparing students for Symphonic Orchestra. This class is best-suited for students who are new to the high school music program, want to work on fundamentals, or experienced string students who want to start a new instrument. Concepts covered include: instrument care/maintenance, bow control, intonation and tuning, music literacy, introduction to music theory, and ensemble musicianship. Repertoire will be chosen from SCSBOA Grades 1–4 depending on ensemble skill. Performances include the Winter, Spring, and Pops Concert. Students may also perform as small ensembles for other performance opportunities. Jazz Band - Prerequisites: Intermediate playing experience. Audition by Music Director. The SMHS Jazz Band is open to all students who wish to play music in a jazz setting. This ensemble meets outside the regular school day to be determined each year. Auditions are held in August/September. This group performs at the Winter, Spring, Jazz & Pops Concerts as well as community events. Woodwind and brass members must concurrently be enrolled in Concert Band, Marching Band, Orchestra(s) or Wind Ensemble. Winter Drumline - Prerequisites: Intermediate playing experience. Audition by Percussion Directors. The SMHS Winter Drumline (WDL) is open to all students interested in joining this award-winning Open Class ranked ensemble who compete regionally and nationally in SCPA & WGI competitions (February through April). For the 2017-18 school year, auditions will be held in late September/early October. Rehearsals begin in August on Mondays & Thursdays from 6-9 p.m. in addition to weekly practice sectionals during lunch or after school, and Saturdays/No School days as needed. Competitions are usually on Saturdays and may overlap with Spring Break. Throughout the school year, WDL is often asked to perform at various school and community events. WDL functions as a SMHS extracurricular activity; students do not receive course credit. WDL is fully-supported by parent and community donations to cover all expenses including staff technicians, competitions, uniforms, percussion supplies, meals, and administrative needs.

Winter Guard - Prerequisites: Intermediate experience. Audition by Guard Director. The SMHS Winter Color Guard is open to all students interested in joining this award-winning Triple-A class ranked ensemble who compete regionally in the WGASC competitions (February-April). Auditions are held in late November/early December following Marching Band season. Rehearsals begin in December on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:30-9 p.m. in addition to weekly practice sectionals during lunch or after school, and Saturdays/No School days as needed. Competitions are usually on Saturdays and may overlap

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with Spring Break. WCG is fully-supported by parent and community donations to cover all expenses including staff technicians, competitions, uniforms, supplies, meals, and administrative needs.

ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONALISM GRADING POLICY (Participation and Performance Assessment)

Students in the SMHS Instrumental Music Department are evaluated on a double curve that assesses participation, professionalism, and performance. A syllabus for each class will be distributed at the beginning of the school year and posted online. Since some classes meet at different frequencies, the weights for the various aspects of evaluation differ. PERFORMANCES

All performances/competitions and performance rehearsals are mandatory. An unexcused absence at a performance/event will result in a ‘0’ for that performance. More than one unexcused absence will result in a lowered total grade by one letter (‘A to B’). Excused/unexcused absences will be determined by the Music Director.

▪ Failure to wear the required uniform/concert dress at a performance will result in a 10% reduction of performance grade

▪ Tardy arrival for a performance call time will result in a 10% reduction of performance grade ▪ Reductions may compound if students are tardy and not properly dressed

PARTICIPATION AND PROFESSIONALISM

1. Rehearsal participation and attendance are a very important part of the learning process and also includes the following criteria: a. Punctual arrival b. Being prepared (work habits) c. Effort and cooperation

2. The rehearsal before a performance is critical. If a student is absent during this rehearsal, they may jeopardize their participation in the performance. a. Non-participation is determined by the Music Director on a case-by-case basis b. Non-participation means that the student is still expected to attend the performance in full attire

3. The following will result in points deducted from daily points: ▪ No instrument/pencil on stand ▪ Tardy (unexcused) arrival ▪ Unexcused absence ▪ Unprepared ▪ Disruptive or uncooperative behavior ▪ Improper care of instrument, locker, uniform, or other school equipment

4. All absences not cleared in three days will become unexcused/truant.

5. Excused absences (with 2 week notice to the Music Director and approval) are limited to doctor or dental appointments, religious events, pre-cleared school approved absence, death or serious injury of an immediate family member.

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6. Failure to notify within the appropriate time period, or if other absence is an Unexcused Absence

and may result in a lowered grade

7. The percentage of this aspect of the total grade will equal the citizenship grade.

PLAYING ASSESSMENTS

1. Students are assessed based on a five (5) criteria rubric: a. Tone Production b. Tempo and Rhythmic Accuracy c. Intonation and Pitch Accuracy d. Articulation e. Phrasing

2. Playing Tests can be submitted by recording or taken in person

3. Playing Tests can be retaken for a higher grade up until the end of the quarter in which they are assigned.

4. Other assessments a. Listening Journals b. Dot book checks c. Written assessments

MUSIC DEPARTMENT MINIMUM GRADE POINT REQUIREMENT: 2.0

STUDENTS RECEIVING LOWER THAN A ‘C’ IN ACADEMIC AND CITIZENSHIP GRADES WILL RESULT IN PARENT CONFERENCE AND POSSIBLE REMOVAL FROM PROGRAM.

EXPECTED STUDENT BEHAVIOR

All SMHS Instrumental Music Department students are expected to demonstrate at all times appropriate behavior towards peers, instructional staff, and directors. Students are also expected to respect all equipment, instruments, and personal/school property. SMHS and the Music Department enforce a zero tolerance towards theft, vandalism, tobacco/drugs/alcohol use, destruction of personal/school property, and inappropriate behavior. All Music students not only represent themselves, the department, their school, but also the community at every event on and off campus. ALL MUSIC STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO ABIDE BY ALL SCHOOL RULES AND POLICIES STATED IN THE TITAN GUIDE AT ALL TIMES WHILE A MEMBER OF THE DEPARTMENT. ANY VIOLATION OF STATED SCHOOL POLICIES MAY RESULT IN FAIL/DROP AND/OR LEGAL PROSECUTION. ALL REPLACEMENT OF DAMAGED PERSONAL/SCHOOL PROPERTY OR FEES ASSOCIATED THEREIN WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT’S PARENTS.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION POLICY (SCHOOL-APPROVED ACTIVITIES)

Occasionally, due to individual schedule demands, a student must leave a scheduled performance/competition without coming back with the group. The following policy must be followed:

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Student leaving the performance/competition/game with their parent/guardian:

1. Student must give the Music Director (or his designee) a letter from the parent/guardian one week in advance stating that they will pick up the student and be responsible for their person.

2. At the event: Parent/Guardian must meet the Music Director (or designee) face to face at the event and assume a physical transfer of the student from the Director to the parent.

Student leaving the performance/competition/game with a friend/relative:

1. Student must give the Music Director (or designee) a letter from the parent/guardian one week in advance stating that they will be picked-up by the stated friend/relative who is at least 21 years of age and responsible for the student. A parent contact number where parent can be reached the day of the event must be included in the letter.

2. At the event: Friend/Relative, who is at least 21 years of age, must meet the Music Director (or designee) face-to-face at the event, show a valid ID, and assume a physical transfer of the student from the Director to the friend/relative.

STUDENTS FAILING TO RETURN WITH THE GROUP ON THE BUS FROM A SCHEDULED PERFORMANCE/COMPETITION/GAME WITHOUT FOLLOWING THE ABOVE POLICY WILL INCUR SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES, WHICH MAY INCLUDE: SUSPENSION, LOWERING OF ACADEMIC AND CITIZENSHIP GRADES AND/OR DROPPED FROM THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT.

REQUIRED CONCERT DRESS

Concert Band/String Orchestra Guys: White dress shirt with tie, dark dress slacks, dark socks and shoes. Girls: Nice dress (over the shoulder and knees) or pant suit, nylons and dress shoes. Sleeveless or

spaghetti strap dresses, short skirts, sandals or beach thongs are NOT acceptable. Symphonic Orchestra/Wind Ensemble

Guys: White wing-tip tux shirt with black bow tie and cumber bund. Black tux jacket and pants. Black socks and black dress shoes. A black suit will be acceptable in place of a tux.

Girls: Music Dept. required concert dress. Black dress shoes.

For Symphonic Orchestra/Wind Ensemble: In the fall, the Uniform Chair will help order the dresses and tux information for the guys will be given to the students. NOTE: CONCERT DRESS UNIFORMS MUST BE WORN IN THEIR ENTIRETY. STUDENTS WHO FAIL TO WEAR THE COMPLETE UNIFORM WILL FORFEIT THE OPPORTUNITY TO PERFORM PUBLICLY, WHICH WILL RESULT IN A LOWERING OF BOTH CITIZENSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP GRADES. ALWAYS COME FULLY PREPARED.

TITAN MUSIC STUDENT GOVERNMENT

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TITAN MUSIC COUNCIL (NEW)

Led by the elected or appointed Music Council President, the Music Council includes representatives from each music ensemble. To be considered, individuals must be in the 10th grade, have proven leadership ability, be in good academic standing (scholarship and citizenship), and enrolled in either Marching Band, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Orchestra(s), or Jazz Band. Individuals will be elected or appointed as follows:

▪ Drum Major ▪ Librarian ▪ Wind Ensemble Rep(s) ▪ Band President ▪ Color Guard Captains ▪ Concert Band Rep(s) ▪ Band Vice-President ▪ Historian ▪ Jazz Band Rep(s) ▪ Drum Captains ▪ Orchestra Rep(s)

Note: all positions except for Orchestra, Wind Ensemble. Concert Band & Jazz Band reps are elected or appointed at the end of the prior school year. Band Council members serve on both Councils.

The Music Council meets periodically throughout the year as their ensemble’s representative and communication liaison. The Council will also assist the Music Director with all performances and activities. Each council member is required to:

▪ Attend all Titan Music Council meetings ▪ Participate in all activities when applicable

TITAN BAND COUNCIL

Within the Titan Marching Band, the Band Council manages specific areas of the Band’s activities. To be considered, individuals must be at least in the 10th grade, have proven leadership ability, be in good academic standing (scholarship and citizenship), and enrolled in both Marching Band, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble and/or Orchestra. Individuals will be elected or appointed to the following Band Council positions:

▪ Drum Major ▪ Librarian ▪ Uniform/Equipment Manager ▪ Band President ▪ Color Guard Captain ▪ Section Leaders ▪ Band Vice-President ▪ Historian ▪ Drum Captain ▪ Asst. Drum Major

Led by the Band President, and in coordination with the Music Director, the Band Council meets on a regular basis to plan and manage all Band activities to ensure Band is well-organized, highly-efficient, and a positive, team-building environment. The Band Council ensures that each individual and section participates according to the goals and standards of the Music Dept at all times. Each council member is required to:

▪ Attend all band council meetings ▪ Participate in all Band activities including Band dinners, fundraisers, school/community events,

etc., when applicable

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Band Council Duties:

Drum Major ▪ Assist Music Director during class, rehearsals, and performances/competitions including

inspection, set-up, prep, communication, and discipline within group ▪ Lead and direct section leaders ▪ Maintain band spirit

Band President ▪ Represent Band at school functions/meetings (ICC) and community events ▪ Lead and direct Band Council meetings ▪ Supervise and/or participate in all band activities when applicable ▪ Assist Music Director and Drum Major during class, rehearsals, and performances/competitions

including communication, and discipline within the group ▪ Organize Band dinners and end-of-season Band banquet

Band Vice-President

▪ Assumes all responsibilities in the absence of or designated by the Band President ▪ Organizes communications between Band, Music Director, Boosters, & school/community ▪ Maintains the Band calendar and inventory ▪ Helps Band President organize Band dinners and end-of-season Band banquet ▪ Take minutes at all Band Council meetings ▪ Manages with Music Director and Boosters Band Council budget

Section Leaders (appointed) ▪ Assist Music Director in maintaining musicianship of section including distribution of music,

managing practice sectionals, inspection of section members, proper instruction of marching and playing techniques, and discipline within section

▪ Assist with set-up and prep of section for rehearsals and performance/competitions ▪ Serve as liaison between their section and the Music Director, Band President, Drum Major and

other section leaders to ensure overall group success.

Librarian (appointed) ▪ Assist Music Director in processing, copying, and distribution of all music for class and when

traveling

Uniform/Equipment Manager(s) (appointed) ▪ Assist Music Director in maintaining, distribution, and inventory of all Band uniforms and

equipment ▪ Manage the handling and distribution of all Band equipment when traveling ▪ Assist in the sizing and ordering for Orchestra/Wind Ensemble attire

Drum & Color Guard Captain(s) (appointed) ▪ Assist Music Director in leading and directing of section including managing practice sectionals,

maintenance, distribution, inventory, storage of all instruments /equipment during class, rehearsals, and performances/competitions.

▪ Work with Drum Major, Band President, and other section leaders to achieve goals and standards of the Music Dept.

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Historian(s) (appointed)

▪ Assist Music Director in maintaining digital photo/video historic account of all Music Dept. activities for all ensemble programs.

▪ Create Music Dept. video montage and highlights of current year presented at the Music Dept. Awards Banquet in May of each year.

MUSIC DEPARTMENT INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT 1. SCHOOL INSTRUMENTS

The SMHS Instrumental Music Department is able to loan instruments to students each year. Before a school-owned instrument is checked out, a loan agreement must be completed and signed by a parent. Each loaned instrument must be returned at the end of the school year (unless advance arrangements are made with the Music Director) in the same condition when it has been checked out. All instrument maintenance and repairs are the responsibility of the student.

A $200.00 INSTRUMENT LOAN DONATION IS REQUESTED PER YEAR (DONATION ALSO COVERS INSTRUMENT REPLACEMENT EXPENSES).

(Checks payable to: “Friends of SMHS VAPA–Titan Music”) 2. CARE OF EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENT LOCKERS

SMHS Music Department students are expected to demonstrate the utmost care for all equipment, instruments, classroom materials/supplies, instrument lockers, uniforms, etc. The Music Room and practice rooms are not to be used for personal use or storage. Students leaving personal items in the Music room and lockers will be doing so at their own risk. Instrument storage lockers and combo locks are provided for each student. Music students are expected to maintain their individual lockers during the school year free of litter, food, etc. Lockers are to be locked at all times when not in use. Students with unsecured lockers will be assessed a 5-point reduction in their Life Skills grade at the end of each school day. Lockers will be assigned to each student at the beginning of each school year. $40.00 will be charged for any lost or missing locks.

NO EATING OR DRINKING OF ANY KIND IS ALLOWED IN THE MUSIC ROOM. 3. BAND UNIFORMS

All Marching Band members are assigned a Band uniform at the beginning of the school year. All uniforms are to remain in the Uniform room and are not to be taken home between performances unless special arrangements are made. Due to the cost and inability for replacement, each uniform is to be treated with great care. Avoid leaving them on the ground. Special hanging and care instructions will be given to each student at the time of distribution. All uniforms are to be properly cared for and brought back to the uniform room after each performance.

FAILURE TO PROPERLY CARE FOR EACH UNIFORM WILL RESULT IN A DEDUCTION IN THE PROFESSIONALISM GRADE.

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LIST OF FULL DRESS MARCHING UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT

▪ Shako (cadet hat) with plume ▪ Jacket with front sash ▪ Pants ▪ Black socks ▪ Black shoes ▪ White short sleeve t-shirt (no collar) ▪ White gloves (must be clean) ▪ Blue garment bag w/ name and uniform number ▪ Hanger for coat & pants ▪ Hat box with name, hat number, plume sleeve (tube)

PROPER CONDITION OF UNIFORM AT ALL PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

▪ All hats must be worn at the proper angle with the chinstrap worn in a uniform manner. ▪ The jacket should look pressed and cleaned and should not have any missing buttons. The

neck hook must be fastened when worn. ▪ Pants must fit well. They must be uniform in length.* ▪ Gloves must be clean (dirty gloves are unacceptable).* ▪ Shoes must be clean for each appearance. * ▪ NO jewelry during performance, i.e. watches, rings, bracelets, and earrings) ▪ Long hair should be tucked into hat/shako. ▪ Public Display of Affection (PDA) is not permitted while in uniform.

*UNIFORMS MUST BE WORN IN THEIR ENTIRETY. FAILURE TO WEAR THE COMPLETE UNIFORM WILL RESULT IN FORFEITURE OF PERFORMANCE AND LOWING OF LIFE SKILLS AND ACADEMIC GRADES. ALWAYS BE FULLY PREPARED AT EVERY PERFORMANCE AND DOUBLE CHECK FOR MISSING ITEMS.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC DEPARTMENT AWARDS

At the Music Awards Banquet (May), individual students are recognized for their performance, leadership, dedication, and participation in the SMHS Music Dept. Awards are determined by the Music Director, Percussion Directors, and Guard Directors. The following will be awarded: John Philip Sousa Award This is a nationally recognized award sponsored by the Instrumentalist Magazine in connection with the United States Marine Corps. It is presented to the top senior musician of the program (Orchestra or Wind Ensemble or Jazz Band): shows dedication and good work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of their instrument and artistry through performance and rehearsal, outstanding citizenship, and a major contribution to the ensemble without whom achievement would diminish. The Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award The Patrick S. Gilmore Award is in honor of the legendary 19th-century bandmaster and impresario. Patrick Gilmore (1829-1892) and his band joined General Burnside's expedition to North Carolina in the Civil War

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where they played for the troops and cared for wounded soldiers. It is presented to an outstanding senior musician of the Wind Ensemble: shows a consistently high level of performance and work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of their instrument through performance and rehearsal, excellent citizenship, and demonstrates superior musicianship. Louis Armstrong Jazz Award The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award was inaugurated in 1974 with the consent of his widow shortly after this great jazz artist died in 1971. It is presented to an outstanding senior musician of the Jazz Band: shows a consistently high level of performance and work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of their instrument through performance and rehearsal, excellent citizenship, and demonstrates a firm grasp of the art of improvisation. National Orchestra Award This is also a nationally recognized award sponsored by the Instrumentalist Magazine. It is presented to an outstanding senior musician of the Symphonic Orchestra: shows a consistently high level of performance and work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of their instrument through performance and rehearsal, excellent citizenship, and demonstrates superior musicianship.

National Marching Award This award is given to an outstanding senior musician of the Marching Band: shows a consistently high level of performance and work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of their instrument through performance and rehearsal, excellent citizenship, and a pivotal performer without whom ensemble achievement would diminish. National Colorguard Award This award is given to an outstanding senior performer of the Colorguard: shows a consistently high level of performance and work ethic, demonstrates a mastery of weapon-work, flag-work, and dance through performance and rehearsal, excellent citizenship, and a pivotal performer without whom ensemble achievement would diminish. Semper Fidelis Award The “Semper-Fi” award is presented by the United States Marine Corps and is given to an outstanding senior leader whose dedication embodies the phrase “Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful): commands respect amongst members, effective in communication and social skills, represents and exemplifies dedication and servitude to the program. Outstanding Senior Musician (Arion Award) This award is given to outstanding senior(s) of the program (Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Orchestra, or Jazz Band) whose behavior and performance embody the folktale of Greek poet Arion: demonstrates artistry through performance and rehearsal, lives with humility and selflessness, and shows a maturity and wisdom beyond adolescence. Most Valuable – Percussion & Guard These awards are given to outstanding performers in each winter ensemble (Battery, Pit, Guard) and each grade (Juniors, Sophomores, Freshmen). Most Improved – Percussion & Guard These awards are given to outstanding performers in each winter ensemble (Battery, Pit, Guard) and each grade (Juniors, Sophomores, Freshman).

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Percussion Director’s Award This award is given to the student who best exemplifies an outstanding attitude and dedication to the percussion section. Given to battery and pit. Music Department Performance Certificates At the Awards Banquet, all Music Dept. students are recognized for the number of years of participation and who have made an outstanding contribution to the success of San Marino High School’s Instrumental Music program including displaying exemplary citizenship and character, and demonstrating unmatched dedication to a high level of excellence in performance. Specifically, students must also have participated in all concerts and performances/competitions, and receive no lower than a 90% in in scholarship and citizenship for both semesters.

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Chairs Chairs are determined by the Music Director and based upon a student’s performance on playing assessments and daily participation. Chairs are not permanent and do not necessarily reflect a musician’s ability.

For example, a nine-person trombone section may be split in the following way: 1st 1, 2 2nd 3, 5, 6 3rd 4, 7, 8, 9

Drum Major

Tryouts The Drum Major is the student leader of the Marching Band. Any member of the Marching Band is eligible to try out for Drum Major. Candidates will be judged on parade routines, conducting, and the ability to lead the Band in a drill down. The Drum Major is expected to display leadership qualities and be an example to the Band. The Drum Major and Assistant Drum Major are chosen on the basis of their tryouts as well as their interviews with the Music Director.

Drum Major Camp The new Drum Major and Assistant Drum Major are required to go to a Drum Major camp during the summer. There are several camps located in Santa Barbara, Irvine, and San Diego. The Music Boosters will pay the full camp tuition fee for the Drum Major and half of the tuition fee for the Assistant Drum Major. Any other Band member that is interested in trying out in the future may also go to the camp at his/her own expense.

Music Awards Banquet In mid-late May, the Music Department holds its annual Music Awards Banquet where all Music students from all eight ensembles are recognized for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Parents and family members are also invited to come and honor all of the students.

Titan Band Dinners Throughout the fall Marching Band season, the Band has traditionally met at students’ homes prior to a home game. This is a great opportunity for Band members to get to know each other in a non-academic setting.

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Band dinners are included in Marching Band program fees so all are encouraged to attend. Sign-ups for hosting band dinners are posted in the Music room at the beginning of each season and students are also required to sign-up for the dinners at the beginning of the game week. SMHS Instrumental Music Boosters The SMHS Instrumental Music Boosters is a volunteer, parent group that provides financial and administrative support for the Music Dept. The Boosters donate many hours planning, fundraising, organizing, and helping at the performances, competitions, and other activities throughout the year. Due to limited Arts state and District funding, the Music Dept. primarily relies on the financial support from parents and the community. In order maintain the educational caliber and success of the Music programs, the Music Boosters, under the SMHS VAPA (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization), provides the Music Director with vital financial and administrative support such as hiring professional technicians, music, design, instruments, classroom supplies, meals/refreshments, and other essential materials. An information packet including a donation schedule is distributed to all Music Dept. students and their parents/guardians each fall. The full participation of our Music Dept. families is kindly requested to ensure that our students receive an exceptional educational experience.

EMERGENCY ABSENCE If a student cannot make a rehearsal or performance/competition or other required activity for any reason, the parent must e-mail the Music Director’s office on or before the performance/practice/rehearsal date/time regarding the emergency absence. In case of an emergency, please include the following:

1. Name of student 2. Reason for emergency absence 3. Expected date of return

FAILURE TO COMMUNICATE THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN AN

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE. Contact Information (E-mail preferred) E-Mail: dbui@smusd.us

In subject line: “Date, Emergency Absence, Student Name, Student ID #” e.g. Aug 5, Emergency Absence, Jane Doe, 8675309 Music Director’s Office: (626) 299-7020 ext. 3616