To All Sheldon High Band & Orchestra Members:
Welcome...
To those of you who are new to the high school band and orchestra program:
We look forward to having you participate in one of the most active and
exciting activities at Sheldon High School. You need to realize, as we do,
that you are the future of the band and orchestra program at Sheldon High. We
encourage you and your family to become involved. It is an activity that
takes some extra effort, but is extremely rewarding.
The 2008-2009 school year gives us all the opportunity to carry on the
outstanding tradition of excellence that has been established in just a few
short years. The Sheldon High Band and Orchestra provides musical activities
that encompass a wide scope and allows everyone a chance to reach the highest
possible level of success.
The cornerstone and legacy of the Sheldon High Music program is striving for excellence through dedication, learning, experience, and a team effort from students, boosters, and staff. The recognition that the Band and Orchestra receives is in no small way a result of the success acknowledged in the past at reaching for and obtaining excellence. It is also important to note that one side benefit to the total band and orchestra experience is the fun and lasting relationships and memories that are developed by both students and parents.
To our sophomore, junior, and senior members: you know what it takes to achieve success as a member of our high school music program. We expect you
to continue your high achievement and improvement through pride and commitment to the Sheldon High Band and Orchestra!
This handbook is intended to be used by students, parents, administrators, staff, and directors as a convenient source of information regarding the varied aspects of the Sheldon High Band and Orchestra. Students and parents should read this handbook carefully and must sign the return agreement form upon becoming a member of the Sheldon High Band and Orchestra. Band and Orchestra members will be expected to understand and abide by all rules and regulations set forth in this book.
Welcome!
Jim Mazzaferro Director
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A NOTE TO PARENTS
Parents are an important part of the Sheldon High Band and Orchestra
program, and have a vital role to play. Without the assistance and cooperation of Band parents, there would be no chance for the level of success we want the band to reach. There are many things a parent can do.
1. Attend Band/Orchestra Booster Meetings. We meet in the Band Room or the Cafeteria, depending on the time of year. We meet at 7:00p.m. and try to keep the meetings to one hour.
2. Volunteer for parent committees. There are many different tasks with which we need your assistance, and everyone can find the niche that suits them best: Chaperone, uniforms, transportation, equipment handling, sewing, meals, and publicity are just a few of the areas we need filled.
3. Be supportive of the Band/Orchestra program and your child�s participation by:
a. Assisting your child to be prepared and punctual for every rehearsal and performance.
b. Notifying directors if your child is to be absent or late for performance
or rehearsal. Absences from performances are only excused in the event of extreme emergency: serious illness or hospitalization of the student, death in the family, religious holiday, or other reasons deemed excusable by the directors. Work is not an excuse for missing a scheduled event. The music directors must approve all absences from performances or rehearsals IN ADVANCE. Call the school at 681-7500, mailbox #93038, and leave a voice mail message. The voice mail operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
c. Encouraging your child to practice at home and help them find a quiet
place to do so.
d. Showing your interest and support in your child�s music study
by attending every performance possible.
e. Discussing with directors and staff anything that will help them
understand and better serve your child.
f. Arranging for private lessons for your child, if at all possible.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
i. Welcome
ii A Note to Parents
1 Forward
The Sheldon High Band and Orchestra Program
2 Grading
4 Attendance Policy
7 Attitude
Uniforms
9 Sheldon High Band and Orchestra Class Rules
10 Football Game Guidelines
11 Sheldon High Band Assertive Discipline
12 Research Paper Requirements
13 Agreement Form
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FORWARD
The music program at Sheldon High School forms a vital and important
part of the total high school life. The music groups represent a large, colorful,
visible, and highly disciplined segment of the school. The performance of
instrumental groups at sporting events, concerts, festivals, parades, as well
as many community events, adds a great deal of color and life to the Sheldon
High School community. It is possible, by arranging your schedule in a
reasonable manner, to be in these groups, participate in school sports, as
well as other school-related activities, and still maintain a high scholastic
standing.
The main emphasis of the Sheldon High School Music program is on
musicianship. Achieved through hard work, it is the pride of a job well done
that makes our efforts worthwhile.
The success of the organization will lead to the success of the individual.
THE SHELDON HIGH MUSIC PROGRAM
Music Staff - Jim Mazzaferro- Concert/Symphonic Bands, A.P. Music
Theory, Jazz Bands, String Orchestra, Guitar
Stafford Hebert - Treble Choir, Concert Choir, Vocal
Ensemble, Piano
Liz Tubbs - Beginning Guitar, Advanced Guitar
Symphonic Band - This group is by audition only, and is open to all members
of the Sheldon High Band program. Members also participate in the Marching
Band and Pep Band, as well as performing at concerts, festivals, parades,
athletic events, and commencement.
Concert Band - The Concert Band performs approximately three formal
concerts a year, as well as performing at concerts, festivals, parades,
athletic events, and commencement. Members also participate in the Marching
Band and Pep Band.
Marching Band - The combined Symphonic Band and Concert Band members make up
the Marching Band. The most active of bands, it requires extra rehearsals,
some summer rehearsals, and some weekend time throughout the school year.
Jazz Band - The Jazz Band is generally made up of the best players from
Symphonic and Concert Band. The Jazz Bands practice Zero Period Monday,
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The main focus is on jazz styles, articulation,
and improvisation.
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String Orchestra - This group performs at concerts, festivals, and other
community and school events. Members also have the opportunity to perform in
honor groups and Solo/Ensemble Festivals.
Solo and Ensemble - This is an individual learning activity for the
student. Students are given the opportunity to sign up for Solo Ensemble
Festival, which is held at CSU Sacramento. If necessary, the band directors
will help the student choose his/her music and prepare it for contest. This
activity is considered co-curricular.
Advanced Placement Music Theory (Fall Semester only)
This course is designed to prepare music students for music theory as they enter college music programs. It is an excellent way to prepare for college entrance exams in the field of music.
GRADING
Music classes are unique courses at Sheldon High School. They have
curricular requirements, just as any other academic discipline, but also have
out-of-class time requirements. The strength of the band/orchestra program is
the consolidation of these requirements into one, performance based, academic
course of study. The level of commitment from each individual student is the
driving force behind the organization and is reflected in the level of
achievement reached by the individual and the program.
Band/Orchestra is a learning activity. Rehearsals, whether during or after
school, are the means by which students learn, and by their very nature
cannot be reproduced or made up. Therefore it is imperative that students be
present unless the absence is absolutely unavoidable. Excessive absences will
undoubtedly affect a student�s performance and grade. Rehearsals and
Performances are not optional, and are reflected in the student�s grade.
Performances are viewed as major tests: a performance is a learning
experience that cannot be duplicated in a rehearsal hall or practice room;
the level of concentration required in a public performance assists each
student in developing an insight into his/her own level of performance; a
performance is an important evaluative tool, allowing comparison of a
student�s performance in relation to classroom objectives presented and with
past performances. Absences from performances are only excused in the event
of extreme emergency: serious illness or hospitalization of the student,
death in the family, religious holiday, or other reasons deemed excusable by
the directors. The music directors must approve all absences from
performances or rehearsals IN ADVANCE. Call the school at 681-7500, mailbox
#93038, and leave a voice mail message. The voice mail operates 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week
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Finally, the band/orchestra as an organization provides a medium through
which student's progress academically, musically, and socially. Musicianship,
attitude, attendance, punctuality, conduct, and a desire for excellence are
absolutely expected from each member of the Sheldon High Band/Orchestra.
Individual practice and preparation are essential. No other discipline in
education requires the high level of achievement from all participants as
does musical performance. Through the level of commitment required we hope to
better prepare our students for the responsibilities encountered throughout
their lives.
A Student�s grade in Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Orchestra are based on the following percentages:
1. Daily Participation (with instrument) and Performances - 55%
2. Practice Records (turned in weekly) - 10%
3. Golden Empire Performance (Mandatory)- 15%
4. Research Paper /Written Work- 20%
Total 100%
First Nine Weeks: The first nine weeks� grades are determined primarily by
attendance at both rehearsals and performances. Other factors involved are
performance and attitude.
Students are required to know their music by memory (marching band) and to
try to do their best work at all times. All students are required to
participate in marching band unless:
1. They are medically unable to do so. (Doctor�s note required)
2. They are participating in a Sheldon High School sport during their
specified season, which conflicts with marching band and cannot be resolved.
In this case, the student will be asked to perform at non-conflicting events and be given the opportunity to do makeup work to earn his/her credit.
Second Nine Weeks: Student�s grades will be determined in three areas:
1. Participation: Students will be expected to perform at the following
events: participation, performance, and correct dress will determine Grade
A. Concerts
B. Marching Band / Pep Band Events (Football & Basketball games)
2. Class work: Students will be graded on participation, attitude,
discipline, and effort. In addition, 20% of semester grade is based on Research Papers and written work, due one week before Finals in fall and Spring Semesters, and written work as assigned.
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3. Playing: Playing tests will be given to determine playing level.
Opportunities will be given to challenge for a high chair during tests.
Third Nine Weeks: Students� grades will be determined in three areas:
1. Participation: Students will be expected to perform at the following
events: participation, performance, and correct dress will determine Grade
A. Concerts (February, March)
B. Pep Band (Basketball games)
C. Golden Empire Festival (Mandatory) (March)
2. Class work: Students will be grade on participation, attitude,
discipline, and effort.
3. Playing: Playing test will be given to determine playing level.
Opportunities will be given to challenge for a higher chair during tests.
Fourth Nine Weeks: Students� grades will be determined in three areas:
1. Participation: Students will be expected to perform at the following
events: participation, performance, and correct dress will determine Grade
A. Concerts (April, May)
B. Playing Tests
C. Participation in Spring Parade (Western Festival)
D. Commencement (June 2007!)
2. Class work: Students will be grade on participation, attitude, discipline, and effort. In addition, 20% of semester grade is based on Research Papers due one week before Finals in fall and Spring Semesters, and written work as assigned.
3. Playing: Playing test will be given to determine playing level.
Opportunities will be given to challenge for a higher chair during
tests.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Every individual in an instrumental ensemble is important to the group. An absence within a section interferes with the balance and dynamics, leaves a space in the drill/formation, and causes numerous other problems that negatively affect performance situations. In our ensembles, others depend on the individual to carry the part he/she has mastered in practice. When one misses a special session, everyone associated with the organization suffers, not just the person who has missed. An absence affects the entire organization. A good performance is dependent upon attendance of the entire group.
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When a member is absent from a performance or a scheduled rehearsal, he/she must
bring a written statement from his/her parent or legal guardian, explaining the need for the absence. This does not mean the absence will be considered excused; it just keeps the line of communications open. If there is an unavoidable conflict which everyone is aware of far in advance, a written statement should be given to the director in considerable time before the date of the rehearsal or performance. In case of an emergency, the written excuse should be tendered upon the student�s next meeting with the director, plus a phone call to the director, notifying the director of the emergency would be appreciated.
The reasons for requiring a written statement from home are:
1. To keep the home-school line of communications open.
2. Parents know when their child has missed or skipped an event.
3. Directors have lasting records of absences and excuses directly from home, which are kept on file for the year. (An excused absence through phone contact with the school office or a letter written concerning an absence during the regular school day will not be accepted for an absence from an evening band/orchestra activity. A separate note will be necessary for that event.)
Failure to submit a written excuse for an absence will cause that absence to be considered unexcused until the excuse from home has been received. An excused absence will be granted in the case of serious illness on the part of the student, death in the immediate family, or a serious emergency situation. Other situations may arise that could be termed excused and will be handled individually by the director. All other absences will be considered unexcused.
A public performance by the band, orchestra, or any similar organization, is part of the regular schoolwork as are vocabulary tests in English class. Music classes are not a required subject; therefore, when a student elects to accept all the advantages of a music class, he/she is also to meet his/her obligations and accept the responsibility of bringing about the success of the ensemble. Keep in mind that when a student is absent from a vocabulary test, he/she can make it up. How can a student make up a performance that is missed? Experiences in rehearsals and performances cannot be duplicated.
An unexcused absence from a performance or rehearsal will result in a failing grade for that activity.
Again, attendance is expected at every rehearsal and performance. Band schedules are given out well in advance to help members avoid any conflicts. Obviously, there are situations that arise which would cause the absence of a member.
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Examples of excused absences are:
1. Personal illness. Parents need to contact the director to notify him of the absence.
2. Sudden emergency.
3. Death in the family.
4. Cooperation with other Sheldon High School activities/programs.
Examples of unexcused absences are:
1. A date.
2. Going to a concert.
3. Being dumped by your girlfriend/boyfriend.
4. Work.
5. Beauty contests/talent shows outside of school
6. Hair appointments, shopping, etc
7. Going out-of-town or to the beach
8. Church events. Every effort is made to schedule events so that they do not conflict with church activities. It is virtually impossible, however, to totally avoid conflicts with every church in the community.
9. Non-emergency doctor or dentist appointments. These are to be scheduled around the Marching Band season.
10. Being late or missing practice because "someone made you late"
11. Other school and after school related activities
12. Community related activities or groups. This includes 4-H groups, Upward Bound, Scouting, etc.
13. Attending rock concerts or other events of this nature during a practice or a performance.
14. Taking animals to the vet.
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The list of examples above does not cover every situation. The director is ultimately responsible for determining if an absence is excused or unexcused. If an agreement is made, please log the absence on a piece of paper and deliver it to the band director or email the absence to jmazzafe@egusd.net for his records.
Conflicts can be avoided by proper communication. If an activity is planned, simply notify the band director immediately. Last minute and hastily told information only makes matters worse!
If you have a job, make sure your employer can schedule you around your music commitments. We cannot and will not schedule music events around your personal life.
All rehearsals and performances are posted as soon as the school calendar allows for their placement. Very rarely will a rehearsal or a performance be called without prior notice.
ATTITUDE
Those students who have a positive mental attitude, regardless of their
individual skills, will always have a place in the Sheldon High Music
program. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive and you
are not doing your personal best to make this group successful, you should
not be a part of this organization. In fact, students who do not project an
attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to
change their personal perspective or else leave the organization.
Characteristics of a positive mental attitude include a positive outlook
toward rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and
maintenance of equipment and facilities, and an eagerness to do what is
necessary to be successful.
UNIFORMS
Marching: The Sheldon High School Music Booster Organization is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the band uniforms.
Cleaning: We ask that each member who receives a band uniform contribute
$35.00 at the beginning of the school year for cleaning, repairing, and
replacing uniforms. The music boosters send in all the uniforms for cleaning
at the same time. Students are not individually responsible for cleaning
unless neglect or abuse is apparent.
Fitting: It is very important to the overall look of the band that each
individual band member be fit properly in his/her uniform.
1. The fitting will take place during band camp in August.
2. Bring shoes for proper fitting of pant length.
3. If the student has hair that goes below the collar, it should be put up
for proper fitting of the hat.
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Husky Pep Band Polo Shirt: Purchase at Hot August Days or at Band Camp.
Each Band/Orchestra member is required to have at least one Husky Band shirt in good
condition. Shirts can be purchased for 28.00 each.
We also encourage parents and other family members to purchase these shirts
to show your support of the band at events. Chaperones must wear these.
Uniform Guidelines:
1. Wear Black Marching Band Shoes and BLACK SOCKS! Shoes will be ordered at Band Camp. Cost is $28.00.
2. Hang uniform neatly on the hanger supplied with the uniform. the
trousers should be hung neatly to insure a pressed crease at the next
performance.
3. DO NOT ALTER a uniform without permission from the Uniform Committee. You may not cut the uniform when altering.
4. The Uniforms will be kept in the Uniform Cabinets at school.
5. Put name inside of band shoes.
6. All shoes must be polished before performances.
7. A WHITE T-SHIRT with sleeves must be worn under the band jacket to avoid stains. Also, you must wear gym shorts under the pants for modesty�s sake, as
it is often necessary to change on the buses when we are traveling.
8. Jewelry may not be worn (if it can be seen). This includes earrings,
watches, rings, etc...
9. Hair cannot be on or below the collar, or you must wear a hair net. This includes girls and boys.
Concert Uniforms: We ask that our students wear the following:
Black Suit, White collared dress shirt, Black Bow Tie, Black Shoes, and
BLACK SOCKS.
Note: We don�t want to exclude anyone from participating due to need. Anyone
unable to obtain the proper concert outfit should talk with the band director
or uniform committee as soon as possible so that we can help. Each matter
will be handled individually and discreetly.
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SHELDON HIGH BAND & ORCHESTRA CLASS RULES
1. Students will be in class on time and be ready at the first downbeat.
Students not ready will be given detention.
2. Come to class prepared to play your instrument, not to do other homework.
Brass Players: have all necessary mutes. Trumpet and Trombone players should have straight and cup mutes for concert/symphonic band, and a Harmon mute for jazz band (Trumpets only).
Woodwind Players: Reed players should have at least one spare reed at their
seat during rehearsal. Ideally, you should have four to five reeds that all
play that you rotate using from day to day. Your reeds will last longer and
you will get better play from them if you do not use the same reed all the
time until it is worn out.
Percussion Players: Percussionists should each have a pair of concert snare
drum sticks, mallets, and timpani sticks. Percussion equipment is to be put
away at the conclusion of rehearsals. Note: Not having your
instrument/percussion sticks for rehearsals and performances will result in a
zero for participation (55% of grade).
3. Warm up only on your instrument. Warm-Up is a very important part of each
rehearsal. This is when we focus on the fundamentals of our playing both as a
group and as individuals.
4. Warm up intelligently. Warm Up before the start of rehearsal, and "Warm
Down" at the end of rehearsal.
5. TUNE! Not only at the beginning of the rehearsal, but throughout the
rehearsal. During the tuning period, only tune; do not practice.
6. Do not leave your seat after the rehearsal starts unless you ask to do so.
7. Avoid playing between selections, except when tuning. Do not tune when the
director gets back on the podium.
8. Do not chew gum or eat during rehearsal; don�t bring food or drinks to class.
9. Take care of both personal and school equipment.
10. Do not leave the room without the instructor�s permission.
11. If you are ill and cannot play, check in with the teacher.
12. Do not clean your instrument during band time.
13. Play only your assigned instrument.
14. Please give your full attention to whoever is conducting, whether it is your director, a student conductor, or substitute conductor.
15. After rehearsal, put instrument into its case correctly, then into proper
storage space.
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FOOTBALL GAME GUIDELINES
1. Plan on staying the entire game. We play at the beginning, at halftime,
and at the end of games.
2. Plan on staying the entire game in your uniform. Do not disrobe any
portion of the uniform except the hat.
3. Check in with the Band Directors or Drum Majors before leaving the stands.
We need balanced instrumentation during the entire game.
4. Stay in assigned sections and keep the rows straight.
5. No "friends" outside the band are permitted to sit in the band section.
6. Do not play non-musical sounds during the game (unless told to do so!)
BUS RULES
1. There should be at least one adult chaperone per bus.
2. Only our students, school personnel, and chaperones are allowed on the bus.
3. Students will return on the same bus they go on.
4. Students may return home with their parents if they have arranged to do so. Students may not leave with other student�s parents/guardians. A note from the parent is required and needs to be initialed by one of the band directors.
5. Students need to stay in their seats while the bus is in motion.
6. Loud, boisterous, profane language, or indecent behavior will not be tolerated.
7. There is to be no food or drinks taken onto school buses.
8. There is to be no smoking or alcoholic beverages on band trips. This is
Elk Grove School District Board Policy and violators will be turned over to
the school administration.
9. No windows or doors should be opened or closed without permission of the Bus
driver.
10. Students should stay seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
11. At the conclusion of the trip, all students need to clean their areas of the bus.
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SHELDON HIGH BAND ASSERTIVE DISCIPLINE
In order to give your child and the students in our classrooms the learning
climate that they deserve, I am continuing the following discipline plan this
year:
I believe that all students are capable of behaving appropriately in the
classroom. We will not tolerate a student�s stopping me from teaching and
other students from learning.
Classroom Behavior
The Students will:
1. Follow rules of behavior and instructions the first time they are given.
2. Be seated in their assigned seats with instrument, music, and pencil
within 5 minutes after the bell rings.
3. Talk only with permission.
4. Keep feet, arms, and hands to themselves.
5. Stay in seats except with permission to leave.
Discipline Consequences Per Day
If a Student chooses to break a rule:
First: Verbal warning
Second: Written warning, O.C.S.
Third: Student referral to area administrator.
Severe Clause
This goes into effect when there is a severe disruption. Examples: fighting,
profane language, gross insubordination. Any of these violations will cause
student to be sent to vice-principal�s office immediately.
Positive Behavior
Students may earn rewards for positive behavior. These will be given on an
individual or classroom basis.
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RESEARCH PAPER REQUIREMENTS
Steps For Writing the Paper:
� Look for a topic
� Find a minimum of three sources on the topic. Sources include:
� newspaper articles
� magazine articles
� encyclopedia articles
� books, filmstrips, movies, records/compact discs
� Internet sites (Note: Only one Internet / electronic source
per paper)
� Read through the materials once
� Write bibliography entries for sources
� Read sources again taking notes. Some ideas for note taking include:
� facts to include, possible quotes, source, page number
� Outline idea for your paper
� Write a rough draft
� Read for corrections
� Edit
� Type (The paper must be typewritten)
Paper Requirements
� Topic related to class - interesting, factual, well written
(60pts.)
� Three pages typed, doubled spaced, one inch margins all around (10pts.)
� Use three quotes (10pts.)
� Proper footnotes/end notes for paper (10pts.)
� Bibliography page (not counted as one of the three pages
(10pts.)
100 Points total
DUE ON FRIDAY BEFORE FINAL EXAM DAYS EACH SEMESTER!
