Rehearsal

Ample time has been scheduled for setting up at the beginning of band.  Please take care of all instrument problems, reeds, etc…..during that time. 

Lessons

Everyone enrolled in Band is required to attend lessons.  You will be given a practice assignment at each lesson to prepare for the following week.  That assignment may consist of scales, band music, or an assignment out of a lessons book.  Everyone’s assignment will be different depending on their specific needs and ability.

A lesson schedule will be posted in the Band Room.  Each lesson will be once every 6 days. Whenever possible, lessons are scheduled during your study hall, however, it is necessary for some students to come after school for their lesson.  After school lessons will be held from 2:38 to 3:15 p.m., and you will be given a bus pass to ride the elementary bus home.  If you are unable to attend your lesson after school, you must tell me in advance, so that other arrangements can be made.  Make-up lessons will occur during activity periods.

Practice Time

You will be expected to practice on your own time—yes, that means you need to take your instruments home.  Everyone should be practicing at least 20-30 minutes a day.  I cannot monitor your practice time, but I can monitor improvement in your playing.  You will be graded on how much you improve each quarter.  Everyone is different.  Some of you may need to practice only a little to make large improvements, while others have to spend much more time and work harder to make only small strides.  I am aware of this, and will grade accordingly.  You will not be compared to other band members—this is only a measure of personal improvement.

Grading

Your grade for Band will be based on lesson attendance, improvement, and Behavior/Cooperation.

The Point Break-down is as follows:

                Lessons = 10 points/lesson (minimum of 5 lessons per nine weeks)

                Improvement = 50 points/quarter

                Behavior/Cooperation = 50 points/quarter

***Please note:  An unexcused absence from any band performance (including, but not limited to concerts, and graduation) will result in a failing grade in band for the year.