SMITHTOWN HIGH SCHOOL - WEST CAMPUS
CONCERT BAND CLASS POLICY
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective: The students will be able to express themselves through musical performance in a concert band setting. This music performance class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and creatively which aides in the development of a ‘well rounded person’.
Required Materials: Instrument must be in working condition. Students must have a PENCIL, metronome, ensemble music, , and the necessary supplies for their particular instrument such as reeds, valve oil, drum sticks, neck straps, etc….
Rehearsal Behavior: Each rehearsal will be conducted as a performance in preparation. Wearing of hats, any kind of food or drinks, lateness to class and inappropriate behavior will not be permitted or tolerated.
Grading Objective: The grading policy is designed to reflect the students’ individual effort, participation and growth.
Grading: An alphabetical grade is earned each marking period. The average of rotation class assignments equals one quarter of the grade. The second quarter of the grade is the average of performance exams. The balance of the grade is based on the average of daily rehearsal grades which encompasses class preparation, conduct.
Course Criteria:
Performances: Attendance is mandatory for all performances and are also understood as
performance exams.
Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade. The grade will be based upon the completion of the given assignment. Students may also be given written exams to further assess their understanding of material. It is building policy that students must attend scheduled rotation classes. Should a student have a testing conflict, then a make up class will be provided. Students are expected to communicate testing conflicts prior to their rotation class. If a student misses a rotation class without proper notice the student will have earned an ‘F’ for that class. All make up classes must be completed within the week of the missed class. If a rotation class falls on a student’s lunch period, the student should bring a bag lunch to eat in the rotation class.
Daily rehearsals: Prepared for class, includes instruments in working condition, PENCIL, ensemble music, lesson book, seated and ready to participate two minutes after the bell. Cooperative participation includes appropriate behavior, improvement on daily music and following all instructions given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to, courtesy for the conductor and proper classroom manners toward fellow students.
Student success: The development of instrumental skills requires self-discipline and focused practice toward the given assignments on a daily basis.
First Assignment: Students will prepare assigned music, all major scales and percussion rudiments for a test grade. The results will also be used for seating and All County recommendations.
Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white top, black pants, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO jeans, flip flops or sneakers. Parade Dress: Long Sleeve shirts (provided by school), Tan khakis, and white sneakers provided by student.
Students are responsible for their instruments (rented or owned) concerning theft or damage. Usually, homeowners’ insurance can offer a rider for protection. You will need to know the serial and model number and the instrument’s brand name. Space is available during the school day to store instruments but protection cannot be guaranteed.
Extra help is available for two periods per week by appointment with Mr. Cassera.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES
VETERANS DAY PARADE
Sunday, November 11, 2007
WINTER CONCERT I
FRESHMAN Concert Band
Thursday, December 6, 2007 7:30pm Smithtown High School - West Campus
WINTER CONCERT II
10th – 12th Grade Concert Band
Thursday, December 13, 2007 7:30pm Smithtown High School - West Campus
NYSSMA Major Organization Festival
specifics will be announced
SPRING CONCERT I
FRESHMAN Concert Band
Tuesday, May 20, 2008 7:30pm in the Freshman Campus
SPRING CONCERT II
10th – 12th Grade Concert Band
Monday, June 2, 2008 7:30pm in the Freshman Campus
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE.
FRESHMAN Concert Band
MAY, specifics to be announced
The Smithtown Friends of Music, our booster organization, will have its Recruitment and Showcase evening in the High School West Thursday November 1st at 7 pm. The New York State School Music Association’s SOLO Festival will be April 16th and 17th . NYSSMA All-State festival will be April 5th and 6th . Finally “Meet the Teacher” night will be Thursday, October 11th .
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Please record the performance dates and concert/parade dress for this year. Note also, student attendance and dress at performances is mandatory requirements for music performance courses. Students need to return this form with signatures, which will reflect that you are aware of the Concert Band’s class policy and course requirements. Should you have any questions or concerns you may contact me at the Smithtown High School-West Campus.
Thank you for your cooperation and support,
Mr. Cassera
Student name______________________________Student Signature_______________________
Parent/Guardian name Mr./Mrs/Ms._________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian signature_________________________________________________________
Contact telephone number:_________________________________________________________
