SMITHTOWN HIGH SCHOOL- WEST CAMPUS
Mr. Cassera
Class Objective: The students will be able to express
themselves through musical performance in an advanced band setting. This music
performance class stimulates the students to grow intellectually, emotionally,
and creatively which aids 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….
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 based on a student's performance in rotation class assignments, daily rehearsal classes and on exam scores. Exams are worth 30%, rotation classes are worth 30% and daily rehearsals are worth 40% of the quarter grade. Daily rehearsal grades encompass class preparation, conduct and participation.
Rehearsal Behavior: Each rehearsal will be conducted as a
practice performance. Wearing of hats, any kind of food or drinks, lateness to
class and inappropriate behavior will not be permitted or tolerated.
Course Criteria:
Performances: Performances are exams, which are calculated into the quarter grade. Attendance is mandatory for all performances.
Rotation classes: Each class represents a grade. The grade will be based upon the completion
of a given assignment. 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 a zero 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 instructions
given. Rehearsal conduct is expected which includes but not limited to,
respect and courtesy for the conductor and respect and 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, which does not
include rehearsal and lesson time.
First Audition: The results are used for section seating,
the Suffolk County Music Educator’s Asso.’s (SCMEA) Division 3 (9th
and 10th grades only) All County recommendations and count as the
first test score.
Performance Dress: Concert Dress: white formal top, black
dress slacks, black dress, black or dark tie, black socks and shoes, NO tee
or tank shirts, jeans, flip flops or sneakers. Parade Dress: Long Sleeve
shirts (provided by school), Tan khakis, and white sneakers provided by
student.
Instrument safeguard:
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.
Announcements: Students will be informed during class
and by way of the following website; www.mrcassera.blogspot.com. Students should become followers of the
website to be alerted when new announcements are made.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE DATES
ALL PARADE PERFORMANCES
Homecoming Parade
October 12, 2013 12:30pm
WINTER CONCERT
Symphonic Band
Thursday, December 12, 2013 7:30pm
NYSSMA Major Organization Festival
Monday, May 19, 2014 TBD
SPRING CONCERT
Symphonic Band
Tuesday, June 3, 2014 7:30pm
Upcoming Department Dates
Gala Concert is March 22, 2014 at 7:30pm. Jazz Festival is April 9,
2014. The New YorkState School Music Association’s
ALL-STATE SOLO Festival will be April 25th & 26th, 2014
The New York State School Music Association’s
SOLO Festival is April 23th & 24th, 2014
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Detach and return please
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 Symphonic 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
382-3044tcassera@smithtown.k12.ny.us
Student name_______________________________________________________
Student Signature___________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian name
Mr./Mrs/Ms._________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature___________________________________________________
Contact telephone number____________________________________________________
E-Mail address_____________________________________________________
