NOGALES NOBLE REGIMENT
Marching Band
 


NOGALES HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES REGARDING CLASS ATTENDANCE, ATTITUDE, CONCERT PARTICIPATION, AND PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
 


There are approximately two major concerts each semester for every performance organization. Concerts are a culmination of dairy rehearsals and class work and are REQUIRED laboratory experiences equal in importance to regular class attendance. Concerts are a unique musical experience, the value of which cannot be duplicated. It is essential that ALL students be present for each performance, as it is a "team" effort, and the absence of ANY student reduces the educational and enjoyment value for all.

In the event a student misses a dress rehearsal or performance, the following procedure will be in effect:

EXCUSED ABSENCE (which must be verified with a note from a parent/guardian) will result in me semester grade being reduced by ONE LETTER GRADE for each absence from a scheduled concert or dress rehearsal. Points to reverse this reduction and restore the student's grade may be earned by completing make-up work assigned by the director.

Excused absences from a concert or dress rehearsal include:

A. Student illness
B. Death in the family
C. Family emergencies
D. Religious holidays (director must be notified in advance)
E. Curricular excursions (director must be notified in advance)

All other absences from a scheduled concert or dress rehearsal will be considered UNEXCUSED, and will result in the semester grade being reduced by ONE LETTER GRADE for each absence. Grade reduction resulting from unexcused absence CANNOT be reversed.

Unexcused absences from concert or dress rehearsal include:

A. Study or private lessons
B. Family vacations or trips
C. College visitations
D Work
E. Baby Sitting

Students assume the responsibility for making up all missed class work. In the event of any excused absence, it is the student's responsibility to contact the director and discuss material missed or to obtain additional help. Punctuality to class, rehearsals, and concerts is also very important. Tardiness cannot be allowed. Policies regarding class attendance and tardiness with respect to grading have been established by the school. Individual teachers will define specific class requirements.

Any conflicts that may arise in the application of these procedures will be resolved by the Director and the school administration.

NOGALES HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT POLICY REGARDING GRADING

It is the philosophy of the Music Department that grades should reflect the effort, ability, attitude and visible dedication that each student demonstrates on a consistent dairy basis in a particular ensemble.

By using activities such as individual small group singing, in some cases, written tests, or student auditions, grades will be assigned using the following general standards.

The grade of "B" will be given to those students who meet the following requirements:

1. Attendance at all scheduled rehearsals, concerts and performances, including dress rehearsals and rehearsals 
    other than those scheduled on a daily basis;
2. Punctuality at all rehearsals and performances;
3. Demonstrated ability to perform the assigned part;
4. Daily demonstration of a mature, positive and professional attitude while rehearsing and performing;
5. Bringing necessary materials to rehearsals on a daily basis.

Grades lower than "B" will be reserved for a student who needs improvement in the areas listed above.


NOGALES HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES REGARDING CLASS ATTENDANCE, ATTITUDE,
CONCERT PARTICIPATION, AND PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

 


The grade of "A" is reserved for those students who demonstrate the requirements listed for the B grade, in addition to the following...

1. A willingness to assist as needed or requested either by the director or other students who can benefit from
    your example and talent (e.g.: exhibiting leadership in your section, showing interest in co-curricular musical
    activities, or by auditioning for solo opportunities).

2. An actual individual demonstration of superior technical and musical ability through the performance of
    passages from compositions rehearsed during the grading period as requested by the director.


NOGALES HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT BEHAVIORAL EXPECTANCIES
 

"The best discipline is SELF-discipline." ALL time spent on discipline matters is a waste of time and effort, and is completely away from why we are ALL here, namely, the study and enjoyment of music. Therefore, a grading policy that takes into account the attitude of a performer is vital to the development of a performance group that maintains a positive, professional atmosphere in rehearsals and performances. It is important that the students understand exactly what is expected of them if grading for attitude is to be effective. Attitudes almost always translate into actions. The following could be used as a checklist when grading the attitude of individual members.

An individual with a positive attitude and self-discipline:

 1.  Is considerate of the needs and feelings of others;
 2.  Leaves his "ego" at the door and becomes a team player;
 3.  Helps others to learn their part;
 4.  Is helpful and attentive in situations when the director is not present (e.g. sectionals, student or substitute
      teachers);
 5.  Refrains from making jokes at the expense of others;
 6.  Is courteous to the non-teaching school employees as well as members of the faculty;
 7.  Turns in all music when requested, so as not to become a burden to others who must refile parts returned
      late;
 8.  Refrains from using profanity in and around the Music Department, or anywhere he can be identified as an
      ensemble member;
 9.  Tries to support other members of the department by attending concerts presented by peers;
10. Treats all performers with respect, understands what it means to be a "good audience member," and 
     appreciates all performances with appropriate, supportive behavior;
11. Is present at ALL concerts and dress rehearsals, or produces an acceptable excuse well in advance;
12. Does not act in an immature manner when in public places while with the ensemble;
13. Always employs the best technique and sensitivity in warm-up, rehearsal, and concert;
14. Is on time to rehearsals and concerts;
15. ALWAYS brings necessary materials to class;
16. Approaches ALL new music with an open mind seeing each piece as an opportunity to learn;
17. Recognizes warm-up time as an important part of class;
18. Uses a pencil to mark parts;
19. Is quiet at the proper times during rehearsals;
20. Acts as a professional when rehearsing and PERFORMING;
21. Practices music regularly;
22. Attends concerts away from school of groups performing music similar to that of his ensemble;
23. Maintains in proper condition, and wears the appropriate uniform for concerts;
24. Participates in extra-curricular music activities;
25. Assists in keeping the rehearsal and performance areas neat, clean, and orderly;
26. Does not participate in or encourage vandalism of school property, or the belongings of others;
27. Assists after performances or rehearsals with equipment that needs to be moved or attended to;
28. Abides by school rules and regulations;
29. Does not deface signs posted in the building;
30. Does not mistreat school instruments, pianos, etc.;
31. Turns in excursion cards and any other forms, completed and on time;
32. Does NOT thrive on complaining or finding fault with the direction or leadership of the ensemble, or the
     efforts of its members;
33. Employs creative thinking skills to solve problems and voice concerns.