September, 2013
Dear Band Family,
I am writing to express what my expectations are for your child in the band program for this year.
On a daily basis… your child should have an instrument, in good working order, music folder, book,and a pencil (or two). All woodwind players (sax, clarinet) must have at least 4 working reeds, all brass players need valve oil/slide oilandstraight mutes, and all percussion students must have their own sticks and a stick bag. Your student’s materials should be clearly labeled with their name. All cases should be clearly labeled as well. If your child forgets his/her instrument, they receive a 0 for a class participation grade that day. If your child forgets his/her music, they receive a 65 for a class participation grade that day. Exceptions are made for emergency situations.
On a weekly basis… your child should be practicing 5 times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes per practice session. Your child should be filling out a practice record, completely. Practice records are available in the band room. This should include filling out the goals for the week, what they have accomplished, and what they need help with. Every time they finish practicing, they should fill in the amount of time they just completed. In addition, the final finishing touch is needed….. your signature. I know, from the personal experience of being a mother of three, that time is tight, but the signature allows you to connect with what your child has done in private practice for the week. Please do not sign the practice record before your child has completed practicing for the week and has completed all the sections. Private practice is crucial to the growth of your child as an active participant in band. The homework for this class is practicing. All practice records are kept in the classroom binders, and practice records will receive a grade.
Concert Dress
Your child is part of a performance organization, and as such, will need to acquire the following “uniform” for performances.
White shirt – no t-shirts please, no brightly colored logos,etc.
Black pants – plain black, no decoration
Black socks - should cover ankle
Black shoes - plain black, no white or colors
Ladies may wear a black skirt, but it must be one that goes below the knee. Black nylons would be preferred.
Dress for Jazz Band is the same, with the addition of a “cool” tie.
The clothing does not need to be expensive or fancy… Where the students continue to grow at an amazing pace throughout the year, please double check for correct fit before the upcoming concert. If getting the concert dress is difficult, please contact me for some ideas, etc.
Contact information:
I can be reached in the following ways:
Email:
781-231-5052 ext. 180
Calendar and other useful information:
Please make sure you visit our secure band webpage and become a member!