MeadowlarkMiddle School

MusicDepartment- Orchestra

Mr. Mullikin 336-922-1730

MeadowlarkMiddle School Orchestra

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to the start of a new school year at Meadowlark! Orchestra classes will be held on B-days. Students and parents need to read the information in this handbook carefully and detach, fill out, sign and return the back page (contract). Thank you!

Areas of Concentration

Musical literacy- Note reading, rhythm, terminology, music theory, sight reading.

Performance skills- technical facility/ motor control and development, solo and ensemble playing, ear training.

Knowledge of musical styles- related world and music history.

Performance Schedule

Winter Concert

Tues. Dec. 10, 2013- 7:00PM. 6th & 7th gr. Beginning Orch. @ MMS Gym

Tues. Dec. 3, 2013- 7:00PM. Eighth Gr. Orch. @ MMS Gym

Thurs. Dec. 5, 2013- 7:00PM- Seventh Gr. (Continuing only) @ MMS Gym

  • Orchestra students arrive at 6:00PM- report to rm. 407 for tuning.

Spring Concert

Thurs. May 1, 2014- 7:00PM. 6th & 7th Beginning Orch. @ MMS Gym

Fri. May 9, 2014- 7:00PM. Seventh & Eighth Gr.Orch. @ MMS Gym

  • Orchestra students arrive at 6:00PM- report to rm. 407 for tuning.

Supply List

(MMS orch. students need every B-DAY)

  1. Instrument
  2. Pencil
  3. Rosin
  4. Shoulder pad: optional (strongly encouraged for violin and viola students)
  5. Method Book (available for purchase at local music stores)
  6. Beginning 6th & 7thGr. Orchestra

Essential Elements 2000 for Strings, bk. 1

Continuing 7th Gr. Orchestra

Essential Elements 2000 for Strings bk. 2

Advanced 8th Gr. Orchestra

a.Essential Techniques 2000 for Strings bk. 2
  1. Essentials for Strings: A Systematic Approach to Technical Development.
  1. Music Folder (supplied by teacher)

All CountyOrchestra

(Intermediate and advanced level students)

Auditions:

Date:Thurs. Nov. 14, 2013 (B-day)

Location: Wiley Middle School 3:00-5:00PM.

Audition requirements (scales and solo):

Scales & Arpeggio:

Violin: G major two-octave

Viola: C major two-octave

Cello: C major two-octave

Bass: G major one-octave

Solo: “Petite Bouree”

  1. Violin, Viola, Cello: measures #17-end.
  2. Bass: measures #21-end.

All-County Orchestra Clinic

Location: ReynoldsHigh School(music bldg./auditorium)

Rehearsals:

  • Date:Thurs. Jan 23, 2014. Time:6:00PM-8:00PM

Clinic & Concert: (2 days)

  • Date:Fri. Jan. 24, 2014. Time: *8:30AM- 3:00PM. *(full day)
  • Date: Sat. Jan. 25, 2014. Time: 2:00PM

Fundraiser

The music department kick-off is scheduled for Tues. Oct. 8. The fundraiser helps to defray the cost of the field trips, instrument needs and repairs, technology, and to build the music library for our concerts. Students that are participating in the trips are expected to participate in the music fundraiser to raise funds for their individual profit account.

Other Important Dates

9/24/13. 6:30PM-7:30PM: MMS Curriculum night

10/8/13: 6:30PM.Eighth Gr. Orchestra, Williamsburg trip, parent information meeting.

Field Trips

Tues. Dec. 17, 2013: Creekside Terrace. Sixth Grade Orchestra/Chorus

Fri.- Sun. March 28-30, 2014: Willimsburg trip, Music in the Parks Festival-

Busch Gardens- 8th Gr. orchestra/chorus/band

Sat. May 3, 2014: Carowinds Music Festival- 7th Grade Orchestra/Chorus

Recruitment tour: (TBA): Elementary schools. Sixth Gr. Orchestra

Students must maintain a “C” ave. in orchestra class to participate in the field trips!

Class Rules

Orchestra class is a team effort. The actions of any individual can either help or hinder the whole group. Self-discipline, proper behavior, and attitude are all necessary parts. The REACH for success method is used as a guideline for class rules:

Reach for Success

R- respect yourselves and others

E- each day try your best

A-act responsibly

C- cooperate with others

H- have a positive attitude

Conduct Infractions:

Students who do not show the proper classroom conduct will face the following administrative consequences:

  1. Verbal warning
  2. Refocus writing assignment
  3. Parent contact/conference
  4. ISS/Office referral

Grading

Grading in orchestra will count as follows:

There are two mandatory concert performances for the year. (Winter and Spring) Additional performances may be scheduled and count as extra credit.

Non-concert quarters: (1st & 3 qtr.)

  • Participation: 50% (having materials for class, following instructions, non-distracting behavior, showing good attitude, effort, and focus.)
  • Practice logs: 30% These will be checked every two weeks and must be signed by parent. Students are responsible for maintaining a homework practice schedule of 30 min. 3x a week. (90 min. total)to earn an “A”.
  • Quizes/tests: 20% Both playingand written quizes. Playing quizzes will be excerpts from the method book, and/or other instructional materials given out in class.

Concert quarters: (2nd & 4th qtr.)

  • Concert performance: 30% (includes being prompt, having materials, following instructions/procedures, correct attire, concert behavior). See also “concert requirements”.
  • Participation: 30% (having materials for class, following instructions, non-distracting behavior, showing good attitude, effort, and focus.)
  • Practice logs:20% These will be checked every two week and must be signed by parent. Students are responsible for maintaining a homework practice schedule of 30 min. 3x a week. (90 min. total) to earn an “A”.
  • Quizes/tests: 20% Both playingand written quizes. Playing quizzes will be excerpts from the method book, and/or other instructional materials given out in class.

*Please be mindful of the A-day, B-day schedule. (see attached 2013-14 calendar)

Students will lose 5pts. off of thefinal participation grade for each DAY MISSED with no instrument in class, and for each day without other materials, pencil, music, etc..

2 pts. will be deducted.

Grading Scale

A=93-100

B=85-92

C=77-84

D=70-76

F=0-69

Practice/Homework

Practice is expected as homework for all orchestra students. Ninety minutesin total, per week, or 30 min. 3x weekly is the required amount to receive an “A”. Practice logsmust be completed and signed by parents at the end of each week to receive full credit.

These “logs” will be given out each quarter and graded every two weeks, on the first A-day. Students may be required to play short playing quizes to receive credit for practicing if it is suspected they are not doing focused work at home.

Playing Quizes

Thesewill be given on an individual basis, weekly or bi-weekly.

Grades are to beassessed on the following criteria:

  • Preparation: a knowledge and familiarity with the music, notes… evidence of practice.
  • Note accuracy: properfingering and finger placement, following indicated bowings,attention to details- correct sequence of ½ steps or whole steps.
  • Rhythm: demonstrate correct note values, rests, and ability to play with a steady beat.
  • Technique: posture, sitting position, left hand, right hand, bow grip, tone, proper use of bow, correct bow usage, articulation, etc.. use of musical effects if indicated, vibrato.

Make-up work (written work, tests & quizzes)- The policy on this will follow guidelines in the student handbook. Students must make up all missed work, due to absences. One day is allowed to complete make-up work for every one day missed.

Concert information- Important

  • Orchestra is a performance-based class andtherefore concert participation is mandatory for all orchestra students. It is truly a group effort, and everyone’s participation is important to the whole.
  • Students arrive at 6:00PM, unless stated differently.
  • Late arrival is a 10 pt. deduction on grade.
  • Unexcused absences receive a “0”
  • Students must stay for the entire concert to receive full credit for their concert grade. Concerts will last approximately 1 hr.
  • Performance credit cannot be given for class participation or performances, thought of as makeup work.
  • Students must wear the appropriate concert attire. Anyone not adhering to the correct dress code runs the risk of not performing, and receiving no credit.

Concert Permission slips will be issued a minimum of 2 weeks prior to each performance. This is to be sure everyone is informed if a change occurs, and reminded of the dates and times. Please sign and return these with your child at the soonest opportunity.

Concert Absences

Due to the importance of concert attendance, we have a stringent policy about makeup work for those that miss concerts. Students who miss performance dates, due to sickness or by pre-approval (given by teacher), will be issued a make-up report. This report will be due within 5 class days of the student’s return to school. Points will be earned on the quality of the report. If the student must miss the performance due to sickness, the parent/guardian must contact the teacher BY PHONE the next day to explain the absence. If there is no phone contact, the student will be assumed a “no show” and no points will be earned. If a parent has no option to provide transportation to and from the school concert, please ask at least two weeks in advance to arrange possible alternate ways such as carpool, for your child to attend.

Unexcused absences will result in a “0” for the performance grade of the NINE WEEKS. Written excuses must be submitted in writing, 2 weeks prior to the concert. (Doctor/dentist appointments, babysitting, sports practices, birthday celebrations, guests visiting, no transportation- are all examples ofUnexecused

absences.)

In somecases, it is determined that the student is lacking the necessary musical skills, or not prepared to perform the concert, and withheld from concert participation These students will either receive an alternate assignment, or receive a failing grade.

Concert attire

The expected dress for orchestra students is outlined below. Check the attire a few weeks before the concert to be sure clothes still fit and are appropriate. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE! It is very hard on students and parents when someone is not allowed to participate, due to clothing errors. Since band, chorus, and orchestra will be performing in joint concerts this year we are agreeing to a uniform code of dress, as follows.

Anyone deviating from the “concert attire” will be subject to a 25 point deduction on concert grade, or at the discretion of the teacher, sit out and receive no credit.

Gentlemen:Black dress slacks, black belt, solid black socks, solid black shoes,

Collard white dress shirt- tucked in neatly, and long tie. Undershirt should be white.

Ladies:Black bottoms (ankle length skirt, gauchos that come mid-calf or ankle length, or dress slacks), solid white top w/ sleeves, (no low-cut necklines, midriff skin showing, or colored shirts/cammies underneath), black dress shoes with flat or low (2” or less) heels. Please be sure the white shirt and top are pure white and not off-white. Tank top or cammies should be white.

Benefits of Musical Performance

Music performance teaches students to overcome anxiety and take risks. It inspires confidence! Students learn poise, composure, and the value of continued effort to achieve excellence. Students experience the satisfaction of success, due to hard work. This carries over to every other aspect of their lives.

Rehearsing and performing, together as a team, develops interpersonal intelligence. According to educational psychologist, Howard Gardner, people with developed interpersonal intelligence have the ability to work together in groups toward common goals and establish positive relationships with others. They also have the skills in conflict resolution and recognize strengths in other team members.

Research indicates a lower incidence of drug and alcohol use and higher levels of self-esteem in students involved in music education classes.

For further resources detailing the importance of music education, please visit:

SIGNATURES AND INFORMATION REQUIRED

The contract which follows is a necessary document for the MMS music dept. The

student’s grade relies on the parents’ understanding and acceptance of the rules and procedures for a elective which includes required attire and mandatory afterschool performances, sometimes off campus and in evening times. It is also critical for communication and privacy issues. The parent/guardian must also read through this information, sign the form and give to your child to return in his/her music class. A due date has been specified to the student. The contract is not intended to be filled out online. If you need another copy, please contact me by school email or school phone.

The purpose of this contract is to guarantee that the members of the Meadowlark Middle School Orchestra (students/parents/director) understand and accept the basic plan that will allow us to succeed.

Student

By signing this contract, I state that I have read this handbook and understand the expectations regarding behavior, performance requirements, and grading policies. I also understand that I will be held accountable as a member of this performing team.

______

Student Name (Print neatly) Student signature Class per. Date

Parent/Guardian

By signing this contract, I state that I have read and understand the expectations for my child in this class, and as a parent/guardian, I will support the behavior expectations and performance procedures/requirements outlined in this handbook.

______

Parent/Guardian Name (Print) Parent/Guardian Signature Date

Teacher

As the teacher, I pledge to uphold the expectations and requirements outlined in this handbook and will do my best to assist each student in attaining the highest level of musicianship possible.

______

Teacher signature Date

Parent/Guardian Contact Information

Parent/Guardian Name:______

Relation to student______

Mailing address______

Phone:______(home)

Cell ph. ______

Email address:______

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