Welcome to the Raider Bands Website

Raider Band
Work Hard. Play Harder.

 

 

Band Handbook 

 

Philosophy and Course Descriptions

 

Playing a musical instrument is a highly rewarding experience. Participation in band provides a unique opportunity for cultural, social, physical, and emotional development, while gaining self-confidence and learning a skill that can be enjoyed throughout life.

 

Performing musical organizations often require section rehearsals outside school hours and participation in concerts and contests. It will be the responsibility of members of the bands to attend those rehearsals and performances unless excused by the teacher.

 

Band involves the study of the following areas of music education:

 

• Proper instrument technique
• Mental and physical discipline
• Citizenship through group endeavor (integrity, responsibility, dependability)
• Physical conditioning
• Cultural growth
• Development of good listening skills
• Knowledge of music theory
•  Creative self-expression

 

It is our goal that students leave our program with a sense of personal pride and musical understanding that will remain with them for a lifetime.

 

Honor Band

 

Members of the Honor Band have shown advanced levels of achievement in all aspects of their playing ability. The function of this group is to provide the members with challenging literature in preparation for their high school experience while maintaining interest through exposure to and performance of a wide variety of challenging musical literature.  Members compete in All-Region competition, Solo & Ensemble contest, perform concerts, and travel to two competitions.

 

Symphonic Band

 

Members of this group will continue to develop their musical development by building upon prior knowledge. Care is taken to reinforce concepts of tone, rhythm, balance, phrasing, and blend learned in previous year(s) and to further develop the necessary listening skills to become a discriminating listener. Further emphasis is placed on self-discipline and team attitude in working with others towards a common goal.  Members compete in Solo & Ensemble contest, perform concerts, and travel to two competitions.

 

If you have questions or concerns, please let us know by contacting us:

 

Mr. Terry White -      whitet@hpisd.org  -  214/780-3665

Mrs. Cindi Sobering - soberic@hpisd.org -  214/780-4665

Ms. Lara Whitehouse - whitehl@hpisd.org - 214/780-3665

HPMS Band Staff

 

 

Because our daily schedule keeps us away from our phones, emails will probably reach us sooner.

 

Grades

 

Students receive grades for daily participation and preparation, which includes bringing the proper equipment and materials (pencils, instruments, and music) to class each day.  In the event that an instrument is broken and needs to go to the music store for repair, a note from a parent should be sent with the student to school that day or a zero will be issued. We will try to keep a few extra instruments on hand for this reason, and students should plan on using their own mouthpieces.

 

Supplies

 S

Please be sure that your child has plenty of reeds, oil, grease, and other supplies that are needed to make the instrument play properly. Students should take care of any maintenance (oiling, greasing, etc.) before and after school. This should not be taking place during class time. Students also receive grades for practice records, playing or written tests, section rehearsal assignments, and performances. An excused absence from a band function will require the same criteria as an excused absence from school--personal illness or family emergency or medical appointments made before a rehearsal or performance was announced.

 

Performances

 

It is the responsibility of each band member to arrange his/her schedule so that all performances and rehearsals will be attended. To help you with your scheduling there is a calendar towards the end of this booklet. When something special comes up, the student should talk with his/her director immediately. Excuses for absence or tardiness need to be submitted in writing with the parent/guardian's signature. Concerts are a part of the curriculum for band and a test grade of "50" will be given for unexcused absences from performances.

 

Grading Summary 

 There are three areas used to determine a student’s grade in band:

 

1. Performance Grades – 60%: performance grades will include but not be limited to the following tests:

*           Chair tests

*          Sectional Attendance

*           Sectional tests

*          Objective tests

*          Written classroom assignments

*          Concert performances

 

2. Daily Rehearsal Grades – 40%: A percentage of each student’s grade will be determined by a weekly evaluation of their ability to participate in class activities. This evaluation will include the following:

v           Having the proper materials and equipment for each rehearsal

v           Make a genuine effort to learn and improve skills

v           Remaining “on task” during class activities

v           Being ready and prepared to play each day

v           Written classroom assignments

v           Note taking skills

 

Practice expectations for 7th and 8th grade students:

 

Symphonic Band                                                                             Grade

 

20 minutes per day                120 per week                                       100

15 minutes per day                  90 per week                                         90                 

10 minutes per day                  60 per week                                         80     

5 minutes per day                    30 per week                                         70                             

Students will receive 30 minutes additional credit for private lessons.

 

Honor Band

30 minutes per day                180  per week                                       100

25 minutes per day                150 per week                                         95

20 minutes per day                120 per week                                         90

15 minutes per day                  90 per week                                         85                 

10 minutes per day                  60 per week                                         80     

 5 minutes per day                   30 per week                                         75 

             Less than                   30 per week                                          70

                           

 

Students will receive 30 minutes additional credit for private lessons, and an additional 45 minutes per week for participation in Jazz Band.

 

Grading scale for 6th grade students will begin with 90 minutes per week.

 

Bandsmanship (Citizenship)

 

This area of musicianship is one of the most important areas of development. Many of the concepts and skills that we ask of our band members are easily applicable to every class, as well as in every day life. Here are several examples of fine bandsmanship traits that we would like for our students to exhibit:

 

1. Students should make a genuine effort to learn and improve daily at rehearsal.

2. Students should become responsible for, and assume, the consequences for their actions.

3. Students need to have the proper respect for each other and for those in authority.

4. Students need to follow all classroom rules and school regulations.

5. Students should cooperate with fellow band members and share with them the responsibilities and privileges that are a part of belonging to the band program.

 

Performance Expectations

 

Band is a performing organization and we will have no chance for success unless a consistent attendance policy is upheld. When a band member is absent, the entire group suffers because of our dependence on each other. The only absences that will be considered excused are illness and serious, immediate family emergencies. The director must be notified prior to the performance whenever possible.  If a conflict arises, we will work with parents on a case by case basis.

 

A calendar of events for this school year is attached.  It includes the dates of our band activities, concerts, and contests. As events are added or changed during the year, we will be sure to give as much advance notice as possible. Both bands will perform at two 8^th grade football games as one football pep band, and one Scot football game with the High School Band for Blue-Out night.

 

Please note: parental punishment of a child by not permitting him/her to attend a band performance or rehearsal does not constitute an excused absence. This is equivalent to punishing your student by not permitting them to take a math test. (Only in this case, the performance of more than just your child is affected!)

 

Performance Uniforms

 Proper attire is required for all band members participating in formal concerts and contests throughout the school year.  By now, our students should have picked up dresses and tuxedos, and made the necessary alterations so we look our best for the November 8 Veteran Concert this Thursday.

 

7th and 8th grade students informal:

 

Band shirts/T-Shirts – Students will be asked to wear their band t-shirts once per week during football season on Tuesdays.  This way, if we have a Pep Rally, they will already be wearing them.   Our newly designed t-shirts turned out great. This shirt will also be worn at our two 8^th grade football games and on class picture day.

 

 

Concert attire for 7th and 8th grade students

 

This year, our young men will continue to wear tuxedo shirts with bow ties, tux pants, black socks and shoes.  This year our young women wearing formal concert dresses. This will eliminate the need for shopping for appropriate dresses, save time, and save money.  All band students will be sized for formal wear during band class and ordering will be handled through our Band Booster Uniform Chairman.  

 

Formal concert attire will be worn for our:

• Veteran Concert
• All-Region Band Concert
• Jazz Concerts
• UIL Contest
• Spring Concert
• Beach Within Reach Contest

Suggestions for Practice

 

Students are expected to develop a schedule of daily practice and make a strong effort to learn and improve daily in order to be a positive, contributing member of our organization.

 

1. Practice time: Help the student establish a regular practice session each day at the same time.

2. Physical conditions: A well-lit room is necessary. Avoid the distractions of radio or TV.

3. Music stand: A music stand is necessary for the student to play with good posture.

4. Encourage your child to excel. In each practice period have them:

• Daily Routine (5-10 min.)
• Practice flexibility exercises, tone, and embouchure exercises (5-10 min.)
• Practice scales and technical exercises (5-10 min.)
• Practice new work (5-10 min.)
• Practice most difficult passages in existing music (10 min.)
• Warm-down (5min.)

5. Practice each exercise slowly at first

• Do short sections of the music, then work on whole piece
• Use a metronome and a mirror
• Always strive for excellence and concentrate on getting a GOOD SOUND! Merely playing through a piece is not practice

 

PLEASE help your child “hang in there” when the going gets tough. Some things in music are learned easily, while others require intense and repeated application. Music is a wonderful thing to students who persevere and don’t give in easily. Please listen to your child’s accomplishments at least once each week to monitor progress.

 

Private Lessons

 

The Highland Park School System has a strong private study program. We are fortunate to be able to offer our students at the Middle School the opportunity to study with highly qualified professionals. Each faculty member is an authority on his/her instrument. It is quite unusual to have the opportunity for such quality one-on-one enrichment so conveniently located at the schools and available for such nominal fees. The single most important factor in the development of a successful band program is the development of the individual player.

 

Even though private study is not a requirement for participation in the musical organizations, it should be noted that most band students take advantage of this excellent opportunity. Additionally, our staff members work very closely with the private study staff in evaluating and monitoring student progress. Productive participation in this program by as many students as possible is strongly encouraged.

 

Lessons are scheduled by our private teachers, at school when feasible, and during class if the schedule permits. Lessons may also be scheduled before or after school. All interested students should notify the directors as soon as possible. We have provided a form for this; so the earlier it is turned in, the better. Lessons are scheduled by these teachers on a first come, first served basis. The fees for private study are consistent throughout the district - $18.00 per one weekly 25-minute lesson. (Fees may vary for study outside of the school facility.)

 

Scholarships

 

Students needing financial assistance to help pay for private lessons can apply for scholarship aid. This program is designed to allow ALL students to take private lessons. All scholarship applications and information is strictly confidential. Students may receive assistance for up to ½ the cost of each private lesson. Please contact a band director within the first two weeks of school if you are in need of this assistance.

Highland Park Middle School

Raider Band Calendar

Fall Semester – 2012

 

All performances are required and graded.

Any request to miss an event must be made in advance.

 

August

 

21              Garland Wave Pool party

 

September

 

4                RBBC Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm

5                5^th Grade Instrument Drive – 4:30-5:30 - HPMS Cafeteria

10              QSP Magazine Drive Begins

18              Band “Meet the Director” Night 6:30-7:30 pm HPMS Auditorium

 

October

 

2                RBBC Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm

4                QSP Magazine final magazine order turn in day

11-12         5^th Grade Demonstration Concerts–HPMS Auditorium during class times

16              8^th Grade HPMS Football Game – 7th & 8^th Grade Bands – 6:00-8:00 PM

                  HPHS Highlander Stadium

20              EXTRAVABANDZA – HPMS - 9:00-3:00 pm - 7th & 8^th Grade Bands

30              5^th Grade Instrument Drive – 4:30-5:30 - HPMS Cafeteria

 

November

 

2                Middle School Night with Highlander Band –7th & 8^th Grade Band

5:00-10:30 pm HPHS Highlander Stadium

6                RBBC Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm

8                Veterans Concert - 7:00-8:00 pm - 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands – HPMS Auditorium

9                All-Region Auditions - Reed Middle School 5:30-9:00 pm

                  (Piccolo, Oboe, Bassoon, Bass Clarinet, Tenor Sax, Bari Sax, Euphonium, Tuba)

10              All-Region Auditions - Reed Middle School 8:00-4:00 pm

                  (Flute, Clarinet, French Horn, Alto Sax, Trumpet, Trombone, Percussion)

 

December

 

11/30, 1     All-Region Clinic & Concert - 7:00-8:00 pm – HPMS Auditorium

  6              6^th Grade Band Concert - 7:00-8:00 pm – HPMS Auditorium

13 & 14     Written Final Exams

 

 

Spring Semester – 2013

 

All performances are required and graded.

Any request to miss an event must be made in advance with the director.

January

 

7 & 8         5^th Grade Demonstration Concerts–HPMS Auditorium during class times

17              Skating Party - 4:00-6:00 pm - 6^th, 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands – White Rock Skate

22              5^th Grade Instrument Drive – 4:30-5:30 - HPMS Cafeteria

29              6^th Grade Band 101 – 6^th Grade performs with Honor Band

 

February

 

3                Studio Movie Grill Event 1:00-3:00 - 6^th, 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands

5                RBBC Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm

6                Band 101 – 8^th Grade Band rehearse and perform with Highlander Band HS Cafeteria

20              NJHS Induction Ceremony Reception 6:00-7:00 HPMS Jazz Band

21              Pre-UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest - Symphonic/Honor Bands 6:30-8:00

23              UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Clinic - Symphonic/Honor Bands 10:00-3:00 pm

                             

March

 

5                RBBC Board Meeting - 6:30-7:30 pm

7                UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest – Symphonic Band /Midlothian HS

8                UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest – Honor Band /Midlothian HS

20              5^th Grade Demonstration Concert–HPMS Auditorium during class times

21              HPMS/MIS Open House - Volunteer performances by band students

25              Highlander Festival Rehearsal - 4:00-5:00 pm - 6^th Grade Band, Honor Band

                  HPHS Competition Gym

26              Highlander Festival Performance -7:00-8:00 pm - 6^th Grade Band, Honor Band

                  HPHS Competition Gym

 

April

 

4                5^th Grade Instrument Drive – 4:30-5:30 - HPMS Cafeteria

9                RBBC Board Meeting - 6:30-7:30 pm

13              Solo & Ensemble - 6^th, 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands 8:00-1:00 pm

                  HPMS             Cafeteria and all Band rooms

30              Sandy Lake Band Contest - 6^th Grade Bands – 7:00-2:45 – Sandy Lake

 

May

 

4                Hurricane Harbor Contest - 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands 7:00 am-4:00 pm

7                RBBC Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm             

9                HPMS & HPHS Jazz Bands’ Concert - 7:00-8:00 pm – HPMS Auditorium

13              Spring Concert 7^th, & 8^th Grade Bands - 7:00-8:00 pm – HPMS Auditorium

16              6^th Grade Band Concert - 7:00-8:00 pm – HPMS Auditorium

28              6^th Grade Band Instrument Drive - 4:30-5:30 - HPMS Cafeteria

29              5^th Grade Demonstration Concerts–HPMS Auditorium during class times