Longfellow Middle School Spartan Band Handbook

George Tullos, Director of Bands Alma Perez, Assistant Director Jonah Bahta, Assistant Director The Legacy Continues TABLE OF CONTENTS

BOARD OF EDUCATION 3

INTRODUCTION 4

BAND CALENDAR 5

BANDS AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS 6

PRACTICE EXPECTATIONS, PRACTICE RECORDS, & SECTIONALS 7

GRADING GUIDELINES 7

ELIGIBILITY 7

COURSE OBJECTIVES & CURRICULUM 8

TEXAS ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS 9

ABSENCES/ TARDIES 10

STUDENT BEHAVIORAL & REHEARSAL EXPECTATIONS 11

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS 11

TRANSPORTATION 12

FUNDRAISING 12

BAND SUPPLIES 13

INSTRUMENT POLICY/ USAGE FEE 14

BAND BOOSTERS 14

UNIFORMS 15

2 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Patti Radle, President Arthur V. Valdez, Vice President Debra Guerrero, Secretary Ed Garza, Trustee James Howard, Trustee Steve Lecholop, Trustee Christina Martinez, Trustee

Superintendent of Schools Pedro Martinez

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Pauline Dow

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Judith Solis

Fine Arts Senior Executive Director Dr. Daniel Loudenback

Principal Dr. Aurora Terry

Assistant Principals Linda Rios-Garcia, Robert Hernandez, Abel Martinez

Counselors Jessica Cavazos, Jennifer O’ Grady

Fine Arts Department Isabel Romero, Elementary Music/Secondary Choral Coordinator James Orozco, Theater Arts/Visual Arts Coordinator Dr. Peter Acosta, Instrumental Music Coordinator Dianne Marks, Dance/ Spirit Teams Coordinator Ashley Draven, Administrative Secretary Judy Thompson, Department Clerk Gilberto Elorreaga, Chief Band Repair Technician Frank Abrego, Band Repair Technician

The San Antonio Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability, in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

3 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations, and welcome to the Longfellow Spartan Band! We are one of the top organizations on campus, and take great pride in all our endeavors. There is a lot of tradition at Longfellow Middle School, much of which extends to the band program. Over the years, the Spartan Bands have maintained high standards in excellence, performance, behavior, and academics. Some of these achievements include:

• The Honor Band has receiving consistent Superior Ratings (1st Division) at UIL Concert & Sightreading Contest since 1998. • Spartan Band members earning placements in both District Honor Band and Region Band on a yearly basis. • The Honor Band has received 15 consecutive “Sweepstakes” Awards at UIL Concert & Sightreading Contest. • The Honor Band has receiving the “Outstanding Performance Award” at the Texas Lutheran University Band Festival for 12 years, and the “Exceptional Musician Award” in 2013. • The Honor Band receiving 1st Division, “Outstanding Performance” and “Best in Class” Awards at the Big-D American Classics Festival in Dallas, TX in 2015.

This Band Handbook has been created for both students and parents to outline our expectations for all Spartan Band members. These guidelines include behavioral and academic expectations, policies, procedures, and other important criteria for maintaining excellence. Parents, please feel free to contact us for any questions you may have.

Our hope is that your child has a great band experience so that we can make… The Legacy Continue!

CONTACT INFORMATION

Mr. George Tullos - Director of Bands [email protected]

Ms. Alma Perez - Assistant Band Director [email protected]

Mr. Jonah Bahta - Assistant Band Director [email protected]

Address:1130 E. Sunshine, San Antonio, TX 78228 Band Office Phone: 210.438.6520 (ex. 75024) Conference Period: 2:30-4:00 PM

4 BAND CALENDAR 2017-2018

Below is a list of tentative events for all band members. Specific information regarding each event will be provided throughout the year via notification letters. Dates, times and locations are subject to change. Parents, please refer back to this calendar throughout the year to avoid as many schedule conflicts as possible.

AUGUST 14th: First Day of Classes

SEPTEMBER 28th: World’s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser

OCTOBER 3rd: Marching Band Showcase — Alamo Stadium 6th: Jefferson vs Lanier “Feeder Night”— Alamo Stadium 17th: SAISD Honor Band Auditions — Poe MS

NOVEMBER 4th: TMEA Region Band Auditions — Poe MS 10th: Jefferson vs Edison “Tommy Bowl” — Alamo Stadium

DECEMBER 1st-2nd: TMEA Region Band Clinic/Concert — TBA 12th: Beginner Band Exhibition Concert — Longfellow Cafeteria 14th: Advanced Bands Winter Concert — Longfellow Cafeteria

JANUARY 26th-27th: SAISD MS/HS Honor Band Clinic Concert — Edison HS

FEBRUARY 20th-21st: SAISD Pre-UIL MS Concert & Sightreading Evaluation — TBA

MARCH 7th: UIL MS Band Concert & Sightreading Evaluation — TBA

APRIL 21st: SAISD Solo & Ensemble — TBA

MAY 10th: Beginner Band Spring Concert — Longfellow Cafeteria 17th: Advanced Bands Spring Concert — Longfellow Cafeteria 30th: Last Day of Classes

5 BANDS AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

The band program at Longfellow Middle School is comprised of three bands (2 advanced bands, and 1 beginner band). Yearly band placement in each band and occasional changes are based on instrumentation needs and limitations, eligibility status, overall performance and consistent progress, attendance at band functions, attitude and behavior, and audition. It is at the discretion of the band directors to place each student in the band where they will excel and be the most successful.

HONOR BAND (Mr. Tullos, director) is the top-performing group; designed for students who demonstrate a high level of academic achievement and outstanding musical competency. This band represents the school at several musical events, and requires a commitment to excellence in musicianship and teamwork.

Requirements for all Honor Band members: • Participating in school-related performances, including marching band showcase, pep rallies, winter and spring concerts, UIL and pre-UIL Concert & Sightreading Evaluations, and elementary recruitment concerts • Auditioning for District Honor Band, and District Solo & Ensemble Contest (class III solo) • Demonstrating musical competency through performing Region Concert Scales • Maintaining academic and behavioral excellence in all classes • Attending weekly sectionals

SYMPHONIC BAND (Mr. Bahta & Ms. Perez, directors) is open to students with at least one year of successful band experience. Symphonic Band is designed to develop musical fundamentals in order to prepare students for more advanced ensemble experiences.

Requirements for all Symphonic Band members: • Participating in school-related performances, including marching band showcase, pep rallies, winter and spring concerts, UIL and pre-UIL Concert & Sightreading Evaluations • Auditioning for District Honor Band and District Solo/ Ensemble Contest • Maintaining academic and behavioral excellence in all classes

BEGINNER BAND is open to any student with little or no band experience. It is designed to start students on a band instrument and to learn music fundamentals. Beginner instruments include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, french horn, baritone, tuba, and percussion. Any 7th or 8th grade students who progress quickly may advance to either Symphonic or Honor Band, at the approval of the band directors. All members will have the opportunity to participate in school concerts, competitions, and District Solo/ Ensemble Contest.

6 PRACTICE EXPECTATIONS, PRACTICE RECORDS, & SECTIONALS

It is required for all band members to take their instruments home to practice a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Because our school runs on a blocked schedule format, students will only have Band every-other-day. It is critical that our students’ musical technique and skills develop correctly, which can be achieved by spending time each day and practice. Beginner band members will not be taking their instruments home for the first few weeks until they are able to demonstrate the basics of instrument carriage, assembly, and tone production.

All band members will be issued a Practice Record at the beginning of the each week. Students are to record the amount of time (in minutes) they’ve practice each day, and write what they specifically worked on during that time. Practice Records are counted as homework assignments (see Grading Guidelines) that are due every Monday or Tuesday.

Sectionals are designated times outside of class rehearsal for band members to gain additional practice so they may improve their technique and music. Sectionals take place either before school (7:45-8:30 AM) or after school (4:15-5:15 PM). Students will be notified after the first two weeks of school when their sectional is to take place. All Honor Band members will be required to attend a sectional once a week. Any band member that fails to attend their sectional may not be allowed to participate in extracurricular performances, and/or placed in a lower level band.

GRADING GUIDELINES

The following grading breakdown will be used for all band members:

Assessments (40%) — performances, written and playing tests, writing quizzes/ tests, mid- term projects, district/ region audition material for advanced students, and concert/sight-reading evaluations.

Homework (60%) — daily/ weekly participation, rhythm studies, music theory assignments, practice records, supply inspections, and weekly assignment sheets.

ELIGIBILITY

Texas law enforces the “No Pass, No Play” rule; any student with a grade average below 70 after any 3-week grading period becomes ineligible for any performance or competition. No Pass, No Play also includes all sports activities, as well. Students must be eligible to perform for All-Region, Pre-UIL and UIL contests, as well as any performances outside of school.

7 COURSE OBJECTIVES

• Proper Instrumental Technique • Practice Techniques • Music Theory • Aural Skills/ Ear Training • Performance Skills • Creative Self-Expression • Mental and Physical Discipline • Cultural Growth • Value Judgments • Citizenship through Group Endeavors • Teamwork/Social Skills • Organizational Skills • Music Appreciation

CURRICULUM

• Develop instrumental techniques and skills including: a solid foundation of sound characteristic to their instrument, proper tone production, expressive playing, technical dexterity, and aural training • Introduction and Sequenced learning of Music Theory and Notation • Sight-reading and audiation • Analyzing and application of dynamics, tempo considerations, and music elements • Learn attributes of Music Periods (Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th • Century, Contemporary) • Analyze and learn/rehearse 9 weeks repertoire • Small and large ensemble techniques • Concert preparation • Concert Etiquette • Preparation and performance of Region Auditions music and Region Band clinic (if selected) • Preparation and participation of Pre-UIL and UIL events: Concert & Sight Reading; Solo and Ensemble • Band placement auditions • Reflections, rubrics, evaluations, playing tests, and practice records

8 TEXAS ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

The Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (or TEKS) are state standards for all Texas public schools from grades K-12. They provide detail to curriculum requirements for every course. The following TEKS listed are those for music courses for all public schools within the state. ______

6.1, 7.1, 8.1 A/B/C/D/E: The student describes and analyzes music and musical sound. The student explores fundamental skills appropriate for developing young musicians. The student is expected to: • experience and explore exemplary musical examples using technology and available live performances • describe tonal and rhythmic musical elements using standard terminology • identify musical forms presented aurally and through music notation • explore health and wellness concepts related to musical practice

6.2, 7.2, 8.2 A/B/D/E: The student reads and writes music notation using an established system for rhythm and melody. The student is expected to: • identify music symbols and terms referring to notation • notate meter, rhythm, pitch, and dynamics using standard symbols in a handwritten or computer-generated format • read music notation using appropriate cognitive and kinesthetic responses • sight read unison and homophonic music using the appropriate clef in a minimum of two keys and three meters

6.3, 7.3, 8.3 A/B/C/D/E/F: The student demonstrates musical artistry by playing an instrument, alone and in groups, performing a variety of unison, homophonic, and polyphonic repertoire. The student is expected to: • demonstrate and perform, alone and in groups, characteristic instrumental timbre and appropriate physical fundamental techniques • perform independently and expressively, with accurate intonation and rhythm, developing fundamental skills and appropriate solo, small ensemble, and large ensemble techniques, and perform a varied repertoire of music representing various styles and cultures • sight-read independently and expressively, with accurate intonation and rhythm, demonstrating fundamental skills and appropriate performance techniques • interpret music symbols and terms referring to keys; clefs; dynamics, including crescendo, decrescendo, piano, and forte; tempi, including accelerando and ritardando; and articulations, including staccato and legato, appropriately when performing

9 TEXAS ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS (CONTINUED)

6.4, 7.4, 8.4 A/B/C/D: The student relates music to history, culture, and the world. The student is expected to: • perform music representative of diverse cultures, including American and Texas heritage • describe written and aurally presented music representative of diverse styles, periods, and cultures • identify relationships of music concepts to other academic disciplines • describe music-related vocations and avocations

6.5, 7.5, 8.5 A/B/C/D: The student listens to, responds to, and evaluates music and musical performance in both formal and informal settings. The student is expected to: • demonstrate appropriate concert and stage etiquette as an informed, actively involved listener and performer during live and recorded performances in a variety of settings • identify criteria for listening to and evaluating musical performances • describe processes and select the tools for self-evaluation and personal artistic improvement • evaluate the quality and effectiveness of musical performances by comparing them to exemplary models • demonstrate appropriate cognitive and kinesthetic responses to music and musical performances

ABSENCES/ TARDIES

The directors will accurately mark all student absent and/or tardy in their electronic gradebooks. Students who were absent the previous day must obtain an “Admit” slip from the attendant’s office before school starts. Students will not be allowed to obtain one afterwards. Students who fail to do the will earned a day’s worth of unexcused absences.

It is school-wide policy that after a student has accumulated 4 tardies in any specific class, a discipline referral will be sent to an administrator. This policy is not only for band. Students who were with another faculty or staff member must have a pass on them to excuse their tardy. Students will not be allowed to receive one after entering the classroom.

10 STUDENT BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

BAND IS A PRIVILEGE, NOT A RIGHT. Because band is an elective and the students’ choice, appropriate behavior is expected. Our hope is to focus on making great music and have an outstanding band. To do this, we must follow both the Band Hall Rules as well as Rehearsal & Performance Expectations to create a positive learning environment for everyone.

BAND HALL RULES

1) Follow Directions 2) No gum, food, or drinks will be allowed in the Band Hall 3) No horse play, running, or fighting will be allowed or tolerated in the Band Hall 4) RESPECT other people’s property 5) Only Band Members, Parents, and Teachers will be allowed in the Band Hall 6) Put all music and instruments away in their assigned place 7) No loitering in the workroom or Band Offices 8) No loitering in the Band Hall 9) Keep your Band Hall clean 10) Above all, have pride in your Band Hall

Remember, RESPECT is the cornerstone of our band program. It is how we relate to each other. Keep this in mind every time you enter.

REHEARSAL & PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

• Absolutely No Talking. The podium must be respected. Once a director gets on the podium, talking should cease. • If a director is working a different section, this is time for other band members to study their music and look through their individual parts • Tardiness will not be tolerated. • Come to class prepared to play your instrument. Rehearsal time is used to rehearse. Time is essential. • Be prepared with your music. Optimize your section’s performance. • Cleaning and maintaining your instrument should be left for another time. • Remember, the director will dismiss you. • Band members should raise their hand if they have a question, and wait to be called upon. • After rehearsal, put your instrument away in its proper place. • Any electronic devices that are visible will be confiscated.

11 DISICPLINARY ACTION

The following guidelines have been taken directly from the San Antonio ISD Code of Conduct Handbook that is made available to all parents at the beginning of the year. • A parent conference will be scheduled immediately for students who refuse to meet the expectations of the program. • Public Displays of Affection (PDA) are deemed inappropriate and will not be permitted or tolerated. Parent will be notified immediately. • Students will be expected to have the proper frame of mind just prior to rehearsal and performances. • Students are responsible for being in their chair when the tardy bell rings, prepared and ready with their instrument, and any other supplies that are required. • Students who fail to demonstrate appropriate behavior may be kept from attending field trip activities. • Any behavior which is not representative of good citizenship, as perceived by the band staff, may result in the student's dismissal from the activity, as well as the band program.

Any infraction of the San Antonio Code of Conduct will be dealt with in one or more of the following manners: • Conference with student • Parental telephone call • Conference with parent(s) and student • Conference with principal, parent, and student • Immediate expulsion from the program

TRANSPORTATION

Band members will be provided transportation for all competitions and performances off campus (unless otherwise noted). Band members will be picked up and returned to Longfellow. Band members will be given a permission slip that must be turned in prior to each event. Permission slips must be signed legibly by both parent and student. Parents who wish to pick up their child after any event must be physically present at the event in front of a director.

FUNDRAISING

Band members will be allowed to participate in any fundraisers the band program will be hosting. Fundraisers help reduce a number of expenses, including transportation to events, purchasing concert uniforms, supplies, hiring clinicians and consultants, and much more. We highly encourage that all band parents to get involved during these events. All funds are utilized to provide your children with opportunities that they otherwise may not have.

12 BAND SUPPLIES

San Antonio ISD will do its best to supply any student an instrument that they cannot afford for the school year. Band members will need to complete and turn in an Instrument Checkout Form, and deposit a one time $20 usage fee (see Instrument Policy/ Usage Fee for more information). Band members will be responsible for the following supplies:

• 1” Black Binder, with 5 dividers • 2 Pencils (pencil bag optional) • 2 Highlighters for marking music • Sheet protectors • Spiral Notebook for notes • Combination Lock (must include spare key)

All Beginner Band members will require the STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE - BOOK 1 (Bruce Pearson).

The following is a list of accessories that need to be purchased:

Woodwind instruments Brass instruments Silver Polishing Cloth (flute only) Al Cass Valve Oil Cork Grease (clarinet and saxophone) Rotary Oil (french horn only) Reed Case (clarinet and saxophone) Selmer Slide Grease 1 Box of Vandoren Reeds (3 - clarinet) Yamaha Slide Lubricant (trombone only) 1 Box of Vandoren Reeds (2 ½ - saxophone) Small Spray Bottle (trombone only) Neck Strap (saxophone only) Silk or Cotton Swab

Percussion equipment Vic Firth SD1 General Drum Sticks Innovative Percussion IB275 Mallets Vic Firth T-1 Timpani Mallets Mallet Bag

MUSIC STORES

RBC Sheet Music: 4415 Centerview Dr. 210.736.6902 Musical Instrument Service: 328 Southcross/Tupper St. 210.924.1330 Alamo Music Center: 425 N. Main Ave. 210.224.1010 Alamo Music Center: 2106 NW. Military HWY. 210.349.2775 Jubilee Music: 4048 N. Pan Am Exp. 210.227.1150 Sam Ash Music: 25 NE Loop 410 at McCullough. 210.530.9777

13 INSTRUMENT POLICY/ USAGE FEE

Students who are issued a school-owned instrument will receive an Instrument Checkout Form that the student, parent, and director will sign. This contract is legally binding and states that the parent will be held responsible for the instrument while it is issued to the student.

A one time usage fee of $20 will be collected at the beginning of the year. Students can either pay the amount in full, or in two $10 payments (first payment due on the second week of school, second payment due at the end of the fourth week). Receipts can be issued upon request.

Students who are issued school-owned instruments will be required to maintain it while in their care. Instrument maintenance includes regular lubrication of valves and slides, the use of key oil, instrument swabs, mouthpiece cleaning and the general cosmetics of the instrument. The parent/guardian will be responsible for the care, maintenance, and cost of repair of school- owned instruments while it is issued to their child. School-owned instruments that are lost or stolen must be replaced at the expense of the parent/guardian.

It is recommended that all school-owned instruments be insured either through a parents’ homeowner policy or renters policy. Personal instruments that are lost or stolen will not be covered by the school district. Insurance cost is minimal and worth the investment.

In addition to the above policies, students who intentionally damage their instrument will be removed from the program immediately, and the parent will be charged for the replacement cost/ or repair of the instrument.

We understand that repairs for school instruments are necessary. School-owned instruments that are in need of repair will be sent to the school district’s instrument repair lab. Parents and students be advised that anytime an instrument is sent for repair, the student may be without an instrument for a time period. Regular maintenance and proper procedures for the care of the instrument are important to minimize frequent breakdown.

BAND BOOSTERS

Parent volunteers are a very important part of the success of our program. Additional help will be needed in the form of supervising students at concerts, contests, and assisting directors with various tasks. A notification letter will be sent later in the year when the first Band Booster meeting will take place. Any and all parents interested in volunteering are welcomed to do so.

14 UNIFORMS

Beginner Band Members Performance attire for beginner band members will include khaki pants and band shirt (t-shirt with Spartan logo). This uniform will be worn for all performances. Orders for band shirts will begin during the month of September. Band shirts may also be worn on Fridays instead of a polo. A notification letter will be sent with band members when orders are ready to be taken.

Advanced Band Members Informal Performance attire for advanced band members will include black pants and band shirt. This uniform is a requirement and is to be worn during performances, including District Band Auditions, Region Band Auditions, Solo & Ensemble Contest, and recruitment visits to elementary schools. Band shirts may also be worn on Fridays instead of a polo. Band members will receive notification letters when orders are ready to be taken.

Semi-Formal All Advanced Band members will be permitted to wear a semi-formal attire (Sunday’s Best) of their choosing. Students will be notified when semi-formal attires will be allowed, as well as what will be allowed.

Formal Only Honor and Symphonic Band members will be issued a formal band uniform that they will be responsible for the entire school year. We make certain that the uniforms are in good condition before they are issued. Parents, please do not to make any alterations to the dresses or tuxedos. Only a light hemming will be allowed (a seamstress will adjust girls’ dresses and provide the correct fit and hem).

Boys Formal Dress Boys will be issued one pair of black slacks, one white button-down shirt, one green bowtie, and one green cummerbund. Honor Band members will also be issued a black tuxedo coat. Band members will need to purchase a pair of black dress shoes, long black socks, and a white t-shirt. It is highly recommended that all uniforms be aired out immediately after any performance. Tuxedo coats and slacks may be dry cleaned, but the white button-down shirt must be washed. Any damage to the uniform due to negligence will result in replacing the item.

Girls Formal Dress Honor Band girls will be issued a formal black dress and a pair of black dress shoes. Symphonic Band girls will be issued one white button-down shirt, one black formal skirt, one green bowtie, and one green cummerbund. Girls with formal black dresses may have them dry cleaned only. Girls will be notified when the seamstress will arrive and need to be present for any adjustments. It is highly recommended that all dresses be aired out immediately after any performances.

In addition, girls must also purchase black stockings. Any damages that may occur to the dress as a result of negligence will result in replacing the item.

15 PARENT AND STUDENT AGREEMENT

PLEASE READ THE HANDBOOK BEFORE SIGNING!!! “I have read the Longfellow Middle School Band Handbook, and agree to abide by all policies stated. I understand that failure to follow theses policies or directions may result in disciplinary actions that could lead to dismissal from the Longfellow Middle School Band Program.”

______Parent/Guardian Signature and Date Student Signature and Date

______Class Period

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PARENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF CLAIMS CONSENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR STUDENT TRAVEL

I hereby release Longfellow Middle School, the San Antonio Independent School District, its employees, and its volunteer sponsors, from any and all liability and responsibility in connection with accident or injury to my child while with the band on any official function. Should a medical problem arise, I grant the school officials and volunteer sponsor’s permission to seek professional medical care for my child.

______Student Name (Printed) Student Signature

______Parent/ Guardian Name (Printed) Parent/ Guardian Signature

______Home Phone # (if different than cell) Cell Phone #

______Work Phone # (if available) Email Address (optional)

______Physician’s Name (if available) Physician’s Phone # (if available)