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Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 2 – Table of Contents An Open Letter to Parents Performing Groups Attendance Policy Student Conduct Grading Procedure Care of Band Facilities and Equipment Care of Music Uniform Policy Wearing the Uniform Elected Officers Appointed Staff Marching Band Auxiliaries Game Night Routine Bus Procedure Travel Awards and Honors Private Lesson Program Booster Club Parent / Student Agreement

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Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 2 –

Table of Contents

• An Open Letter to Parents

• Performing Groups

• Attendance Policy

• Student Conduct

• Grading Procedure

• Care of Band Facilities and Equipment

• Care of Music

• Uniform Policy

• Wearing the Uniform

• Elected Officers

• Appointed Staff

• Marching Band Auxiliaries

• Game Night Routine

• Bus Procedure

• Travel

• Awards and Honors

• Private Lesson Program

• Booster Club

• Parent / Student Agreement

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 3 –

Purpose of this Handbook This handbook is designed to help you understand the policies,

complexities, and concepts of a very large and proud

organization. We hope it can be used to answer questions and

define the boundaries that are important in keeping the REBEL

BAND an efficient organization. If utilized properly, the

concepts of responsibility, teamwork, and good citizenship will

develop. If you need information that does not appear her,

please ask the directors. We will try to assist you in whatever

way possible.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 4 –

An Open Letter to Band Parents Dear Parent,

Thank you for reading this handbook, for you support of its

contents, and especially for the opportunity to work with your

sons and daughters! Our organization can reach its potential

only if we have your active support.

There are several ways in which you can provide support and

encouragement for your child: attending performances,

encouraging home practice, and providing private lessons.

Assisting him or her in meeting responsibilities provides

incentive for your son or daughter to do well. In addition, it will

improve the quality of the band program. It is no secret that the

success of our band program is due in part to the tremendous

support of the parents. Your signature on the Parent/Student

Agreement Form is our indication that you are thoroughly

familiar with the contents of this handbook. We hope that you

will enjoy being a part of our organization!

Sincerely, The Rebel Band Directors

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 5 –

Performing Groups Marching 1. The Rebel Marching Band is the largest performing group at Band Richland High School. The band performs at all varsity football

games, contests, pep rallies, and occasional guest appearances.

2. The marching band is divided into Varsity and Junior Varsity Marching Band.

A. Varsity Marching Band, the competitive marching band, involves attending all rehearsals and performances of the marching band.

B. Junior Varsity Marching Band attends designated rehearsals, football games, and may attend marching contests as a member of the stage crew for the Varsity Marching Band.

3. Once a student has been accepted into the marching band, he/she must abide with the policies in this handbook, and maintain passing grades in order to qualify for marching performances.

4. Rehearsal Schedule

A. There are normally two band camps, one occurring the week after school is out, and the other occurring in early August before school begins. These rehearsals involve both Varsity and Junior Varsity students.

B. During the summer there will be once a week rehearsals for

students who are in town. Directors should be notified if a student is going to miss rehearsal because they are not in town. Absences will be recorded with the same criteria. Work is not excused. Unexcused absences may affect marching status.

C. Throughout marching season, rehearsals will be held before

and after school with the times announced prior to the beginning of the school year. Some times and days of rehearsals may change due to weather. There will also be some evening and/or weekend clinics held prior to competitions with plenty of advance notice regarding these events. These rehearsals will be designated for Varsity or Junior Varsity.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 6 –

Honors 1. The Honors Band is composed of the most musically and Band technically advanced students. 2. Performances include three concerts and UIL Concert and

Sightreading Contest. In addition, the Honors Band may perform at one or more festivals.

3. Members of the Honors Band are required to learn and perform

scale fundamentals, the TMEA All-State etudes, solos, ensembles, and band music. Members are expected to participate in All-Region auditions as well as solo and ensemble contests.

4. There will normally be sectionals before or after school once or

twice a week during concert season. 5. There may be extra rehearsals or clinics before or after school

prior to major contests or performances. Symphonic 1. The Symphonic Band is comprised of students with above- Band average musical and technical skills. 2. Performances include three concerts and UIL Concert and

Sightreading Contest. In addition, the Symphonic Band may perform at one or more festivals.

3. Members of the Symphonic Band are required to learn and

perform scale fundamentals, the TMEA All-State etudes, solos, ensembles, and band music. Members are expected to participate in solo and ensemble contests and are encouraged to audition for All-Region.

4. There will normally be sectionals before or after school once or

twice per week during concert season. 5. There may be extra rehearsals or clinics before or after school

prior to major contests or performances. Concert 1. The Concert Band is comprised of students that have not yet Band developed the musical and technical skills required of the Honors

or Symphonic Bands.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 7 –

2. Performances include at least three concerts and UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest. In addition, the Concert Band may perform at one or more festivals.

3. Members of the Concert Band are encouraged to participate in

All-Region tryouts and solo and ensemble competitions, and to aggressively participate in our private lesson program.

4. There will normally be sectionals before or after school once or

twice per week during the spring. 5. There may be extra rehearsals or clinics before or after school

prior to major contests or performances. Campus 1. The Campus Band is comprised of students in grades 9-12 that Band have not yet developed the skills required for the other concert

organizations. 2. Campus Band may also be comprised of students who are unable

to participate in the other concert organizations due to attendance, discipline, or chronic ineligibility.

Jazz 1. Membership in the band program is required for anyone

interested in auditioning for the Jazz Ensemble, with the possible exception of piano, bass, and guitar.

2. Instrumentation includes alto, tenor, and bari saxes, trumpets,

trombones, piano, bass, drum set, possibly guitar, possibly vibes and auxiliary percussion.

3. Performances include at least one concert and possibly one or

more festivals. There are numerous other invitational performances in the area throughout the year as well.

Attendance Policy Attendance With our limited rehearsal time, it is imperative that we make the most

of each rehearsal. As a member of the Rebel Band you have an obligation to your fellow band members to be at all rehearsals on time, to be prepared, and to have all necessary equipment.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 8 –

1. All band students must abide by the Richland High School attendance policies.

2. Absences and tardies will be excused in the following cases: A. Medical emergency or personal injury B. Death in the family C. Religious Holiday

D. Special circumstances that are pre-approved by the Director.

3. Examples of unexcused absences and tardies include, but are

not limited to: A. Work (excused if there was less than one week notice on "called" rehearsal not on the official band calendar) B. Oversleeping C. Transportation not arranged D. Anything deemed unexcused by Assistant Principals E. Appointments 4. All absences and tardies are to be documented by the parents

in writing to the directors. In case of illness or family emergency, an explanatory telephone call to the directors is appropriate-prior to the rehearsal/performance if possible.

Roll Check 1. Every band function will begin with a roll check. 2. You must be in your assigned position or you will

be considered absent. Student Conduct 1. Students will be expected to have the proper frame of mind

prior to and during rehearsals and performances.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 9 –

2. Band Students are encouraged to cultivate an attitude of good discipline during rehearsals. Talking, disturbances, and inattention show a lack of interest and respect to the band.

3. Polite and courteous behavior is a credit to the band

organization, to the school, and to the parents. Loud and boisterous activity by band members in public is not in the best interest of the band!

4. Public display of affection is inappropriate on campus. This

includes the band hall, on busses, or at official band functions.

5. Inappropriate language is unacceptable during all band

functions. 6. Verbal or physical harassment of students, staff, or parents

will not be tolerated in this program. 7. Any infraction of conduct, attitude, or responsibility will be

dealt with in one or more of the following manners: A. Conference with student B. Conference with parent C. Loss of performance status D. Conference with vice-principal E. Expulsion from the program REFER TO HONOR CODE.

Field Etiquette

I. Before and After Practice Procedures Before Practice

1. Instrument Maintenance-make sure it works 2. Have appropriate clothes and shoes for rehearsal. 3. Have other necessary items, ex: water, hat, sunglasses, and

sunscreen 4. Make sure you have your instrument and Drill Book.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 10 –

5. Hydrate yourself and eat well on rehearsal days. 6. Know drill and music up to date for the day's rehearsal 7. Guard warm-up outside, especially when other people are

present

After Practice 1. Traffic Flow - pit goes first, everyone gets inside before

people leave 2. Take pit equipment all the way to the drum room. 3. Put away everything. This includes anything taken outside

such as flip folder, water bottle, and music. 4. Brass warm down as needed. 5. Keep up with schedule/calendar. The office phones are only

to be used if absolutely necessary. 6. Make sure you are physically fit enough to participate in this

organization.

II. General Field Guidelines The Field 1. Respect rehearsal field, this includes no cursing, spitting on,

littering.

2. Do not park on any part of the field when a rehearsal is to be taking place.

3. Do not sit on field unless instructed to do so. 4. Once on the field, you are in rehearsal mode. 5. Set coolers and equipment in organized place outside of the

35 yard line and not on the front or back sideline. 6. When setting down equipment, know which one is yours. 7. Have your name on all equipment.

Field Operations

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 11 –

1. Order of Command-tower/building-marching

instructors/marching techs-leadership if instructed by a director

2. You are responsible for knowing your primary and secondary

dress 3. Have drill book and know how and when to use it. 4. If you do not understand the instructions, raise your hand, do

not just ask the person next to you. 5. No extraneous talking on the field. 6. During "reset," words of encouragement are allowed. 7. Section leaders/other leadership may ask for quiet on the

field.

III. Field Behavior

Performing 1. Performing starts with the word "set" and ends with the word

"check." 2. During performance, use correct body alignment and

position. 3. When performing, project energy, confidence and awareness.

Non-Performing 1. Individual must still have awareness and be involved. 2. Always maintain appropriate field behavior and conduct.

This includes using appropriate language and attitude. 3. Integrity-Celebrating should be done while not being directly

instructed.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 12 –

4. Consequences for incorrect field behavior may include physical disciplinary action as deemed by directors, also see the conduct section.

Other Band Relations and the Internet

1. The disrespect toward other organizations through the internet or other means of conversing is unacceptable. This includes social networking sites and forums.

2. Always have a positive attitude toward our band. Blaming

individuals or sections is unacceptable. 3. At contests, respect and appreciate the time and effort other

bands have put forth into their program. You can always congratulate the winner(s) for their success no matter what the competitive atmosphere is or was.

4. Band members serve as representatives of Richland High

School. Polite and courteous behavior is a credit to the band organization, to the school, and to the parents.

5. Rude or degrading comments made by other bands should be

ignored and not responded to. 6. Reactions should be polite when band placements are

announced. (BOA, Area, Etc)

Grading Procedure Attendance The following areas are taken into consideration when

calculating grades: Band is a performing organization. There are so many potential

conflicts with rehearsals and sectionals that there will be little chance for success unless a strict attendance policy is enforced

(see Attendance Policy).

Attitude, A positive attitude is necessary for each band member to perform

Conduct, and to his fullest potential. The directors assume that each member is

Cooperation in band to proudly represent Richland High School.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 13 –

Performance Several performance factors are considered in determining

grades: 1. Performance on playoffs, playing tests, recorded

assignments, and marching tests. 2. Performance on written test concerning such items as music

vocabulary, music theory, music history, composers, etc. 3. Improvement (or the lack of) on the student's instrument

Care of (see also Care of Band Hall and Equipment and Inspection

Equipment Guidelines)

1. Students are expected to care for their instrument, equipment, music, music folio and uniform.

2. Regular inspections are held to determine the condition of these items. Inspections are used as a partial basis for determining grades.

3. Please refer to your school owned instrument rental agreement for more information about school owned instruments. The student is held financially responsible for all repairs to his/her school owned instrument that occurred in their possession.

4. The student is always responsible for their instrument at all times. When the instrument is not in use, it should be put completely away in the case and stored/locked in the student’s locker.

Extra Credit Sources of Extra Credit:

1. Participation in All-Region tryouts 2. Participation in solo and/or ensemble contest 3. Attendance at approved concerts and fine arts events outside of the Richland Band 4. Other opportunities offered by the directors

Care of Band Facilities and Equipment

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 14 –

1. NO FOOD, GUM, OR DRINK ALLOWED IN THE BAND FACILITIES EXCEPT WATER.

2. Students should not enter the band offices without

permission. 3. Large instrument cases are to be kept in slots during

rehearsal. Other personal items must be kept out of "traffic areas" of the band hall.

4. Instrument slot must be kept neat. School books are not to

be stored in these slots. Marching shoes, shorts, etc. may be kept in the slots during marching season if kept in a tote or bag.

5. If any items are left in the band hall over night, they will be

put in the designated lost and found. 6. Band hall chairs and stands are not to be removed from the

room unless requested by the director. 7. The library is off limits to all band members except

librarians, officers, and staff, and then only to conduct band business.

8. No one is to use the copy machine or audio/visual equipment

without permission. 9. Practice rooms are for practice, playoffs, or private lessons

only. 10. Any damage of school property must be repaired, item

replaced, or a reimbursement made immediately. 14. The band department assumes no responsibility for personal

items stored in the band hall.

Care of Instruments

• DO NOT USE ANYONE ELSE'S EQUIPMENT WITHOUT THEIR CONSENT

• Please keep your name on the case of your instrument.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 15 –

WINDS 1. Keep your instrument in good, working playable condition. 2. Keep instruments in cases with latches closed and in assigned

slots when not in use.

3. Brass players should clean their instruments regularly; keep valves oiled, and slides greased.

4. Brass: Do not hit or force mouthpiece into your horn. 5. Brass: Make sure mouthpiece is secure. 6. Brass: Polish your instrument before a performance. 7. Woodwinds: Always swab your instrument. 8. Woodwinds: Have at least three playable reeds. 9. Woodwinds: Always have a mouthpiece cap, and take the

reed off when finished. 10. Woodwinds: No plastic reeds. 11. Woodwinds: It is suggested to use an instrument other than

your good instrument when outside. PERCUSSION 1. Do not play on percussion instruments unless you are a

percussionist. 2. No "mixing and matching" of instruments. 3. If damage to percussion instruments occurs, contact a band

director. 4. Keep sticks, mallets, etc. in stick bags. 5. All percussionists should have their own stick bag and

mallets as required by the percussion director. 6. Clean percussion instruments before performance. 7. Keep your name on your stick bag.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 16 –

COLOR GUARD 1. Keep all flags, rifles, and sabers in the appropriate places in

the guard room. 2. Keep tips of all equipment taped and in good condition. 3. Do not allow non-guard members to spin your equipment.

Care of Music

1. Always use pencil-never ink-when marking of music. 2. Write your music slot number and initials on every sheet of

music. 3. Keep a pencil in your music binder at all times. 4. You will be charged for excessive lost music.

a. $0.15 per sheet for lost music. Uniform Policy Uniform Issuance: The Rebel Band uniform is something you should always

wear with pride. Participation in the program and the use of the uniform that comes with it is a privilege.

1. Uniforms will be issued in early August. Any uniform

part that is lost or damaged is your responsibility to replace.

2. Male band members will be issued: A. Uniform B. Hat C. Tuxedo D. Bow tie

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 17 –

E. Cummerbund

3. Female band members (except color guard) will be issued:

A. Uniform B. Hat C. Concert dress 5. Male band members must purchase a tux shirt (available

through the band office through contracted vendor). 6. It is the responsibility of each band member to have or to

purchase the following: A. A pair of marching shoes (available through the band

office) B. Black socks for marching. No half socks or athletic

socks. C. Black shoes and socks for concert season (ladies will

wear neutral hose) D. A band T-shirt (available through band office)

Wearing the Uniform

1. HAT - The hat should be worn straight on top of the head with the strap worn snug under the chin. Hair extending below the collar will be worn inside the hat. Plumes will be issued immediately before each marching performance and collected immediately afterwards.

2. MARCHING UNIFORM - The coat should be worn

completely fastened at all times when in public unless otherwise specified by the directors. The band shirt is to be worn under the uniform coat unless there is another shirt designated by the directors. This allows the band to have a uniform appearance if the coat is removed. The pants should be worn above the waist, and should be 1" to 1.5" from the ground.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 18 –

3. SHOES - Shoes are to be kept clean and polished. Only marching shoes and socks are to be worn with the marching uniform, and black shoes and socks or neutral hose with the concert uniform.

5. CUMMERBUND (men's tux only) - pleats go UP.

Uniform Decorum

1. There will be no variations from the proper wearing of the uniform unless designated by the directors. Sun glasses are not appropriate except for non-uniform performances.

2. Never wear a cap or hat other than the marching hat while

in uniform. 3. Uniforms are to be stored at school and will be cleaned

together on a regular basis, with a fee assessed. 4. The uniforms must be hung immediately and properly

after each performance. 5. Do not exchange parts of your uniform with another band

member. 6. Entire designated uniform should be worn at all times. 7. Do not wear any jewelry while in uniform.

8. If you lose, damage, or have any problem with any part of

your uniform, see a band mom or director as soon as possible.

9. No running while in uniform. 10. No food while in uniform. 11. Always have a garment bag to protect uniform. 12. Refer to student conduct for other specifics.

Elected Officers Election 1. Officer candidates must not have a grade lower than 70 in

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 19 –

Criteria any course during the six weeks prior to election or at any

time during the term service.

2. Officer candidates must have more S's than N's in conduct each six weeks. There must be NO U's.

3. Officer candidates must show that they are avid

supporters of the band program by exhibiting a positive attitude, faithful cooperation, eagerness, promptness, etc.

4. Officers must meet all other requirements as listed in the

BISD High School Student Handbook.

Band Council Elected Officers will serve as the Band Council and will have

input in planning the nonmusical aspects of band activities:

1. President A. Must be a senior B. Calls and presides over council meetings C. Supervises the functions of other officers D. Represents the band by presenting awards given by

the council E. Takes an active part in planning the spring Band

Banquet F. Assists the directors whenever necessary G. Is in charge of "welcoming" activities for incoming

students 2. Vice-President A. Must be a junior or senior B. Assists the president in every possible way, and must

be prepared to run meetings in the absence of the president.

C. Serves as the liaison between the band and the annual

staff

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 20 –

D. Oversees the marching band leadership (section leaders, drum majors, etc.)

3. Secretary A. Must be a junior or senior B. Keeps minutes of all council meetings C. Assists with band correspondence and other clerical

duties D. Assists the president in every possible way 4. Treasurer A. Must be a junior or senior B. Responsible for collecting and depositing certain

moneys, writing receipts, and making ledger entries C. Assists the president in every possible way 7. Class Representatives A. Elected by majority vote by each class B. Represents his/her class in council meetings C. Assists the president in every possible way

Appointed Staff Drum Majors 1. Audition Criteria-A Drum Major Candidate Must:

A. Have no grades lower than 70 in any course during

the six weeks prior to selection or at any time during the term of service.

B. Have more S's than N's in conduct each six weeks.

There must be No U's. C. Meet all other requirements for officers listed in the

BISD High School Student Handbook

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 21 –

D. Attend pre-audition sessions as well as a summer

Drum Major Camp if selected. E. Be willing to work outside of normal band class 2. Responsibilities A. Be voting members of the Band Council B. Conductor during field performances C. Assist the directors in conducting during games, pep

rallies, and on-field rehearsals D. Assist the directors in teaching and cleaning drill E. Assist the directors in preparing charst and marking

the field outside of band class F. Be a role model in every aspect of band participation

Librarians Responsibilities-Librarian:

1. Must be willing to devote time outside of normal

band class.

2. Will be responsible for issuing, cataloging, and filing music

3. Are authorized to operate copy machines, and when

needed, use the computer to access or input library information.

4. Are responsible for maintaining the library in a neat

and orderly fashion. 5. Shall serve as ex-officio members of the band

council, in that they are invited to attend meetings and provide input, but have no "official" vote.

Other Other appointed staff positions are designated as required:

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 22 –

Positions 1. Leadership Team * (Consists of designated members

of council, Captains, Lieutenants, and certain band members at large designated by the directors)

2. Quartermasters* 3. Uniform Custodians 4. Electronics Manager 5. Loading Crew (Percussionists and Quartermasters) 6. Auxiliary Captains & Lieutenants* *These shall serve as ex-officio members of the band council,

in that they are invited to attend meetings and provide input,

but have no "official" vote. (All leadership team members

may vote for "Band Members of the Week.")

Marching Band Auxiliaries

Color Guard 1. Audition Criteria - A color guard member must:

A. Be a wind player or percussionist in the band

program or a non-band member that is enrolled at RHS.

B. Possess physical coordination, good height/weight

proportion, and rhythmic ability. C. Have no grades lower than 70 in any course

during the six weeks at any time during the term of service.

D. Have more S's than N's in conduct. No U's. E. Be willing to attend training camps prior to the

new school year (in May), as well as summer guard camps and sectionals.

F. Be willing to attend extra rehearsals if deemed

necessary by the guard instructor. 2. Responsibilities - Color Guard members must:

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 23 –

A. Devote time to their band instrument, as well as

meet the same performance standards as other band members. (If applicable)

B. Be willing to purchase gloves, special shoes,

black workout clothes, wind suit and shirt, tape and other accessories.

C. Accept full responsibility for their equipment

(taping, keeping in good condition, storage etc.) D. Be willing to purchase specified makeup and have

hair and makeup done as required by the guard director.

Drumline Responsibilities-Drumline members:

1. Must be willing to attend extra rehearsals as well as

the summer drum camp. 2. Must strive to work together as a unit in order to

achieve its primary purpose: to provide the musical heartbeat of the band.

3. Must strive to maintain an attitude conductive to the

ideals of the band program, especially when performing alone.

4. Are charged with the proper care and storage of

percussion equipment and the neatness of the drum storage area:

A. All sticks and mallets should be kept in stick bags

or individual storage lockers when not in use. B. All instruments should be properly covered and

stored at the end of each rehearsal. C. Music should be stored in the designated folio or

shelves. D. Personal belongings are to be left in percussion

storage areas ONLY during performances or rehearsals. As in band hall, custodians are

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 24 –

instructed to discard anything left on floor at night.

Auxiliary 1. Selection criteria:

Captains/ Lieutenants A. Must have been a member of the corps for at least

one year. B. Are selected by audition, review of previous

performance, and overall leadership ability. 2. Responsibilities A. To serve as a student leader in coordinating group B. To assist in teaching and rehearsing drill and/or

music C. To serve as liaison between corps members and

the directors D. To coordinate the maintenance, storage, loading,

and unloading of all equipment E. To serve as an integral part of the band staff, and

as a member of the Leadership Team

Arrival 1. Arrive on or before the designated time.

2. Arrive in full uniform (if applicable) or quickly get

into uniform. HAVE ALL UNIFORM NUMBERS MEMORIZED! Hang empty hanger back on appropriate rack.

3. When indicated, quickly "fall-in" in the inspection

block with music and equipment, or have a seat if asked to do so and wait for instructions.

Inspection Band members will be inspected for the following:

1. Proper wear, fit and condition of uniform (see

Uniform Policy)

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 25 –

2. Condition of Equipment

A. Brass instruments: instruments polished, valves and slides working freely, mouthpiece clean, lyre attached.

B. Woodwinds: Keep reed clean and in good shape,

instrument clean with good pads, springs, and corks and music lyre attached (except flutes and piccolos.)

C. Percussion: drum heads clean, drum shells

polished, cymbals polished, sticks and mallets properly taped and in good condition.

3. Music A. Music folder must be in good condition, properly

labeled, and must contain necessary music. B. Music folder must be held by a lyre attached to

the instrument. 4. Inspection Decorum A. Proper "attention" and "parade rest" will be

checked. There should be absolutely no movement or sound.

Arrival at 1. Silently "fall in" in block formation. Game Site 2. Maintain "attention", "parade rest", or "at ease", as

instructed until pregame entry begins.

During Game 1. There will be no variation from the proper wearing of

the uniforms. 2. No food, drink, or gum is allowed while the band is in

the bleachers except at times designated by the directors.

3. Do not play your instrument unless the entire band is

performing. Percussion is to play only with full band,

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 26 –

with cheerleaders, or during drum features authorized by the directors.

4. Stay seated except when asked to stand. Be prepared

to play within a maximum of four seconds after a significant play by our team! HOLD YOUR INSTRUMENTAT ALL TIMES..NEVER SET IT DOWN (exceptions: souses and percussion!)

5. There may be occasional times that the entire band

may do organized "moves" to a drum cadence. This will usually be during fourth quarter, during a time that is appropriate based on the score and who has the ball, and must be cleared by the director or Drum Major. The drum captain will coordinate all drum line playing, (except to accompany cheers led by the cheerleaders), with the directors.

Half-time 1. File orderly and silently from the stands to the

assembly point before the performance. Always move single-file. Do not play instruments unless told to do so by the directors.

2. When waiting to take the field, maintain a strict

"attention" or "parade rest" as instructed.

Bus Procedures 1. When busses are provided, all performers will ride the

bus both going to and coming from the event. Exceptions to this rule require written personal requests by the parents prior to the event. Even then, the final decision is left to the director and principal.

2. For football games, students may be assigned to a

specific bus prior to departure. Riding on a bus other than the one to which you are assigned is not permitted. Students are required to obey the driver, chaperone, and student officer in charge.

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 27 –

3. The Birdville I.S.D. prohibits loud talking, foul or

abusive language, standing in aisles, or sitting on the backs of seats while on busses. Hands, feet, arms, legs and head must remain inside the bus.

4. No food or drink is allowed on busses unless

approved by the directors. 5. Public displays of affection are not permitted on the

bus. The leadership team will be asked to assist the chaperones in enforcing this, However, if everyone acts in a mature and responsible manner, no enforcement will be necessary.

6. ON long bus trips, radios and MP3 players may be

used at the discretion of the sponsors and/or bus drivers.

7. Instruments and other equipment will be carried on

the bus and/or band trailer. A loading crew will be designated for each trip. This loading crew is responsible for loading the equipment which is placed by the bus or trailer. The crew is not responsible for any equipment not placed in the loading area. In short, every band member is responsible for his own instrument and equipment.

Travel 1. Our band frequently takes major trips that may last

three or more days. At the beginning of a "trip year", information regarding the costs, methods of payment, fund raising, etc. is made available to the parents.

2. Just prior to the trip, parents and students are given

copies of the itinerary, special guidelines, medical releases, etc., which must be signed and returned. Insurance will always be provided while the band is on a major trip.

3. See Bus Procedures for travel guidelines.

Awards and Honors

Richland Rebel Band Handbook - 28 –

1. Rebel Spirit Award: presented at the Band Banquet

to the student selected by his peers as one who personifies the ideals of the Rebel Band organization.

2. John Philip Sousa Award: presented by the Northeast

Richland Rotary Club to the overall outstanding senior bandsmen as selected by directors.

3. National Arion Award: presented by the Northeast

Richland Lions Club to an overall outstanding senior musician as selected by the directors.

4. Phi Beta Mu Award: presented to a student who is a superb musician and a superior academic student.

5. Semper Fidelis Award: presented by the United

States Marine Corps Youth Foundation to a dedicated senior.

6. Louis Armstrong Jazz Award: to the outstanding

member of the Jazz Ensemble as selected by the director.

7. Band Letter Jacket: Jackets are measured and

awarded in the fall only to the following:

A. All enrolled senior band members who have not been awarded a jacket for participation in a school activity.

B. All enrolled junior band members that have

been eligible and participated at 4 consecutive contests. For winds and drums, that would be UIL Marching, UIL Concert, and for guard UIL Marching and NTCA Championships.

C. Be selected for membership in the All-Region

Band, All-Region Jazz Ensemble, or a medalist for NTCA Solo and Ensemble Championships.

8. Band letter: If a student has already received a jacket

for another activity, only a band letter will be awarded.

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9. Students must be in the organization at the time they are fitted or awarded the letter jacket.

10. Other Awards:

A. Band Department Award (presented to a senior

boy and girl by the school administration.) B. Outstanding Colorguard Member. C. Outstanding rookie Colorguard member. D. Service, Performance, and other special awards. 11. RABB Scholarship: presented by the Richland Area

Band Boosters to a college-bound senior.

Private Lesson Program

It is the goal of the Birdville Independent School District Fine Arts Department to provide the very best learning experiences for each band student. One of these learning experiences is the opportunity for a student to study privately with a professional instrumentalist. 1. Private teachers are selected by Birdville I.S.D. 2. Private lessons are optional, but are strongly

encouraged.

3. Students electing to study privately are taught one time per week during their band period, before school or after school.

4. The cost of the lessons are determined each year by

the Fine Arts Director. 5. Criteria will be established for entrance into the

private lesson program by BISD. 6. If a student is absent from school or in school but

cannot attend the lesson, prior notification must be given in order for fees to be adjusted or a makeup lesson to be scheduled.

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7. If the student is in school and misses a lesson without prior notification to the teacher, the student will be charged for that lesson.

8. Students will be excused from lessons for band trips,

concerts, etc., if the teacher is notified in advance. These lessons should be made up if at all possible.

RABB

We enjoy the support of a very active, energetic, and creative parent organization, called the RICHLAND AREA BAND BOOSTERS. It consists of parents and friends of our band program, and it is designated to enrich our program by providing financial, physical, and moral support to all our bands in grades six through twelve! Although we really consider every parent a part of this group, we hope you choose to become an active member of RABB! Here are a few ways you can be involved: 1. Pay the membership fee. 2. Attend the meetings 3. Be on committees and voice opinions 4. Get involved with the total program. (You will be

provided numerous opportunities to help out!) RABB is an integral part of our entire band program. We hope that you will choose to become a part of this organization!

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