Kellis Marching Band Handbook 2018
COMMUNICATION
The goal is to keep you informed! Almost any question you will have can be answered in one of the following sources:
- RSKHS Band Handbook (which you are holding now!)
- Our Website: http://kellismarchingcorps.com
- Band Update Emails-from the booster club: send an email to [email protected] and let us know you would like to receive these.
- The Kellis Band Facebook Page: Kellis Marching Corps
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 623-412-5425 (This is the number to the school’s front office.)
Mr. Garrison’s class schedule
| Fall Semester | Spring Semester | |
| 1st period | Marching Band | Concert Band |
| 2nd period | Jazz Band | Jazz Band |
| 3rd period | Lunch | Lunch |
| 4th period | Prep | Prep |
| 5th period | Guitar | Choir |
I am generally available for tutoring on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons from 2:30pm-3:20pm. Students need to communicate their desire to come in for tutoring ahead of time.
GENERAL INFORMATION, page 1
As a member of the Kellis High School Band Program, you will be a part of one of the most EXCITING and entertaining programs in the state of Arizona. You must have the motivation, desire, and willingness to put in the time and energy to continue this success. Band is a group in which strong friendships and lasting relationships develop.
All that will be asked of you is that you follow instructions, understand and abide by the policies and rules, and (above all) do your best and HAVE FUN! Having the “right kind” of fun is imperative. The rewards of discipline and hard work will pay off in so many other aspects of your life!
The information in this handbook is important to your success and the success of the organization. Even though it may seem to be “common sense,” don’t take anything for granted. If you have questions, just ask!
Band Handbook Form
Each band member will need to turn in the form at the back of this handbook during the early stages of class. Turning in forms, assignments, and fundraisers when they are due is important! You must have your parents sign the permission form or you will not be permitted to travel with the band. The information forms for parents and students help us to keep our records up to date
Traveling To/From Band Events
Transportation will be provided for all students to any required marching band event. In many cases, transportation will also be offered to voluntary events (such as auditions, clinics, performances, etc.). For any kind of band event, students are expected to travel with their band-mates to and from all performances, unless there is an extenuating circumstance. If necessary, students may travel to or from a band event with their parent or legal guardian. In these cases, please follow these guidelines:
- Students who must arrive or leave separately must ride with their legal guardian/parent.
- Students who must arrive or leave separately must complete the form required by the Athletic Office. This form must be turned in to the Athletic Office as early as possible so that it can be approved and given to Mr. Garrison’s hands before the district transportation leaves the school.
- Mr. Garrison will need to see the parent to verify that the student is, in fact, leaving with the parent. This also lets Mr. Garrison know when the student is leaving and no longer under his supervision.
- Students are not, under any circumstances, permitted to drive with anyone other than their own parents.
- Students will not be permitted to drive themselves to or from any required event.
- Students must stay for the entire event before leaving with their parents, unless prior arrangements have been made with Mr. Garrison. The best time and place to meet to be released is usually at the bus as we are taking attendance before leaving.
GENERAL INFORMATION, page 2
Trip (Off-Campus) Expectations
Students who perform in any of the Kellis Bands will frequently travel off-campus. Regardless of the trip distance, or whether the band stays overnight in a hotel, there are several expectations. Students will:
- represent Kellis High School well through musicianship and mature behavior.
- will follow the rule: If in doubt, don’t “just do it;” ask first.
- will stay with assigned rooms and bus seats unless given permission by Mr. Garrison or designated chaperone.
- will speak respectfully to all adult leaders and fellow travelers.
- will follow policies set by the professional bus driver.
- will be at assigned locations, on time, and stay with the group at all times.
- will not bring any device which will create a disturbance for other travelers (this means bring headphones!).
- will stay in groups of at least 4 when not with the whole group.
- will not drink alcohol, take any drug that’s not on my permission form, or smoke.
- will understand that any breach of the alcohol/drug policy will result in immediate discipline (including being sent home, earning a disciplinary referral, and possible removal from the Band Program).
- will refrain from PDA (Public Display of Affection – anything more physical than holding hands is inappropriate).
- will clean up after myself on the bus and in the band room.
- will spend my money wisely, considering the needs of the whole trip.
- will be responsible for my equipment, my uniform and its parts, and my baggage throughout the entire trip.
Fundraising
In order for the band to operate, it takes a lot of money. Throughout the school year, fundraising opportunities will be available to band students and their families to raise money for the band program in order to provide the best band experience possible. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one fundraiser.
GENERAL INFORMATION, page 3
Tax Credit
Arizona tax law (ARS 43-1089.01) allows a tax credit donation of up to $400 if filing jointly or $200 per individual or head of household if they contribute to extracurricular activities (such as band) in public schools. This donation is a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona state income taxes.
All tax credit donations should be made through the Kellis Bookstore. It usually works best for tax credit donations to be turned in to Mr. Garrison first. They will then be delivered to the bookstore. (The exception to this is tax credit money used to pay the participation fee for athletics and activities.) Tax credit donations should be designated for “Performing Arts” with the “Kellis Band” written on the form (in the space asking for specific programs) in order for the band program to be able to use it.
Earning Band Letters and Patches
| To earn a letter in Marching Band, students must participate and remain in “good standing” with the Kellis Marching Band Program for three full semesters. Students that join the Kellis Marching Band Program after moving from another school may be eligible to earn a letter based on the total number of semesters that they have participated in a High School Marching Band Program. In these cases, a student must have a combined total of at least three semesters of participation in a High School Marching Band with the third (or fourth) complete semester being as a member of the Kellis Marching Band Program. (These students may need to provide documentation detailing their participation prior to joining the Kellis Marching Band Program.) The band council may also choose to award a band letter to senior students that do not meet the above requirements if the council feels that the student has been an outstanding member of the ensemble during their time in the group.
|
GENERAL INFORMATION, page 4
Classroom Responsibilities
These responsibilities are to be adhered to in all situations in which the band is involved, whether on campus or off campus.
- Be prompt to all rehearsals and performances.
- Be prepared for all rehearsals and performances.
- Be on task at all times.
- Maintain a positive learning environment.
- Respect all people and equipment.
- Food, drink, and candy, are not allowed. (except for water)
When students are not actively keeping up their responsibilities, they will be redirected to those responsibilities in the following manner:
- Reminder of responsibilities
- Clarification of the problem
- Student/Teacher conference/possible detention
- Parent Involvement
- Administrator Involvement
In the event that a student is severely disrupting the educational process, the director may skip steps in the previously mentioned process.
All district and school policies will be followed. Please refer to the RSK Student Handbook available on the RSK website.
MARCHING BAND, page 1
Athletic Participation Clearance
All student athletes and marching band members must meet the minimum requirements set forth by the district before they will be issued any equipment, allowed to practice, or participate in interscholastic competition (including marching band events).
This all needs to be done online through the website www.registermyathlete.com.
The district also requires students to pay a participation fee of $100 in order to take part in athletics and marching band. Payment plans are available through the athletic office if needed.
The full details of the Athletic Clearance policy can be found on the school website under “Athletics.”
No Pass-No Play
Students must maintain academic eligibility in order to perform at festivals throughout the marching band season. The full details of the No Pass-No Play policy can be found on the school website under “Athletics.”
Rehearsal and Performance Attendance
Band is an activity that requires commitment and planning. We plan rehearsals to minimize the time requirement and maximize the productivity of the band. When any person is absent from a rehearsal, whether it is for legitimate reasons or not, it affects the group in many ways. When a student misses a rehearsal, it is much more difficult for the others to learn. When that student returns to the next rehearsal, it creates tension and confusion when we need to slow down rehearsal to re-teach what the students have missed due to absences. All rehearsals and performances are mandatory. Active and appropriate participation in, and preparedness for rehearsals and performances are a big part of the overall grade for this class. (INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC ENSEMBLES ARE CO-CURRICULAR CLASSES. MEANING THAT ACTIVITIES DIRECTLY RELATED TO GRADE A class CREDIT WILL, AT TIMES, EXTEND BEYOND THE NORMAL SCHOOL DAY.
Marching Band, page 2
| Absences can often be avoided by considering the following: | Even the most responsible students find themselves in the predicament where a scheduling conflict can’t be avoided. When you find that conflict, follow these guidelines: |
| · Schedule doctor and dentist appointments with your band schedule in hand.
· Sit down with all schedules at the beginning of the year, including sports, family, school, and the calendar included in this Handbook. Work out conflicts at the BEGINNING of the year. · Discuss ALL conflicts with all parties involved as soon as they are noticed. Many students are nervous to discuss conflicts because they feel they are letting people down. You let people down only when you don’t plan ahead and don’t handle the conflicts early. · Consider ALL commitments as IMPORTANT. In life, it is great to be involved in many things, but be careful not to sacrifice your commitment to one activity for another. If you find yourself doing that, you should reconsider your activity level. · “Family” is your most important commitment. Most of the time, it is also your most flexible – especially with advance notice. Schedule family activities with your commitments in mind. |
· Make an appointment RIGHT AWAY with Mr. Garrison to discuss the conflict.
· Assess the relative importance of each activity. Performances are more important that rehearsals, just as, in sports, games are more important than practices. · Consider compromises. It is always better to “give and take” with both conflicted activities. Is it possible to do part of EACH activity, rather than missing one to go to another? Also, it shows responsibility toward your commitments to compromise. Of course, some things are more difficult, and sometimes impossible, to compromise. · Consider the consequences and communicate those to all parties involved. Is missing that practice going to mean you won’t be able to play in the next game? Will missing rehearsal lower your grade? Are you willing to live with those consequences? · Realize that working commitments are NOT considered excusable. Every working conflict I have ever dealt with has been the result of students not planning ahead by giving their boss the calendar. However, if your boss schedules you to work during a band commitment, let Mr. Garrison help you discuss the problem with your boss. There has never been a case where that process has not worked out for all parties involved! · If it is determined by Mr. Garrison that the conflict cannot be avoided and he excuses the absence, the absence MUST be excused in writing. Have your parents write a note and give it to Mr. Garrison as soon as possible before the missed rehearsal (at least two weeks before, if possible). If this isn’t done, it’s quite likely that the excuse will not be put into the grade book and cause a headache later! · ALL EXCUSED ABSENCES NEED TO BE MADE UP. Don’t assume that once you have an excused absence the matter is resolved. It is the responsibility of the student to discuss makeup work with Garrison and complete the work in a timely manner. |
MARCHING BAND, page 3
Football Games
- Only band students will sit in the band seating area in the stands during football games. Your friends will have to sit in another place if they are not in the band. It doesn’t look professional when students who are not in uniform sit with the band.
- No one is to leave the stands during the game unless excused by the drum majors. The drum majors will excuse students to go to the restroom in pairs during the game.
- There is NO drinking or eating in uniform at any time. The uniforms are expensive and must be kept clean and in good shape at all times.
- Uniforms are to be worn for the entire game, unless Mr. Garrison says otherwise. To keep the best possible appearance for the crowd, we wear our uniform in “performance ready” fashion at all times.
- All wind & percussion players must have their stand tune music with them at every football game. It’s important that we sound our best all the time, not just when we’re on the field. Students are not expected to memorize the “stand tunes,” so they must have their music with them. Students are expected to be ready to play at any time they are called on to do so.
- There will be a uniform inspection before each game. Students must wear black socks and have a uniform that is clean for every game. If a uniform is wrinkled or excessively dirty, that student may not be permitted to perform.
MARCHING BAND, page 4
Grading Policy
All band classes are graded on a 50/30/20 scale, per district policy. The Marching Band class is considered a co-curricular activity. The required work for this course includes both “in-class” and “out-of-class” activities. All marching band students will be evaluated on the basis of work completed both in school and after school. Students will be required to attend after school rehearsals and performances as a part of their grade for the course. All students and parents must agree to this policy in order to participate in the marching band.
| 50% (Major Assessments) | · football games and festivals
o 25 points for evaluation of each performance. o 25 points for critique of other band performance when assigned · Major playing tests (as assigned) |
| 30% (Aligned Checks) | · class time rehearsals (1st period)
o 5 points per day for appropriate rehearsal techniques · after-school rehearsals (such as Monday night rehearsals) o 5 points per week for appropriate rehearsal techniques · sectionals o 5 points per sectional for appropriate rehearsal techniques · minor performances (such as assemblies, etc.) o 20 points per event · other playing tests · all written assignments o points determined per assignment |
| 20% (Course Assessment) | This is the final exam for the class. There are multiple parts to the assessment. |
MARCHING BAND, page 5
Music/Routine Check-Off: All band members must check off with their section leader or serfeant. Music/Routine memorization checks must be thorough and complete to earn a rating of “pass”
- Wind Musicians testing on the show music, the Fight Song and The Star Spangled Banner and other stand tunes as needed:
- Section Leaders may test members of their own
- Section Leaders must first check-off with Mr. Garrison before they may test other students
- students who test with their Section Leader will earn a “pass” or a “not sure”
- students who earn a “pass” will earn the grade given for that week
- students who earn a “not sure” must re-test in order to be given a grade
- students who earn a “not sure” twice must then test with Mr. Garrison
- Percussion and Guard members must check off with their instructors. This will likely be done in a large group setting.
| A (50 points) | B (40 points) | C (35 points) | D (30 points) | F (25 points) | |
| Star Spangled Banner/Fight Song | August 24 | August 31 | September 7 | September 14 | September 21 |
| Show Part 1 | August 24 | August 31 | September 7 | September 14 | September 21 |
| Show Part 2 | August 31 | September 7 | September 14 | September 21 | September 28 |
| Show Part 3 | September 7 | September 14 | September 21 | September 28 | October 5 |
MARCHING BAND, page 6
Uniform
For Winds & Percussionists:
The marching band uniform consists of a band t-shirt, pants, jacket, a pair of black cotton gloves (winds only), a hat (or “shako”), black socks, and black marching shoes. If, during the season, you lose or forget your gloves, socks, or shoes, you can rent these items from the Uniform Room Monitors, as available. They are for rent only; please return them after the performance. Underclothing, including the band t-shirt is required to keep the uniform in good shape and clean.
It is your responsibility to keep and turn in your uniform in the same condition it was upon checkout, and to keep track of each part assigned to you. It is highly recommended that you have your uniform dry-cleaned only after every few performances. (At least 2-3 times during the season) Uniforms may not be machine-washed. Correct uniform wear and care will be demonstrated during the beginning of the season.
Before every performance, it is your responsibility to check out your uniform from the Uniform Room, located near the band room. You must also check out your uniform any time you wish to have it dry-cleaned. After every performance, and after having it dry-cleaned, you must check your uniform back into the Uniform Room.
The uniform is the property of Kellis High School, and all parts must be returned in the same condition as when checked out to you. The student and his/her parent(s) are responsible for replacing lost or damaged uniforms or parts of uniforms. If you lose a uniform part, contact the uniform moms immediately.
Uniforms will be worn properly at all times. We are only as good as we look. The band uniform is a symbol of pride and dignity to many people. Treat it with the utmost respect at all times. Never allow anyone else to wear any part of your uniform. No hats other than the assigned “shako”(uniform hat) can be worn while in uniform. No wind/percussion players may wear make-up or nail polish (except clear nail polish) while in uniform, and all male band members who choose to have facial hair must keep it well groomed.
For Flag Line Members:
Flag Line uniforms will be decided upon by the instructional staff. Students are responsible for purchasing parts of their own uniform and their own performance shoes (for both items, the style will be agreed upon by the instructors). All rules and policies mentioned above (in the “For Winds & Percussionists” section) or anywhere else in the Band Handbook apply equally to members of the flag line while in the performance uniform. The one exception is that Flag Line members may wear makeup as it is a part of the uniform. NO nail polish (except clear) or jewelry will be permitted while in uniform unless directed by the instructors.
MARCHING BAND, page 7
Items to Provide
Here is a list of things you will need to provide for the year. There may be other small costs that pop up, but these are the items you need to plan for now:
Provided for Wind/Percussion Students:
- uniform jacket, pants, and hanger
- uniform hat
Items Wind/Percussion Student Must Provide:
- band t-shirt
- at least two pairs of long-wristed black cotton gloves (except percussion)
- black marching band shoes
- black socks (must go above ankles – no short socks!)
- 3-ring binder with 35-40 sheet protectors
Items Flag Line Students Must Provide:
- The cost of the color guard uniform as detailed by the instructors
- uniform shoes
- band t-shirt
- 3-ring binder with 25-30 sheet protectors
- make-up for performances
- hair accessories appropriate for performance
- other items agreed upon by members and instructor
Goals of the Marching Band
- The Life Experience
To learn more about ourselves and the human experience through teamwork, focus, commitment, energy, and a deep love of music and performance art.
- The Musical Language
To learn more about the theory and the power of the musical language through performance. The ability to control and manipulate our bodies and minds so as to communicate a thought or a feeling through a musical instrument or dance/equipment work is the true power and reason for studying music. Music is the universal language.
- The Complete Entertainment Package
To provide a high energy, high quality musical and visual performance at various sporting events, community events, and festivals. The quality comes from the details – every note, every move, every step rehearsed and cleaned to perfection. The goal is for each performer to contribute all that he/she has to offer in every performance.
MAKE-UP AND EXTRA CREDIT
(this applies to ALL band classes)
Though each case must be approved (in advance) by Mr. Garrison, this list includes examples of activities or tasks that students may complete for extra credit or make-up points:
Make-Up Options
- Students that miss a performance will have an alternate performance evaluation to complete. They will need to evaluate both the Kellis band and another band for each missed event. This will be done on a different form than the form used at performances.
- Other makeup work will be assigned based on the missed assignment as needed.
Per district policy, an unexcused absence from a performance will have a make-up assignment available for up to 50% of the original grade. An excused absence will have a make-up assignment available for full credit. All make-up assignments are due within one week of the absence.
Nathan S. Garrison
Director of Bands
Nathan Garrison is in his thirteenth year as Director of Bands at Kellis High School. Before coming to Kellis, he served as Director of Bands for five years at Cortez High School, in Phoenix, Arizona. Mr. Garrison also spent one year teaching at Oasis and Desert Harbor Elementary Schools in the Peoria District.
Mr. Garrison received his BME from Grand Canyon University, where he studied with Professors Joe Lloyd, Ron Phillips, and Bob McAllister. Mr. Garrison performed with the Wind Ensemble, the Large Jazz Ensemble, the Small Jazz Ensemble, and the University Chorale.
Mr. Garrison was a marching member of the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps from Casper Wyoming during the 1995 and 1996 seasons. He served as baritone section leader and horn sergeant in 1996. In 2000, Mr. Garrison returned to the Troopers as a staff member, teaching the baritone line as the music and visual tech.
HEIRARCHY OF
THE MARCHING BAND STAFF
Please follow this “chain of command” and direct your questions and comments accordingly at an appropriate time.
The Director
The Director is in charge of every aspect of the band’s performances and rehearsals. This includes the administration of the program as well as the vision of the band’s musical and visual direction.
Instructors
The expertise of the instructors in their areas is a necessary qualification for maintaining a high level of information and performance. All instructors have authority to make decisions and offer instruction to all band members.
Drum Major(s)
The DM serves as a teacher, demonstrator, conductor, motivator, and living example of the ideal bandsman. This prestigious position is reached through an audition process before the season begins. The DM is responsible for facilitating every aspect of the band’s performance.
Student Staff
This group of band members consists of the captains of the auxiliary units, as well as select wind and percussion musicians. These student leaders are called on by the Director to lead sectionals, help teach drill movements, set a good example for all performers, do odd jobs, and basically help out whenever and wherever.
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Percussion Instructor: Justin Bell
Guard Instructor: Linda Frane
Music and Visual Techs: Lynnette Gibson, Sherri Lindsey, and James Lindsey
STUDENT STAFF
Drum Majors:
Victoria Gutierrez
Aurely Sanchez Carreon
Joshua Perez
Sergeants/Captain:
Billi Schmidt, woodwind sergeant
Dominic Nunez, brass sergeant
Zack Hatch, drum sergeant
Charlotte Hatch, colorguard captain
Section Leaders:
Nitza Payan and Shauni Plasencia, flute
Sabrina Walls, clarinet
Kyle Welty, saxophones
Elias Villa and Sarah Jimenez, high brass
Aneisa Tindall, low brass
|
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET
Please be sure to fill out and sign both sides.
Student’s Full Name: _____________________________ Male: ___ Female: ___Grade Level: 9 10 11 12 (circle one)
Date of Birth: _________________ Student’s Home Phone: ________________ Student’s Cell Phone: _________________
|
|
Student lives with: (circle all that apply)
Mother Father Grandparent(s) Aunt/Uncle Other: _________________
Marching Instrument: _____________________________ Concert Instrument: __________________________
Other instruments played (including piano): ___________________________________________________________________
Elementary/Jr. High School Attended: _____________________________
Father’s/Guardian’s Full Name: __________________________ Mother’s/Guardian’s Full Name: __________________________
Father’s/Guardian’s Home Phone: ________________________ Mother’s/Guardian’s Home Phone: ________________________
Father’s/Guardian’s Work Phone: _________________________ Mother’s/Guardian’s Work Phone: ________________________
Father’s/Guardian’s Email: ______________________________ Mother’s/Guardian’s Email: ______________________________
|
Name and Phone Number of Emergency Contact (other than parent/guardian), in case of emergency: __________________________
Relationship to student? __________________________
RECEIPT OF HANDBOOK FORM
I have received and read the band handbook. I understand, and agree to abide by, all of the information contained in the band handbook. I understand that all band students travel frequently to football games, festivals, and other events, in order to perform. I hereby give my permission for my son/daughter, _______________________, to travel by school transportation with the Kellis High School Band throughout the 2018-2019 academic year.
___________________________________
Student’s Printed Name
___________________________________ ______________
Student’s Signature Date
___________________________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s Printed Name
___________________________________ ______________
Parent’s Signature Date
BAND BOOSTER INFORMATION
I would like to receive information about the Kellis Band Boosters.
_____ yes
_____ no
This form is due to Mr. Garrison by August 20, 2018