This page provides a snapshot overview of who we are, and what we are about:

Our Mission Statement: Band Handbook

Dear North Monterey County High School Band Students and Parents:

Welcome to the North Monterey County High School Band program, which has consistently built a tradition of success since its inception in 1976. We are confident that 2009-2010 will afford each of us opportunities to continue to build on this foundation with successes both personally and as an organization. Congratulations on your decision to be a part of the finest high school musical organization in Monterey County and the state of California. The NMCHS Band provides musical activities that encompass a wide scope and allows everyone a chance to reach a high level of success.

During the fall, the NMCHS Marching Band will continue to build the exceptionable reputation it now enjoys. Our performances will include home and away football games, as well as several marching competitions. In the spring season, we will perform at local venues as well as the Castroville Artichoke Festival. A full schedule of performances is included in this handbook, will be mailed to each student, and posted on the band’s website.

The NMCHS Band program also features outstanding concert organizations that have developed a reputation for musical excellence through concert and festival performances. The Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Concert Band, and our new Percussion Ensemble will present several public concerts throughout the year.

Hard-working students, dedicated directors, involved and active parents, and a supportive administration and community all combine to make it possible for the NMCHS Band program to offer an outstanding array of musical opportunities. Our students are expected to set and reach high goals for themselves and their program, and the rewards of meeting those expectations are immeasurable. Members of the NMCHS Band develop musically, emotionally, mentally, and socially.

It is our intent that this handbook be used by students, parents, administrators, staff and directors as a convenient source of information regarding the varied aspects of the NMCHS Band program. We have tried to cover as thoroughly as possible every facet of the program. Students and parents are encouraged to read this handbook very carefully. NMCHS Band members will be expected to understand and abide by all the rules and regulations set forth in this book for the entire year.

North Monterey County High School Band - Building on a Tradition of Success!

Sincerely,

D.L. Johnson, Director of Bands, NMCHS

Jonathan Pedroni, Assistant Director of Bands, Band Instructor, NMCMS

1 The Value of Music Education

For centuries, music and art have been recognized as disciplines, on equal footing with mathematics, language, and the sciences as regards the development of mental process. More recent research has shown that the study of music and in particular performance actively involves more of the domains of the brain than any other discipline. Instrumental music, such as band, is the purest form of mental activity. It requires more of the brain to be utilized, both right and left brain functions, than any activity we experience in formal education. Dealing with the demands of ensemble performance and individual performance simultaneously requires that the performers manipulate visual symbolic information, interpret visual instructions from a conductor, analyze and synthesize aural information being received constantly, exhibit manual skill with the instrument, regulate their volume level and style of playing in concert with several other performers, and many other factors that all combine to become "making music."

We can cite all that information and that's just a band director trying to justify his own existence in many people's eyes. Instead we would like to present what many philosophers, thinkers, and leaders have expressed regarding the value of music. (from the Sept. Oct. 1993 BDGuide)

PLATO: "Music training is a more potent instrument than any other, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul."

SHAKESPEARE: "The man that hath no music in himself . . . let no such man be trusted."

ERNEST BOYER (President, Carnegie Foundation): "Music gives us a language that cuts across the disciplines, helps us to see connections and brings a more coherent meaning to our world."

PAUL HARVEY (Broadcaster/commentator): "Our schools tend to refine intellects but neglect to discipline emotions. For anyone to grow up complete, music is imperative."

GREGORY ANRIG (President of Educational Testing Service): "The things I learned from my experience in music in school are discipline, perseverance, dependability, composure, courage, and pride in results. Not a bad preparation for the work force!"

JOSEPH M. CALAHAN (Director of Corporate Communications, Xerox Corporation): "Arts education aids students in skills needed in the workplace: flexibility, the ability to solve problems and communicate, the ability to learn new skills, to be creative and innovative, and to strive for excellence."

CLIFFORD V. SMITH (President of the General Electric Foundation): "GE hires a lot of engineers. We want young people who can do more than add up a string of numbers and write a coherent sentence. They must be able to solve problems, communicate ideas and be sensitive to the world around them. Participation in the arts is one of the best ways to develop these abilities."

SHIRLEY YOUNG (VP, Consumer Market Development for General Motors): "The Japanese consider the study of music important for their engineers. Playing a musical instrument involves discipline, creativity, and conceptualization. These attributes, added to engineering talent, help produce results that are not only functional but also harmonious in every way. Music reaches across cultures and needs no translation."

MUSIC IS NOT ONLY IMPORTANT . . . IT'S ESSENTIAL!


2 Instrumental Music Department Philosophy

Music education is a primary means by which an educational institution can transmit to students the cultural heritage of society. Music transcends barriers of ethnic background, economic status, language, and even literacy in its power to reach the depths of the human soul. Participation in performance organizations encourages initiative and leadership in the students, stimulates goal-oriented thought processes, creates an appreciation and respect for the efforts of others, and assists students to develop a sense of responsibility to themselves, the organization, and in a broad sense, society.

We recognize that few high school musicians make music a career. However, the mental discipline and thought processes required in the study of music are applicable in all fields of endeavor.

General Objectives

· To make participation in instrumental music available to all students at NMCHS School.

· To develop musical experiences that enhance students’ overall educational experiences.

· To provide a suitable background in music instruction for those students who elect to continue the study of music after graduation.

· To develop a life-long appreciation for music and continuation of musical activities.

· To develop performing organizations that are a source of pride for the individual, the school, and the community.

3 Band Staff

Mr. Johnson, Band Director - Mr. Johnson is in charge of all bands at NMCHS. He has been developing the NMCHS Band program for the past 20 years. As a past president of the California Music Educators Association, Mr. Johnson has developed a reputation as a role model for music educators throughout the state.

Mr. Pedroni, Associate Band Director - Mr. Pedroni is a graduate of NMCHS (class of 1999), and is currently the Band Director at North Monterey County Middle School. As a accomplished percussionist, Mr. Pedroni will lead our percussion line, a new percussion ensemble class, and will assist Mr. Johnson in the direction of the North County Bands.

Mrs. Laurel Gast, Color Guard Instructor - Mrs. Gast has been at NMCHS for several years and is presently our SIP Coordinator. She has function as Color Guard Instructor for the past five years. The quality of her instruction has shown in the quality of performance and awards.

Austria Cho, Drum Major - Austria is a senior this year and is looking to elevate and continue the Pride at NMCHS.

Katie Day, NMCHS Band President - Katie is a senior at NMCHS, and is the second band president at NMCHS. She will be looking to boost unity and spirit in the Condor Band.


4 North Monterey County Band Ensembles

It is possible to participate in any sport, club, or ASB while being in band. Mr. Johnson has worked hard to make this possible. Please make sure you go to band when assigned, or whenever possible while participating in other groups.

REHEARSAL TIMES

Jazz Band: be in the band room NO LATER than 7:10AM, rehearsal BEGINS at 7:15AM.
0 Block Bands: be in the band room NO LATER than 8:00AM, rehearsal beings at 8:05AM.

MARCHING BAND – Open to all students, with some previous experience. This class meets Monday through Friday from the beginning of the year until late November.

SYMPHONIC BAND – Open to all students, with some previous experience. This class concentrates on the development of individual and ensemble playing skills, with emphasis on the performance aspects of wind band music and the preparation of the finest band literature available at this level. Out-of-school time may be required for rehearsals and performances.

JAZZ BAND - Open to all students with director approval, this class will concentrate on developing basic playing skills such as tone production, rhythmic proficiency, intonation, and technical ability associated with jazz performance. This ensemble will perform the most throughout the year. There may be out-of- school time required for rehearsals and performances.

WIND ENSEMBLE – Open to students by audition only. This ensemble comprises the most outstanding instrumental musicians in NMCHS , and will have as a primary focus the preparation and performance of the finest literature for the modern wind band. While students will already possess a high degree of ability, the further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble will be paramount to the success of the student and the organization. Great emphasis is placed on individual musical responsibility and development.
CONCERT BAND - Required for all 9th-grade students and some 10th-grade students, this class meets during block 1 throughout the 3rd and 4th quarters. This class will concentrate on developing basic playing skills such as tone production, rhythmic proficiency, intonation, and technical ability, as well as preparation and performance of fine concert band literature. Each day the class will be divided into 45 minutes of music, and 45 minutes of health.PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE – *NEW! Open to students in grades 9 - 12, with Assistant Director approval. All percussion students are assigned to this class. This group will concentrate on performance in all areas of percussion. This class will meet Friday mornings during the jazz band time, and may have extra rehearsals during or after school.


5 Grading Procedure

Band is a unique course at North County High School. It has curricular requirements, just as any other academic discipline, but it also has out-of-class time requirements. The strength of the band program is the consolidation of these requirements into one performance based, academic course of study. The level of commitment from each individual student is the driving force behind the organization and is reflected in the level of achievement reached by the individual and the program.

Band is a learning activity. Rehearsals, whether during or after school, are the means by which students learn, and by their very nature cannot be reproduced or made-up. Therefore it is imperative that students are present unless the absence is absolutely unavoidable. Excessive rehearsal absences will undoubtedly affect a student's performance. Although we frequently function as conductors, we are primarily teachers responsible for the musical and aesthetic education of each student in the band program. This is the reason we are absolutely insistent upon each student's daily participation. Rehearsals are not optional, and are reflected in the student's daily grade. Excessive absences and/or tardies will be communicated to the parents, and followed by lowered grades. Daily attendance/participation is 40% of the overall grade.

Performances are viewed as major tests: a performance is a learning experience that cannot be duplicated in a rehearsal; the level of concentration required in a public performance assists each student develop an insight into their own level of performance; a performance is an important evaluation tool, allowing comparison of a student's performance in relation to classroom objectives presented and with past performances. Absences from performances are only excused in the event of an extreme emergency: serious illness or hospitalization of the student, death in the family, religious holiday, or other reasons deemed excusable by the band director. The band director must be contacted by a parent at least 2 weeks in advance to approve any absence from a performance. Perfect and punctual attendance at concerts is 50% of the overall grade.

Effort and attitude is key in the NMCHS Band. We know students are busy and have “a lot on their plate”. All we ask is when students are in class, rehearsal, at a performance, on tour, or whenever the band is together that they always have a good attitude. Always doing your best is something important because we do not expect hundreds of professional musicians to come out of the NMCHS Band program, but we do expect hard working and well rounded young adults. Attitude and behavior will make up the last 10% or the overall grade.

Finally, we take our job as a band director very seriously. The band as an organization provides a medium through which students progress academically, musically, and socially. Musicianship, attitude, attendance, punctuality, conduct, and a desire for excellence are absolutely expected from each member of the NMCHS Band. Therefore, individual practice and preparation are essential. No other discipline in education requires the high level of achievement from all participants as does musical performance. Through the level of commitment required we hope to better prepare our students for the responsibilities encountered throughout their lives.

5a. Community Service and College Credit.
Students may earn up to 45 hours of Community Service through faithful service in band. Students must be enrolled all four years in band(11 hours awarded each year in band and 12 hours the senior year). If the student fails any term, or drops out band at any time during the school year, they lose all 11 hours credited for that year. Makeup hours must be earned through another community service project.

We are fortunate to be able to offer 1 College/University Credit per term for anyone qualified and participating in Wind Ensemble. There is a possiblilty this will be expanded to Marching Band, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Band by the 2009-10 school year. Forms will be made available at the beginning of the year. Present cost is $6.00.



6 Parents & Chaperones

Parents

Parents are an important part of the NMCHS Band, and have a vital role to play. Without the assistance and cooperation of Band parents and boosters, there would be no chance for the level of success we want the band to reach. There are many things parents can do:

Attend Band Booster meetings.

Volunteer for parent committees. There are many different tasks with which we need your assistance, and everyone can find the niche that suits them best: chaperone, uniforms, transportation, equipment handling (pit crew), sewing, meals and publicity are just a few of the areas we need filled for the marching season alone.

Be supportive of the band program and your child's participation by:

· Assisting your child to be prepared and punctual for every rehearsal and performance.

· Notifying the director if your child is to be absent or late for performance or rehearsal. This should be done in advance unless in absolute emergency situations.

· Encouraging your child to practice at home and help them find a quiet place to do so.

· Showing your interest and support in your child's music study by enthusiastically attending every performance possible.

· Discussing with directors and staff anything that will help them understand and better serve your child. · Arranging for private lessons for your child, if at all possible

· Purchase/Rent a personal instrument for your student instead of a school owned instrument

Chaperones

Chaperones are also extensions of the authority of the directors. Without the dedication of our chaperones and other adults that assist with the band, we could not travel or perform in the way we do. These people work hard, and the only payment they receive is our appreciation. Be respectful, polite, cooperative, and remember that the words “Thank You” cost you nothing but are highly valued by the recipient.

If you disagree with something a chaperone asks you to do, you are not to argue with the chaperone. You are to do as you are asked and then inform a director as soon as possible. This policy will be strictly enforced. (In the extremely unlikely event that a chaperone's instruction would cause you to violate civil law or moral standards, the student should ask to be taken by that chaperone to a director immediately) If a chaperone has to report a student for being uncooperative or for any other reason, that student is subject to removal from the group.

7 Marching Band

The NMCHS Marching Band enjoys a reputation for musical excellence in our community, and around the world. The band can be recognized as one of the top programs in California; to continue in this tradition of success requires a high degree of dedication, effort, and pride on the part of each person involved.

The band follows a regular rehearsal schedule; any changes are announced well in advance. This allows students to plan other activities and obligations around the schedule.

Plan to arrive well in advance of the beginning of rehearsal...don't try to squeak in at the last second. We have a limited amount of rehearsal time and it is essential that we make efficient use of the time we have. This can only happen when every band member is present and working to improve. The band member that misses rehearsal cannot improve, and the other band members around them have a less effective rehearsal due to the absence. We all depend on each other to "carry our fair share of the load" in order for us to achieve the level of proficiency we want.

We do rehearse outside, so students should dress for the weather. Not having the proper attire is no reason for having a poor rehearsal. Students should wear comfortable shoes (preferably low- topped tennis shoes) and socks for marching and field show rehearsals. This is important in that the style of marching step we use requires that the foot and ankle be permitted to move freely. You can leave a pair of shoes during the fall in your locker.

Each member is expected to have all necessary equipment, in working order, along with all music and necessary materials at all rehearsals. Absences from band rehearsals or performances are unexcused unless due to (a) personal illness, (b) death in the family, (c) an emergency, or (d) special permission of the Director obtained in advance by the parent or guardian. Students must exhibit consistent responsibility in these areas. Excessive absences may result in being removed from performance status, and a potential lower grade.

Attitude

Those who have a positive attitude, regardless of their individual skills, will always have a place in the NMCHS Band. Regardless of your ability, if your attitude is not positive, and you are not helping to make the group successful, you should not be a part of this band. Students who do not project an attitude that is positive and cooperative will be given the opportunity to change their personal perspective or else leave the organization. Those who have pride in themselves will generally project a positive attitude. Characteristics of a positive attitude include a generally cheerful outlook toward rehearsals and performances, cooperation in the preparation and maintenance of equipment and facilities, and eagerness to do what is necessary to be successful.

In short, the ideal band member is someone who is always willing to give their best for the good of the organization; a silent leader who sets the example for the rest of the band to follow.

8 Rehearsal Technique / Rehearsal Etiquette
1. Be present and on time — you cannot reap the benefits of a rehearsal or rehearsal segment you miss. Don’t make plans that involve leaving rehearsal early or arriving late. Often some of the most important teaching in a rehearsal happens at those times.

2. Be actively and intently involved in the rehearsal. This includes, but is not limited to:

A. Just “going through the motions” during rehearsal is as bad as not being there. Always be thinking about your performance.

B. Your only focus should be the objectives the ensemble is trying to achieve during that rehearsal. Do not bring your homework to band- it is ALSO a graded class.

C. There is to be no unnecessary talking.

D. Members are expected to give their utmost efforts during rehearsals in the pursuit of excellence in performance — any less is an insult to your peers, your directors, and yourself. Instructions given should be followed not just to the letter, but also in the spirit of the intent.

E. Horseplay, or other such activities will not be tolerated

F. Mp3 players/iPods, and cell phones are not allowed to be used during rehearsals; they will be taken away after one warning.

G. NO FOOD OR DRINK WILL BE ALLOWED IN THE BAND ROOM (water is OK)

3. The proper attitude during rehearsal affects the value of that rehearsal. Keep in mind:

A. An instruction that has to be given twice robs the band of rehearsal time and focus. Don’t cheat us all because you are not paying attention.

B. Be cooperative. Even if you don’t understand the motivation for a rehearsal activity, have confidence that your staff does and execute as you are asked.

C. Disrespect towards directors, staff, and student leadership will never make the band more successful; all students should show the proper respect for their peers, staff, and leadership, and avoid exhibiting disrespectful attitudes such as eye-rolling, pouting, talking back, being unsupportive of directors and staff or in any way questioning any instruction or direction given.

D. Being negative in rehearsal is a sure way to lessen the effectiveness of that rehearsal. If you say things like “this will never work” there will probably be people around you that either believe what you say or are at least influenced by your opinion, and in either case they (like you) will be less productive.

E. Offer encouragement to your peers, instead of criticism. It takes a lot of pats on the back to erase the sting of a kick in the pants.

4. You can’t be effective in rehearsal if you are unprepared. For example:

A. Arrive early enough to be in place, with all necessary equipment and materials, BEFORE rehearsal starting time.

B. Know all music/work that is due to be worked on in rehearsal. It is your responsibility to catch up should you be compelled to miss a rehearsal. It is acceptable to practice at home!

C. Have your materials organized - sheet music in (flip) folders, reeds, oil, cleaning supplies, etc.

D. Be certain your equipment is always in good working order. Ask if you are unsure!

E. Be dressed for the weather. Not having the proper attire is not a satisfactory reason for having a poor rehearsal. Wear tennis shoes and socks for rehearsals. We have lockers to keep them safe.

F. Never be an obstacle to the success of others. If you are keeping someone else from achieving their objectives, the entire organization is losing ground.

The NMCHS Band can only reach its highest level of success when each individual, each section, and each element are all at their highest possible effectiveness. It is the responsibility of each individual to do everything possible to reach that level, and to do nothing that would keep themselves or others from reaching their goals.

9 Behavior Guidelines

All band members are expected to follow the instructions of any teacher, staff member or chaperonewithout question unless said instruction is a violation of civil law or moral standards.

All school rules and policies are in effect at all band functions.

Any band member possessing or using any controlled substances, which include tobacco and alcohol, during any band function is subject to immediate removal from the organization, referral to school authorities, and if applicable, the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Band members will not play on or play with the equipment of others. This practice can lead to potential damage and a general lack of respect for the property of others. If you see someone picking up an instrument or equipment that is not theirs, kindly remind them.

Destructive activity will not be tolerated, whether it be something as seemingly innocent as playing on a wall, locker, or door with drumsticks, bumping things with horns or equipment, or something more overt as deliberately damaging equipment, throwing objects, writing on walls or leaving trash around. An organization with class, mature members, and pride will not permit acts such as this. It is the responsibility of everyone to see that these types of things do not occur. If you see it, stop it. If they refuse to stop, notify a director, band leader or chaperone immediately.

Band members should not remove, play with, hide, or take all or part of the uniform of others. The uniform is obviously an essential part of any performance. If you have a uniform problem, don't take someone else's. See the uniform people for assistance. Take care of your uniform.

All students travel to any off-campus activity on the bus. If you wish to ride home from an event with your parents, they must sign you out in person, at the conclusion of the event, and you will be removed from the bus roster. Students will be released only to parents or guardians. Only directors may release students, not chaperones or student leaders. Please be aware of this policy -- it is for your protection as well as ours.

Band members are expected to use good judgment and show respect for others in displaying affection. An impassioned embrace or more ardent demonstration of feeling is best kept for private moments. Band trips and activities are not makeout opportunities. Keep your raging hormones in check and don't embarrass your friends or cheapen your relationship by taking things beyond the limit of common decency.

Any time there is a critical incident involving our students, our people, or any incident involving police or other authorities, the directors are to be notified immediately.

Any injury that occurs during a band function should be reported to the director without delay.

Behavior Guidelines (cont.)

At any band contest, festival, trip, or other function, band members should move from place to place in a group. Do not go off by yourself, especially after dark. To leave the site, you must have permission from the director.

Food and drink are not allowed in the stands at football games. You will be given a break during third quarter. When you re-enter the band section, get rid of your food and drinks.

Students remain in their own row when in the stadium. It is important to present the image of discipline and pride at all times. The band plays only as a group, except when the percussion section plays in support of a cheer. There should be no individual, indiscriminate playing.

Only Band members are allowed in the Band section of the stadium.

When the NMCHS Band "falls in" to march to any location, there is absolutely no talking.

When we march in formation, we are observed by the public and by other bands, and our tradition of success demands that you exhibit the highest level of personal and ensemble discipline at all times. You are "performing" whenever you are in public, whether you are getting off the bus, marching or playing in the stadium, or on break. Do not embarrass the band, yourself or your friends by acting in an immature manner.

Following any football game or competition, it is your responsibility to insure that all your equipment is put away correctly. Non-band personnel should wait outside the band room to help limit confusion and expedite dismissal.

10 Instrument Care

School-owned instruments become the responsibility of the student to whom they are issued. There is a $25 annual maintenance fee for students who use school instruments ($35 for percussion). Any damage other than normal wear and tear will be repaired at the student's expense. Individual instruments must always be maintained in top playing condition. Always show the director your instrument before taking it for repairs.

Remember that horseplay can cause damage to instruments and equipment. Be careful with your instrument, place it out of harm's way if it is necessary for you to put it down, and never play around with or play on anyone else's instrument. We do encourage families to look into purchasing their own instruments.

Many school instruments are old and may not allow your student to play at their full potential. Music stores in the area sell or lease a wide variety of instruments. Also, woodwind players should look into selecting and buying their own reeds- we supply the cheap ones for our students.

11 Uniform Information

We now have brand new uniforms for our marching band. It has taken a long time (30 years), and we want to make sure they will last for a long time. Please make sure you are careful and taking care of your uniform at all times. When you are in uniform, you are no longer just an individual, but a representative of our Band, school, and community. It is expected that all students behave accordingly.

Your uniform is to be complete at all times when in public: you will receive detailed guidelines regarding the proper manner to wear the uniform, with which you will be expected to conform. Tuba line and percussion may have two different uniform jackets – it is imperative that students be attentive to performance information sheets and have the correct jacket for each performance!

Trousers MUST be hemmed long enough to just brush the tops of shoes. Shorten the shoulder straps enough that the trousers don’t sag in the stride. Students with trousers either too long (“puddling” around the feet) or too short (high-waters) may not be allowed to perform.

Jackets should be completely buttoned. To ensure the longevity of our new uniforms, please do not eat or drink while wearing your jacket (water is acceptable). Also, please ALWAYS wear a t-shirt under your jacket.

Jewelry, nail polish, and student - selected accessories are not permitted. Earrings are limited to one, post-type, per ear. No other piercings will be permitted. Gentlemen are to be clean- shaven. There is to be no hair on the collar or showing around the face when wearing marching band hats.

Uniforms are to be transported in a uniform bag...ALWAYS. Shoes must not be placed in the bag with the uniform. Students are responsible for having a clean, neat uniform for every performance. The student must pay for any lost, damaged, or destroyed articles of the uniform. New shoes can be purchased for $35 from Mr. Johnson. Upperclassmen who have outgrown their shoes can trade in old shoes in EXCELLENT condition for new shoes.

Plumes are to be kept in the plume box, and not with individual students’ uniforms. Replacement gloves are available for $5.00. New marching shoes are available for $30.00.

The way you wear your uniform reflects the pride you have in your band. Our uniform, when worn properly, projects an image of pride and dignity. It is everyone's responsibility to see that all members respect and care for the uniform and that the uniform is worn properly at all times.

The following items complete a Condor Band uniform: jacket, pants, suspenders, BLACK socks, white marching shoes, two braids, white marching gloves, hat with chin chain, & plume.

12 Leadership Team

The Band Council is a group of students who serve as advisors and a "junior staff" for the band program. Four members of the Band Council are elected each spring as officers for the coming year. To be eligible for office, candidates must be full participants in the band program, exemplary in attitude, loyalty, and dedication, and willing to give of their personal time for the betterment of the NMCHS Band. One of the primary assignments of all officers will be the Band's morale. Specific offices, qualifications and responsibilities are:

Band President: A Senior. The primary liaison between the band students and the directors, responsible for organizing activities of the council. Chief contact for band directors, staff, ASB, and parents whenever student input or assistance is required. Is asked to meet with the Band Parents Board of Directors at times to share student viewpoint.

Vice-President: A Senior or Junior. First responsibility is the planning and implementation of activities of social and motivational nature. Is also responsible for assisting directors with recruiting strategies. Assists President with council activities.

Historian/Secretary: Sophomore, Junior or Senior. Responsible for compiling a yearly scrapbook for the band. Assists with other paperwork, music library, etc. as needed.

Band & Jazz Band Operations Manager: Junior or Senior. Primary responsibility is that of equipment and materials manager. Arranges student workers for loading and unloading of equipment for transport, moving equipment either on or off campus, and procurement of any equipment or supplies that might be needed. The operations manager will also have a checklist of equipment needed for each performance to make sure all needed equipment is packed.

Section leaders, and Color Guard Captains make up the remainder of the Band Council.

We can only continue to build on the successes of the past if we continue to have outstanding student leadership. Section leaders are selected based on musical accomplishment, service, dedication and loyalty. These appointments are made by directors and staff and are not a popularity contest.

Student leaders are expected to be the first students to arrive and the last to leave. Good leaders look for jobs that need doing. They don't wait to be asked. Good leaders know that respect comes from peers only when it is earned. Therefore, the leadership team should strive to always set an example by their behavior.

It is an obligation of the leadership team to keep directors and staff informed about any situation that might hinder the progress of the Band program. You should be the first to rehearsal, the first on line, the first to have music memorized...in short, you should be first at everything. Remember, directors are watching for future NMCHS Band leaders throughout the year.

13 Travel Tips

These tips are to be followed throughout the year, including trips abroad to China or Italy. Remember that whenever you are with the band: ALL SCHOOL RULES APPLY!

1. Whenever we travel, whether to a football game, a competition, to Italy or to China, band members are to be at the right place, at the right time, with the right equipment.

2. Follow all instructions of directors or chaperones. If you don't understand, ask.

3. No boys in girls' rooms, no girls in boys' rooms ...EVER.

4. No unnecessary moving around on the bus. Do as the bus driver asks when on the bus.

5. Each bus will have a first aid kit on board. Ask chaperones for help.

6. Be quiet and cooperative during roll call on buses.

7. Use restrooms on buses as little as possible. We don't want the restrooms to smell.

8. Know who the chaperone for your group is, as well as their room number.

9. You are responsible for any damage to your room.

10. Make no charges to your room (phones, movies, etc.).

11. Take no souvenirs from your room, restaurants, etc.

12. Make no calls between rooms after lights out, unless calling a chaperone to report a problem.

13. Don't leave your room unlocked.

14. No alcoholic beverages, or any controlled substances (which includes tobacco and alcohol) are to be taken, bought, or consumed during the trip. All prescription and non-prescription drugs you need to take must be listed on your medical release form - update this form when necessary.

15. No changing buses or rooms without directors' permission.

16. Leave non-essential valuables at home.

17. Watch your belongings. If you put something down unattended, there is an excellent chance it won't be there when you return.

18. Profanity is not a part of this band. Make sure your language is never offensive.

19. Curfews will be announced and strictly enforced.

20. Personal electronics (PSP, iPod, DVD players, etc) are PERSONAL, and sound from these devices should be personal as well. (e.g. headphones only...no speakers).

21. Students will show exemplary behavior at all times. There is no excuse for rude, obnoxious acts.

22. All school rules are in effect throughout the duration of any trip.

23. Kindness and courtesy work miracles in almost every situation. Remember that PLEASE and THANK YOU cost you nothing, and yet are highly valued, especially when received from a teenager.

24. There Shall Be No Action For Which An Explanation Is Necessary. (Translation: If you think someone might ask you "Why did you do that?" then don't do it.) Usually abbreviated TSBNAFWAEIN!

Violations of these rules will result in disciplinary action that could include removal from the organization, confinement to your room for the duration of the trip, or being sent home. Detailed information sheets, showing reporting, departing, and estimated arrival times, are distributed prior to any trip. Please have transportation available at the designated ETA.

14 Performances “EARLY IS ON TIME - ON TIME IS LATE”

Band Members are expected to be in the band room (or other designated area), with equipment ready, at the time designated by the director. Percussionists should always plan to arrive early of the call time since equipment will need to be set up properly before the band takes the stage.

Once in the band room or designated area, keep noise to an absolute minimum. No horseplay. If your portion of the program is over before the entire concert ends, you are NOT dismissed. It is very rude for you to leave before the end of the performance. After any performance, put away all equipment properly. Help load equipment onto the band truck when needed.

15 Concert Attire

Just as there is a specific uniform for the marching band, there are also specific concert attire guidelines for concert season. Concert Black & White is a longstanding tradition for instrumental ensembles in the concert setting. Black on bottom with white on top (ladies have the option of full black) is the standard. Proper concert attire may be included into the grade.

Gentlemen: black slacks (NOT jeans) with belt, black DRESS shoes, black socks, white button up collared dress shirt. A simple black tie is optional. Ladies: black dress, black BELOW THE KNEE skirt, black shoes (heels are acceptable), black or white top (no t-shits or tanks). No exposed chest or shoulders.

Concerts are a display of sound, not of fashion. It is important to keep the audience focused with their ears and not distracted with their eyes. Students in extreme violation of concert attire may not be allowed to perform, and will lose a portion of their concert grade.

16 Fees

Large bands that travel need several buses to get the job done, and that is very expensive. Fees must be paid for, or arranged, by our first competition in October. These fees can be waived for financial hardship. However, if too many fees are waived, it will limit what the band can do. Mr. Johnson will need a parent note to waive any of the fees.

1.TRANSPORTATION FEE $100 - This fee covers our buses for the entire year. This is a separate fee from the athletic program. $125 for families with multiple students in the band.

2.NEW MARCHING SHOES $30 - New students must purchase shoes. Students who outgrew their shoes CAN trade them in depending on the condition of the old shoes.

3.INSTRUMENT MAINTENANCE FEE $25 - For students using a SCHOOL owned instrument to help cover minor cleaning/repairs and supplies throughout the year. Percussionist must also pay this fee. Students playing more than one instrument over the course of the year only need to pay once.