JONES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

BAND HANDBOOK

339 Railroad Street Gray, Georgia 31032

(478) 986-5444

Corey Tanner – Director of Bands

jonescountybands.com

DIRECTORS

Corey Tanner Director of BandsTiffany Tanner Assistant Band DirectorErin Scroggs Assistant Band DirectorSarina Kent Auxiliary Coach

STUDENT LEADERS 2014-2015

Drum Major Warren WalkerDrum Major Adelia HendersonBand Captain Coleman HiceBrass Captain Matthew EzehWoodwind Captain Taneisha AmmonsPercussion Captain Keithan WilliamsAux. Captain Miranda GlidewellAux. Captain Alora ColvinAux. Captain Brianna Monroe

BAND PROFILE

OFFICIAL NAME: Jones County High School BandSCHOOL COLORS: Purple and GoldSCHOOL MASCOT: GreyhoundPRINCIPAL: Mr. Chuck Gibson

CURRICULUMConcert Band

Everyone is a part of the concert bands at their level of performance. They play a wide range of concert literature including marches, concert works, pop literature and even some jazz.

Our freshmen go into the Concert Band, which plays level 3 music. Our second band is Symphonic Band, which plays level 4-5 music. Upperclassmen are placed based on scale auditions and sight-reading.

Marching Bands

Marching Greyhounds – All students participate in our most visible group with the exception of some of our fall athletes. Even those students join us when they can for the outdoor musical/visual experience. There is nothing like being in front of hundreds of cheering supporters under the big lights on Friday night.

Auxiliaries – This highly visible part of our marching bands provides a neatoutlet for those that enjoy the dance and visual part of the marching experience. Toparticipate in this group, you must audition during our spring clinic. Members use flags, rifles, swords, props, and various dance styles. All members are part of the Marching Greyhounds.

Drumline & Front Ensemble – Of course, the heartbeat of the marching bands adds to the overall effect through precision percussive performance. Many times the guard and drumline groups have extra performance opportunities like special pep rally performances.

Jazz Band – This American-born genre of music is one that many students find appealing. Students must be enrolled in a concert band class to try out for thejazz band. Jazz Band class is held every day during school. This group is one of the most visible groups and travels for many gigs.

Chamber Groups – We also have opportunities for students to participate in small ensembles like Flute Choir, Brass Quartets and Quintets to name a few. These ensembles often perform at our concerts, for special engagements, and at the Solo/Ensemble Festival.

Welcome to theJones County High School Band Program

In this handbook, you will find guidelines that have helped this program be the positive experience it has been for many students. We ask that you read the handbook carefully and understand that this organization has high expectations for each individual student, whatever their potential might be. Basically, if you can uphold the standards listed below, you will find success and an understanding and appreciation of music. And hopefully, memories of a lifetime!

♪ Be prompt.♪ Be prepared.

♪ Be polite.♪ Be positive.♪ Be proud.

Mission StatementThe Jones County High School Band program will facilitate students’ opportunities to experience the aesthetic pleasure of music and the success of being a vital member of a musical ensemble. This occurs while the student gains a better understanding and appreciation of music through a variety of genres.

Jones County High School Band ObjectivesThe Jones County High School Bands and Auxiliaries form an integral part of school life and is recognized as an all-school activity. It is one of the largest and most active voluntary student organizations and its members form an active cosmopolitan group. The primary objectives of the band program are:

1. Cultural - To foster the continued development of music appreciation and understanding through the study and performance of the best in music.

2. Educational -To develop interested and discriminating listeners, provide a well rounded musical education and prepare students for musical activities beyond high school.

3. Service -To lend color and atmosphere to certain school and community affairs while promoting and enhancing the dignity and

reputation of Jones County High School at all appearances.

4. Citizenship -To develop the ability to function as a responsible member of the group, to enhance the student’s ability to interact with others in a positive manner, and to develop the ability to function as a responsible member of the community.

5. Recreational - To provide all students with the opportunity for worthy use of leisure time, an emotional outlet, and good social experiences.

PREFACE

The Jones County High School Band Program is a vital part of the school and the community. This group represents a large, colorful, visible, and highly disciplined segment of the school. The JCHS Band programs add to the many traditions of Jones County High School and Jones County.

The band’s appearance at sporting events, assembly programs, concerts, parades, festivals, as well as community and civic events adds a great deal of color and life to Jones County and the surrounding area. Citizenship, tradition, morale, spirit, and loyalty are important aspects to the success of this program.

Musicianship goes hand in hand with the elements of success mentioned above. The study of music is extremely beneficial to the student. This course is one of the few in which the student can experience the combination of physical exercise, math, literature, science, social studies, and foreign language. It is also an area of study where the student can exercise both the left and right side of the brain. Participation in the instrumental program is an opportunity for the student to be as creative as he/she wants to be.

As you can see, we strive to have a well-balanced program at JCHS. The information in this Handbook is given to assist the student in understanding what is expected of him/her while participating in the Jones County Band Program. It also provides important information to the parents/guardians so they can assist the student in fulfilling the requirements of the program. We hope all parents/guardians are involved with their student!

The directors of this program are dedicated to making the student’s

participation in the program a worthwhile experience. The requirements of the program are set to benefit the student. Levels of musicianship are attained through daily practice and attendance to classes, rehearsals, and performances. By fulfilling the requirements of this program, the students broaden their basic educational skills. The students may also discover that they can use these musical skills later as a vocation or avocation.

A successful program is comprised of the following:

1. Directors dedicated to the students and the program.2. Dedicated students who set high goals and do what is necessary to attain them.3. The support of administration, faculty, and staff.4. Active family and friends who support the musical activities of the band student.

We hope that all students and parents will become an active part of the band program at Jones County High School.

MAKING A COMMITMENT

We understand and encourage our JCHS students to be a part of student clubs, sports, and organizations. But, if you make a commitment to the band, you need to stick to it. With good planning on the student’s part, it works! Be sure if you join a club or group after school starts that they know you have a prior commitment. The teachers, coaches, and directors at Jones County will work very closely with you and each other to be sure to help our students that are heavily involved in various activities, but you as the student are responsible for your commitments and plans.

PROFESSIONALISM

We will make every effort to be as professional as possible in all aspects of our band program, on and off the field, in and out of the classroom. Here are some points to think about when trying to be professional:

-Be on time to rehearsals and performances (early is on time, on time is late!)-Does not play until the director asks-Has his/her instrument in playing condition at all times-Has everything needed to play when rehearsals begin

-Take care of instruments-Bring a pencil to all rehearsals-Listens to instructions-Always ready-Practices in between rehearsals -Well-disciplined

ATTITUDE

The greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or organization is attitude. It takes intense dedication to reach goals. Students should learn to discipline themselves to daily practice on fundamentals and routine practice. The “right attitude” must be present along with sincerity, concentration, and dedication. Attitudes make the difference between a winning organization and a mediocre group. The band can do much for you, so make the most of it for yourself and others around you!

DISCIPLINE

We cannot express the importance of discipline in the band, or any organization. Band students and parents must be willing to accept the ideals, principles, and rules of the organization. Because the band members and group are constantly on display in the community and traveling, each member must always be aware of the importance of good behavior. Any misconduct casts a negative appearance to our group and to our school. Any student who casts discredit on the band by their conduct and actions, either at school

Discipline (Cont.)or on a trip, shall be subject to dismissal from the band in addition to any disciplinary action by the school. Students who are repeatedly disciplined by school authorities for any school violations are a liability to the program and can be subject to dismissal.

UNIFORMS

While in uniform, each band member represents Jones County High School. Uniforms are never to be worn to any other function unless designated by the band director. Always wear the band uniform and all parts and accessories at all times unless otherwise specified by the director.

Concert Attire- The attire for any performances by Jones County concert bands will consist of:

Female Male-All black dress or black slacks and black top. -Black slacks -Dress must be mid-calf -Black button-up shirt (no polos)-No sleeveless dresses or tops -Black socks and black dress shoes-Stockings are optional, only nude/neutral -Black tie is optional-No flip flops or tennis shoes -No flip flops or tennis shoes

*Absolutely no jeans! Students not in the proper attire will not perform*

Marching Band- The attire for any performances by Jones County marching band will consist of:

JacketPantsGauntletsGlovesShakoPlumesShoes/Black Socks

The Jones County High School Band has one marching band uniform. The students are responsible for cleaning their own band pants. No cheerleading or “sophie” shorts are allowed under the band pants. Long black socks are a must. We will not provide socks to students. The yearly band show shirt will be worn under the jacket, unless specified by the band director. Band t-shirts will not be altered (cut up/ripped) in ANY WAY!

While wearing the marching band uniform, no jewelry is allowed. This includes earrings, necklaces, watches, bracelets and rings. Minimal make-up is allowed, as long as it does not cause a distraction. Hair is to be pulled up while the marching helmet/hat is worn. No extreme hair colors during the marching season!

Marching Band Practices- For marching band rehearsals, we want to look like a uniformed group. You will be given two practice t-shirts and practice shorts. This applies to all band members and auxiliaries. Shorts are required for outdoor rehearsals. Tennis shoes and socks

must be worn. NO FLIP FLOPS!

BAND CAMP

Band camp is an integral part of being ready for our fall season. Attendance at camp is a requirement for a marching band patch and band letter. Start off right and make arrangements to attend all sessions. Students should report to the bandroom for all camp sessions. A typical day of camp consists of being outside learning marching fundamentals and drill from 8-12 am. Indoor sectionals and full band rehearsal are in the afternoon.

The following items need to be brought with you to camp: instrument, music, pencil, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, etc. Water bottles or Camelbacks are highly recommended. You need to bring a sack lunch with you for the lunch break. You are not allowed to leave campus to go get lunch.

We will be very careful in helping our students stay hydrated during the hot days of band camp. However, students need to know how to take care of themselves in preparation for each day. This begins with lots of hydration, good meals, and rest. HYDRATE! Drink plenty of water before being outside. Stay away from carbonated drinks. Wear light clothing, tennis shoes, and socks. Eat a good breakfast in the mornings and prepare a good, but not too heavy, lunch. We encourage students to acclimate themselves to the heat by being outside before camp starts.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

Band Rules:

1. Drinking alcoholic beverages and taking non-prescription drugs will not be tolerated and will cause immediate dismissal from the band.2. Smoking, dipping, and chewing of tobacco or tobacco products will not be tolerated and will cause immediate dismissal from the band.3. Absolutely no hazing or initiation of rookies of any form will be tolerated.4. All school rules will be strictly enforced. PROFANITY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED!5. Absences from regularly scheduled rehearsals will not be tolerated and may result in loss of your position. Please refer to the attendance policy for details.6. Insubordination directed towards staff, chaperones, and officers will not be tolerated.7. All students are required to attend all band activities unless excused by the band directors.8. Courtesy is expected at all times. When assigned to a particular group or bus you are expected to stay with that group until the chaperones or band directors release you. 9. Do not damage property or equipment. As JCHS band members, you reflect not only the values you learn at JCHS, but in the community as well.10. The reputation of the JCHS Band program will be built on quality of character and musicianship. We expect your best!11. Parents are asked to pick up their students immediately following events. Please consult schedules and be at Jones County High School at the given arrival time. Waiting for students to call home after we arrive results in a 45-minute wait for directors and chaperones. Please be courteous and arrange rides ahead of time.

Band Facilities:

1. Band office- this area is private and is not to be entered by any student unless the director is present. All students should keep in mind this is an area or business.2. Uniform storage- these rooms are private areas to be used by uniform staff only.3. Band library- this area is private and should only be used by the library staff and directors. Materials may be checked out only through the librarian.

4. Storage rooms- these rooms are to be kept neat and clean with items returned to their proper place. Use of these rooms is with permission of the director only. No personal items (books, clothes, etc.) are to be stored here.5. Absolutely NO FOOD OR DRINK is allowed in the band room. (if found, it will be thrown away) 6. No outside students are permitted inside the band facilities, except for business with the director.7. Absolutely no horse-playing!8. All equipment, including instruments, auxiliary items, percussion items, etc. are off limits without expressed permission of the director.

*Any abuse or damage to band facilities will be considered vandalism.

Conduct during Football games/competitionsStudents must remember that when they perform, they represent the school and community. It is a big responsibility that needs to be approached with maturity and professionalism. Be on time, exhibit good sportsmanship, play only when asked, stay in your assigned stadium seat, and keep all parts of your uniform on unless instructed otherwise. Be alert, be attentive to instructions during games, do not encourage people to visit you while in the bandstand, absolutely no public display of affection while in uniform (includes holding hands), show the utmost respect to directors, chaperones, and student leaders.

For away games you will have the privilege of signing up for a seat on the bus, unless you are a discipline problem and you will be assigned a seat. All students will be instructed when to get on and off the buses. The buses are to be left clean of any trash. Absolutely no public display of affection on buses (if caught you will re-assigned seat/bus). Boys and girls are not allowed to sit together on buses, per Jones County High School. The director has the authority to move any student from a bus or assign buses as he sees fit.

For away games, if a signed note by the parent is provided before we leave for the game the student may ride home with a parent, member of the immediate family age 21 or older, or the parents of another student. The note must state that the band, school, and directors are released from all responsibility. You may only leave once you and your parents have visually met with a director or chaperone.

For home games, the bandroom will be locked from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Students are not allowed to be in the bandroom at this time. The bandroom will be open at 5:30 for student to arrive and change into their uniform. Students are to be in their seat, in uniform, at 6:10 with your jacket on the back of your chair. We will line up at 6:30. When the

game is over, we will play a few tunes for the audience. We will then line up and march back to the bandroom in parade formation. Non band members are not allowed in the band room before or after a game. We have limited space so please respect this rule if asked to leave.

Third QuarterAfter the halftime performance, we will get back into the stands as quickly as possible. You will then be dismissed for your third quarter break. You will be dismissed by rank, and then class. Food and drinks are not allowed in the bandstands except for bottled water. Everyone needs to be back in the bandstands ready to play at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Failure to do so will have consequences such as: no third quarter break, no break for your section or class. Please try to move quickly through the concession lines. Be courteous and DO NOT break in line.

ATTENDANCE

Students who miss an abnormal amount of class time will find it hard in keeping up with classwork and daily grades. It is understood that in some cases of extreme illnesses that attendance will be affected. These instances will be handled on an individual basis.

Marching BandOur program is set up to allow four unexcused absences. If a student is too sick to come to school, we do not expect them to come to afternoon rehearsal. If there is a death in the immediate family, or in some cases in the death of a close friend, the absence will be excused, with a note from a parent/guardian. If a student has a serious family emergency, the absence will be excused. It is understood that some doctor’s appointments cannot be arranged around band practices, and in some cases an emergency doctor’s appointment must be made. In these cases the student will be excused only with a doctor's note . Please turn in your excuses the directors ASAP. However, it is the individual’s responsibility to plan around the marching schedule. Unexcused absences include doctor’s appointments with no notes or notice, work, etc. After the fourth unexcused absence the student will be removed from marching band. JOBS are never an excused absence.

IF YOU MISS A THURSDAY PRACTICE YOU DO NOT MARCH ON FRIDAY NIGHT!

TardiesTardies are easily avoidable. Always be here before the call time given. If you arrive at or after call time, you are tardy. Three tardies will equal one unexcused absence. Excessive tardiness will be dealt with on a case by case basis. If you on staff or hold a leadership position and you obtain four tardies, you will be put on probation and possibly lose your leadership position.

"Early is on time…on time is late!!"

PERFORMANCES

Instrumental music is a performing art. The preparations done during the school day are realized through the interaction of the performer and the audience at a performance. Part of the student’s grade depends on how he/she reacts and interacts with a live audience in a performance setting. When a student misses a performance, it is virtually impossible to make it up as one would by missing an academic exam or test. It is next to impossible to re-create the performance atmosphere if the student misses the performance. It is therefore, extremely important for each student to attend all scheduled performances of the Jones County High School Band. If a student misses a concert performance, he/she must play the music of the concert for the director. This grade will be averaged in with a zero or a 100 depending on whether the absence was excused of not.

If you miss a performance during marching season (football game/competition/parades), and it is not excused, you can be subject to removal of the marching band. Trips, concerts, jobs are not excused! If you are going to miss a performance, you must inform Mr. Tanner two weeks prior.

BAND LETTER REQUIRMENTS

All band students are eligible to earn a band letter. The band letter is given for year-round participation, not just the marching season (exception: auxiliaries) The following is a list of requirements:1. You may not have any ISS or OSS referrals.2. You may not have any unexcused absences from any performances.4. You must audition in District Honor Band auditions.

5. You must attend LGPE performance. 6. You must pass off all 12 major scales and arpeggios and or rudiments with a 90 or above.7. You must pass off the chromatic scale for the range of your instrument with a 90 or above.

Band LetterOnce a student has completed all of the requirements for a band letter, he/she will receive the letter at the band banquet/awards ceremony. Freshmen are eligible to receive a letter. After a student receives a letter, he/she may go through the same procedures each year to receive a lettermen’s bar.

Marching Band Patch Requirements1. No unexcused absences.2. No more than 3 excused absences.3. Attendance at all scheduled band camps. 4. You must pass off all music that is required for marching band with an 85 or better and 90 or better on marching fundamentals. (receive Rank)

RANK

Students who attain rank will receive many privileges during the marching band season. Students with rank will be permitted to sign up for buses first, released from rehearsals and performances first, and any other rewards at the director’s discretions. All students are eligible for rank, including auxiliaries. The following is a list of requirements for receiving rank by the given deadline:

1. Student must pass off all pre-game music from memory with an 85 or better.2. Student must pass off all show music from memory with an 85 or better.3. Student must pass off all marching fundamentals with a 90 or better.

Keep in mind, that rank can be taken away due to discipline problems, excessive absences, or failure to pass off music later on in the season if asked.

AWARDS

The Jones County High School Band Program offers a variety of incentives for each student. Other awards given are:

The John Philip Sousa Award – Given to a deserving senior. This award goes to the senior who exemplifies the model band student. Participation in all District and State functions, attendance at all JCHS Band functions, outstanding musicianship, loyalty and dedication and its members, and above all demonstrates self-discipline.

The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – Given to a deserving student in the Jazz Band. The student must be in attendance to all rehearsals and performances, audition for the District and All-State Jazz Band, and meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.

The Director’s Award – This is award is given to a deserving band student. The student must meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.

Most Outstanding Junior, Sophomore, Freshmen Award – Given to students in their respective classes meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.

The Musicianship Award – Any wind or percussion player is eligible for this award. The student must score at least a 90 on all auditions, at least a 90 on playing test, and pass off all twelve major scales from memory and chromatic scale. Percussionists must pass off their thirteen rudiments from memory and demonstrate musical ability on all three instruments: snare, timpani, and mallets.

FUNDRAISING

Fundraisers will be offered on years we take a band trip. Each student is expected to do his or her part.. Students who do not participate in fundraising should not expect any financial assistance from the band.

We also host 3 events during the school year to help raise funds for the band programs. This money is used for purchasing music, instruments, equipment, uniforms, etc. The band will sponsor the Back to School Bash in August, Miles for Music Bike Ride in October, and Miss Pride Beauty Pageant in April.

TRIPS

The JCHS Band will have performance opportunities locally, statewide, and nationally.. We perform wherever we go, either for adjudication or special performances, or participate in an educational workshop. The first step is always getting approval from the administration and the BOE.

The next step is the commitment from the students and parents to attend the trip. And lastly is the commitment by the directors.

There have been many instances where the parent and the student sign the contract and commit to the trip and then back out. In most of these cases, the cause is due to the student not keeping up with the grades or a discipline problem occurs and parents pull their student from the trip. When this happens the people who actually get punished are the rest of the band members. Parents please do not make the band trip a “carrot” for good discipline and grades. If you choose to do so, do not make the commitment to send your child on the trip.

There will be no refunds of trip payments, unless agreed upon by the directors. (extreme circumstances)

No student will be able to travel with the band if he/she more than 4 ISS or OSS on their record for the school year.

JCHS BAND FAMILYYou, the parent/guardian are the support group for band students, directors, and music education.

There are many committees set up to assist the director to run and operate the band program. We need your help! If you are interested in donating your time and talents to the band, please contact a director or attend our parent info meetings. It takes a very active group of parents to support a very active band. For constant updates please refer to our website: jonescountybands.com

Band Parent Volunteer Opportunities

Chaperones- Mrs. Tanner and Mrs. Scroggs will be in charge of all parent volunteers, including chaperones. Please keep in mind, chaperoning is not a "free ride," but a duty. You are responsible for students. All chaperones must complete the JCSS Parent Volunteer training and pass a background check in order to travel with the band.

Fundraising- Assists with fundraisers that benefit the band and student trips. This committee will help organize and maintain any active and ongoing fundraisers, prepare flyers, collect student turn-ins, preparing sales kits for students, and preparing orders.

Concessions- Involves planning, purchasing supplies, pre-icing drinks, working in the concessions during a game, clean up, and maintenance. Supplies drinks for special activities for the band. This is most active in the fall. This does not require working every game, but rather a rotation of parents.

Sponsors and Donations- Helps collect sponsorships or donations for the band program.