2007-2008

Basic High School

Band Handbook

Mark McArthur, Band Director

Susan Segal, Principal

Basic High School

400 N. Palo Verde Dr

Henderson, Nevada 89015

702-799-8000 ext 4040

www.basichighband.com

Building on a Tradition of Excellence!

Table of Contents

Using this Book 1

Welcome 2

Purposes of the Band Program 3

Guiding Principles/Expectations 3

Performance Ensembles 4

Procedures 5

Behavior Plan / Attendance Policy 6

Grading Policy 7

Rehearsal Procedures 8

Performance Evaluation 8

Band Fees 9

Uniform Policies 9

Concert Uniform 10

Traveling/Transportation 10

Fundraising 11

Web Site / Charms 12

Student Leadership 13

Band Letter Application 14

Pre-Arranged Absence 15

Handbook Signature Form 21

WELCOME!!!

Welcome to the 2007- 08 Basic High School Band. You have truly made a fantastic decision as you have joined one the best bands in the west. One of the most memorable experiences of my life was the time I spent in high school band. This experience will not only teach you the fundamentals of music and performance on your instrument. You will learn about dedication, self-discipline, team work, cooperation, leadership, setting goals and achieving them, and many other life skills that you will take into what ever career path you choose. I believe that the end result of a band member who spends four years with the program is a well rounded individual who is ready to take on the challenges of leading a successful life.

This handbook is for your knowledge. I will be using the guidelines established here in the handbook as rules for running the band program. Please read this handbook carefully to make sure that your son or daughter follows the guidelines. Any policy set is done with the success of the band program in mind. If there are any concerns or questions please feel free to contact me at 799-8000 X4040 or through email mmcarthur@interact.ccsd.net.

Sincerely,

Mark McArthur

Band Director

Basic High School

Purpose of the Basic Band Program

To provide each student with a comprehensive music education by teaching skills and attitudes necessary to succeed as a young musician and young adult.

To benefit the school and community through public performance of quality music while promoting and enhancing the dignity and reputation of Basic. H.S.

To foster the development of essential character qualities which we believe include: a strong work ethic, a respect for order and legitimate authority, a sense of personal integrity, responsibility for ones attitudes and actions, and a respect for the time, talents, abilities, and accomplishments of others.

To provide each student with a
positive emotional outlet, a good social experience, and a worthy use of leisure time

Guiding Principles

Expectations

Band Students are typically some of the best behaved, hardest working students in a school community. As Basic Band members it is important that you remember who you are, where you are from and what we as a program are about.

Bringing these qualities together will make the Basic Band an incredible place to be. We are in this together, and you only get out of things what you put into them. These character traits will also serve as the foundation for a positive learning community that everyone can succeed in.

Performance Ensembles

The following is a listing of the performing ensembles included in the Basic High School Instrumental Music Program:

Wind Ensemble- Members of the Symphonic Band represent the most advanced performers in the Basic High School Instrumental Music Program. The Symphonic Band performs literature of the highest quality and advanced technique, and represents Basic High School in a variety of performances throughout the school year. Attendance at a limited number of rehearsals performances outside of the school day is expected of all members. All Wind Ensemble members must also participate in all Marching Band and Pep Band rehearsals and performances.

Concert Band-The Concert Band presents a balanced program of technical development and musical performance, and represents Basic High School in a variety of performances throughout the school year. It is expected that all members will work towards improvement and possible advancement into the Symphonic Band. Attendance at a limited number of rehearsals and performances outside of the school day is expected of all members. Participation in this ensemble is open to members who decide not to march. Advancement from this ensemble to Wind Ensemble will only be allowed after successfully completing one semester of Marching Band.

Percussion I and Percussion II- The Percussion I Class is for all freshman and less experienced percussion students. The students will focus on learning to play all instruments in the percussion family. Students will also work on rhythmic sight reading skills as well developing basic mallet and concert percussion techniques. The Percussion II class is intended for all advanced percussion members. All members of the percussion class must participate in Marching Band.

Marching Band- Combining members of the Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Percussion Class, and Color Guard determine Membership into the Marching Band; therefore, a separate Marching band audition is not required. The Color Guard is determined by audition in the late spring of the previous school year. The Marching Band is the most publicly visible performing ensemble. Because of this notoriety, members must always display an attitude of discipline, enthusiasm, and pride. All Marching Band members are expected to attend band camp as well as all rehearsals and performances outside the school day. A complete calendar of events for the upcoming marching band season is provided in this handbook.

Jazz Bands I and II- Membership of the Jazz Ensembles is determined through a separate audition process. The Jazz Bands explore a variety of jazz literature and techniques, and perform within the school and local community. The ensembles also participate in various jazz festivals during the school year. Rehearsals for Jazz Band I will take place as an early bird class that begins at 6:25 am in the morning. Rehearsal for Jazz Band II will officially begin following marching season and continue through the end of the school year. The time will be determined by the director. Attendance at a limited number of appearances outside of the school day is expected of all members. Priority will be given to band members who are in the marching band. All others will be allowed into the group at the discretion of the band director.

Pep Band- Pep Band performs for most home basketball games as dictated by the years home schedule. All members of the Band Program may be involved in the pep band. Lyres and flip folders are used for these performances. The 30 students with the best attendance record to the pep band performances will represent the band at the District and State level. A listing of game dates will be provided to the students well in advance of the performances. All members of the concert band and wind ensemble will be required to participate in the pep band.

Chamber Ensembles- Smaller performing ensembles such as clarinet choir, flute choir, brass choir, percussion ensemble, trios, quartets, quintets, and orchestra winds are formed based on student interest. In addition to performances at Clark County School District Solo and Ensemble Festival, chamber ensembles represent the Basic High School Instrumental Music Program through performances within the school and local community. As with any performing ensemble, members are expected to attend and contribute positively to all rehearsals and performances.

Color Guard- The Color Guard is a large part of the visual program of the band in the fall and is a separate group in the spring. The Color Guard is open to all Basic High School Students. As an integral part of the Band Program, members of the Color Guard are expected to follow all policies and practices required of the Band. The Winterguard group will perform in the Winter Guard Association of Southern California in the spring and also our local Winter Guard Circuit of Southern Nevada. All Color guard students will be required to participate in both the Marching Band and Winter Guard program to participate in the class.

Procedure

Policies and procedures are outlined in this handbook to ensure that all aspects of the band program run smoothly, and to further ensure that each student has a safe and successful experience. Please do not ask for exceptions to the rules.

Discipline

Because of the nature of the organization, band discipline, must, of necessity, be strict. Band Students maintain a highly visible profile both at school and in the community. Students in the band are ambassadors for Basic High School and the Band program whenever we are in public. Students in the Basic High School Band will be held accountable for their attitudes and actions. Persons with severe or perpetual behavior problems will lose their privilege of being a band member.

Commitment

Membership in the band program requires a major commitment from students and their families. Successful band programs require many hours of work from each student. It is important for students to understand the necessity of time management. Calendars are Essential!! Purchase one or use the School Agenda and be sure to write down all events from your band calendar. Students should take caution with becoming involved in multiple organizations and activities. It is wrong for any program to lower its standard because you have overcommitted yourself. Making wise choices based on your time, talents, and interests in a vital part of becoming an adult. Budget your time wisely.

Behavior Plan

When students do not follow the expectations listed on page 5 and 6 of this handbook,

the following behavior plan will be used:

• ?First Offense- Warning, loss of participation credit for the day.
• ? Second Offense- Removal from rehearsal. Parent contacted.
• ? Third Offense- Detention/Replacement Assignment at the directors discretion. Parent contacted.
• Fourth Offense- Referral to dean. Conference required with parent before the student will be allowed to participate in class.

For severe behavioral problems, the CCSD discipline guidelines will be enforced.

Events that require a Suspension will be looked at by the director to make a decision towards further participation in the band program. After any two suspensions the students will be considered for loss of credit and schedule change.

Attendance

All band students are required to attend all rehearsals and performances. Please check the class calendar carefully and clear any potential conflicts to your schedule.

A student must submit an absence request form at least 7 days in advance for any excused absence, or immediately upon return to school following an emergency. The types of absences that will be excused are listed on the Absence Request Form.

***Special note to students participating in extracurricular activities on campus***

We are proud of the fact that a significant portion of the members of the band program actively participate in other activities on campus, such as sports, cheerleading, clubs, and other performing arts. As per the school district policy, performances/games take priority over practices/rehearsals, and students may choose between equal events (a sport practice conflicting with a band practice, for example). Although, once the sporting event or extracurricular activity is finished they must return to the scheduled practice or performance if there is still time remaining. Students who choose not to attend a band rehearsal because of a conflict of schedule with another activity on campus must follow the guidelines outlined in the attendance section. Failing to notify the director before the 7 day time period of your choice to not attend the band event will result in an unexcused absence.

It must be noted that the administration of Basic High School and the band department view band festivals and competitions as equivalent to playoff games in sports, and that these performances are a priority over regular season games. Performances with an asterisk (*) next to them in the schedule at the end of this handbook fall into this category, and students need to decide now that they will attend these events regardless of any sport or other extracurricular conflict. DO NOT LET THIS GO. Students who feel they cannot choose the following band functions over other events should strongly consider enrolling in another elective course.

Grading Policy

Quarter Grades will be calculated as follows:

Class Participation will be 35% of each class

5 pts. per day will be added for participation in class. Points may be subtracted for behavior distracting others from their learning experience or not being prepared for class.

Playing and Written Tests 15%

The number of tests will vary during each 9 week period so please be prepared for each test. During the marching season, memorization tests will occur regularly.

Performances 50%
This is the most important event that takes place in band. Everyone must be present for all performances. An unexcused absence from a performance will result in the student automatically failing the course for that quarter.

Semester Grades will be calculated as follows:

Quarter 1 or 3 = 45%

Quarter 2 or 4 = 45%

Semester Exam = 10%

Marching Band Grades

Participation 35%

5 points for each hour of practice will be added.

There are varying hours of practice per week. Longer rehearsals will be worth more. You must be present at the rehearsal in order to receive these points. Students with an unexcused absence will permanently lose their participation points for that rehearsal.

***Excused absences from a rehearsal will neither hurt nor help the students grade. The grade for the rehearsal will not be included in the overall percentage. ***

Memorization Tests 15%

Weekly playing tests will correspond to the drill being learned that week. Your music for the show must be memorized!!! If you fail the test you will have as many chances as you need to pass the test. There will be many of them so do not get behind.

Performance 50%

250 points for football game

250 points for contest performances

250 points for parades (this will be a performance grade for the concert band classes for any parade during 2nd semester)

An unexcused absence from a performance will result in the student automatically failing the course for that quarter.

Excused absences and tardies (including those involving conflicts with other clubs, activities, or sports on campus), except in the case of illness or family emergency, must be cleared with the band director no less than two weeks prior to the rehearsal or performance and must be accompanied with a written explanation from the parent or guardian.

Extra credit points may be earned as follows:

1. PRIVATE LESSONS 10 POINTS PER QUARTER
2. Approved projects/Concert attendance.

Rehearsal Procedures and Policies

Rehearsal is the time when the greatest amount of teaching and learning takes places. An atmosphere conducive to learning must be maintained at all times. Disruptive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Each student is expected to prepare their music on their own time, so that rehearsals can be used to coordinate all of the musical elements of a performance.

Practice outside of class is considered homework for this class!

Performances

Each student is expected to be in attendance at all performances. A performance is the final result of months of hard work and effort done by every member of the ensemble. Any missing member will drastically change the performance of the surrounding students, and therefore any unexcused absence from a performance will result in a FAILING GRADE FOR THE QUARTER.

Performance Evaluations (Playing Tests)

The director shall monitor each students progress on his or her instrument during the academic year through auditions and playing tests. Auditions are always live evaluations, while playing tests may be either live or through the use of Smart Music or Finale Performance Assessment. Specific details regarding an evaluation will be supplied well in advance of the evaluation date. Students will be provided with a performance assessment rubric for all auditions, while playing tests will be based on a raw score or percentage. Please note that the purpose of any performance evaluation is to monitor individual progress. The audition results will be final. Students are welcome to make an appointment with the director to get additional feedback about how to improve their audition results.

Marching Band

The marching band is by far the most publicly visible performing ensemble in the Basic Instrumental Music Department It is important that members always present an image of respect and pride as they are no longer representing themselves, but the band program, Basic High School, community of Henderson, and State of Nevada. A few facets of band life are unique to the marching season, and are worthy of note in this section.

Fall Rehearsal ScheduleDuring the fall marching season, we will be maintaining a very active rehearsal schedule in order to meet our performance demands. For the first nine-week grading period, beginning with the second day of school, rehearsals will be:

Monday Evenings-5:00pm-8:00pm, Tuesdays Evenings- 5:00pm-8:00pm, Some Friday evenings (please see the class calendar for exact dates)

Marching Band is a separate class that each student receives a grade and semester credit for. Attendance at these rehearsals is a large part of the grading system. A student that misses too many practices will fail the class. Also, freshmen will receive a PE II waiver with the completion of marching band. If 120 hours are completed they will receive 1 credit of PE II (you can only miss a total of 10 hours of rehearsal), and if they complete at least 60 hours of Marching Band they will receive credit.

Marching Band Fee

The band fee is assessed to each student and covers the cost of annual uniform maintenance, music, fall marching trip, additional marching band instructional staff, and sectional coaches. The 2007 band fee is $250 for all students. Students may use money earned in their fundraiser accounts to pay this fee, as there are several activities planned at the beginning of the year. The first $100 is due August 31^st, and the second payment of $150 is due September 28^th. The band fee is non-refundable. Students who have talked to the director and are allowed to not march will be charged $100 for participation for the year.

The director understand that your family may be facing financial restrictions. This will never limit your involvement in the band program. We provide many opportunities for fundraising, and any student who cannot pay the band fee in full will be required to participate in every fundraiser until the band fee is paid. We may also set up a payment plan.

Students who choose not do fundraising, or make payments at the scheduled times will have a fine card turned into the school banker. Fines not paid will result in the student being withheld from registration for the next school year and not receiving a diploma if not paid by the end of the senior year.

Student accounts All band monies are held in the Basic High School bank with records in the band office. Each student has an account that is kept track through out the year. Each fundraiser the student participates in will positively affect their account. Any monies fundraised over and above the fees incurred may be carried over from year to year. Fundraised money may only be used for band expenses. There will never be a reimbursement for extra fundraised money. Funds may be passed down to younger siblings or donated to other financially restricted students.

Marching Uniform

Each member of the Basic Marching Band will be provided with a formal uniform.The upkeep and laundering of the formal uniform will be the responsibility of the Band program. Any damage to this uniform while in the students possession will be repaired or replaced at the students expense.

Each student is responsible for his or her uniform. Uniforms, shoes, black socks, and t-shirts are not to be left in the band room at any time. It is highly recommended that each student obtain a small duffel bag in which shoes, socks, and t-shirts may be kept when traveling.

It is essential that each member be dressed in an identical fashion. Prior to any marching band performance, student leaders will inspect each member of the section to ensure that the uniform is being worn properly. A list of specific uniform expectations is as follows:

Black marching shoes which lace up the front are required. Shoes should always be cleaned before each performance. Tennis shoes or skate shoes are not acceptable!!!

Solid, black socks covering the ankle are required. WHITE SOCKS ARE NOT PERMITTED!!! Points will be deducted for the wearing of white socks for the days performance and student may not perform. Black socks are available for $5 a pair in the band uniform room.

A band t-shirt or plain, white cotton t-shirt is the only appropriate shirt to be worn beneath the uniform coat. It is to be tucked in at all times. In the event of cool weather, a heavier shirt is acceptable (e.g. thermal under shirt...).

The uniform jacket is to be completely fastened at all times. We are either completely in uniform, or not at all.

Hair is to be worn off of the collar (e.g. not touching the collar, nor your ears, nor in your eyes). Long hair must be pinned up so that it will stay up on its own (including that which isrubber banded). Hair is to stay up at all times when in uniform, not just when performing.

An individual students hair style or hair color may not be a distraction to the rest of the band or the performance. If a concern arises, the director and parents will discuss a temporary solution for the issue.

Visible jewelry is NOT to be worn in uniform (examples: watches, bracelets, earrings, etc....). In the event that the earrings cannot be removed, they must be covered with flesh colored tape (band aid) so they are not visible. Medical bracelets or identification are permitted by permission of the director.

Excessive make-up is not permitted. No lipstick is to be worn at all with the exception of the color guard who will match shades. No make-up whatsoever should be placed on the neck due to the high collar of the uniform coat. Fingernail polish must be clear. Colored polishes must be removed prior to any performance.

No public displays of affection (PDA) will be tolerated when in uniform, including all times when in uniform, whether together as a group or separated from the group.

Additional performance criteria include the following:

Equipment/instrument is clean and in good working order.

Appropriate music and supplies for each instrument (i.e. extra reeds, flip folder, lyre).

Behavior while in uniform must be of the highest quality at all times. Horseplay, suggestive behavior, and profanity will not be tolerated, and shall be considered reason to be restricted from performing with the ensemble.

Concert Uniform

The concert uniform for all concert ensembles will be as follows:

Boys in the Concert Band class will wear a white tuxedo shirt, black bow tie, black cummerbund, plain black pants, black dress socks, and plain black dress shoes. Information on where to purchase these items will be available in the band room.

Boys in the Wind Ensemble class will wear a black tuxedo jacket, white tuxedo shirt, black bow tie, black cummerbund, plain black pants, black dress socks, and plain black dress shoes. Information on where to purchase these items will be available in the band room.

Boys in the Percussion class will wear the concert uniform for the class they are performing with.

Girls will purchase a black concert dress for $80. This dress will be theirs to keep. Girls must also wear black nylons and black dress shoes. Order forms for the dress will be available in the band office.

Please see the director immediately if you have a question about these items. A student that is not wearing appropriate concert attire may not be allowed to perform!

Please take the time to be sure that you have all uniform parts with you before you leave to come to school. Students who do not come to a performance with all of the above may not be allowed to participate in the performance at the discretion of the director. This policy will be adhered to at all times.

Traveling/Transportation

A separate information packet, including appropriate CCSD travel forms, will be given out for any out of district trips.

Students are transported to performances and activities on school buses or chartered motor coaches. A student may sign-up for the bus of his or her choice at the beginning of the fall season. Once this bus list is established, there will be NO CHANGES. All CCSD, Basic HS, and Band rules apply on buses and at any venue the band travels to.

Students may be released to their parents or guardian at the conclusion of a performance. Parents should request a release in advance and provide written documentation to the director. Be sure the chaperone is aware that the student will not be returning on the bus. Please do not ask to leave without this documentation!

Instruments

It is recommended that students clearly label the outside of their cases with an identification tag or other appropriate material. The school cannot be responsible for loss of or damage to a privately owned instrument. Privately owned instruments can be inexpensively insured through the parents homeowners policy.

Students will show respect for each others property, as well as the Basic Band Rooms contents. Disregard for other peoples belongings will result in immediate disciplinary action. Instruments are very valuable, and should not be handled carelessly.

School Owned Instruments

A limited amount of school instruments are available for student use during the school year. Students should see the director as soon as possible to check out the instrument. Students are responsible for any minor repairs necessary during the school year and for returning the instrument in the same condition that it was issued. There is no rental fee for school instruments

All students who check out a school instrument will be issued a school locker and lock. Students are responsible for keeping their instruments secure. Failure to keep instruments in a safe place and/or failure to properly maintain instruments will result in immediate removal of the instrument from the student. Students will complete an instrument sign-out form, and will receive a copy of the agreement in addition to a checkout policy agreement.

Music - Care and Maintenance

All music is the property of the Basic High School Band Program and is on loan to the student at no cost. Any markings must be made in pencil. If a piece of music is lost, misplaced, or mishandled, the student will be assessed a fine of 25c per sheet of marching music or $3.00 of Concert/Jazz music to cover the cost of replacing the part.

Locker Policy

Students may be issued a band locker at the beginning of the year. The locker is used for the storage of band instruments and music. NO other items should be stored in the band lockers. Students may have to share a locker. There will be periodic locker checks. All unapproved items will be removed from lockers and students will have one day to pick up these items. It is the students responsibility to keep all band instruments locked up. Lockers and instruments must be locked up at all times. Please keep your locker clean and neat. All lockers will have a school lock. No personal locks will be allowed.

Dropping the Class

Because of the nature of the courses offered in Instrumental Music, enrollment is for the period of one year. Because each student is so vital to the success of the ensemble, it is not possible to drop the course between quarters or between semesters.

Fundraising

Everyone is expected to participate in fundraising events, as the money earned benefits all band members.

Deadlines for each fundraiser will be announced at the beginning of the activity. Once the final deadline has passed, the student will become financially responsible for any outstanding debts incurred on his or her part during the time of the fundraiser. Failure to return unsold merchandise and/or money collected by the assigned due date will result in a fine placed on the students account in the school bank. This fine must be paid before a student may withdraw from school, whether it is by graduation, transfer, or family move.

Your director and our schools administration do not wish to see any students denied the opportunity to be a part of the band program due to financial difficulties. Students with special needs will have several opportunities available for sweat equity fundraising in addition to the general fundraising opportunities already provided.

The following fundraisers have been scheduled for this year:

• Advertisements for Henderson - Bandfest Advertising sold for Bandfest programs 50% of the ad sold will be applied to the student's band account. Ads are due Sept.7^th.

• Advertisement for Concert Programs - Advertising and Sponsorship for all Concert programs forms available in the band office. 100% of the ad sold will be applied to the students band account.

• Entertainment Books - In September we will be selling the Entertainment Books for $20 the book is good in the LasVegas Valley. $10 will be applied to the students account.
• Bowl-A-Thon - Bowl 3 games and get flat donations or a per pin donation. Cost to bowl is $5. All funds collected will be applied to the students band account.
• Cookie Dough - This is a Spring fundraiser with R& M Fund Raising. We sell 9 flavors of cookie dough balls and 9 flavors of cheese cake. 40% of sales will go into student accounts to pay fees.
• Fireworks Presales - Students sell Fireworks from the presales flyer on or before June 1st.
• Fireworks Booth - We run a fireworks booth from June 28 July 4, 10am 10pm.

Students and parents working in the booth will earn funds to pay their band fees.

• Thomas and Mack, Silver Bowl and Cox Pavilion concessions - Parents and Students 16 years old and older must attend a training session at the Thomas and Mack to participate in this fundraiser. All persons running the register must have a TAM (alcohol) card. Schedules to be announced

• Albertsons - We are Community Partners with Albertsons. Albertsons will give up to 4% of your grocery purchase to the Basic Band program. Register your preferred shopper card on www.albertsons.com/cp the Albertsons website and link it to the Basic Band account #49001004190.

Fundraisers sponsored by the Basic High School Band will only earn money toward a student band account or the general band fund. No funds will ever be distributed to another organization or fund at Basic High School or other school without the express prior permission of the band director.

Band Web Site/Charms

The band has two internet tools available for every student and parent to stay up to date and informed at all times. The web site www.basichighband.com has information pertaining to the Basic band performing groups, the current band calendar, forms and parent information. The web site has a link to www.charmsmusic.com. To log into the Charms web site use the link from the www.basichighband.com web site or go to the charms web site, click on Parents, school log in is BasicHSB, password is your student number. Charms will have student information on finances, fees, instrument loans, student information, calendar and an e-mail link to contact the band director. Please refer to both these sites to keep informed about the current status of the band program.

Band Letter Procedures

Students may letter in band. The Letter is awarded based on a point system and is cumulative for one school year. A form will be made available for students to fill out and turn in to the Director. This is the students responsibility. Each year is a separate event. Included in this handbook is a copy of the lettering form. Please keep in mind that all lettering activities are meant to be a service to the band program. Lettering students are recognized due to actions they take throughout the year by participating in events that improve themselves as musicians or help to promote the band program.

Guard Letter Requirements

All Students that participate in the Advance Flag class for the entire year and perform in all contest and shows through both marching and Winterguard season will be eligible to letter in Flags

Additional considerations:
(this can include working for different Basic sponsored band events)

Student Leadership

All students have the opportunity to further their involvement in the Instrumental Music Program by serving as a student leader. The various leadership positions are as follows:

Drum Major - this person, or persons, serves as a student conductor of the Basic High School Marching Band. Beyond the conducting component of the position, the Drum Major is also responsible for a limited amount of teaching throughout the marching season, and assists with the general operation of the marching band. The Drum Major is selected in the spring of the previous school year and must have served at least one year as a member of the marching band. Audition information will be made available to all interested persons well in advance of the audition date.

Marching Band Section Leader - this person, or persons, serves as a student leader within his or her section. Beyond a limited amount of teaching during the marching season, the section leader also assists with the general operation of the marching band. The section leaders primary responsibility is the marching aspect of the program, but may extend into other aspects under certain circumstances. Section leaders are selected by the director through a student leadership application process available to all interested students at the end of the previous school year. Their responsibilities include taking attendance of their section, uniform and equipment inspection, calling and running sectionals, and maintaining discipline during rehearsal. All students who earn the privilege of being a section leader are subject to the rules and regulations as stated in the Basic High School Band Leadership Handbook.

Students are expected to treat their section leader with the same degree of respect they would accord the band director or other staff members. Failure to follow the instructions of the section leader or other forms of disrespect can result in immediate removal from the rehearsal and further disciplinary action at the discretion of the band director. The disciplinary action can include, but is not limited to, RPC (suspension), parent conference, removal from active performance, or removal from the performing ensemble.

Band Boosters

Basic High School would like to encourage all parents and guardians to be actively involved in the BHS Band Boosters. Many parents already know the costs associated with running a quality band program and know that the school cannot afford to provide all of these funds. These funds are used to hire additional staff (similar to the assistants for a football team), to purchase specialized equipment and material that is not provided by the school district, and to lower the cost of trips for the year. A strong booster group can significantly improve the quality of the band in many ways.Attached is a list of activities boosters can help. Please fill out the form and return to school.

Forms

Enclosed in this Handbook are several medical and permission forms. Please fill out the last 3 pages of the Handbook and return to the director by Wednesday, September 5, 2007. These forms will allow the student to participate in all activities for the 2007-2008 school year. The forms are CCSD medical and field trip permits, Basic HS medical and field trip permits and publicity permit. Forms are also available on line at www.basichighband.com or the Charms web site. These may be printed at home, signed and turned in.

Parents please attach a copy of the front and back of your insurance card and drivers license of the primary insured person. This information will be stored with the permission forms and will not leave the band office. You never know when it will be your child needing medical care while we are away from the school.

Students and parents are required to sign the Handbook signature form. If you need to contact the band office with any concerns the phone number is 799-8000 ext 4040 or E-mail marykay@basichighband.com.

Band Letter Application

Student Name _____________________________

The Basic Band Letters will be awarded based on an accumulation of points during one school year. Students must earn a minimum of 12 points in order to receive a letter. Students can letter in band each year they are in the program, but points are awarded annually. POINTS DO NOT ROLL OVER INTO THE NEXT YEAR. It is the responsibility of the student to keep track of his or her points. In order to receive a letter, students must have successfully completed marching band with a grade of B or higher each quarter, and be a part of a band class the entire year.

Points are awarded as follows

_____ 3 points Participation in Advanced, Concert, or Percussion with a grade of A

_____ 3 points Taking private lessons for given school year

_____ 3 points participation in other music class with a grade of A

_____ 2 points serve as Drum Major or section leader

_____ 2 points participation in CCSD Solo and Ensemble Festival (6 points max)

_____ 2 points audition for CCSD Honor Band or Jazz Band

_____ 3 points successfully complete CCSD Honor band or Jazz Band

_____ 2 point audition for all-state

_____ 5 points successfully complete Nevada All-State

_____ 2 points participation in NMEA All-State Solo and Ensemble.

_____ 1 point perform with other ensemble (choir/orchestra) Max 3 points

_____ 1 point participation in community ensemble (Las Vegas youth Orch., church etc)

_____ 1-3 points for approved projects and activities

_____ 1-3 points participation in Pep band (1 point per 3 games)

_____ 1 point SNBA Summer Band Camp

_____ Total Points

Additional Considerations: (In the space below list the volunteer work or performances that helped to promote the Basic Band).

Have this form filled out and turned in by Friday May 2^nd.