CLARK MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA HANDBOOK

 Preface

 Orchestra programs in Texas have a rich tradition of excellence and quality.  In the next few years we hope to make Frisco a part of that tradition of superiority.  Our success centers around the pursuit of excellence, pride, commitment to learning, and the willingness to work hard to achieve a common goal.  As a member of the Clark Orchestras you will make long-lasting friendships and develop a sense of camaraderie that is unique to our musical organizations.

While we do not expect that every student in Orchestra will become a virtuoso musician, we do expect every student to establish both short and long-range goals for improvement on his/her instrument.  We expect responsible attitudes and actions and a respect for all students and teachers.

By accepting membership in the Clark Orchestras, you agree to perform to the best of your abilities and work together with the orchestra staff to make this year’s orchestras the finest musical organization that our combined efforts can produce.

This handbook is designed to help you understand the expectations and guidelines of our organization.  We hope the handbook can be used to answer questions of both parents and students and will prove to be a helpful guide for defining the boundaries that are important in keeping the Clark Orchestras as quality ensembles.  If utilized properly, the concepts of responsibility, teamwork and good citizenship will develop as each student experiences the world of music.  If you need information that does not appear here, please email or call.  We will try to assist in whatever way possible.

Jennifer Vanhook
Director of Orchestras
Griffin Middle School
Clark Middle School
vanhookj@fisd.org

Joel Partin
Principal, Clark Middle School

 Individual Orchestra Responsibilities

Students are placed by audition or director’s recommendation into one of the three performing groups at Clark: Beginning, Concert, or Symphonic Orchestra.  Our curriculum is designed to improve individual performing skills throughout the year.  The responsibilities for students in each group our outlined below:

 Beginning Orchestra

• Play and read music comfortably in the range of his/her chosen instrument
• Performance of concert music as assigned by the director
• Development of individual skills and ensemble skills
• Attendance at any after school rehearsals
• Preparation of audition music for orchestra placement held in May

 Concert (Intermediate) Orchestra

• Performance of concert music as assigned by the director
• Development of individual skills and ensemble skills
• Preparation of All-Region music in the fall.
• Students are encouraged to participate in All-Region Orchestra and UIL solo/ensemble competitions
• Attendance at section rehearsal and/or joint rehearsals after school

 Symphonic (Advanced) Orchestra

• Performance of concert music as assigned by the director
• Development of individual skills and ensemble skills
• Preparation of All-Region music during the fall.
• Students are required to audition for All-Region Orchestra
• Attendance at section rehearsal and/or joint rehearsals after school.
• This group will attend UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest in March
• Preparation of audition music for orchestra placement held in May
• Students in advanced orchestra are expected to fully participate in all performance activities, including approved travel.

To be eligible for All-Region or UIL competitions students must meet a grade requirement of at least 70 in all subjects during the 3 week period before the audition date or event.  Students must attend all pre-contest and performance rehearsals.

 Rehearsal/Performance Schedules

Participation at sectionals, rehearsals and performances is required and will be integrated into the student’s grade which is in accordance with the TEA/UIL guidelines.  Regularly scheduled sectionals, rehearsals, and concerts are curricular and have no academic eligibility requirements.  A schedule of activities and events will be provided to students and parents the first week of the new school year.  Supplemental schedules are provided as needed to students and parents allowing a minimum of one week’s notice of a new or updated activity or event.

 Newsletter

Class information, news, and schedules will be communicated through a bi-monthly newsletter titled “Orchestra Notes”.  To be enrolled in this newsletter, please make sure that Mrs. Vanhook has your e-mail address.

 Booster Club

A booster club exists under each middle school orchestra.  The main objective of the booster club is to support and enhance the orchestra program and to provide program communication to students and parents at all levels of participation.  All parents are members of the booster club.  Participation is encouraged and no dues are required to be a member.  Meetings are announced in the monthly newsletter.  Attendance at all performances and meetings is encouraged.

 Fundraising

Clark orchestra students are encouraged to participate in one or two fundraising activities each year.  We fundraise for additional activities and financial support for our program.  Fundraising activities allow students to share the responsibility of funding our program beyond what the district provides.  Therefore, it is important for these fundraisers to be as successful as possible.

These fundraising activities are group efforts that go into a group account that supports our orchestra program.  These activities also nurture a spirit and unity in the group as a result of the group efforts. 

All information regarding the specific of the fundraising will be communicated to students and parents at the time of the activities.  Tax deductable donations to the booster club in support of our program are always welcomed and appreciated.

 Daily Supplies: Instrument and Supplies for your instrument

• Own rosin
• Own cleaning cloth
• Shoulder rest (violin/viola) or rock stop (cellos/basses) each day.
• 3-ring Black Binder to be used for ORCHESTRA ONLY!
• Combination Lock (You may not use a key lock).
• 10-15 Sheet Protectors
• Zipper Pouch for Pencils
• 2-3 Pencils (NO PENS)
• Metronome/Tuner
• Music stand for home use

Each student will need to purchase a method book depending on the class that they are in:

• Beginning orchestra: Orchestra Expressions, Book 1
• Concert orchestra: Orchestra Expressions, Book 2 and Essentials for Strings
• Symphonic orchestra: Essentials for Strings and Essential Techniques, Book 3

Please be sure when purchasing your method book that you buy the book that corresponds with the instrument you play!

 Instruments

Personal Instruments

A quality program requires quality musical instruments.  One advantage to owning an instrument of investment quality is that in contrast to “starter” instruments, which can depreciate in value, quality string instruments actually gain value as they age.  If a purchase is needed, please talk to Mrs. Vanhook or your private instructor.  We would be glad to make recommendations and consult with students and parents in order to avoid an inappropriate purchase.  We would also like to help you obtain the best possible price for a good instrument.

 All personal and school instruments are recommended to be insured by a homeowner’s policy or private company.  The school district will not assume liability for maintenance, repair or damage of personal instruments on school property.

 School Owned Instruments

The school has a limited number of instruments for rent.  The renal fee is $100 per year.  The student is responsible for the upkeep and care of the school issued instruments.  This includes strings, bow rehairs, etc.  Students must provide their own personal accessories such as rosin, shoulder rest, or rock stop.  The student is responsible for maintenance, damage and repair while the instrument is in his/her possession.  The instrument will be inspected at the end of the year for damage and the student must pay for any repairs.

 Parents and students should understand that FISD does not provide insurance coverage for damage/theft on school instruments and it is the responsibility of the parents and students for the full replacement value of the instrument should it be lost, stolen or damaged while issued to the student.  It is strongly recommended that the instrument be insured through your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance company.

 Conduct

Students enrolled in the orchestra program are expected to display exemplary behavior at all times.  At every performance as an orchestra member, you represent your family, Clark Middle School, the FISD, and Frisco, Texas.  Make sure that your actions prove that the Clark Orchestra is a class act in every way.

 Class Procedures and Information

• Be in your seat with all materials when the bell rings.
• Bring your planner to class every day.  Write down your homework assignment and practice records in your agenda.
• You are expected to help tune quickly and quietly.  Always be respectful of others while they tune.  Play open strings only.
• Do not talk or practice out loud during the tuning process.  Fingering silently or shadow bowing is always encouraged.
• Keep fingernails cut to an appropriate length to allow proper position and playing habits to develop.
• Show good rehearsal etiquette by being a good team player.  Study your part quietly or shadow bow while the director works with another section.  Remain on task at all times; do not talk or interrupt the focus of the rehearsal.  You are expected to show respect to the director and others at all times.  You are also expected to show a positive and willing attitude.
• Good posture and playing positions are expected.  If you look like a pro, you will sound more like a pro!
• Do not be afraid to ask questions or seek answers to questions that come up.  Raise your hand and ask, or feel free to ask for a conference in my office.  If you don’t tell me about something you don’t understand it is hard for me to help you work through the situation.
• Be supportive of your classmates and try to encourage each other.  We are trying to be the best orchestra that we can be.  Please try and show a winning attitude in all that you do.
• Do your best to turn your work in on time.  You are expected to practice and learn your individual part so that the entire group will benefit from your efforts in and out of class.  Remember you are apart of a team that counts on each other to do a great job.
• Do not leave purses or valuables unlocked in the orchestra room.
• No food should be left in your lockers
• No food, drink, candy or gum may be eaten in class unless the director specifies it ahead of time.
• Disorderly behavior and abusive language will not be tolerated.

Grades

Student grades will be assessed in the following manner:

Major Grades = 50%

Weekly Grades = 40%

Daily Grades = 10%

·         Major grades consist of performances, rehearsals, playing and written exams.

·         Weekly grades are practice records turned in with parent signatures each week and any additional non-major grades.  Other non-major grades consist of rehearsals, sectionals, scale pass-offs, and any classroom work.

·         Daily grades consist of class participation and being prepared with all materials in class.

 Uniforms

Formal uniforms will be worn to all concerts and events unless otherwise stated.

Formal uniforms for girls consist of long black dress or black skirt and blouse.  Dress pants may be substituted, especially for female cellists.  Black shoes or sandals, no flip flops.

Formal uniforms for boys consist of black dress pants and a white dress shirt.  Please wear a tasteful tie of your choice.  Black shoes with dark socks.

 For some performances we will wear our informal uniforms.  This will consist of the school orchestra shirt and jeans.  Advanced notice will be given.

 Calendar:

This calendar is subject to change – notifications will be sent of any changes

If a calendar item only applies to certain groups it is abbreviated as follows: B – Beginners, C – Concert, S – Symphonic.

 

Aug. 31^st – Parent Meeting 6:30pm – Orchestra Room

Sept. 12^th – All-Region Clinic (C/S) – Centennial High School

Sept. 16^th – Fundraiser Kick-Off – 4:30-5:15pm – Orchestra Room

Sept. 23^rd – First Fundraiser Turn-in

Sept. 30^th – Final Fundraiser Turn-in

Oct. 24^th – All-Region Auditions (C/S)

Nov. 5^th – Fall Concert – Clark MS – 7:00pm

Nov. 6^th – Fun Night at Main Event

Dec. 11^th/Dec. 12^th – All-Region Clinic/Concert (selected students)

Feb. 9^th – Pre-UIL (S)

March 10^th, 11^th, or 12^th – UIL (S)

March 29^th – Spring Concert (Griffin MS) 7:00pm

May 25^th – Final Concert (Griffin MS) 7:00pm

All Orchestra students will need to pay a $50 yearly registration fee.  This fee can be made all at one or in payments.  Registration payment needs to be received prior to the first Orchestra Event.

 Make checks payable to CMS Orchestra Boosters and turn into an Orchestra Booster officer, or Mrs. Vanhook.  Please see Mrs. Vanhook if you need to work out a payment schedule.

 Orchestra Registration Fee pays for:

·        Orchestra Spirit T-Shirt

·        Concert Decorations/Refreshments

·        Fun Event Refreshments and Supplies

·        Paper Products

·        Student Locker Tags

·        Student Goody Bags

·        Clinician Fees for UIL Preparation

·        Student Food for competitions/rehearsals

·        Bus Transportation for select events

·        End-of-Year trophies/Medals

*  Admission prices, etc. to some events are not included in this fee.

New students to Clark Middle School Orchestra will also need to purchase an orchestra polo.  This shirt will be used every year for casual or more informal performances.  The cost of the polo is $15 and can be included with your registration fee – therefore making your payment $65 for the year.

 Orchestra shirts and polos will be ordered shortly after school begins.  Please fill out the following information and return with payments.

 Student Name: ___________________________________  Grade: _________________

Orchestra:  Beginner   Concert   Symphonic

T-Shirt Size: _____________________         Polo Size: ______________________

(Note: Returning students should not need to order a polo if they still have theirs and it fits correctly.)

 For Office Use:

Registration Fees Paid ($50) _______   Polo Paid ($15) _______

Cash: ______  Check #: ________
 

PRIVATE LESSONS

Private lessons, one-on-one instruction with a master teacher, are an invaluable experience.  They are highly recommended.  Customized and tailored to enrich and challenge each individual’s musical needs, these weekly encounters are proven to be one of the most successful ingredients to individual achievement.

Frisco ISD is extremely fortunate to have an outstanding staff of private lesson teachers.  All the teachers have resumes on file and have cleared background checks run by the district Human Resources department.

On-campus lessons may occur before, during and after school, depending on availability.  Lesson prices are set by the district and are $16.00 per 22 minutes, and are scheduled once per week. Students must pay one month in advance and make checks payable to the private teacher. Your private teacher will be contacting you with all the information about your child’s lesson.

 Lesson times and availability are on a first come-first served basis.  Please fill out the following and return as soon as possible.

 Private Lessons

__________ Yes, our child is interested in taking private String Lessons.

 Student’s Name___________________________Ensemble______

 

Parent’s Name_______________________Phone______________

Student/Parent Agreement Form

 Please sign and return this form to the orchestra department after you and your child have read and discussed the requirements and procedures of the Clark Middle School Orchestra Program.

 Student’s Name_____________________________________

Class________________________

 I have read the orchestra handbook and agree to follow the rules and regulations of the Orchestra as outlined in the handbook.  I also will make all necessary arrangements to participate in all required orchestra performances and dress rehearsals.  I realize that I am an important contributing member to Clark Middle School Orchestra Department and that my actions affect all group members, not only myself.  I will strive to reach my full potential as a musician and person.

 __________________________________  __________

Student’s Signature                                       Date

 I have read the orchestra handbook and am aware of the performance dates and rules and regulations governing the orchestra.  I grant my permission for my child to participate in all orchestra activities for 2009-2010 and will encourage and support them in their development as musicians.

 ____________________________________   _________

Parent’s Signature                                           Date