The LBHS Band Mission Statement

Classroom Procedures

All students will be inside the band room before the tardy bell sounds. At five minutes after the bell, each student is expected to be in their seat, with instrument, stand, music, and necessary materials. There will be silence in the rehearsal hall when the conductor (whomever that may be) steps on the podium.

Warm-up is a crucial time in each rehearsal. This is when we focus on the fundamentals of our instruments so that we may improve both as a group and as individuals.

Brass players should have all necessary mutes and valve oil ready. Reed players should have at least one spare reed at their seats during rehearsal; you should have four or five good reeds that you rotate from day to day. Your reeds will last longer and you will get better play from them if you do not use the same reed all the time.

Percussionists should each have a pair of concert snare drum sticks, mallets, and timpani sticks during concert band class. During marching band or drum class, make sure that you have all of the required equipment needed to perform on your assigned instrument.

Cases and book bags should be placed in set in lockers or around the edge of the band. Not in the rehearsal area.

Problems of an individual nature (missing music, instrument problems, etc.) should not take class time. These issues should be dealt with either before school, after school, or just before class as last resort.

Talking during rehearsals should be kept to a minimum. Any necessary talking should be about the music that we are studying and should never be a distraction to the conductor or other students. When the conductor is on the podium there is no talking. When the conductor steps off the podium you may talk quietly if at all necessary.

Marching Band

To be a member of the Long Beach Marching Band, the student must be enrolled in the proper Marching Band period during the fall semester. He/she must comply with all Rules and regulations contained in this handbook and must first meet standards for membership in band as outlined above.

Rehearsal Policy/Alternate Status

In order to maintain and to build on our strong tradition of excellence here at Long Beach High School we must have a strict rehearsal policy that is followed by every student. If the student is unable to meet this schedule then he/she must find an alternative to being in the band program. We rely on each other and we are only as strong as our weakest link. If the student misses the Thursday after school rehearsal for anything other than the excused absences, they will not be allowed to march on Friday or the contest on Saturday.

Excused absences include:

a) Death in the family

b) Serious illness

c) Emergency

d) Special permission of director

e) Court ordered visitation

f) Court Dates

Unexcused absences include:

a) Doctors appointments

b) Dentists appointments

c) Work

d) Birthdays

e) Trips that are not given two weeks notice

f) No ride (your section leader will be happy to help in this area)

Alternate Status-This applies to Marching Band only. These students must meet all requirements for the Marching Band. The students will rehearse and occasionally perform with the group possibly earning a permanent spot at any time when deemed so by the director. Alternates will also perform in the stands. Alternates are considered and will be treated as full-fledged members of the Marching Band. This means that alternates are expected to attend all rehearsals as per the rehearsal policy. Alternates may be rotated in and out on a per performance basis in order to provide the opportunity for more students to perform. Alternates will travel on all trips with the band.

1. After the first rehearsal is missed the student will be made aware of the attendance policy and warned that future absences could result in removal from the show. The student’s parent will also be contacted and notified of the absence.

2. After the second rehearsal is missed an alternate will replace the student and that student will be placed on equipment duty for one (1) show.

3. After the third absence an alternate will be assigned the spot on a permanent basis and the student will be assigned alternate status.

4. After the fourth absence the student will be assigned to permanent alternate status and will not be allowed to challenge for a spot for the remainder of the marching band season.

Rehearsals during school are as important as rehearsals after school, therefore students who are chronically absent from school will be assigned alternate status until they can alleviate the absence problem. The students rely on each other during the marching season for drill placement, musical considerations, and the like. Whenever a person is constantly missing it makes it impossible for the other students to achieve a high level of success. In the event that the student is physically unable to participate in the marching band, this means sitting on the sidelines instead of rehearsing. The student should consider changing their schedule. After a second rehearsal in which a student sits on the sideline an alternate will be assigned. If you are not feeling well let an instructor know immediately.

Stands Procedures

1. No food or drinks in the stands before halftime.

2. No hats in the stands or with your uniform.

3. There is to be no random playing of instruments at any time. Any section or solo cheers should be cleared with the directors prior to the game.

4. At home games, sit in your assigned section the entire game.

5. No outsiders are allowed in the band section. This includes alumni unless directors have given prior approval.

6. Your concession break will be during the third quarter. You must be back in the stands by 1:00 minute on the clock. This gives us time to play at the end of the third quarter. Don’t be late! Watch the clock carefully! You will lose your break the next week if you are late.

7. No PDA (public display of affection) other than a hug or holding hands in uniform (this includes the travel uniform.)

8. No foul language or talking in a disrespective manner to anyone.

9. No horseplay in uniform.

Concert Band /Indoor Percussion

To be a member of one of Long Beach’s Concert Organizations the student must be enrolled in the proper band period and must be in the compliance with all the rules and regulations contained in this handbook.

Rehearsal Policy

After the first rehearsal is missed the director will assign the student an etude (musical study), and it will be substituted for the grade and the student’s parent will be contacted. Indoor parents will be contacted.

After the second rehearsal is missed, the student will be moved to last chair and assigned additional studies to prepare for a classroom recital. A parent conference will be arranged. Indoor members will be removed for one show and a parent conference will be necessary.

After the third rehearsal is missed the student will be assigned to equipment duty and will not be allowed to participate in any concert or contest in a musical capacity. Written assignments will be given in order to assess the student’s progress.

Long Beach Indoor Percussion Ensemble

Long Beach offers our percussion students an opportunity in the Spring unequalled in our state. The Long Beach Indoor Percussion Ensemble is among the finest units of this type in the country. The group travels across the Country to compete among the Winterguard International Percussion Circuit. The students are instructed in the basic fundamentals of percussion performance, marching and maneuvering, and of course in the “art of performance”.

Rules:

1. The student will respect him/herself and others at all times.

2. The student will be on time with all materials daily.

3. The student will not interrupt or distract from the teaching/learning process in any manner.

4. The student will not bring any contraband of any kind into the band hall or into any band rehearsal. This includes telephones, CD players, MP3 players, etc.

5. The student will observe all rules and regulations set forth by the Long Beach School District. These are included in the Student Handbook provided by the school.

Consequences:

1. First Offense: The Director will have a conference with the student in order to attempt to circumvent the behavior and reach and understanding that the behavior will not be tolerated. The parent of the student will be contacted.

2. Second Offense: The director will assign classroom punishment that is educational in nature and designed to modify the behavior while complying with the State Department of Education standard curriculum for instrumental music, which can be found at www.sde.ms.us.

3. Third Offense: Parent conference in which the parent will be made aware that the student will receive disciplinary action through the school, and removal from the band program after the next offense. Student will remain in the class, but will not participate in band program.

4. Fourth Offense: Removal from the band program.

Bus Policy

The Long Beach High School Band is required to travel extensively during the fall semesters and the indoor programs are required to travel a deal in the spring. Therefore, it is important to understand the policies and procedures associated with travel with the band.

Bus List:

A signing list will be posted during the first week of school. This list will be used throughout the season. The director reserves the right to modify or completely dissolve the signing lists in the event that it is becoming a distraction or source of tension. In this event the band will be assigned seats.

Bus Rules:

1. Observe all rules of the Long Beach High School Band Program and those of the Long Beach School District.

2. No trash of any kind is to be left on the bus.

3. Nothing is to be put outside the windows of the bus.

4. Quiet at Railroad Crossings.

5. Excessive noise that could be potentially dangerous will not be tolerated.

6. Couples-this is a band function, not a date!

7. When we return put up windows.

8. At away games and contest you must return with the band. Unless, you provide the director with a signed note 24 hours before the event from your parents. Your Parents must sign you out with your bus chaperone. You must then tell your bus captain that you are checked out. No one will be released without following the proper guidelines. Except in an emergency situation.

9. Be courteous, do what chaperones ask and thank the chaperones and truck/bus drivers.

10. Do not use the emergency exit doors unless an emergency arises. They are not to be used for loading and unloading the bus.

11. Leave valuables at home, we are not responsible.

In the event that these rules are not observed the student or students involved will be subject to disciplinary action from the director in minor cases and from the school in extreme cases. Any bus left in a condition of disarray will result in the members on that bus to clean each bus, practice field, and the area around the band hall the next week.

Rules and Regulations for Overnight Trips

In Order to maintain the standards of excellence and pride that exists in our band we must remember that there are things that we must not do when we travel. These rules are designed so that everyone can enjoy themselves in constructive and positive ways.

For space reasons, luggage is limited to one (1) suitcase and one carry-on bag. (This does not include your garment bag.)

We will exhibit controlled behavior and keep noise to a minimum in the Hotel and throughout the trip.

All students must be in their rooms when told, and abide by rules given by the director. This includes having respect for all adults on the trip.

There will be no changes in the bus list or rooming assignments once the trip has begun, unless approved by the director.

Girls are not allowed in boy’s rooms and boys are not allowed in girl’s rooms. Any visitation must be done in the hallways or in designated areas of the Hotel (lobby, recreation areas, etc.)

Double check to make sure that you have all your property when we leave. Never assume that someone else has taken care of your things!

Remember: DO NOT BRING EXPENSIVE ITEMS SUCH AS JEWERLY, CLOTHING, PERSONAL BELONGING, ETC. THINGS CAN GET STOLEN AND CHAPERONES WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR HANDLING THEM FOR YOU.

At all times, dress should be appropriate and respectful.

All students must stay in a group of three or more when given free time. There will be no incidences when a student is alone in large public areas. We must stick to our schedules and remember “TO BE ON TIME IS TO ALWAYS BE EARLY!”

Because band members are constantly on display, each must always be aware of the importance of good behavior. The student should remember they represent the band, school, and community whenever they perform or appears in public. Any misconduct casts a direct reflection on our school and community and may well undo the good work of hundreds of loyal students. Any hint of misconduct or activities that are not acceptable or defined in this book will result in possible expulsion from our program.

Let us remember our purpose for any trip. We are to represent our school and have fun in an organized manner. Let’s do our best to make the most out of this experience!

Medical Information

The Band Bag and the Medical Kit accompanies the band on all excursions. The Band Bag contains things that are necessary for last minute uniform and equipment repairs. It also contains basic first aid.

If your child is to be on any medication on any trip, a medication form will need to be completed and signed prior to the trip. The medication will be kept in the custody of the band nurse or their assigned chaperone.

Phone Policy

In order to establish a sense of responsibility and to insure that the director is able to arrive home at a respectable hour after football games and contest, I am instituting the following phone policy, It will be strictly adhered to at all times. In the past we have had students at the band hall for two and three hours after the completion of an activity. This is completely unfair to the director or staff that have to stay with these students. Please be there to pick up your child at the designated time. Please check the website to see the tentative return of the band.

(1) After Games

The telephone will be off limits after football games except in the case of an emergency. In the event that you are not able to pick up your child at the designated time, please make arrangements to have them brought home by a friend/relative, or arrange for them to ride home with another student. The director will wait a reasonable amount of time before calling, however, a phone conference with the parent will be necessary for the student to march the following week.

(2) During School

The phone is absolutely off limits during school, unless it is an emergency.

Dues and Fees

The financial support of the band program provides both a challenge as well as a considerable opportunity for the band members and their families. The School District provides what it can for the band programs in our district; unfortunately this amount is not always sufficient to sustain a program of this size. Therefore, the Booster organization must generate the additional funds that are an absolute necessity in order to have a meaningful and successful program. Financial assistance is available for those who need it.

The fees that are collected at the LBHS are used to cover the operating expenses during band camp, including the hiring of extra staff, T-shirts, any activities that are planned for the camp and to help kick start the concession stand for the boosters.

In the event that a student’s account fails to meet the required amount outlined here, the student will be placed on alternate status. This includes the winter indoor units and the marching band. This rule will be strictly enforced and is not subject to negotiation.

Band Fees / End of Band Camp

Winds: $150

Drums: $150

Guard $150

There may be an additional fee if and when we decide to go on a trip, details pertaining to that will be given to you as soon as they become available. Fees for winter programs will be determined as the time draws nearer and will be disclosed as soon as the need becomes apparent.

Fund Raising

Throughout the year each student has the opportunity to participate in fundraisers. Fundraisers are to help students earn money for the general account. The general account covers their needs throughout the year, including trips. Each student will need to participate in at least half of the fundraisers in order to reach their goal needed for their account. Fund Raising is fun, and a positive, helpful attitude at all times makes it more successful for the entire program. Fund raising is where we interface with the community. Many people may never see us perform, so this is our opportunity to make them proud by our character and behavior. BE RESPECTFUL! THANK THEM SINCERELY! Many students are shy about asking for support / money. You are expected to try and you will get more comfortable as you gain confidence. Remember, you are selling yourself and you are priceless. People want to reward you for good work, so give it your best shot.

Money Procedure

In order to turn in money for band fees or any other fundraising activity, the procedure is as follows:

Put the money in an envelope that is labeled with your name, grade, amount, and what the money is for.
Place the envelope in the mailbox on the wall.
Pick up your receipt on the designated day.

The mailbox is locked and I will not have a key to it, so if you put something in it and forget one portion of the procedure, I cannot retrieve it for you. The Band Booster President and Treasurer will be the only two people with keys. The treasurer will open the box on a designated day and will write your receipt while you are present to watch him/her count the money.

Student Leaders

The band council is a group of students elected by the band proper that work with the director in an advisory capacity. The council is made of the President, Vice-President, Secretary / Treasurer. All section leaders, staff heads, and Drum Major. Band Council Elections are held at the end of each year before band banquet. To be eligible for any of these positions, candidates must be full participants in the band program, exemplify a superior attitude, work ethic, sense of dedication, and willingness to give of their personal time for the betterment of the Long Beach High School Band Program.

Section Leaders

Section leaders are chosen based on musical / marching ability, plus all of the characteristics listed in the student leadership section.

All student leaders will carry out the policies of the Band, Band Director, School, and School Administration to the best of their abilities. Anytime you question or disagree with specific instructions from a student leader, please avoid confrontation and discuss the problem with the directors at your earliest convenience. Student leaders cannot give you permission to miss a rehearsal or performance, be tardy, or leave early. Student leaders should be positive and work for the best interest of the Long Beach High Band at all times.

For a Student Leader / Section Leader to keep his / her position must attend all summer rehearsals, all of band camp, all after school rehearsals, and any other rehearsals that the director announces.

Uniform Policy

Black shoes: shoes will be ordered during band camp. Cost will be determined at that time (generally between $25 - $30).
White gloves: 2 pair of white gloves required. Clarinets and other instruments with open keys will have to cut the ends from the fingers.
Band T-shirt: these will be issued during band camp and must be worn under the uniform and will be inspected by section leaders before each performance. No Shirt. No Show. No Grade.
Make sure your shoes; instrument case, and all other belongings have your name on them.
You should remain in full uniform (minus hat) at all times at performances, unless otherwise stated. This means that jackets need to remain zipped completely at all times. If you are caught out of uniform you will lose your third quarter break for the next game.
After each performance you are to hang your uniform, neatly on the seat of the chair, and place your hatbox underneath your chair. Any persons uniform left in a ball will lose break and will clean the band hall.
No jewelry of any kind may be worn in uniform. This includes all piercings, hair bows, rings, necklaces, etc. Leave your jewelry at home so that it is not likely to get lost or stolen.
No hair may touch the collar of your uniform; ladies must put their hair in some sort of style conductive to tucking it up in the hat.
No nail polish.
Remember this uniform is our calling card; try to keep it looking good. Continued disrespect of uniform-student will lose marching privileges.
Travel Uniform will be worn when announced and consist of polo band shirt and jeans. Jeans are to be free of holes, not dragging the ground, and worn with a belt. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Cover hats and plumes in the rain.
Use proper uniform bags, and storage facilities at all times.
Never wear coats, jeans, or outer garments under the uniform.
Do not cut any material from the uniform or alter. This is to be by the Uniform staff only.
Always wear clean, calf length, black socks.
Band shoes must be clean at all times.
Report all spots and stains on the uniform to the uniform staff so that they can be cleaned immediately.

Private Lessons

Private instructions are the key to developing an outstanding musical organization. Students who study their instruments privately show rapid improvement in individual musicianship. As these students improve, their excitement towards practicing increases, they continue to improve, and they become a stronger contributor to the overall success of the band.

Private lessons have a great impact on the individual student and on our band program both this year and in the future. The director will assist you, if needed, in selecting a private instructor. The key to satisfactory results from private instruction is to start as soon as possible… SO START NOW!!!!!

Staff and Chaperones

The staff of the Long Beach High School Band is one of the finest anywhere and has been selected due to the skills and qualities they possess and for the benefit they can bring to the band program. They should be treated with the highest level of courtesy and respect, as they are an extension of the Band Director.

Chaperones are also extensions of the authority of the director. Without the dedication of our chaperones and other adults that assist the band, we could not survive. These people work hard, and the only payment they receive is our appreciation. Be respectful, polite, cooperative, and that the words “Please” and “Thank you” cost you nothing, but are highly valued by the recipient.

Band Camp Schedule

Band Camp Schedule will be announced at the end of April.

IT IS MANDATORY ATTENDANCE!

Band Camp Do’s and Don’ts

· Be on time.

· Do not leave campus during breaks (except lunch)

· During camp you will be allowed to use the band room for lunch considering that you clean up after yourself. If you don’t, the band hall will be off limits during lunch for the rest of camp.

· Wear proper clothing-shorts, etc