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Band Handbook 2021-2022 - stylemarchers.com

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Revision Date: 2021.6.7 Page: 1 of 19 CHOCTAWHATCHEE HIGH SCHOOL BAND PROGRAM Handbook 2021-2022 Director of Bands: Brad Parks (850) 833-3614 x12653 / [email protected] Associate Director of Bands: Stephen Mayo (850) 833-3614 x12410 / [email protected] Principal: Mrs. Michelle Heck (850) 833-3614 / [email protected] stylemarchers.com
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Page 1: Band Handbook 2021-2022 - stylemarchers.com

Revision Date: 2021.6.7 Page: 1 of 19

CHOCTAWHATCHEE HIGH SCHOOL BAND PROGRAM

Handbook 2021-2022

Director of Bands: Brad Parks (850) 833-3614 x12653 / [email protected]

Associate Director of Bands: Stephen Mayo

(850) 833-3614 x12410 / [email protected]

Principal: Mrs. Michelle Heck (850) 833-3614 / [email protected]

stylemarchers.com

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HANDBOOK CONTENTS Foreword……………………………………………………………………………………………………3 Membership………………………………………………………………………………………………..4 Marching Band……………………………………………………………………………………………5 Symphonic Band………………………………………………………………………………………….6 Concert Band……………………………………………………………………………………………….7 Jazz Band…………………………………………………………………………………………………….8 Audition Requirements…………………………………………………………………………………9 Challenges……………………………………………………………………………………………………9

School Instruments……………………………………………………………………………………….9 Winter Percussion………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Winter Guard………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Summer Rehearsals………………………………………………………………………………………10 Home Football Games……………………………………………………………………………………10 Away Football Games…………………………………………………………………………………….10 Competitions…………………………………………………………………………………………………10 Pep Rallies…………………………………………………………………………………………………….10 Transportation………………………………………………………………………………………………10

Policies & Procedures…………………………………………………………………………………….11 Grading………………………………………………………………………………………………………..13 Attendance……………………………………………………………………………………………………13 Leadership…………………………………………………………………………………………………….14 Uniforms……………………………………………………………………………………………………….15 Inspection……………………………………………………………………………………………………..16

Awards………………………………………………………………………………………………………….17 Fees………………………………………………………………………………………………………………17

Fundraising…………………………………………………………………………………………………..17 Communication……………………………………………………………………………………………..18 Agreement Page…………………………………………………………………………………………….19

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Foreword: The Purpose of this handbook is to provide valuable information about the band program at Choctawhatchee High School. To achieve and maintain the high standards of excellence desired by this organization, all members should familiarize themselves with the rules and procedures of the band that are included in this handbook.

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1. MEMBERSHIP Any student with an interest in music, has a quality work ethic, and has the ability to meet both the financial and time requirements necessary will be considered for Style Marcher membership. The Choctawhatchee concert band program is the primary unit from which all Style Marcher organizations proceed. Assignments for participation within the Style Marchers organization are made according to audition results. Instrumentalist may audition for positions in either the Color Guard or Percussion ensembles, but are expected to continue their instrumental studies in a regular Band class in addition to their added responsibilities with either ancillary ensemble. Those who are involved only with the Color Guard are expected to enroll in the Eurhythmics class. Membership within the Choctawhatchee Band program is a yearlong commitment. Instrumentalists are expected to participate in both the marching and concert programs, color guard students are expected to participate in both the marching band program and full year color guard class, and percussionists are expected to participate in both the marching and concert programs. A student may face expulsion, suspension, or lowering of grade in the band program for failure to abide by the policies set forth in this handbook. There are financial obligations involved with participation in the band program. Students are expected to be current on all financial responsibilities before being granted membership and acquiring new financial obligations. All siblings and immediate family member fees should have a “zero” balance before any additional fees are incurred to any family members. There are scholarships available that can be awarded on the basis of need and the approval of the band directors with the band booster executive board. Those interested in scholarships should see the directors for appropriate forms. Continued membership is contingent on the following:

1. Following guidelines set forth within this handbook. 2. Have a satisfactory attendance record. 3. Demonstrate a satisfactory level of improvement, including earning passing marks for any band

class taken.

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2. ENSEMBLES STYLE MARCHERS: Style Marchers is the primary performing ensemble in the fall. This group consists of the wind students (woodwind & brass), color guard, and percussion (front ensemble & battery). The Style Marchers will attend and perform at all home football games, various away games, pep rallies, parades, and competitions. Rehearsals outside of class will primarily take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. After the competitive marching and football season, the number of Tuesday and Thursday rehearsals will be reduced. There is a financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Style Marchers. Specific fees will be known near the end of the school year for the upcoming summer and school year. Note: Instrumentalists who desire to play in the percussion section for the marching band season require director approval. Required Materials for the Style Marchers may include:

• Brass o Appropriate mouthpiece o Valve Oil o Slide Grease o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Woodwinds o Appropriate mouthpiece, ligature, and reeds o Cork Grease o Cleaning Swab o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Color Guard o As defined by instructor

• Percussion o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils o Percussion Mallets including

§ 1 pair Concert snare drum sticks and practice pad § 1 pair General Purpose Timpani mallets § 1 pair rubber keyboard mallets § 1 stick bag ***Innovative Percussion SB-3 Intermediate Mallet pack is an easy way to acquire all of these items.

Instruments/Equipment Provided for the Style Marchers: • Bass Clarinet • Tenor Saxophone • Marching French Horn • Marching Baritone/Euphonium • Marching Tuba/Contra • Battery (Snare Drums, Tenor Drums, Bass Drums) • Front Ensemble Instruments (Pit) • Color Guard Equipment (Rifles, Sabres, Flags/Silks)

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SYMPHONIC BAND: The Symphonic Band is a select group of individuals with select instrumentation. Membership is by audition only. The repertoire of the ensemble is extensive and private study is highly encouraged of members of the ensemble. The Symphonic Band is a class that meets (for credit) throughout the entire year and performs several concerts and festivals each year. After the competitive marching and football season, the number of Tuesday and Thursday rehearsals will be reduced. There is a financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Symphonic Band. Specific fees will be known in November/December for the upcoming Symphonic Band season. Required Materials for the Symphonic Band may include:

• Brass o Appropriate mouthpiece o Valve Oil o Slide Grease o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Woodwinds o Appropriate mouthpiece, ligature, and reeds o Cork Grease o Cleaning Swab o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

Instruments/Equipment provided for the Symphonic Band may include:

• Oboes • Bassoons • Alto Clarinets • Alto Bass Clarinets • Bass Clarinets • Contra Bass Clarinets • Tenor Saxophone • French Horns • Euphoniums • Bass Trombones • Tubas • Concert Percussion

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CONCERT BAND: The Concert Band is open to students with previous instruction in wind and percussion instruments. It consists of modern wind band instrumentation and provides instruction in common-practice period and twentieth century wind literature and transcriptions and private study is highly encouraged in this ensemble. The Concert Band is a class that meets (for credit) throughout the entire year and performs several concerts and festivals each year. After the competitive marching and football season, the number of Tuesday and Thursday rehearsals will be reduced. There is a financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Concert Band. Specific fees will be known in November/December for the upcoming Concert Band season. Required Materials for the Concert Band may include:

• Brass o Appropriate mouthpiece o Valve Oil o Slide Grease o Instrument Polish o Tuner o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Woodwinds o Appropriate mouthpiece, ligature, and reeds o Cork Grease o Cleaning Swab o Instrument Polish o Tuner o Metronome o 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

Instruments/Equipment provided for the Concert Band may include:

• Alto Clarinets • Alto Bass Clarinets • Bass Clarinets • Contra Bass Clarinets • Tenor Saxophone • French Horns • Euphoniums • Bass Trombones • Tubas • Concert Percussion

Students will provide their own mouthpiece and reeds.

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JAZZ BAND: The Jazz Band is a select group of individuals with select instrumentation. Membership is by audition only and is dependent upon active participation in the Style Marchers and Symphonic Band and/or Concert Band. Students involved in the Jazz Band program should be members in good standing within the band program. The repertoire of the Jazz Band is extensive and includes early jazz through the twentieth century literature. The Jazz Band is a class that meets (for credit) throughout the entire year and performs several concerts and festivals each year. Beginning in January, one afternoon rehearsal per week may be required. There may be a small financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Jazz Band. Specific fees will be known in November/December for the upcoming Jazz Band season. Required Materials for the Jazz Band may include:

• Brass o Appropriate mouthpiece o Valve Oil o Slide Grease o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o Black 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Woodwinds o Appropriate mouthpiece, ligature, and reeds o Cork Grease o Cleaning Swab o Instrument Polish o Tuner with contact-type microphone o Metronome o Black 3-ring binder o Sheet protectors o Pencils

• Rhythm Section o Sticks (for percussionists) o Metronome o Black 3-ring binder o Sheet Protectors o Pencils

Instruments/Equipment Provided for the Jazz Band may include:

• Tenor Saxophone • Bass Trombone • Keyboard/Piano/Vibraphone • Drum Set

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**BAND/JAZZ BAND AUDITION REQUIREMENTS**: Each band member must demonstrate the music skills as listed by the director’s Audition Requirements. See the director’s for audition criteria. Audition results will be used for band and chair placement. INSTRUMENTS: Unless otherwise noted, students are expected to provide their own instruments for personal use. These instruments must be in good playing condition at all times. All members using school owned equipment will complete and sign an “Instrument Check-Out Form.” Students are expected to return equipment in the same condition in which it was issued. Damage or loss of equipment is the responsibility of the student to which the equipment was issued. CHALLENGES: After Symphonic Band students have been seated in their sections they can challenge to ascend within their section. A student may challenge any player in their section, and where possible, between bands. The challenges will include both students playing the prepared music, scales, and sight-reading. The challenger must inform the person challenged and the director(s) with two nights notice. An effort will be made to make the challenge as anonymous as possible with the procedure being explained in full. WINTER PERCUSSION: The Indoor Percussion Ensemble is a unit that participates in Winter Guard International (WGI) between late December and mid April. The Indoor Percussion Ensemble will compete with other high school groups on a local (Gulf Coast Color Guard and Percussion Circuit) and national (WGI Regional and Championship Contests) level. Although WGI is exclusively for percussionists, participation in the activity is open to all current band students. Students participating in this ensemble should be a bona fide student at Choctawhatchee High School. Entry in to the ensemble is by audition only. Wind players should show satisfactory progress on their primary instrument to be eligible to audition for the winter percussion ensemble. Wind players who do participate in Winter Percussion will be expected to continue their instrumental studies in a regular Band class in addition to their added responsibilities within the percussion ensemble. Auditions take place in November/December. There is a financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Winter Percussion. Specific fees will be known in November/December for the upcoming Winter Percussion season. Winter Percussion students are expected to understand and meet the commitments as required for both concert and marching band programs. If those commitments are acceptably met then a competitive indoor percussion program will be offered for those who desire. WINTER GUARD: The Winter Guard is selected through a weeklong audition process in which the skill sets required to compete on the regional and national level are taught and assessed. The Winter Guard’s season begins in late October/early November and concludes in April. Winter Guard members are expected to continue their enrollment in the Eurhythmics class. Two to three afternoon rehearsals per week are required. The Winter Guard represents Choctawhatchee High School on the local circuit level, competing in several competitions in the Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi area and regionally and nationally in association with Winter Guard International and their associated competitions. There is a financial obligation each student will be responsible for to be considered an active participant in the Winter Guard. Specific fees will be known in November/December for the upcoming Winter Guard season. Instrumentalist may audition for positions in the Color Guard ensembles, but are expected to continue their instrumental studies in a regular Band class in addition to their added responsibilities with either auxiliary ensemble. Students participating in this ensemble should be a bona fide student at Choctawhatchee High School.

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3. GENERAL PROCEDURES

SUMMER REHEARSALS: Students are expected to be present at summer rehearsals. If students will not be present, directors must be notified before the rehearsal to properly excuse the student from rehearsal. Excusable absences may include, out of town, sickness, and school-related events. Work is never an excuse for missing any rehearsal. Failure to notify the directors of an absence before the beginning of a rehearsal may result in an unexcused absence. Excessive absences whether excused or unexcused may result in the student being placed into an “alternate” position. BAND CAMP: All students are required to attend the complete Band Camp, usually taking place in late July/early August. A student’s absence from Band Camp may result in being placed into an “alternate” position. The schedule for band camp will be presented in such a timely fashion so as to allow families to plan ahead for full attendance during the band camp period. ALTERNATES: Yearly, there is a need to allow for the opportunity for younger, less experienced students the opportunity to develop skill sets to a degree to where they can be effective performers in the Style Marchers. Additionally, there may also be occasions where students have not met certain obligations that will preclude them from being incorporated into the marching ensemble. In cases such as these, students will be designated as alternates or substitutes for the marching band. These students will be full members of the Style Marchers program and will be expected to continue to develop their skill sets and attend all Style Marcher functions. An effort will be made to reward students who excel from this position by incorporating them into the marching program as openings occur or as segments of the program are designed. HOME FOOTBALL GAMES: Students will report by the designated time in the itinerary given by the director(s). Students are expected to arrive in their “grays and blacks” (winds and percussion) or appropriate color guard wear (color guard). There may be a short rehearsal to make final preparations for the football game. At the conclusion of the rehearsal, further instructions will be given. Once seated in the stadium, students will be expected to represent the school with class and professionalism. The Style Marchers will perform at halftime and return to the stands to continue to provide entertainment and school spirit for the remaining duration of the game. At the conclusion of the game, the Style Marchers will be dismissed upon completion of post-football game responsibilities at which time uniforms should be returned and managed appropriately. AWAY FOOTBALL GAMES: Students will report by the designated time in the itinerary given by the director(s). Students are expected to arrive in their “grays and blacks” or the appropriate clothing as instructed by the director(s). Students will assemble into the auditorium for inspection and dismissal to the buses. The Style Marchers will travel to the game stadium in a caravan (all students are expected to travel with the Style Marchers). Upon arrival, the Style Marchers will file into the stands for the game. At the end of the game, the Style Marchers will travel back to Choctawhatchee High School and be dismissed upon completion of post-football game responsibilities at which time uniforms should be returned and managed appropriately. COMPETITIONS: Students will report by the designated time in the itinerary given by the director(s). Students are expected to arrive in their “grays and blacks” or the appropriate clothing as instructed by the director(s). There may be a short rehearsal to make final preparations for the competition. Students will assemble into the auditorium for inspection and dismissal to the buses. The Style Marchers will travel to the competition site. Upon arrival, depending on the time, the Style Marchers may watch performing bands before warming up. At the conclusion of the competition, the Style Marchers will travel back to Choctawhatchee High School and be dismissed upon completion of post-competition responsibilities at which time uniforms should be returned and managed appropriately. PEP RALLIES: Students will report to the band room by the designated time in the itinerary given by the director(s). The dress code for the pep rally will be in the respective itinerary and students are expected to wear the items as instructed by the director(s). The band will file into the gymnasium and sit in the appropriate section for the pep rally. Upon the conclusion of the pep rally students will return to the band room for dismissal. TRANSPORTATION: Transportation will be provided for most football games and competitions. In the event that transportation is not provided, parents will be notified by email and participants will be asked to acquire their own transportation.

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4. STYLE MARCHERS POLICIES

All band trips, including home and away football games, festivals, and competitions, are considered "off-campus functions” per the Okaloosa County Code of Student Conduct. (Ref: School District of Okaloosa County, Code of Student Conduct pamphlet) A student may face expulsion or suspension for use or possession of any contraband to include, but not be limited to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and Juul’s.

1. The official School Code of Conduct is in effect at all times during Style Marcher events.

2. Eating & Drinking - Students are to refrain from eating and/or drinking in the band room (water is permissible) and the stands during football games unless told otherwise by a director or the head chaperone. Students are not to chew gum at any time while in uniform, in the band room, or rehearsal.

3. Clothing - School dress code is in effect for all travel. Students are expected to wear designated

clothes and/or uniform parts as specified by the band director. (for example: green Style Marcher polo shirt, khaki or white school approved length shorts, Style Marcher-only shirts and baseball caps, grey uniform t-shirt, black uniform shorts, white gloves, black gloves, black crew socks, close-toed shoes when required, etc.…) Students not wearing the correct clothes may not be able to participate in the event.

4. Rehearsal Clothing – Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing at all Style Marcher

marching band rehearsals. Athletic shoes (tennis shoes, running shoes, cross-trainers, etc…), athletic pants or shorts (no jeans), and comfortable shirts are required at all rehearsals.

5. Band Apparel – All band apparel and designs, including but not limited to section shirts, should

be approved by the director(s) before an order is placed.

6. Tattoos – Tattoos will be covered at all times when in public and representing Choctawhatchee High School and the Style Marchers. “Covered” may mean by clothing, makeup, or wrap (bandage). In performance, exposed tattoos should be covered by appropriately tinted makeup.

7. Piercings – Only “non-distracting” stud earrings in ears, maximum one earring per ear for

uniform performances (competitions, football games, etc…). No facial piercings will be allowed at any time during uniformed performances. Facial or tongue piercings that interfere with the integrity of the embouchure or articulation in any way will not be permitted at any band function to include but not limited to class, rehearsals, performances. Gauges, nasal, and other facial piercings will not be permitted at any Style Marcher function.

8. Hair Color – In all uniformed events and performances, students will perform in “natural” hair color, unless specifically directed by the band director. Students will not be permitted to perform in “non-natural” colors such as, but not limited to, greens, blues, pinks, purples, etc.

9. Instrument Cleaning – Students are expected to clean and polish their instruments before arriving at a performance event (football game, competition, etc…). Inspection will take place before the event and a student may not be allowed to perform if the instrument does not pass inspection.

10. Instrument/Equipment Storage – Instruments/Equipment is to be stored in proper condition

in the proper designated areas. Equipment and Instruments should only be tampered with by the owner/user of the equipment or instrument.

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11. PDA – Any public display of affection (PDA) is to be limited to handholding only and will take place outside of Style Marcher events.

12. Profanity - Students are not to use profanity.

13. Cell Phones – School rules regarding cell phones will be enforced. Students are not allowed to

use cell phones during class, games, or any other band function including rehearsal. Cell phones must be kept out of sight at all times when in class or a performance situation. (In the stands during games, contests, or other performances.) If necessary, the cell phone will be taken and held by a chaperone or director.

14. Restroom Breaks - Students are encouraged to take care of those needs before the game/event.

Chaperones will escort students to and from the bathrooms. No more than two students from the same section may go to the bathroom at one time (in an effort to minimize the impact to the band.) Restroom breaks are not intended to be social events.

15. Uniform – The uniform will be treated with appropriate care and worn as instructed at all times.

Students may not run while in uniform. At the completion of an event with uniforms students are expected to properly return and care for uniform as directed.

16. Fans – Neither parents or friends are allowed to interfere or be in the designated band seating

with the band students.

17. Medication – Students are not allowed to handle/possess their own medications during events or on trips. ALL medication must be turned in to one of the nurses at the beginning of the event (i.e. prior to leaving the school). Medication, of ANY type or quantity, must be maintained, and can only be administered by a designated medical personnel.

18. Busses o Busses will be cleaned before anyone goes home. o Leave valuables at home when traveling. Neither the band program or bus drivers are

responsible for valuables left on the bus during events. o “Seniority rules” will be in affect at the discretion of the head chaperone. Students should

expect “seniority rules” to apply on busses (seating (as available), loading, & unloading) as long as the privilege is not abused.

o Switching busses is rarely permitted and only with the approval head of the chaperone.

19. Accountability – Students are accountable for their personal and school property at all times. This includes, but is not limited to, the student’s uniform, headdress, instrument, instrument case, music, luggage, clothing, money, bus seat/area, hotel room & supplies, etc.…

20. Professionalism - Students will always be courteous, kind and respectful of other students, staff, adult volunteers, bus drivers, parents, fans and other bands.

21. Social Media– Students will refrain from engaging in confrontational, degrading, or

argumentative, as well as any other sort of questionable activity available for display through social media or any other public presentation.

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5. GRADING Grading is based on performance, attendance and skills as follows: PERFORMANCE/TESTS 50%: Students are expected to play/perform assigned material in class and at scheduled events, appropriate class and scheduled event participation, having appropriate rehearsal and performance materials, and returning any school owned items at designated times and in appropriate condition. ATTENDANCE 25%: Students are expected to be in the designated areas by the time specified and for the duration of the scheduled event. CLASSWORK/HOMEWORK 15%: Students are expected to adequately perform and turn in classwork and homework as assigned. CLASS MATERIALS 10%: Students are expected to be in every class meeting with appropriate materials including equipment, instrument, music, pencil, reeds, oils, tuner, etc. In the event that a student is removed from a performing ensemble and a schedule change is not possible, the student will be placed in the “non-performing” category. Non-performing area: A student must demonstrate progress in basic understanding and playing of the instrument. The student will participate appropriately in all classroom activities but will not have the privilege of performing with the ensemble. WEIGHTED CREDIT of .5 per semester will be awarded to Juniors and Seniors for completing a total of 15 hours of service. At least 5 of these service hours should be of supervised practice in the band room and at least 5 hours should consist of middle school mentor sessions. The remaining 5 hours may be met through any combination of either activity.

Or completing all of the following: 1. Audition for All-State 2. Audition for All-County 3. Participation in the Solo category of Solo and Ensemble

6. ATTENDANCE All members are expected to attend and be on time for all rehearsals and performances. TARDIES: Students are expected to be in the designated areas by the time specified. A student’s grade in this area can be reduced from 1-15 percentage points per occurrence, dependent upon the degree to which the student was tardy. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: An unexcused absence from a performance may result in a failing grade for the 9 weeks. An unexcused absence from a rehearsal can result in the lowering of the 9 weeks grade by one letter grade. An unexcused absence may also have an effect on a student’s performance status or participation in the program. EXCUSED ABSENCES: Director approval is required for excused absences. Advanced notice is expected from the parent(s)/guardian(s) via email or phone call/voicemail. Appropriate extenuating circumstances will be excused if contact is not made before the rehearsal or performance. In these occurrences, an email from a parent is required within two days of the absence in order to be considered for an excused absence. A doctor’s note or more detailed information pertaining to an excused absence may be required to verify the absence. Without more detailed information when requested, director(s) may not excuse the absence. JOBS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED AS A REASON FOR AN EXCUSED ABSENCE. EARLY RELEASE: A student may be released early from a rehearsal of performance with the director(s) approval. “Early Release” forms are available upon request and must be submitted to the director(s) before the event in which an early dismissal is requested. In the event that a student must be dismissed from an event without prior communication, the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) must check the student out with the director(s) before leaving the event grounds. CONFLICTING REHEARSALS/PERFORMANCES (within school activities): Students participating in school activities during the year are expected to split their practice/rehearsal times “½ and ½.” Students in these situations are expected to attend at least half of each band practice. The game or performance will take precedence over the practice/rehearsal. In the event of conflicting performances/games, students should speak with a director well in advance of the event. CLASS ABSENCE: Students missing class on the day before or day of of a performance may not be eligible to perform. Each absence on the day of or day before a performance will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

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7. BAND LEADERSHIP

The leadership team within the band is appointed by the band director(s). Leadership candidates must be active members of the Choctawhatchee High School band for at least one school year. Candidates must also be members in good standing of both the Style Marchers and Choctawhatchee High School. Final selections are with the approval of the director(s). Any officer not fulfilling their duties may be dismissed from leadership responsibilities and duties. Leadership responsibilities and duties are as follows: Drum Major

• To take charge of the band in the absence of the director(s) • To assist the director(s) in rehearsal preparation and post rehearsal tasks • To assume the role as the Style Marchers student leader

Captains (Percussion/Color Guard)

• To take charge of your respective section in the absence of the director(s) • To assist the director(s) and instructional staff in rehearsal preparation and post rehearsal

tasks • To assist with distribution of music for your respective sections • To take roll for your respective sections at each rehearsal and performance

Section Leaders

• To assume all responsibilities for your respective section within the band • To assist with rehearsal of music and visual technique • To assist with music distribution • To assist individual members within your respective section

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8. UNIFORMS Uniforms will be furnished to the band members each year as stated in the Okaloosa School District Policies. All students must furnish footwear as determined by the Band Director. Some students will be required to construct a Headdress. Clinics are held for those members needing to make a Headdress. Damage or loss of any issued uniform or uniform parts is the responsibility of the student renting the uniform. Students should respect and have pride in their uniforms. There are basic needs for its care and they are as follows:

1. Uniforms are stored at school unless checked out with the Uniform Chairperson. 2. Students should know their Uniform Numbers, including Bibs, Jackets and Gauntlets. 3. Style Marcher gray t-shirt and black shorts should always be worn under the uniform. Cleanliness

is expected. Grays and blacks are to be laundered after each use. If you report to game/event without proper clothing, replacements will be provided at cost.

4. No nail polish, except clear nail polish. 5. Hair, male or female, must be out of face and should not be seen when wearing headdress.

Hairpins, barrettes, and rubber bands must match natural hair color. Ponytails and braids are permitted.

6. No war paint unless permission granted by band directors. 7. You must be completely dressed at all times to and from the stadium, on and off buses, no unzipped

jackets, un-tucked shirts, etc. 8. Shoes should be cleaned and polished. 9. Notify the uniform chairperson with any uniform related problem. Uniform bags and hangers

should be used and handled with care. Notify uniform chairperson should these items become damaged.

10. Gloves must be kept clean and may not be stored in garment bag or the headdress bag. Replacement gloves may be provided for $5.

11. Tube-style, calf-length, black socks must be worn. Replacements may be provided for $5. 12. Keep a white 13-gallon trash bag inside the headdress bag.

13. Only uniforms are to be stored in the garment bags. Items such as socks, gloves, undergarments, etc., will be removed.

14. Refrain from running in uniform 15. When in uniform, only wear uniform materials and “grays and blacks.” 16. Wear uniforms completely and appropriately unless directed to do otherwise by the directors. 17. Students will perform only in “natural” hair colors. Blues, greens, purples, etc, will not be allowed. Getting Dressed for the Games/Performances 1. Report to the auditorium at the time designated by band directors. 2. Report dressed in gray shirt, black shorts, black tube socks, Vipers (shoes) and with headdress in

bag. 3. Individual uniforms will be found on appropriate sections rack. Dress as instructed. 4. Uniform issues should be addressed to the uniform chairperson 5. Gauntlets and other uniform accessories will be issued at an appropriate time

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After Games/Performances 1. Return to auditorium and hang uniform neatly on approved hanger and place inside appropriate

bag. Hang garment in section rack in bag number order. 2. For green jacket, place jacket on the jacket hanger and fold shoulder wings back. 3. When hanging bibs, make sure the legs are straight by their creases and then fold and hang. 4. Shoes may not be left in garment bag.

Alternate Uniform

Students will be responsible for wearing an alternate assigned uniform of dress to include: Khaki shorts or pants with designated band apparel. Shirts should be tucked in and closed toe athletic shoes should be worn. Avoid bright colored athletic shoes and bright colored socks at or above the ankle. All shirts should be tucked in when getting off the bus. Belt should be worn where appropriate. Clothing should fit appropriately. Students will be responsible for maintaining and wearing: Green Nike “C” Shirt. Green Nike Polo. Gray Nike warm up jacket and pants. Marching Band Show Shirt. “Grays & Blacks.”

9. INSPECTION Inspection of instruments and uniforms will take place on a weekly basis. It is the responsibility of each student to have his or her uniform, instrument and equipment prepared for inspection. Jewelry such as rings, watches and necklaces will not be worn during performances and must be taken off before inspection. UNIFORMS

• No wrinkles • Grey Style Marcher Logo T-shirt • Black Viper Shoes (polished) • Black Tube Socks • Everyone must have a plastic bag • Headdress should be correct

BRASS

• Horns must be cleaned and polished • Mouthpiece should be cleaned • Valves must be oiled BEFORE inspection • Slides should be greased and able to be moved

WOODWIND

• Reeds should be clean and playable • Cork should be greased • Mouthpiece should be clean • All pads should be clean and in good condition • Clean the inside of the bell • Remove all tarnish

PERCUSSION

• Sticks or mallets must be clean and newly wrapped • Drums must be dust free

GUARD

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• All equipment taped • All uniform parts clean • Appropriate hair and make-up • Appropriate weather gear • Appropriate shoes

10. AWARDS In order for a band member to be eligible for an award, the student MUST be enrolled in a band class for the entire school year. Marching Band and one or more of the following: Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Winter Guard or Winter Percussion qualifies a student for an award. Students may not be eligible for an award if suspended from band or school or are not current on band fees. 11. FEES There are financial obligations involved with participation in the band program. Students are expected to be current on all financial responsibilities before being granted membership and acquiring new financial obligations for other areas of the band program. There are scholarships available that can be awarded on the basis of need and the approval of the band directors with the band booster executive board. Those interested in scholarships should see the directors for appropriate forms. If a cash payment is made, students should notify the directors BEFORE placing the funds in the payment box. Marching Band Fees are due in full the first day of Band Camp. A payment plan is available for those who desire. Students who discontinue their membership after the beginning of the first Band Camp rehearsal are still obligated for the payment of their incurred fees for the season. 12. FUND RAISING All fund raising is set by the Band Parents Association according to the amount budgeted for a particular project. Students are highly encouraged to participate in fund raising projects to help offset student fees. ALL ITEMS TAKEN FOR RESALE BY A STUDENT ARE NON-RETURNABLE. THE BAND DEPARTMENT IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN MERCHANDISE.

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13. COMMUNICATION

The band program will use several methods of communication throughout the school year.

EMAIL: Primary communication will come via email from our Charms database. It is very important all students and parents have active email accounts on file. Important and pertinent information will be sent via Charms email.

Director’s email addresses: Bradley Parks: [email protected]

Stephen Mayo: [email protected]

REMIND101: Remind101 is a text-based service and app available to all who have texting capabilities on their cell phone. There are multiple groups to sign up for depending upon your student’s involvement. Notifications from Remind may include updates about arrival times home from football games and competitions, announcements not made in class, and reminders pertinent to each group. Text the following handles (that you would like notifications from) to the number “81010.” For example, if you have a student in concert band, you would text “@stylemar12” to “81010.” In a separate text you would send “@stylemar7” to “81010” if your student is also a percussionist. Below are the various groups we have on Remind.

Style Marchers c/o 2022: @stylemar22 – for all students and parents of the Style Marchers

Style Marchers c/o 2023: @stylemar23 – for all students and parents of the Style Marchers

Style Marchers c/o 2024: @stylemar24 – for all students and parents of the Style Marchers

Style Marchers c/o 2025: @stylemar25 – for all students and parents of the Style Marchers

Symphonic Band: @stylemar5 – for students and parents of the 5th period symphonic band

Concert Band: @stylemar12 – for students and parents of the 1st & 2nd period concert band

Jazz Band: @stylemar3 – for students and parents of the 3rd period jazz band

Percussion: @stylemar7 – for students and parents of the 7th period percussion class

Color Guard: @stylemar4 – for students and parents of the 4th period color guard class

FACEBOOK: Facebook will be used as a resource for events, performances, pictures, and general communication throughout the school year. “Like” our page, “Choctawhatchee Style Marchers,” and request to join the respective Facebook groups pertaining to your area within the program: “Choctaw Winds,” “Choctaw Percussion,” “Choctaw Color Guard.” Please note these groups are for students and parents/guardians only.

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I, _________________________ (print student(s) name), have read, understand, and commit to uphold and abide by all information, instructions, policies, and procedures contained in the 2021-2022 Choctawhatchee High School Band Program Handbook for the full 2021-2022 academic school year. I understand my financial obligation to the Style Marchers for the fall 2021 semester is $550. ________________________________ _____________________________ (Parent/Guardian Signature) (Student Signature) ________________________________ _____________________________ (Print Parent/Guardian Name) (Print Student Name) ________________________________ _____________________________ (Date) (Date)

The complete contents of this handbook are available online at stylemarchers.com


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