1 | P a g e

Brusly High School Band

The Panther Sound

Parent - Student Handbook

2017 - 2018

William Mulina, Director

Victoria Childress, Asst. Director

Walt Lemoine, Principal Julie Mayeux, Assistant Principal

Warren Lejeune, Assistant Principal

630 Frontage Road

Brusly, Louisiana 70719 225-749-2815 225-749-2816

225-7498563 (Fax)

2 | P a g e

We are on the Web!!!!!

https://www.facebook.com/BruslyHSBand?ref=hl

http://bruslyhighschoolband.weebly.com/

The Importance of Email!

All members and parents are highly encouraged to have an email account to receive correspondence from directors and

booster officers. This is the main way we communicate important information.

Please add Mr. Mulina’s email to your contacts:

william.mulina@wbrschools.net

After School Practice

Practice will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 – 6:30pm.

Additional “special” practices/sectionals can be called if

needed. These “special” practices are not graded, but we ask participation if possible.

**Colorguard may have additional required, assigned practices.

3 | P a g e

REQUIREMENTS

Members must participate for a full school year, which extends from band camp to the last day of

school. If a student fails to fulfill this requirement they loose their right to letter and put in jeopardy

their right in next year’s band.

Members must attend all rehearsals and performances.

Members must attend summer practices and camps.

Band Members will need to purchase a method book, tuner and metronome. Guard members will

need to purchase a rifle/flag kit.

Band members will need to purchase a band t-shirt and performance attire.

Members must pay a band activity fee ($100.00) and pay for all equipment and participate in

fundraisers.

Members must maintain a school mandated GPA for extracurricular activities, currently this is a 2.0.

Members must treat everyone with respect and act responsibly at all times.

CONFLICTS WITH BAND

We fully supports band members being involved in school sports/activities. Fostering the development of well-rounded

young people is one of our goals. Being involved in multiple activities may seem stressful at times, but most conflicts can

be resolved through advance communication and a little extra effort. In some cases parents may need to provide

transportation for their student to or from an event to help our compromise be effective.

It is your responsibility to keep in constant communication with Mr. Mulina and your coach/sponsor about all schedule

concerns. A schedule showing how you are going to split time should be provide to Mr. Mulina and your coach/sponsor

after it has been approved. You should never feel that you are in the middle and being pulled both ways, please let us

know if you do.

Our general policy is:

When a band rehearsal and sports practice overlap- the student should split time equally.

When a sports practice overlaps with a band performance - the student should attend the band

performance.

When a band practice overlaps with a game or performance – the student should attend the game or

performance.

When a band performance and sports game overlap- the student should attend the band event (unless

permission is given by the director to miss).

Students are reminded that band is a very demanding activity and that if involvement in outside

activities consistently conflict with the band schedule students should not dedicate themselves to band.

Work is not considered an excuse to miss a band event.

Parents and students please realize that when joining a performing group you are making a commitment

to all of the other members. When you back out of your commitment (i.e. fail to attend rehearsal and/or

performances) you are not only affecting the quality of the band, but you are letting down your fellow

members and friends.

4 | P a g e

THE IMPORTANCE OF A GOOD ATTITUDE AND DISCIPLINE

The greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or organization is attitude. The

kind of person that you are is an individual choice and how we feel about something, which involves attitude, is

one of the few actual independent choices that we have in life. It takes intense dedication to reach goals.

Students should learn to discipline themselves to daily practice on fundamentals. The “right attitude” must be

present along with sincerity, concentration, and dedication as the basic foundation. Such an attitude makes an

artistic performance inevitable and is the difference between a winning organization and a mediocre group.

If there are conflicts, find a way to resolve them. Never insult another band Member’s integrity. The word

“band” means that we are banded together and that there is no separation. The Brusly band is not a band, not a

color guard, or not a drum line. WE ARE A UNIT! WE ARE ONE! All information in this handbook

APPLIES TO ALL MEMBERS OF EVERY SECTION OF THE UNIT. When something is section specific

(colorguard, drumline, etc.) it will be noted. Because of the nature of the organization, band discipline must be

strict! Band students and parents must believe in the ideals, principles, and philosophy of the organization.

Each member must always be aware of good behavior and think for himself or herself.

DISMISSAL

Any misconduct casts a bad light on the school, community, and band program. Any member who casts

discredit to the organization by his/her conduct or actions in band, in another class, or on a trip, shall be subject

to dismissal from the band program, or may lose privileges within the program. Disciplinary decisions will be

at the director’s discretion.

No student will be denied the initial opportunity to study music. However, those who do not follow the

rules and policies of the performing groups are subject to removal from those groups. It is the discretion

of the director(s) as to which class or group a student is enrolled in, and it is at the discretion of the

director(s) as to whether they will remain in that group – the director(s) will decide who is allowed to

participate.

BAND CLASS REQUIREMENT

Instrumental music classes are considered co-curricular. Portions of the class requirements are completed

outside the regular school day. In as much as these classes are demonstrative through rehearsal/concert

performances, it is a given that these rehearsals and performances are mandatory for successful completion of

any band course requirements.

All horn players and percussionist must be enrolled in one of the band classes, unless there is a direct conflict

with a graduation or TOPS requirement. All conflicts should be brought to the director’s attention. Also, all

band members must participate in marching band. Those not physically capable of actually marching will be

given duties that they can handle.

5 | P a g e

CLASSROOM CONDUCT

Please be in the band room by the time the bell rings. You will have 5 minutes to get your equipment

together and get to your seat. We understand that you are coming from other classes and you would like to talk

to your friends, but we have a very limited amount of time to get our job done.

Anyone not in the band room by the bell will receive a tardy.

Please have your horn warmed up before the start of rehearsal. Yes we will do a group warm-up, but it

will not be sufficient for most horns.

Once the rehearsal begins, all talking is to cease. Once again we have very little time to get a lot done. If

you do not follow this rule you will be asked to leave, no questions asked!

Always have a pencil ready to take notes on your music. There will be random pencil and music checks for

grades throughout the year. A pencil is very important to have so you can mark musical changes on your parts.

Please bring one every day, no matter what ensemble you are in.

Keep all personal items out of the rehearsal area. We do not want to hear cell phones going off or see

anyone doing homework from other classes.

Please stay in your seat until dismissed. I am sure you have heard this in other classes; the bell does not

release you I do. Well the same goes for us. If we are in the middle of a musical phrase and we see and hear

horns being taken apart it is very distracting and rude. Once again stay in your seat until you are dismissed!

Most of the time you have rehearsal after school anyway so there should not be a big hurry to leave, because

you are not going anywhere!

GRADES

Grades will be based on attendance and punctuality, effort, music, fundamentals, personal appearance (clean

uniform, grooming, etc.), care of equipment (instrument, music, uniform, etc.), cooperation, class participation

and assignments.

Required Performances (Major Grade) ......................................................................................................50% Several required Concerts/Performances occurs each Semester, (see band calendar) and includes

attendance/participation at all band events during the school year.

Daily Participation (Major and Minor Grades) ..........................................................................................25% Attends class on time, with instrument & music, actively participating, no deductions for inappropriate

behavior or tardiness.

Playing Tests and Special Projects (Major and Minor Grades) ................................................................25% Tests, quizzes and/or Auditions.

% of Grade Total .........................................................................................................................................100%

***The demerit system can have an effect on the final grade based on demerits received.

6 | P a g e

ATTENDANCE

Attendance at all scheduled concerts/performances is required and is part of your grade.

This is a fundamental and integral part of your membership in band. Each performer in the ensemble is

dependent on each band member being present to perform their specific and integral part. Because the band is

more than just a collection of individual performers, it is necessary that we rehearse and perform as a unified

group. Problems with individual attendance at performances seriously limits our ability to be consistent and

strive for excellence. Every attempt has been made to structure a performance calendar that includes a

reasonable number of performances.

The only excused absences from a scheduled rehearsal are:

You are ill the day of the scheduled rehearsal, and if school were or is in session you would be absent

from school. (Doctor note required. Please call to report your illness/absence).

A family emergency occurs. (Please call to report).

Pre-planned family activity. (Must be worked out in advance).

Splitting time with another activity. (Must be worked out in advance).

Dr. Appointments (unless an emergency) and jobs are not excused.

The only excused absences from a scheduled performance are:

You are ill the day of the scheduled rehearsal, and if school were or is in session you would be absent

from school. (Doctor note required. Please call to report your illness/absence).

A family emergency occurs. (Please call Mr. Mulina).

Dr. Appointments (unless an emergency) and jobs are not excused. .

Any other absence from a rehearsal or performance is unexcused. Failure to notify us in a timely manner of

your absence is also unexcused.

Unexcused absences from rehearsals or performances will:

Negatively affect your grade in Band

Restrict your opportunity to earn a Varsity Letter in Band

Will result in a meeting to discuss your continued participation in band

May lead to the loss of band membership

***NOTE: student jobs, or work conflicts, and dr. appointments are absolutely no excuse for missing a

rehearsal or performance. Plan Ahead!!

New this year, due to multiple absences, unexcused, last year we are

requiring each student to fill out an absentee form with a parent

signature. Each form must be returned within two days. This does not

guarantee an excused absence, but it will help us keep track of absentees.

These form will be available from a staff member.

7 | P a g e

SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT

Any person using a school owned instrument or equipment must have a usage agreement form signed by a parent

and the student before it is assigned for the season.

While it is checked out, you assume the FINANCIAL responsibility of normal maintenance or of carelessness. If there is a

problem with your instrument, bring it to a director immediately - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR AN INSTRUMENT

YOURSELF! The sooner problems are attended to, the better the instrument will operate and the less expensive it will be

to maintain in the long run.

USE OF BAND FACILITIES

No student is allowed in the band room without a director or adult/administrator.

YOU MAY NOT EVER CHEW GUM IN ANY MUSIC ROOM. SPIT IT OUT WHEN YOU ENTER

THE ROOM.

It should go without saying, but never write, mark or scratch on any of the walls, floors, doors, chairs, stands,

instruments or cases. Do not write on the chalk boards without permission. Do not post anything on the bulletin

boards, walls or doors without permission and do not write or mark on anything that has been posted.

Please do not throw objects at the roof.

Do not leave anything lying around or it will be thrown away. Please store things in their proper place and

take all personal items with you.

The band room is a place to practice, rehearse, and make music. The use of band facilities before, after, and

during school is a privilege. Students who abuse the facility will be disciplined accordingly. Any abuse or

damage will be considered vandalism.

No outside students are permitted in the band room, except for business with the director or another class.

Your friends are not welcome to disrupt rehearsal no matter how important they or you think it is so please take

care of your personal business with them outside of rehearsal.

There will be no horseplay, e.g., throwing things in or around the band room.

All percussion and guard equipment is off limits to anyone not specifically designated to use them.

INDIVIDUAL PRACTICE

As with any activity, you get out if what you put into it. Band will not be fun unless you practice. Remember: “Perfect practice

makes perfect!”

Here is a suggested plan of study:

Pick a set time each day

Buy a tuner and metronome and use them

Warm-up with long tones, slurs, scales, chorale

When warming up think “Tone”

Try to increase endurance and range (highest note with good tone)

Work on scales every practice session

Take breaks - don’t wear out your lips

Work on technique (articulation, accents, etc.)

8 | P a g e

TRIPS

We are privileged to have the opportunity to travel out of town throughout the school year. We want everyone

to have fun, but certain rules must be followed.

Bus Procedure

Roll with be taken as you enter the bus each time.

Buses will be boarded based on seniority (grade level).

Follow all bus rules, at all times.

Remain seated at all times.

Do not throw anything out of the windows.

Do not leave the bus until a director or chaperone tells you.

Missing the Bus - Parents (and students) please be aware that if a student misses the departure time for a

trip we will not be legally responsible for their actions or if anything were to happen. Once we depart a

student is absent.

Rules of Conduct for Out of Town Trips

Every member will be expected to represent parents, self, school, and community in the high standards

of the Brusly Band. Members will be expected to conduct themselves like ladies and gentlemen at all

times.

There will be no tobacco on buses, in public, or in uniform.

No boys will be in girls’ rooms or girls in boys’ rooms at any time.

Do not disturb other guests in hotel rooms.

There will be no yelling or unnecessary noise at any time.

No inappropriate sexual activity. Be certain to maintain a good image.

Learn the bus schedule and always be on time.

Do not leave your instrument on the bus unless instructed to do so.

Keep all language clean.

Absolutely no alcoholic beverages or illegal substances.

Avoid any kind of trouble from outsiders. Let the director(s) and chaperones take care of these

situations.

All students are required to be with the group at all times. Friends or relatives may visit with you, but

do not ask to leave to visit them.

Please do not leave any money in your room.

Absolutely no charges to the room - no phone calls - use the pay phone.

You may not ride in an unauthorized vehicle for any reason, at any time.

You must stay within the set boundaries at all times.

Always be aware of the curfew, and abide by it.

Brusly dress code must be followed. Exceptions might include the beach, pool, or in the

hotel/condominium.

Any student guilty of disrespect, misconduct, or any other infraction of the rules will be

subject to Brusly Administration disciplinary actions. This may include suspension or

expulsion. Any serious infractions on trips longer than one day may result in the student

being sent home at his/her own expense.

9 | P a g e

BAND TRAVEL POLICY

It is the policy of this band that when traveling, no matter the distance, all members ride to and from events on the bus, unless other arrangements are made. If a parent wishes to have their child picked up from an event Mr. Mulina must have a hand written note.

Please keep in mind that we are legally responsible for members for the duration of an event, which extends from report time until dismissal. If you break this rule you risk being removed from the band. In addition, any overnight trip arranged through the band is mandatory for all participants of that unit. All members are required to stay together in rooms selected by the band director at the hotel designated by the band director.

STAFF AND CHAPERONES Everyone on the staff of the band has been selected due to the skills and qualities they possess and for the benefit they can bring the band program, and should be considered an extension of the director(s). They are to be treated with the highest level of courtesy and respect. Chaperones are also extensions of the authority of the director(s). Without the dedication of our chaperones and other adults that assist with the band, we could not travel or perform in the way we do. These people work hard, and the only payment they receive is our appreciation. Be respectful, polite, cooperative, and remember that the words "Thank You" cost you nothing but are highly valued by the recipient. If you disagree with something a chaperone asks you to do, you are not to argue with the chaperone. You are to do as you are asked and then inform the director as soon as possible. This policy will be strictly enforced. (In the extremely unlikely event that a chaperon's instruction would cause you to violate civil law or moral standards, the student should ask to be taken by that chaperone to the director immediately). If a chaperone has to report a student for being uncooperative or for any other reason, that student is subject to disciplinary actions or removal from the group.

LETTERING IN BAND AND GUARD Any high school student who completes one full year with the band and fulfills all requirements required of its members will receive a letter. Letters are in the form of certificates and bars given out at the end of the year band banquet.

LETTERMAN JACKET Once a student collects two (2) letters they are eligible to purchase a letterman jacket provided they have completed the following requirements:

Students must be members of the band for at least two years; Students must remain in good academic standing for the entire school year; Students must demonstrate a positive attitude and maintain a satisfactory conduct; Students must attend all functions and activities of the organization or sub-groups unless excused by the director(s).

10 | P a g e

CELL PHONE USE Cell phones are a great invention, and we will even often encourage students bring their phones on away trips to aid in calling home as we near the school on our return trip home… HOWEVER, cell phones WILL be taken from students if they are used during a rehearsal or performance. Students SHOULD NOT have their phones out in plain sight, or in the “on” (out-of-sight) position when in an outside-of-school hours band rehearsal/sectional or performance. This is completely concurrent with WBR Parish Handbook policy regarding cell phones in classes during school hours. Rehearsals are an extension of our class time, and the same standard will be utilized, as we will the same protocol followed when one is discovered during rehearsal time.

Rehearsals Please note the following for all rehearsals:

Rehearsals are not canceled due to rain. If you do not hear it from the director(s) then it is not canceled. Wear light weight, light colored clothes for hot weather. For cold days, wear layers that can be removed. Wear TENNIS or LOW TOP shoes. Sandals and toeless shoes are not acceptable. Shoes must be laced at all times

during rehearsal. Please wear sun protection on hot days. This includes: sun screen, hats, and sun glasses. Drink plenty of water.

Alternates The following policy will be used: The half-time show will be written for a set number of positions. Some members will share a spot with another member. These members will alternate performances according to schedule set by the director. Spot assignments will be assigned by the director based on attendance, preparation, attitude and behavior. Students that do not march a spot on the field will have alternate show assignments such as props, or pit. It is important to note that the term alternate refers to a spot or placement in a show only. Alternates are full members and are expected to participate fully.

Football Game Rules and Procedures

The appearance that the band makes at football games is very important. Every effort is made to make the band’s part of the game an

outstanding one. Many people from outside of our school will see the band only once. The impression that they receive has a great

deal to do with the spirit, pride, and reputation of the band. The band reflects the image of Brusly. Help make ours a favorable image

at all times.

Always follow the rules and remember you are there to promote positive school spirit.

Pay attention to the game so that you can cheer and play at the appropriate times.

Remain in full uniform at all times.

All members must remain with the band from report time to dismissal.

For away games – freshman or rookies will clean the buses. The drum major will be responsible for these assignments.

When marching to and from the stadium, the band will remain at attention. When you have class it shows – when you don’t,

it shouts!

Each member is responsible for their equipment; please do not leave it unattended.

Members must remain with their section for the length of the entire game.

No playing unless told to by a director or drum major.

No one is allowed in the band section except band personnel.

Remember students may ride home with a parent or guardian, but the director must have a note signed by the parent prior to

departure, and that said person must make contact with the director prior to dismissal.

At ALL times use common sense.

11 | P a g e

Contests and Festivals Contests, festivals, and other adjudicated activities are important features of any band program because we obtain valuable feedback about our progress as individuals and as a program. Although we never "live or die" by any one judge's or any panel's opinion of our performance, it is important that we learn the value of giving maximum effort and standing by the results as our best possible effort that day. Competitions are special events. All members of the Brusly Band will stand with silent pride as scores are announced and graciously accept the results, regardless of outcome. We show our appreciation and respect for those who have earned the right to score ahead of us and gracefully accept our own successes. We are there to do our best – not to win. If we do our best, everything will take care of itself. Specific information is given out prior to competitions as to directions, departure, and anticipated return time. All parents are encouraged to attend competitions and support the band.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Hazing of any kind will not be tolerated! If you are found to be guilty of hazing any member of the Port Allen High School Band, you will immediately be dismissed from the program and referred to the dean’s office for disciplinary action! Mentor leadership is the key ingredient to a successful organization. A good leader is one who encourages and builds into

the lives of those they are asked to lead. A good leader is always looking for ways to serve the organization and the

members in it…not themselves.

In order to be considered for a leadership position, you must:

Be a member in good standing in the Brusly High School Band.

Be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the school.

Active participation in band activities and ensembles.

Complete an application!

Our leadership team consists of our Drum Major, Horn, Drum, and Guard Captains, and any other position

appointed by the director. Also, SENIORS play a vital role in the success of this organization.

Their role is to teach, motivate, encourage, and inspire. They are not disciplinarians or decision makers for the

Port Allen Band.

Anyone on our leadership team is expected to abide by all rules and guidelines. YOU ARE THE EXAMPLE!

DAILY EQUIPMENT

The following list is what each student should plan to bring to the appropriate rehearsal and/or performance. Other items may be added at the discretion of the directors.

All issued music Pencil Instrument All supplies relative to their instruments All marching related equipment (during marching season) Drill (marching band) Lyre/flip folder Other marching equipment as needed (could vary from year to year)

In addition, a metronome and tuner should be part of a band member’s tools for practice.

12 | P a g e

Demerit System The Brusly Band demerit system is meant to discourage unacceptable behavior while rewarding outstanding behavior with rewards. Also, remember demerits may be recorded for poor behavior in connection with school functions not involving band/auxiliary units. A Brusly Band member represents his/her school in and out of uniform.

Warnings A preliminary warning for an action may be given by the leaders or staff member. This is an opportunity for a band member to not receive a demerit while still serving a punishment for said action. Warnings are documented so they are not given many times. Warnings will have a consequence of 10 pushups, 10 jumping jacks or 1 lap around the band field. A student may opt to take the demerit.

What Do Demerits Do? Each demerit equals 10 minutes and must be worked off. Demerits are required to be worked off in the week that they occur or will become permanent for the 9 weeks. To work off a demerit a student must participate in some type of “practice” (like marching fundamentals or music, etc.) or assigned duty. Only the drum major or staff member or designee may record that a member has worked off demerits. These demerit work offs must be scheduled by the person who received the demerit. ***Note: Demerits are required to be worked off, but are tracked for the entire 9 weeks for purposes of discipline and rewards. Demerits are tracked and will result in the following if a student reaches the following numbers:

An accumulation of 5 demerits will result in a meeting and assigned punishment by the student leaders.

An accumulation of 10 demerits will result in a student loosing 3rd quarter break privileges (or equivalent) for that

week.

An accumulation of 20 points will warrant a 1 game suspension (or equivalent) and that student will be placed on

probation for the remainder of the 9 weeks. Possible removal from the group could occur if further violations happen.

Once a punishment has been served it does not have to be done again UNLESS the demerits have become permanent. ***Note: All demerits are in addition to school disciplinary actions. For any problem that involves specific school disciplinary action, demerits may be assigned in conjunction with, and according to school district policy.

If a member is assigned clinic by the school administration they will serve a 30 minute practice block. Each day of

clinic is equal to 30 minutes of practice time. If the clinic practice is not done they will become permanent demerits.

If a student is suspended from school by the school administration they will receive a suspension from a performance,

be required to serve the 30 minute practice block, and be banned from any “fun” activities relating to the band for the

remainder of that 9 weeks (band night outs, parties, etc.).

13 | P a g e

Band Bucks

Staff members and Student Leaders may give out band bucks to members they feel deserve to be rewarded for a job well

done, helping fellow members, etc.

Band Bucks may be spent in the following ways (examples):

1 Band Buck

Buy a pencil (for pencil checks)

5 band bucks

Choose bus seat 1st

Lead the band dismissal

10 Band Bucks

Can buy away one demerit

Can be excused from a minor quiz

9 Weeks Reward

If a member goes an entire 9 weeks period with no demerits they will receive a reward.

Examples could include:

Pizza Party

Movie Pass

Free Band Night Out

Year Reward

If a member goes an entire year with no demerits they will receive a reward.

Examples could include:

Dinner Night

Recognition at the Band Banquet

Recognition pin for letterman jacket

14 | P a g e

Demerits

Action Demerits

Eating, Drinking (Non-water), Gum-chewing 1

Excessive Talking/Talking During Rehearsal 1

Failure to Pass Off Music 1

Using Equipment that is Not Yours 1

Excessive Horse Playing (knocked down stands, etc.) 1

Uniform Infraction 1

Improper language 2

Eating, Drinking, Gum-chewing at any Performance 2 Being disrespectful to captains or not listening while they are talking as determined by the advisor 2

Lack of responsibility form a leader (Failure to notify members of information and changes) 2

Forgetting equipment, you will receive 1 warning, each day after 3 demerits 3

Leaving rehearsal early without advance permission 3

Unsportsmanlike conduct (determined by sponsor) 5

Tardiness (w/o permission) - 1 demerit for each 10 minutes Incremental

Leaving Early (w/o permission) - 1 demerit for each 10 minutes Incremental

Any infraction of constitution not otherwise stated Determined by the Director

Offenses Which Cannot Be Worked Off Demerits

Losing or leaving uniform or equipment (replaced at your expense) 1

Arguing with or showing disrespect to an advisor or chaperone 5

PDA 5

Fighting or causing dissension among squad 20

Intentionally damaging equipment 20

Unexcused Absence from Practice 10 + Lower Grade

Unexcused absence from performance 20 + Failing Grade