Orchestra Handbook

Fofor Students and Parents 2017-2018

Chamber OrchestraSymphonic Orchestra

Concert Orchestra

Mindi Loewen, Director

Please also check the Performing Arts Website for further information.http://www.grandviewperformingarts.org/

August 2017

Dear Grandview High School Orchestra Students and Parents,

After an incredible and amazing first year here at Grandview, I look forward to making great music throughout the year and have no doubts that this will be yet another spectacular year! I continue to be amazed at the great musical achievements that all the students made last year and am so thankful to be here. This year, Grandview celebrates 20 years and we have lots of new and continued traditions: the musical, the concerts, Grand Evening, European tours, and the Masterwork series continue to be ways that Grandview students shine in the spotlight across Colorado and around the world. This year you can look forward to the all-new Performing Arts College and Career Night on August 30, the return of the String Quartet Club, the Faure Requiem for the Masterworks Concert at Bethany Lutheran, and who knows what other things will blossom this year in Orchestra and the Performing Arts!

Please, do take the time to read and understand the Grandview Orchestra Handbook on the following pages. For many of you, this is something you are very familiar with, however, know that it is important that you review the policies and make sure the expectations are clear to you. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about this handbook, or about any of the events happening throughout the year.

Enclosed at the end of this Handbook is a link to the Syllabus Agreement and Medical Form online. This online Google form is available through the Performing Arts website and will allow us to more easily take field trips throughout the year (aka “show off these talented students!”). Please read carefully through the handbook and submit the information no later than Friday, August 18, 2017. Completion of this form indicates that both parents and students have reviewed these materials together. Please be sure to make note of the concert dates now to avoid any conflicts. If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Loewen.

As always, parents, we appreciate the years of support you have already given your child/(ren) in music and you also deserve a thanks – your support providing good instruments, private lessons, uniform mending, and especially applause at concerts, is appreciated more than you know. There are lots of ways to become further involved in your student’s performing arts education including volunteering with the Grandview Performing Arts Patrons who support the arts in amazing ways. Your involvement will make a huge difference and helps further our mission to have great music experiences for these students. Please stay tuned as to how you can become involved and thank you in advance!

It is with great joy that I look forward to making this another wonderful year of music!

Musically Yours,

Mindi Loewen Director of Orchestras & AP Music InstructorGrandview High Schoolmloewen @ cherrycreekschools . org 720.886.6629

Colorado Academic Standards in Music EducationThe Colorado Academic Standards in Music are the topical organization of the concepts and skills every Colorado student should know and be able to do throughout their Preschool through Grade 12 experience.

Expression of Music. The expression of music is the demonstration of human thought and emotion through the medium of performance, which is a product of knowledge and skills gained in the study of music.

1. Performance of musical works, accurately and expressively, demonstrating evidence of self-evaluation and personal interpretation at the minimal level of 4 (intermediate) on a scale of 1-6

2. Composition of more complex music in several distinct styles3. Arrangement of pieces for voices or instruments other than those for which the pieces were

written in ways that preserve or enhance the expressive effect of the music.

Creation of Music. The creation of music is the demonstration of learned skills ing the composition, improvisation and arranging of music. Creating music involves writing music, fashioning new music from an existing piece of music or forming an entirely new piece of music.

1. Improvisation of a stylistically appropriate vocal or instrumental solo over a given pattern of harmonic progressions.

2. Composition of more complex music in several distinct styles.3. Arrangement of pieces for voices or instruments other than those for which the pieces were

written in ways that preserve or enhance the expressive effect of the music.

Theory of Music. The theory of music is the understanding of the distinctive language, conventions, mechanics and structure of organized sound. Investigation of music theory allows for a more complete understanding of all aspects of the musical process, including musical performance and composition.

1. Interpreting notation of aural musical elements and ideas.2. Classification of musical genre, style, historical period or culture.3. Critical, informed evaluation of musical works.

Aesthetic Valuation of Music. The value of music focuses on the knowledge needed to make an informed evaluation and to provide a well thought-out critique about a musical piece. It also addresses the beauty, heart, and soul; the aesthetics of music. Valuing music will permit individuals to distinguish between a scholarly and an individual judgment of music.

1. Awareness of appropriate behavior in cultural activities.2. Critical evaluation of the quality and effectiveness of musical performances.3. Verbalization and defense of oral and/or written aesthetic judgments using appropriate

evaluation criteria.4. Explanation of opportunities available to them for further musical growth and professional

development.

Music standards can make a difference because they speak powerfully to two fundamental issues that pervade all of education: Quality and Accountability. A complete list of standards and benchmarks is available at www.cde.state.co.us.

Expectations...for Students - Be respectful at all timesBe responsible (be on time with all materials every day)Communicate with Mrs. Loewen about your individual progress and concerns before they become an issueCell phones will be left in backpacks and not on your personDo not bring food or chewing gum to reherasalsPractice a minimum of 15 minutes per dayGive your best effort daily and be excited to be part of something great!

for Parents - Support your student and the Orchestra program and performing arts department as a wholeRead this handbookHelp by providing materials and supplies for your studentHelp by providing a consistent space and time for your student to practiceHelp by acquiring and assisting in the maintenance of your student’s concert uniformTry to plan family activities around scheduled orchestra performances and eventsCommunicate with Mrs. Loewen if there are any concerns or questionsBe a positive role model for your studentEncourage them to take lessons if at all possibleConsider joining the Performing Arts Patrons

for Mrs. Loewen -Provide a safe, encouraging and fun learning environmentBe prepared for rehearsalsTreat all students in a fair mannerBe positiveBe organizedDesign activities for student centered learningRespond to concerns in a timely mannerCommunicate effectivelyBe the consummate musicianBe a positive role model for young people

Rehearsal Etiquette:Stop playing immediately after the cut offPractice at home, not during rehearsalNo food, drinks (other than water), or gum in classOut of respect, no cell phones allowed or headphones/iPods or similar technology(Cell phones and iPods may be confiscated during class. A referral will be given if it becomes a chronic problem)Be on time! (After three unexcused tardies, any student will be given a referral for EACH subsequent tardy)Be prepared! Bring your OWN sheet music, class materials and pencil to EVERY rehearsalGet to know your stand partnerDismissal comes from the teacher, not from the bellRespect anyone who is on the podium

Be professional. Do not talk during rehearsal unless you are called on; breaks will be given

Participation Music ensembles require a TEAM’S BEST effort. When part of the team is missing, it is hard for each member to function properly. Therefore, every member’s presence is needed at all classes, rehearsals, and performances. All school attendance policies apply.These are acceptable reasons for an excused absence:

IllnessDeath in the family

The following are NOT acceptable reasons for absence:Work conflictLack of transportation or large amounts of homework (plan ahead!)Other recitals or performancesSporting event

Being present, on time, and engaged is necessary for success of the orchestra ensemble. Be present, be engaged, be on time, and bring the best of yourself. Attendance is taken at the beginning of each rehearsal. If you must be absent, communicate with Mrs. Loewen prior to the absence. All school attendance policies apply. Attendance at performances outside of the school day is REQUIRED.

Grading PolicyInstrumental music classes are academic subjects for which students receive credit similar to any other class. Therefore, as in any other curricular subject, grades must be earned. Semester grades are evaluations of students’ progress on the music standards previously explained. Five criteria will determine a student’s grade, as outlined below.

1) Performance Component AssessmentsConcert performance grade =

50% teacher evaluation of performance50% student evaluation of performance

Scale TestsPlaying TestsPresentations

2) Written Component AssessmentsCommon AssessmentsTheory Work and testsQuizzesListening TestsProjects and/or CompositionsConcert Evaluations

3) Ensemble/TeamworkPositive class contribution and giving effort to improve skills, tone, intonation, blendBeing PRESENT, Being ENGAGED, Being ON TIME

4) Final Exam

As music learning should improve with practice, there is ALWAYS a chance to re-do an assignment for a better grade. Individuals should set a time with Mrs. Loewen for this. The cutoff for this is 24 hrs before

the concert for performance related assessments or the end of the quarter under which the task was assigned for written assessments.

Grade PercentagesIn accordance with the Grandview High School grading policy, semester percentages will be assigned the following letter grades:

90-100% = A Advanced 80-89% = B Proficient 70-79% = C Partially Proficient60-69% = D In Progress0-59% = F Failing

Please be aware that students who miss any required performance may not receive an ‘A.’Grades are cumulative by semester. Progress reports will be available on PowerSchool.

Practice TimeIn order to have an excellent music program, each individual must do their part. It is an expectation that high school orchestra students should be practicing outside of class (15 min is a bare minimum, advanced players should be putting in at least 60 min per day). Keys to successful practicing include consistency, challenging yourself, and having fun. There will be performance exams that hold students accountable for their practice time and progress. Remember: Practice makes permanent!

Concerts/PerformancesAll concerts and performances are REQUIRED. As stated previously, it is essential to successful musical results to have 100% participation. Students with un-excused concert absences will NOT be able to make up concert points. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Concert AttireWe will be ordering full-length black dresses (for women, $70) and standard tuxedo packages (for men, $115). Pictures below. Student measurements will be taken during class in the first weeks of school. More ordering information and actual pricing will be available soon.

Concert EtiquetteDuring concerts, students will be expected to listen to other musical groups that they are not performing with, AND provide appropriate support as an audience member. Audience members are expected to remain for the ENTIRE performance. If you must leave the auditorium for any reason, please do so during intermission, or during a changing of groups on stage. Please refrain from talking or using your phones during a performance, as it is discourteous to the performers and other audience members (concert grades will be affected when students are in violation). Recordings of performances are available following each concert, therefore, please avoid using personal devices as phone screens can be distracting to others. For each concert, be sure to note the call time as attendance is recorded and part of concert grade.

Practice TipsDaily practice is the key to success on any instrument. Quality is more important that quantity. 15 minutes can be more beneficial than 2 hours, if done properly. Here are a few tips to aid in achieving that:

Find a quiet place with few distractions Pick a certain time during the day and stick with practicing at that time every day Develop a warm up routine to help prevent injury and body fatigue (scales, etudes, stretches) Set obtainable goals for the practice session Spend more time on passages that are difficult, there is no need to practice the parts that can

easily be played Use books written specifically for your instrument Practice with purpose, persistence, and positivity – I promise you will be pleased!

Sheet MusicStudents will have their own music folder, and will be responsible for having it on hand at every rehearsal and concert. Each student is responsible for the music in that folder, and will be charged for music (originals) that are lost or damaged.

LetteringAll students will have the opportunity to earn a letter in Orchestra. Please see the lettering sheet attached and be diligent in keeping your records straight throughout the year. Good luck!

AwardsThere will be Orchestra Awards at the Curtain Call ceremony in May. During this ceremony, outstanding and improving students will be presented with awards. You are encouraged to attend.All seniors will be recognized at the final concert.

Leadership:

Throughout the year, it is beneficial to have student leaders assist with certain tasks in leadership on the orchestra council. Students who are willing can help lead sectionals, decorate bulletin boards and display cases, tutor younger musicians, in addition to other tasks as requested. Each orchestra will elect the following leaders: President (motivational leader, spokesperson, director assistant, form collector, guest greeter, concert publicist) and Secretary (attendance help, organize music in folders, file music, music fines). An orchestra Social Team will help plan potlucks, picnics, outings, after concert parties.

What If My Instrument Is Broken? All students are responsible for keeping their instruments in good playing condition. If your instrument is broken, you are responsible for having it repaired as soon as possible. I will be flexible with students who do not have an instrument in class due to a repair issue. I realize that once it is in the shop, that it is out of our control, but you must do your best to take care of your instrument.

When You Need To Have You Instrument or Bow Repaired

Instrument Problems:Fallen Bridge – Save and loosen all strings using the pegs. Your instrument is very fragile without a bridge, so try not to jar it in anyway. I can replace the bridge during the next class period. Many times when the bridge falls the sound post inside the instrument also falls. If this happens, it needs to be taken to a string repairperson to be fixed.

Broken Bridge – Your instrument’s bridge is not glued on, but is held in place by the tension of the strings. Occasionally a bridge will break into two or more pieces. If so, it must be replaced. Until it is repaired, handle the instrument as if the bridge has fallen by loosening the strings and handling it very carefully.

Buzzing sound when playing – Check to make sure that a necklace, button or other hard material is not touching the wood. Hard materials touching the instrument while you play can cause a vibration, and make a very annoying buzzing sound. If nothing of this sort is in contact with the instrument, bring it to my attention and I can help recommend the best action to take.

Cracks, loose parts, etc. – Unfortunately this can be a serious problem and will need to be fixed by a professional. I can help recommend the best action to take.

Bow Problems:Broken Hair – It is very common for individual hairs to break off during normal use. Just clip the broken hair at each end of the stick carefully with nail clippers or scissors.

Hair won’t tighten – This is a problem with the screw mechanism. Most music stores can replace the mechanism quickly.

Hair falls out of bow – If the hair comes out of the bow in a large batch, it will need to be professionally replaced. Wrap the hair loosely around the stick, being careful not to touch it with your hands. Take the bow to a string repairperson. Cracks in the stick or frog – Although these are not ideal conditions for a bow, it may still be usable. However, a professional repairperson should repair these cracks as soon as possible.

Broken stick – This is a very serious problem and usually the bow must be replaced. If the bow is rented, this should be brought to the attention of the rental establishment immediately. Any broken stick can be fixed, but the process is very expensive and the bow’s quality will never be fully restored.

If you are in need of repairs or supplies, please let me know. I can help you get what you need.

Private LessonsALL students are STRONGLY encouraged to take PRIVATE LESSONS.  Private lessons advance, strengthen and expand students’ musical abilities, while increasing the chances for acceptance to special by-audition events (like the Western States Honor Orchestra Festival and the annual Colorado All State Orchestra).  Most importantly, private lessons address the individual needs of students to support performance: both in the classroom and as a soloist.  The list below provides names and contact information for recommended private lesson instructors. 

All of the instructors listed below have demonstrated excellent work with their private students.  Each teacher has varying expectations for their students’ level of dedication to the instrument, so I recommend that students first ask for a trial lesson or observe another student being taught if it is possible. Investing in private instruction is priceless when it really comes down to it - it truly is a most worthwhile investment with immediate returns!

Violin and Viola

Lydia Sviatlovskaya 720-251-6008Jeremy Barber 303-947-8948Debbie Funk 303-695-4224Lynne Glaeske 303-779-6720Arlett Aslanian Townsend 303-745-6447Valentina Alykova 303-284-8261Lisa Gilliard 303-680-3334Eugenia Ahlikhanova 720-224-4273Larisa Lewis 303-750-0951Kathleen Spring 303-484-1332Judy Wylie 303-706-9807

CelloAndrea Meyers 303-470-7730Bobbie Nelson 303-519-6943Anna Leavitt 303-525-8215Karen Terbeek 303-400-4756Tracie Turnbull 720-320-9606Jim Todd 303-777-2597Cedra Kuehn 303-750-2855Dr. Jim Fittz 303-722-2780

Double Bass

Ben Greene 303-841-4027Mark Stefaniw 303-679-4437Paul Erhard Paul.Erhard@colorado.eduRichard Niezen Richard_Niezen@hotmail.com

Orchestra Calendar of Events 2017-2018Parents and Students: Make note of these dates NOW to avoid conflicts. Missing a performance is

unacceptable!! All events are in the Grandview Auditorium unless otherwise indicated.Call time for concerts will generally be 1 hour (or less) before performance time for tuning, warmup, or rehearsal.

Any additional performances and rehearsals will be communicated with as much advance notice as possible.

* = required events as specified (GRADED) # = by audition only/optional (not graded)

Date Event Time#Wed. Aug. 16 PA Freshman Ice Cream Social 4:15PM#Wed. Aug. 30 PA College/Career Night Panel 6:30-9:30PM#Tues. September 5 Leadership Workshop (Smoky Hill HS) 4:00-7:00

Patrons BBQ 7 PM#Wed. September 6 Auditions for Pit Orchestra 4PM-?#Friday, September 15 PA Movie Night? 6 PM#Saturday, Sept. 9 Recording sessions for WSHO/ASO scheduled individually (9-noon)*Thurs. October 5 CONCERT: Chamber & Symphonic Orch w/bands 7:30 PM#November 2-4 Western States Honor Orchestra at UNC Greeley#November 15-18 Musical – The Drowsy Chaperone 7:30 PM*Monday, December 11 CONCERT: Chamber, Symphonic & Concert Orch 7:30 PM*Thursday, January 11 FEEDER CONCERT: All Orchestras & Middle Schools 7:30 PM#January 19-20 District Honor Orchestra hosted at Grandview HS#February 8-10 Colorado All State Orchestra at CSU Fort Collins*Tuesday, March 20 MINIWORKS CONCERT: Concert Orchestra with Women’s Choirs 7:30 PM*Thursday, March 22 MASTERWORKS CONCERT:Chamber &Symphonic @ Bethany Lutheran 7:30PM*TBA April 3 or 4 Orchestra Festival – Fort Collins HS (Chamber only) TBA*TBA April 12 CHSAA Orchestra Festival – CTHS (Symphonic only) TBA*Saturday, April 28 GRAND EVENING: All Orchestras, Choirs, Bands 6-9 PM*Wednesday, May 9 CONCERT: All Orchestras (seniors farewell) 7:30 PM#Wednesday, May 16 Curtain Call (Performing Arts Awards) 7:30 PM*Thursday, May 24 GRADUATION 8AM @DU (FINAL Performance) 5:30 AM

FYI: IMPORTANT ADDENDUM to all Chamber Orchestra Members:Additional performances arise throughout the year, and it is great when we are able to show you off to other guests in our school and community. Events that came up last year included: Barnes and Noble English Event at Southlands and the Toy Drive in Denver during December, the Welcome Night for the 8th graders in January,

the Art Show in April, as well as there have been invitations for groups to perform at the local senior center, district events, etc.. I will always make every effort to notify you of these special appearances as soon as I know and ask that as high performing students, you do your best be there to support the team component of being in Grandview’s top orchestra (it does sometimes involved willingly helping out for the greater good). As always, communicate with me yourself if you have an overlap when these special circumstances come up - I do try to work with you if you give me time in advance! P.S. I do not apologize for wanting to show you off!

Grandview Band & OrchestraUniform Order Form

Student Name: ________________________________ Class Period: _______

All instrumental students are required to wear a uniform. For women, the dress is worn for all levels. For women percussionists, the blouse is worn with student providing personal black pants. For men in Concert and Symphonic bands, tux pants, tux shirt, tie and cummerbund are worn. Men in Wind Ensemble and all Orchestras wear the tux jacket. Students will be measured at school to ensure correct sizing. Please check the item(s) you need and send in payment (cash or check) with your order form. Checks should be made payable to Grandview High School. Thank you for helping make our students look sharp.

______ Black Dress $70.00

______ Black Blouse (women percussion) $30.00

______ Men’s Outfit (includes pants, shirt, tie & cummerbund) $65.00

______ Complete Tux (same as above plus jacket) $115.00

______ Tuxedo Pants $30.00

______ White Tuxedo Shirt $20.00

______ Tie & Cummerbund Set $15.00

______ Tuxedo Jacket only $65.00

Order Total __________

Please circle one: CASH______ CHECK #_______ Fundraising Acct _______

Parents: Please have your returning instrumental student try on their uniform NOW to make sure everything fits!! Thank you.

Grandview High School

ORCHESTRAS Lettering Criteria

Revised 2017

A Grandview Orchestra Letter is awarded to a student who:

Participates in all course required performances, rehearsals, and other activities Fulfills the skill requirements for their level and Orchestra classes Earns 100 activity points during June 1st, 2017 – April 30th, 2018 Maintains an “A” average for each semester in Orchestra class Completes the Lettering Application on time

The Lettering Ceremony takes place during Performing Arts Curtain Call at the end of the academic year. Be sure to be in attendance so that you can receive your letter and be recognized along with your peers. Name: _________________________________________ Year in School: ___________ Which letter is this for you? 1st 2nd 3rd 4th You must attach all of the appropriate and applicable documentation to this form. Documentation includes, but is not limited to: concert programs, written critiques, attendance logs, or letters from any coaches/instructors. Any required items that do not have documentation will not count towards your letter.

You may earn only 1 (one) letter per academic year.

Applications must be received by Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 at

3:00 PM

Point Value ChecklistFaculty approval is required for all points.

No points will be awarded for class requirements.Activity Rate Points Amount

Earned Maintain an “A” average in a second or third performing arts class (What Class_____________?)

Semester 5

Audition for orchestras outside of class (on campus or off) Date of audition: ____________

Each Audition 10

Attend a concert performance (show/concert) and write a 1 page critique (not the in class concert

Each 5

evaluations)

Participate in the GHS pit orchestra for the fall musical Points Possible

30

Participate in the GHS Talent Show Each 5 Participates in the String Quartet Club Each

Rehearsal 2

Take a private lesson or teach a private lesson Each 2 Participate in a community performing arts group that rehearses regularly (e.g. Youth Orchestra, Chamber Group)

Each Meeting

2

Audition for Western States Honor Orchestra, Colorado All-State Orchestra, or CCSD Honor Orchestra Each 10

Western States Honor Orchestra or Colorado All-State Orchestra participant

Each 25

CCSD Honor Orchestra participant Each 20

Section leader/Student leader per semester Each 10 Participate in a Solo and Ensemble Festival Each 5 Participates in an after school “extra” performance (senior center, coffee house, Art Show, TBA)

Each 5

Attend a Performing Arts summer camp or other intensive program

1 Week 10

Participate in a GHS Performing Arts tour Each 10 Participate in a GHS Performing Arts tour rehearsal Each 1 Grand Evening Set Up/Clean Up Each 5

Grand Total of Lettering Points: /100

Grandview High School OrchestraSyllabus Acknowledgement Form ONLINE

PARENTS AND STUDENTS MUST SUBMIT GOOGLE DOCIf you have concerns or questions, please contact

Mrs. Loewen at 720.866.6629 or mloewen@cherrycreekschools.org

I/We have read the information in this handbook, checked the calendar dates for possible conflicts, and agree to follow the guidelines and procedures outlined herein.

IMPORTANT: SIGN THE GOOGLE DOC ONLINE TO CONFIRM YOUR AGREEMENT (Your “e-signature”)

Grandview Performing Arts Webpage: http://www.grandviewperformingarts.org/Click on Orchestra => Click on “Grandview Instrumental Music Syllabus Acknowledgement & Medical Form”

===============================================================================Be sure to take care of any/all of the following as NEEDED and get involved in Orchestra this year! This year, I will need to/want to:

____Rent Instrument from school

____Buy the Uniform (Circle if you need a replacement bow tie, etc. or just all new)

____Be part of the Orchestra Leadership Team (Class President or on Social Team)

____Participate in String Quartet Club (after school)

____Audition for All State, Western States Honor Orchestra (circle each)

____Audition for Pit Orchestra

____Audition for CCSD Honor Orchestra (hosted here at Grandview)

____Be on the Honor Orchestra Crew to help (rehearsal set up, sectional rooms,

snacks, other helpful errand running)

____Organize outside orchestra events (go to Colorado Symphony concerts, etc)