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James B. Hunt High Band Handbook

2018 - 2019“Excellence, The Standard, Not The Goal”

Success travels in the company of very hard work. There is no trick, no easy way.”

John Wooden

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Contents

I. GRADING

II. HONORS CREDIT

III. REHEARSALS

IV. PERFORMANCES

V. HOME PRACTICE

VI. DISCIPLINE/CONDUCT

VII. GENERAL RULES

VIII. FOOTBALL GAMES AND STANDS BEHAVIOR

IX. BAND COMPETITIONS

X. BUS TRIPS

XI. FINANCIAL OBLIGATION

XII. UNIFORM REGULATIONS

XIII. USE OF SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS

XIV. STAFF AND DUTIES

XV. AWARDS

XVI. MOUTHPIECE & INSTRUMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

XVII. HUNT BAND BOOSTERS

XVIII. MEDICAL FORMS, BAND BOOSTER OFFICERS, STUDENT EXPENSES

XIX. BAND CALENDAR , CONTACT INFORMATION

XX. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND AGREEMENT PAGE

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Why Band?

Music is an art form and is about expressing oneself through a unique and different language. Band adds a group dynamic to the equation. Members are required to shift from an I/Me to a We/Us concept. “What’s in it for me?” becomes “What’s in it for us?” In this endeavor, one must extend themselves beyond the normal considerations of much of our day to day living. The values of cooperation, collaboration, communication, concentration, critical thinking, problem solving, correlation, and completion are a part of every rehearsal and performance.

Band is preparation for life and builds positive self-worth. The values and skills developed here are directly transferable to other facets of life.

Objectives

There are many objectives of the instrumental program. All of these objectives lead to a broadening of musical experiences. Each student is expected to increase appreciation of all types of music, improve musical skills and develop an understanding of music. The group should offer recreational opportunities, respect and pride through musical performance. Providing high standard musical performances is to be expected in route to becoming a better citizen and making the community a better place to live.

Qualifications

To be a member of the Hunt High School Band, students must have previous experience on his/her instrument. Audition requirements will be change year to year and be relevant to the musical goals for the program. Recommendation of the student’s middle school band director may be accepted instead of auditions.

Performing Ensembles

The Hunt Band program is part of the Hunt arts department and consists of the following ensembles:

Advanced Honors Band – The Marching Band performs at all home football games, parades and 4 to 5 marching band contest during the first semester. All instrumentalists must be enrolled in a band class to participate.

Visual Ensemble - (Color guard) – The Visual Ensemble performs with the Marching Warriors at all functions. The ensemble provides visual support for marching band with the use of flags, rifles and dance. Membership is open to all Hunt students through the process of audition. Auditions are held in the spring of each school year.

Intermediate Band - The concert band is currently an option for students that would like to continue with band but are unsure if marching band is right for them. However, all students are encouraged to participate in the marching band.

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Honors Symphonic Band – The Symphonic Band is an auditioned group that meets daily during 2nd semester. This groups performs approximately 3 to 4 times a year. Participation in the North Carolina Concert Band Contest Festival is expected. Participants are expected to practice outside of class regularly to develop and demonstrate the necessary musical growth indicative of honors level performance.

Jazz Band - Jazz ensemble meets as a class daily during 2nd semester. Students are exposed to the jazz idiom with an emphasis on the history, characteristics, style,

and musicians of the early swing, big band, bebop, cool jazz, and modern jazz periods. Consistent out of class practice is essential.

Formal Concert Attire:

This year all Hunt High School Concert and Symphonic Band students will be required to wear formal concert attire for designated concerts. Formal concert wear must be purchased through the band to insure uniformity. Concert attire for men is black tuxedo, white tuxedo shirt, black bow tie, black cummerbund, black long socks, and solid black dress shoes (purchased on your own) or band shoes. The cost is approximately $120.00 for the Tuxedo. Concert attire for ladies is black dress and black closed toe shoes (purchased on your own) with a heel no higher than two inches. Jewelry for ladies will be limited to a pearl necklace and the option of matching pearl earrings. The cost is approximately $ 90.00

Non-Formal Concert Attire - Attire for the Hunt Concert Band is concert black and all attire be in accordance with the WCS dress code.

Young Men: Black button down shirt, black slacks (no denims, shorts, or cargo’s) black dress shoes, belt, and black socks.

Young Ladies: Black blouse, black slacks, and black shoes. No dresses, skirts, shorts, denim, capri pants, or cargo’s will be allowed as non-formal concert attire.

Attire must be in compliance with band protocol and the WCS dress code

General Information

I. GRADING

The purpose of the grading policy is not to punish students for lack of commitment but to evaluate students in a fair, consistent, well-documented manner for participation, effort, quality of work, and performance mastery.

Each student will be graded as an individual relating to the performance of the ensemble. It is understood that both subjective and objective evaluations must be included in any artistic endeavor. Individual student grades will be generally based on the following criteria:

Attendance at rehearsals, sectionals, and performances. Unexcused absences and tardies will impact grades.

Daily Grades (having specified materials for class per director specifications and course syllabus).

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Level of participation and extent of effort towards one giving his or best at all times. Performances. Performances are required. Unexcused absences from a performance

or rehearsal will result in a 0 grade. An alternative assignment as determined by the director may be offered as a means of making up a 0 grade. The highest grade that will be awarded for an alternative assignment due to an unexcused absence will be a grade of 60.

Attendance - Performances are required. Unexcused absences prior to a performance may result in losing the privilege to perform in the performance.

Professional adjudicator evaluation - Individual, sectional and ensemble assessment occurs at local, regional, and state contest and competitions.

Tests: Scales, etudes, and playing tests.

Other: During marching season students will have playing tests on the show music, stands tunes, national anthem and parade music for memorization. During concert

season tests will be given on concert literature, scales, etudes, rhythms, vocabulary and other essential elements covered in class.

I. Attendance

Attendance is required at all rehearsals and sectionals. Student grades will be affected by excessive tardiness and absences.

We will only have a select number of rehearsals in which the full ensemble can rehearse together. Individual and sectional attendance is very important.

Missing rehearsals may remove you from a performance. Students who miss a rehearsal must complete a missed rehearsal form, sign it, have it signed by a parent or guardian, and turn it in to the missed rehearsal folder within 24 hours following the missed rehearsal. Reasonable and appropriate action may be explored to allow the student to make up the missed rehearsal. Failure to do so will lower your grade.

Classwork and Quiz Grades: 35%

Participation is weighted at 35%. The performing arts is just that, a performance and active consistent participation in the daily rehearsal is key. You should have all materials for rehearsal. (woodwinds should keep at least 3 reeds) for class. If you are asked to leave the class for disruption, your grade will be affected. Repeated failure to follow classroom rules may affect your grade as well.

Tests and Projects: 60%

Students will be tested individually on performance music, scales and exercises. Remember tone quality is very important and is a part of your grade. Woodwind players should have at least 3 reeds that you are playing on at all times. This mean you should rotate among the 3 reeds, so you always have a ready responsive reed! Test rubrics are used to score playing tests. Copies of playing test rubrics can be obtained from the playing test rubric folder. Students who are not adequately prepared and or performing up to an acceptable level may jeopardize the opportunity to perform in a performance.

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Homework: 5%

Students will be asked to participate and in written work during the year. These classwork assignments are meant to grow the musical knowledge of each individual student. Music theory which encompasses reading notes and rhythms, building scales, minor harmonic analysis will be the basis of these assignments. Students who do not complete the assignments will receive a zero for this work.

Performance: Included in Participation

Attendance at all Symphonic and Marching Band performances are required. Please be advised that music performance at the high school level is more intricate and the level of difficulty and exposure is increases. More demand is placed on individual independence. Everyone has to be present and prepared for performance. If a part is missing or not up to standard, the overall musical effect of the ensemble is diminished.

Unexcused absences and students who are removed from a performance will receive a performance grade of zero. Students may also be graded on the basis of the group performance by use of the director’s evaluation.

II. HONORS CREDIT

Students who participate in marching band or symphonic band may receive honors credit. In addition, students who prepare material, audition, and participate in Eastern District All-District Band, will be eligible to receive honors credit. To receive honors credit, the student must audition for the All-District Band and participate in honor band clinics or perform solos outside of the regular classroom requirements. Also, a more rigorous grading rubric may be used for playing tests.

III. REHEARSALS

For the band program to experience maximum success, it is essential for everyone to be in attendance for all rehearsals. One person’s absence affects the learning process for the entire ensemble. Therefore, students will receive a grade for after school rehearsals; i.e. after school marching band rehearsals, music performance adjudication (MPA) preparation rehearsals, and any other rehearsals that are scheduled with advance notice. The only excused absences are personal illness or other serious family matters with documentation. The band director must be notified in advance and a written note from a parent of physician must be presented. If a student is absent from school, the absence for the after school rehearsal will be counted as an excused absence. Excused absences are determined by the band director.

There is a direct correlation between the amount of quality rehearsal and the success of the band. The rehearsal schedule during the fall for marching band is Tuesday and Thursday, 3:00 - 6:00pm. When necessary, sectional rehearsals may be added. Students are expected to attend rehearsals for the entire time. Please use non-rehearsal days to schedule medical and dental appointments. For example, dentists, orthodontists, medical, physical therapy, and other appointments or meetings should be scheduled on non-band rehearsal days. See the band calendar before scheduling appointments.

Symphonic band rehearsals begin after marching season and will occur for those students who audition, or are invited to perform in an ensemble representing the Hunt High School band

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program at the North Carolina Music Performance Adjudication (MPA) performance event. MPA rehearsals will begin in late January and will be held on Tuesdays until MPA in March. These rehearsals are extremely important. MPA rehearsals will count as project/test grades.

You will be able to make up missed rehearsals usually with a research project due 5 days after the missed rehearsal. Students and parents must sign a copy of attendance and band policies to indicate they understand the expectations and consequences. Tardiness to rehearsal will also affect the progress of the band. All rehearsals will begin on time. In the event that you are late, communication with the band director is essential. E-mail or phone message Mr. Jones in advance. If you are at school all day, advance notice is required. Occasionally it may be necessary to reschedule, add or cancel a rehearsal. If this is necessary, every effort will be made to announce and inform the membership and parents in a timely manner.

Every effort will be made to work with students who play fall sports. (girls tennis, football, cross-country, girls golf, wrestling, etc.,) These situations will be minimal in number, and will be handled on a case by case basis. Athletic contests will count as excused absences. However, band athletes will be responsible for maintaining a high level of performance and preparation. Band members will not be allowed to be team managers, scorekeepers, etc. if it interferes with rehearsals or performances.

If an athletic contest or practice is cancelled, you are expected to be at rehearsal. If there is a conflict between a performance and a game, attendance will be determined based upon the nature of the performance. This is in accordance with the school handbook.

Students will need the following items for marching band rehearsals: tennis shoes, shorts, socks, t-shirt, hat (hot days) water bottle, coordinate sheet, drill book/dot book, pencil, sunblock, bug spray, instrument, accessories, and any other necessities. Spaghetti straps or excessive short shorts are not appropriate and will not be acceptable for band rehearsals or band camp. See the Wilson County Schools dress code. If it doesn’t meet the district school dress code it will not be acceptable for band.

IV. PERFORMANCES

Band members must attend all scheduled football games, marching band competitions, parades, concerts, graduation, and other scheduled events. The only excused absences are personal illness or other serious family matters, pending a note from the parent or physician. Absences must be approved by the director. If a student must miss a performance, communication with director is mandatory and should be done in a timely manner when possible. Continual problems in this area could result in removal from the band program.

V. HOME PRACTICE

Home practice is not only considered homework, but is expected. In order to become a competent musician, the building of skills must continue outside of the classroom. Home practice should start with long tones, lip slurs/flexibility exercises and scales. Scales are the basis of all music. The playing of scales consistently requires repetition and that must be done

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regularly. You should then work on trouble sections in your music or solo sections. Finally, play something that you have mastered and try to make improvements in your tone and intonation.

The band as a whole will only be as good as each individual player. The more each individual member grows, the better the band becomes.

VI. DISCIPLINE/CONDUCT

The performance of the band can only be as good as the best rehearsal. To say, “We’ll get serious when we get to the contest” is not a very realistic statement. Learning cannot occur in an unstructured noisy environment. Student leaders are expected to assist the director and staff in getting the important area of discipline under control. Rehearsal time can be cut dramatically if everyone comes with the proper attitude and is focused on the task at hand! Students who are continually a problem in this area may be removed from rehearsal and you will not be given credit for attendance. This could also remove you from a performance if deemed necessary by the by the director. Classroom discipline will follow the guidelines in the HHS student handbook.

VII. GENERAL RULES

All rules and regulations in the Hunt High School Handbook, which will be distributed at the beginning of school, governing school policies will apply to all band members. This specifically includes field trips and events in other areas. Everyone must remember that they are not only representing our band but also our school and county. As ambassadors of Hunt High School and Wilson County, we have an awesome responsibility to conduct ourselves in the best possible manner.

Mutual respect by all band members, band staff and band parents for is mandatory. The band boosters provide financial as well as moral support to the band. At no time are the parent-volunteers to be asked to do a menial task that students are capable of doing for themselves. This includes: cleaning shoes, hanging up uniforms properly, cleaning dressing areas, taping flags, etc.

Fundraising is a necessity. It is vital to the band program that all students and parents participate in fundraising activities. To a certain extent, financial resources play a part in determining the level of participation in activities, opportunities, as well as the overall success of the band. It is absolutely essential that the financial backing not rest on the backs of a few active parents. We need participation from everyone!

VIII. FOOTBALL GAMES AND STANDS BEHAVIOR

The band will perform at all home football games and any other athletic event as designated by the band director. Students will receive instructions prior to each home game and should meet in the band room at the times stated on the band schedule. Students should be fully dressed before warm-up. All students should have on proper clothing (as stated in the uniform care section) under the uniform. Students will change in and out of uniform only when instructions are given to do so. Specific instructions will be given when and where to change in or out of uniform. Food and drinks are not allowed in the band room. Food and drinks are not to be consumed while in full uniform, unless permission has been granted otherwise.

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One function of the band is to demonstrate school spirit at school events (football games, pep rallies). This is done vocally and musically. Band members will abide by the following rules:

● No profanity

● Do not remove any of the uniform except gloves until instructed to do so.

● No sunglasses or other headwear, unless approved by the director.

● Remain in your designated area at all times during performances.

● Keep your instrument in hand.

● You will be given a 3rd quarter break and you should be back at the given time ready to perform. This is a privilege and can be taken away. Students not back on time will lose the break at the next game. Consume all food before you return to the band area.

● Cheer, yell and support the team at the appropriate times.

● No guests are allowed in the band section. If you must speak or meet someone, go to the edge of the band section and keep it brief.

● No band member should stand at the front rail of the bleachers.

● Remove all trash from the band area and place it in the proper receptacle.

● Band parents are encouraged to sit across the aisle from the band to show your support for our students.

All band members are expected to attend the entire game and march in and out with the band. (Any early dismissals must be cleared with the band director prior to the performance.) After marching in, all equipment must be put in the proper place and uniforms hung on hangers and returned to the uniform closet, after which you should be seated in the band room. You are not to leave until dismissed by the director.

IX. BAND COMPETITIONS

The marching band will participate in local and regional competitions on Saturdays in September, October, and November. A complete itinerary will be sent home by the band student the week of the trip. We encourage parents to attend the competitions to support our students. Even if you have seen the band at the football games, it does not compare to a competition performance. Please cheer for the group at the appropriate times and always behave in an appropriate manner.

X. BUS TRIPS

Out of town trips offer the band the chance to perform and be evaluated. These trips are educational as well as fun. The number one concern is that we represent our school, our community, and ourselves to the highest level of professionalism and pride. Here are some general rules to follow:

● Radio/tape/CD players, Ipods, and mp3 players must be used with headphones.

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● Food and drinks will be allowed as long as people use trash bags located on the buses or at the discretion of the charter bus company.

● Buses will be boarded as determined by the director.

● The chaperones are a direct link between the director and students. Please do what they ask you to do. Do not question or challenge a chaperone. Remember, it is not easy or possible to make everyone happy at the same time. The key-word is flexibility.

● All band members are required to ride the bus to performances. If parents drive separately and wish their child to ride back with them they must obtain permission from the director, by completing and submitting an alternate transportation form. Forms are on the wall outside the band office. Requests must be turned in 3 days prior to the trip.

● Students must ride the same bus to and from the performance. Girls and Boys ride to and from band events on separate buses.

● Blankets are not needed or allowed on buses.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION (PDA) is not permitted while participating in any school related activity or function. This includes bus trips and rehearsals. Anyone in violation of this band and school policy may face a disciplinary referral with an administrator.

XI. FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

The Wilson County School System provides funds for limited purchase of school instruments and accessories. All other expenses for marching band is the responsibility of band members and band boosters. These expenses include: registration fees for all competitions, festivals and contests, paying bus drivers, activity bus mileage, purchasing flags, guard uniforms, and other equipment for color guard, paint and field supplies, instrument repair, compensating contract support staff and specialists, paying for custom music and choreography, and any other expenses incurred for marching band.

All students are responsible for purchasing their marching shoes, band t-shirt, and gloves. These items will be ordered for you during band camp. All students must have their own instrument, proper mouthpiece, reeds, and accessories.

To help cover some of the costs referenced above, all band members are responsible for paying your fair-share of marching band dues. Students and parents are asked to follow the payment schedule set up by Mr. Jones and the boosters. If there is a financial problem, the band boosters will work with you, if you let us know. All financial information and assistance related matters are completely confidential. No one will be denied participation due to financial reasons. Additional travel fees may be necessary for trips involving charter buses or overnight lodging.

During the school year, the band boosters will provide several opportunities for students to raise funds to cover transportation and trip costs. Each student will have an individual fundraising account. A percentage of the profit will be credited to each participant based on the amount he/she has raised and to the general fund of the band boosters. Use of these funds will be determined by the director and/or the band boosters. Unused funds in the individual accounts will revert to the general fund at the end of the student’s tenure in the band program. As stated before a good deal of money is spent on instruction. We ask that all students and families

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participate in the fundraisers. The more individualized instruction we can provide for the band, the better we can position ourselves to prepare, compete, and deliver higher quality performances.

Band Fair Share - $280.00 (Marching Band Only)

Marching Shoes - $36.00 (Marching Band Freshmen, Guard, and members needing replacement shoes only.

Hunt Bands Polo - $20.00(All Hunt Bands Members; (Concert,Symphonic,Marching and Jazz)

Guard Uniform – Cost to be determined.

Spring Trip – Cost to be determined.

XII. UNIFORM REGULATIONS

Band uniforms are furnished by the Band Boosters for the student’s use. Uniforms are always stored at school and cleaned as a group.

The Hunt High School Band uniform should be worn with pride. There is only one way to wear the uniform. The objective is for us to look as one and not as a group of individuals. Below are guidelines that applies to the group anytime we are assembled in uniform.

● The full uniform should be worn at all times unless instructed by the band director.

● All hair must be up and off the collar. Hair should be pinned or worn in such a manner that the helmet can be removed without hair falling down. Wave caps, do-rags, or other headwear is not permissible while in uniform.

● The only jewelry allowed is one pair of small stud earrings in the ears.

● No makeup is to be worn by band members while in band uniform. This does not apply to guard.

● The uniform is to be worn over the band t-shirt and exercise or gym shorts. In colder weather, thermal underwear should be worn. Absolutely, no outer garments, jeans, or denim shorts are

to be worn under the uniform. (In the case of a Friday performance, wear some other t-shirt for the game and the band t-shirt the day of the contest. (No tank tops allowed.)

● Uniforms should never be rolled up and/or stuffed into the garment bag. They should be hung neatly on the proper hanger.

● Students should never switch any parts of the uniform. All parts will be assigned to each individual student.

● If any part of the uniform gets wet, please make sure it is dry before it is stored in the garment bag.

● If any part of the uniform becomes lost or damaged, you are responsible for the replacement cost of the part of uniform. This includes damage from incorrect wear.

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● Warm weather uniform is: band t-shirt (or polo), tan khaki shorts (no longer than knee length worn on waist) with belt on the waistline, and tennis shoes. Remember the objective is to be uniform and look as one, not as an individual.

XIII. USE OF SCHOOL OWNED INSTRUMENTS

Some instruments are owned by the school for student use. This includes all marching percussion, mallet percussion, percussion accessories, marching brass instruments, and large background brass and woodwind instruments. Even though all students own their own instruments, from time to time you may be asked to play a school instrument during marching band or for necessary instrumentation.

When a school instrument is in your care you are responsible for its upkeep and damages incurred. Each instrument will be given out in working condition to an individual student. Signing the handbook agreement page gives approval to the fact. You are responsible for keeping the instrument clean and in good working condition. The instrument must be returned in the same condition in which it was given. If repair work must be done upon the return of the instrument, you will be charged. Brass Instruments:

● Valves and slides must be lubricated.

● Silver plated instruments must be kept clean and polished.

● Instrument should be bathed and lead pipe cleaned with a snake.

● Care should be given to the handling of mouthpieces. Dropping them on pavement may damage the rim and shanks must remain round. If a school owned mouthpiece is damaged the student will be charged.

● If the instrument gets wet, it must be wiped down before it is put in the case.

● At the end of each rehearsal, all water should be dumped out of all brass instruments and the valve casing of silver instruments should be wiped down to remove oil and sweat. Woodwind Instruments:

● Instrument should be swabbed out after each use.

● Corks should be greased accordingly.

● Clean mouthpieces regularly with lukewarm water.

● Care should be given to the handling of mouthpieces. Students will be charged for broken school owned mouthpieces.

● If the instrument gets wet, it must be wiped down and allowed to dry before it is put in the case. Percussion Instruments

● In the case of the percussion equipment, all percussionists are responsible for all equipment. This includes all mallets, instruments and accessories.

● Mallets do not belong on the floor or ground.

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● Use the proper mallet or stick for each instrument.

● If drums and keyboard instruments become wet they should be wiped down before playing or storage. (This will reduce damage to yarn or felt mallets.)

● Playing with good technique will lessen the chance of breakage of drum heads and mallets.

● During marching season, members of the battery are responsible for their individual drum, drumheads, cymbals, and sticks/mallets. Members of the front ensemble are responsible for the keyboard instruments, mallets, and cymbals. Damages from improper use and incorrect playing technique are each student’s responsibility.

In some instances, damages may be charged to the group or group of individuals by band class or section at the discretion of the director or instructor. This can be avoided by use of common sense and following the directions of the staff and not playing with the equipment. Remember, there are not toys in the band room. Anyone who uses a school instrument must complete, sign, and return a school use instrument/equipment check out form.

XIV. STAFF AND DUTIES

Band staff and student leaders are a very important part of the operation and well-being of the band program. Band staff consists of:

Band Director – Responsible for all aspects of the band program and band booster organization.

Guard Instructor – Responsible for designing and teaching guard, choreography, and maintaining guard equipment.

Percussion Instructor – Responsible for teaching percussionists and maintaining equipment.

Drum Major – Student leader of the marching band.

Duties:

● Set a positive example at all times.

● Motivate others to work hard and reach full potential.

● Assume full leadership responsibility when the director is not present.

● Assist the director in teaching drills.

● Help lead section leaders and captains.

● Act as field leader of the marching band.

● Assist in monitoring behavior and conduct in the marching band.

● Assist with inspections before marching performances.

● Works with all section leaders in teaching music and marching fundamentals.

● Conduct the band at marching band performances.

Band Captain/President – Band member who assists the director and section leaders.

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Duties:

● Uphold the highest traditions and spirit of the band.

● Coordinate and assist all students and officers of the band.

● Report to the director any problems or suggestions that may improve the band program.

● Promote band activities. (i.e. social, educational, recruiting, etc.)

● Maintain discipline in the band room each day before and after rehearsal.

● Keep a detailed record of attendance of all marching band rehearsals and performances. Record absences, tardies, and early dismissals will be recorded along with infractions to the band rules and regulations for future documentation.

Section Leader – Band member who supervises students in their individual section.

Duties:

● Assist with music and drill preparation within the section.

● Uphold the high level of spirit, pride and traditions within the band.

● Cleanliness of instruments in section.

● Ensure proper marching techniques.

● Inspect instruments and accessories, uniform and attire.

● Assist with facilitating instruments of section members for loading crew.

● Report problems and suggestions to Drum Major and Band Captain.

● Carry out all duties given by Director, Band Capt., or Drum Major.

● Maintains discipline within the section during rehearsals.

Remember, in order to be a good leader, one must be a good follower. Leaders are first and foremost responsible for setting the example by demonstrating the best in behavior and conduct of the band. However, student leaders should remember they are students first and leaders second. Leaders should always treat their fellow band members with respect.

XV. AWARDS

The Hunt High School Band has several awards to recognize outstanding individuals in their musicianship and service to the band program. Following is a list of these awards and the criteria for each.

Parent Volunteer Award – Awarded to a parent volunteer annually.

Band Letter – Marching band members will become eligible for a letter at the end of the 2nd year of band. Members will be awarded a band letter after completing

the 3rd season of marching band.

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Band Bar – Presented after completion of the 3rd and 4th marching season.

Senior Pin – Presented to members prior to the beginning of the senior season of band.

Section Leader Pin – Presented to section leaders in marching band.

Captain Pin – Presented to captains in marching band.

Silver Star – Presented annually to each marching band member.

Gold Star – Presented to each member of concert and symphonic band.

Jazz Band Pin – Presented to each member of the jazz ensemble.

First Chair – Presented to lead players in symphonic band.

Most Improved – Presented to a 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade student annually.

Most Outstanding – Presented to a 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade student annually.

Honor Cord – Presented after 4 years of band participation.

National Color Guard Award – Awarded to a member of the color guard annually.

National Marching Award – Awarded to an instrumentalist or drum major annually.

Director’s Award – Presented annually to a deserving student(s) based upon attitude, service, flexibility, and dedication to the band.

John Phillip Sousa Award – Presented to the member who demonstrates leadership, scholarship, and the highest level of musicianship, and attitude in the band.

Honor Bands – Students who demonstrate superior musicianship skills and practice habits may audition or be nominated for honor bands such as all-county, all district, all-state, and other honor bands. All members are encouraged to strive to achieve entry into these distinguished ensembles. Students are responsible for preparation of audition materials, and transportation. The director and boosters will assist with audition and clinic fees. All qualified students are encouraged to attend.

XVI. MOUTHPIECE & INSTRUMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

As students continue to grow as musicians the quality of instrument and mouthpiece must grow with them. Just as a competitive tennis player wouldn’t play a tournament with a $15.00 racquet from Kmart or a NASCAR driver drive a Ford Focus from a dealership at Daytona, there are times when a student in high school has outgrown his/her beginner instrument.

The same is true with mouthpieces. As a student’s embouchure becomes stronger he/she must have a mouthpiece that; can maximize the amount of air they are blowing through the instrument. Is the mouthpiece of high quality, and does it provide the student the opportunity to produce their best possible tone?

Mouthpieces: High quality mouthpieces are essential to producing quality tone and good sound.

Clarinet: Vandoren B45, M15 or 5RV Lyric

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Saxophones: Yamaha, Hite, or other comparable mouthpiece.

Trumpets: Bach 3C

French Horns: Yamaha 32C4, Holton DC, Bach 3

Trombones and Euphoniums: Bach 61/2 AL, 5G, or Schilke 51 D.

Instruments and Equipment :

Flutes : Jupiter Capital, Gemeinhardt, Yamaha, are nice selections.

Clarinets: (Buffet: R13*, E11), Yamaha, Buffet-Crampton

Saxophones : Intermediate or Advanced models

Trumpets : Silver plated with thumb saddle or trigger. (Bach, Yamaha, or King)

French Horns : Double horn (Key of F and Bb) Holton Farkus or Conn 8D, 10D

Trombones : “F” attachment and at least a .525 bore or larger. (Bach 42 or 36 Series, TB200, Yamaha 400 Series or higher)

*Please consult the band director before purchasing an instrument. This could save you time trouble, and money!

XVII. HUNT BAND BOOSTERS

The role of the band boosters is to support the band by raising funds, and provide materials necessary for a superior band program. Their services include chaperoning trips, organizing and fitting uniforms, building props, sewing flags, solving logistical problems, and numerous other necessary tasks. This organization does not make policy, discipline students, or decide expenditures. That is the role of the band director and school administration.

Much of what the band does would not be possible without the support and work of the band boosters. All parents are invited to join. Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM in the band room.

2018-19 Band Booster Officers

President Mrs. Brenda Murrill

Vice-President Mrs. Melissa Batts

Treasurer Mr. John Johnson

Secretary Mrs. Karen Anderson

XVIII. MEDICAL FORMS

Each student must have a completed medical form on file before we travel. These forms will remain in the possession of the band director at school and on trips at all times for immediate accessibility. All information disclosed on medical forms are maintained as confidential.

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XIX. Band Calendar

The 2018-19 Band Calendar is posted on the Hunt High Band website. The band website can be found at huntbands.weebly.com. Click on the calendar link.

Check the band website for the most up to date schedule info.

Contact Information:

Mr. Frank Jones

James B. Hunt High School Band

4559 Lamm Rd Wilson, NC 27893

Web Site:

www.huntbands.weebly.com

Director of Bands:

Frank Jones

Office Phone: (252) 399 – 7930 ext. 4069

Cell Phone: (980) 349 – 5939 (anytime cell)

Email: frankie.jones@wilsonschoolsnc.net

hunthighbanddirector@gmail.com

2018 – 19 Teaching Schedule:

Fall Spring

1st Period – Planning 1st Period – Honors Symphonic Band

2nd Period – Intermediate Band 2nd Period – Intermediate Band

3rd Period – Percussion Class 3rd Period – Jazz Ensemble

4th Period – Advanced Honors Band 4th Period - Planning

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Resources

Here are some websites and resources that you may find helpful.

www.huntbands.weebly.com

www.ncbandmasters.org

www.ncbaeastern.com

www.promusicconservatory.org

www.nfaonline.org

www.clarinet.org

www.saxophone.org

www.trumpetguild.org

www.hornsociety.org

www.trombone.net

www.iteaonline.org

www.jazzednet.org

www.pas.org

www.musictheory.net

www.brasswind.com

www.woodwind.com

www.collegebands.com

www.musicandarts.com

www.8notes.com

www.musiclearningcommunity.com

www.funbrain.com/

www.teoria.com

www.smartmusic.com

www.good-ear.com/

www.ezmusictheory.com/

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www.smithsonianjazz.org

www.musichonors.com

XX. AGREEMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE

Student Agreement

I have read and discussed the requirements and regulations of the Hunt High School Band. As a member of this organization, I agree to abide by the requirements and regulations of the band as well as the school rules as stated in the Hunt High School Band Handbook. I understand the policies and expectations for the Hunt High Band Program as specified in this handbook.

Signed: ________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________

PARENT AGREEMENT

I have read and discussed with my child the requirements and regulations of the Hunt High School Band as stated in this manual. I give my child permission to participate and will help enforce all requirements and regulations of the group. I understand the policies and expectations for the Hunt High Band Program as specified in this handbook. Furthermore, I will encourage my child to honor this commitment in band, and I will support the commitment involved.

Signed: ________________________________________

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Date: __________________________________________