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The purpose of this handbook is to provide valuable information about the band program. To consistently achieve and maintain the high standard of excellence desired by this organization, members should familiarize themselves with the regulations, procedures and traditions of the band. It is hoped that some of the questions always prevalent with a band will be answered in this handbook. If a problem or question not covered in this handbook should arise, the Director should be consulted for an explanation.

Marching Band

The marching band is a musical marching unit organized during the summer and continues for the duration of football season (and at various other times throughout the school year). The Marching Band is the most visible of the band ensembles. Each year, the Marching Band performs in front of thousands of spectators at football games, competitions, and parades. Membership into the Marching Band will be earned through audition. Membership requires total dedication, maximum effort, and involvement in all aspects of marching, playing, and performance. We are building a competitive marching band program and therefore attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory. Failure to do so could result in a failing grade, becoming an alternate and or removal from the band program. We cannot improve if you are not there. Everyone is important and must contribute in order for the band to be successful! All new students must attend “Rookie” camp. Rookie Camp, Band Camp, and Flag Camp are mandatory and must be attended for the students to participate in the Marching Band. This is the most important time for the marching band as the Halftime Show and most of the stand music is learned during this time. Marching technique is also learned during this time.

Wind Ensemble

The RHS Wind Ensemble is the top performance ensemble. Members are chosen by audition. The Wind Ensemble repertoire consists of well-known and varied works for band of the highest level. The Wind Ensemble attends the district and state music contests held each spring and also performs at various other functions and concerts during the second semester. The Wind Ensemble will rehearse after school on Thursdays from 3:30 – 5:00. If additional rehearsals are needed (such as sectionals, longer rehearsals), they will be called at least two weeks in advance. Attendance at all rehearsals is mandatory.

Concert Band

The Concert Band is the second concert band. Members are chosen through audition. Concert Band repertoire consists of music appropriate to the ability level of the students. The Concert Band attends the district and state contests held in the spring. The Concert Band also performs at the same functions as the Wind Ensemble during the second semester. The Concert Band will rehearse after school on Tuesdays from 3:30 – 5:00. If additional rehearsals are needed (such as sectionals, longer rehearsals), they will be called at least two weeks prior. Attendance is mandatory to all rehearsals.

Grading Policy
	There is now a standardized grading policy for all high school bands. A copy of this policy can be provided upon request. For the RHS band program it will be as follows: Assessments (both playing and written) - 40% of grade Inside of class work - 30% of grade Outside of class work - 20% of grade Midterm or final - 10% of grade

Rehearsal & Performance Procedures

Every band member should bring instruments, music, and proper equipment to every rehearsal and performance. There is to be no playing in the halls of the school or anywhere else other than the band room, band practice field, or places designated by the director. There is to be no talking or disturbance during rehearsals. When the director takes the podium, all talking will cease. The board should be read daily to keep up with upcoming events. Students should not write, draw, or post anything on the chalkboards without the director’s permission. Music, instruments, and other equipment should be kept in their proper storage places when not in use. No trash is to be left on the floor in the band rooms or band field. No gum, food, or drinks are allowed in the band rooms. Every student that misses a rehearsal must bring a note from the doctor/parent to be counted as an excused absence. Missing a rehearsal or performance for work will not be an excused absence.