kelly mill middle school orchestra handbook 2016-17
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Kelly Mill Middle School
Orchestra Handbook 2016-17
Handbook Contents
Welcome to the 2016-2017
School Year!
Greetings Kelly Mill Orchestra families!
It has been my pleasure to be the orchestra director at Kelly Mill for 3 years
now, and I have been continually impressed by the musical growth of individu-
al students and our orchestras each year. My goal is to build a community of
high-achieving, self-directed and focused musicians who enjoy learning, playing
with others, desire to improve as students and players, and show enthusiasm
for various styles of music. Please feel free to e-mail or call me with any ques-
tions or concerns so I can be sure to serve your students to the best of my
ability this year.
Looking forward to another fantastic year!
Ms. Kristen Harris, MAT
Orchestra Director
Kelly Mill Middle School
Contact
Kelly Mill Middle School
Ms. Harris
1141 Kelly Mill Rd.
Blythewood, SC 29016
(803) 691.7210 Ext. 3304
kellymillorchestra.weebly.com
Materials, Rules
Daily Practice
Private Lessons
Grading Policy
Concert Attire
Daily Participation
Required Events
Instruments
Other Opportunities
Discipline Policy
Take-With-To-Store
Form
Instrument Rental
Information
Richland 2 Approved
Instruments
Handbook Contract
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Monday, August 22
All handbooks must be read, and Handbook Contract signed (by
student and parent), and returned to Ms. Harris.
Tuesday, September 6
First Materials Check: All materials must be present or points will
be taken off students’ daily grade. Full list of these materials is on page 2
December 6, 2016
First Orchestra Concert! Kelly Mill Gymnasium, 6:30 p.m.
Upcoming Dates
Visit our website! www.kellymillorchestra.weebly.com
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How to Succeed
Be on time and ready to tune 2 minutes
after the bell rings
Have all materials with you and out at the
start of class
Keep fingernails the appropriate length
Follow directions after the first time they
are given
Remain quiet (self and instrument) during
rehearsal
Be respectful! of the room, instruments,
teacher, and peers
Take PRIDE! In your individual growth, the
orchestra room, and our orchestra family!
Materials
Daily Required Materials: (see pg. 7)
Instrument and Bow
Method Book
Music folder with music (folder will be provid-
ed, but they may use a 3-ring binder with plas-
tic sheet covers if they so choose)
Pencil
Rosin
Shoulder Rest or Rock Stop
*All materials needed by Tuesday, September 6*
If there is a problem obtaining these items, please
contact Ms. Harris immediately or points will be de-
ducted from daily participation grade
Daily practice is vital to fluency on the instrument, performing well on playing tests, and to ensure our
orchestras perform at a high level
Students will receive playing assignments every week that they are to learn at home.
A minimum of 20 minutes of practice per day, 5 days per week is expected from orchestra members
Students will be required to fill out a monthly Practice Record, which will be signed by a parent and
check every Monday for a grade.
***Please encourage and allow your student time to practice their assignments at home, to ensure their suc-
cess!! ***
Daily Practice
Private Lessons
All students (especially 7th and 8th graders) are encouraged to seek private lessons outside of
school. Private lessons are a great chance to get one-on-one instruction with the technical and musi-
cal skills that are specific to what the individual student needs. Teacher fees vary, but generally cost
between $15-$20 for a half-hour lesson and $30-$40 for an hour lesson.
Please see the orchestra website or ask Ms. Harris for names of private teachers in our area.
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Grading Policy
Students’ grades will be based on:
1. Classwork/Rehearsals/Concerts (40%)
Students will receive a daily participation grade for having their instrument in working condition, all needed
accessories (reeds, valve oil, etc.), music and a pencil every day (See next page for Daily Participation Ru-
bric). Instruments should be carried to and from school every day. INSTRUMENTS LEFT OVERNIGHT IN
THE ORCHESTRA ROOM ARE LEFT AT YOUR OWN RISK. The school will not accept responsibility for
any stolen items or damage that occurs to an instrument that is left at school. Students must attend the af-
ter school rehearsals and performances outlined in the calendar. Please notify Ms. Harris if a conflict arises.
2. Tests- Written/Playing (30%)
Any written tests that are given throughout the year are graded in this category. A student’s ability to per-
form a musical passage will be formally assessed periodically during class. If a student does not wish to per-
form their playing tests in front of the class, they must submit a video recording to Ms. Harris BEFORE the
day of the in-class test, or they will be asked to play during class.
3. Quizzes- Written/Playing (20%)
Daily class written work/playing and quizzes are included in this category. Quizzes are used to assess stu-
dent comprehension and maybe be unscheduled (pop quiz).
4. Homework—Practice Records (10%) Students are expected to practice for class and will be required to record this practice on the provided
monthly practice logs. A good practice routine is about quality, not quantity and it includes a warm-up,
tone building exercises, technique building exercises and the music. Logs will be checked each Monday and
will be turned in at the end of the month.
Late homework will be handled in accordance with the Kelly Mill Late Work Procedures and
Practices. Points will be deducted as applicable, and students will receive a grade of a 0
(zero) if a practice record is not turned in each Monday.
*Retest Procedure
Students who miss a test due to an excused absence or who would like to improve their score are eligible to
retake any playing test. Their grade will be the average of both scores. Arrangements must be made individually
with Ms. Harris to retake the test either before or after school
After–School Tutoring: Thursdays 2:30-3:30 p.m. Ms. Harris will be available for After-School Tutoring to
any student wishing for extra help, extra practice time, or to retake or make-up any playing test. Passes are
also available from Ms. Harris to come before school at 7:00 am by appointment
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Daily Participation Rubric What counts? 2 1 0
Materials Instrument &
Bow
Shoulder rest
Music & Book
Pencil
Player is completely
prepared for class with all
materials.
Player is mostly prepared
with some materials.
Player has zero materials
needed to participate in
class.
Engage-
ment
Player is always actively
involved in class rehears-
als and assignments.
Player always uses cor-
rect posture when in rest
and playing positions.
Player is mostly involved in
class rehearsals and
assignments.
Player sometimes uses
correct posture when in rest
and playing positions.
Player is rarely or never
involved in class rehears-
als and assignments.
Player rarely or never
uses correct posture
when in rest and playing
positions.
Attention
Player is completely ready
for rehearsal on time.
Player is always on task
during tuning, warm-up,
and rehearsal.
Player always follows
directions the first time.
Player is almost ready for
rehearsal on time.
Player is sometimes on task
during tuning, warm-up, and
rehearsal.
Player sometimes follows
directions, but only after be-
ing asked more than once.
Player is not ready for
rehearsal on time.
Player is rarely or never
on task during tuning,
warm-up, and rehearsal.
Player rarely or never
follows directions.
Behavior
Player is always respectful
of self, other orchestra
members, and the direc-
tor.
Player is always quiet
during tuning, rehearsals,
and instructions.
Player is sometimes
respectful of self, other or-
chestra members, and the
director.
Player is sometimes quiet
during tuning, rehearsals,
and instructions.
Player is rarely or never
respectful of self, other
orchestra members, and
the director.
Player is rarely or never
quiet during tuning, re-
hearsals, and instruc-
tions.
Preparation Player can perform
music learned in previous
classes.
Player can mostly perform
music learned in previous
classes.
Player cannot perform
music learned in previous
classes.
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Instruments
All students are expected to rent or purchase their own instruments for use during the year.
Instrument Rentals and Purchases
Cellos and basses may rent instruments from the school for use at school, but must have an instrument to use at home for practice and concerts. Rental fee of $40 per year will be collected, for regular mainte-
nance of school instruments.
Review list of Richland 2 approved instruments (pg. 9)
Instrument Care
Don’t leave in the car!!!
Don’t glue any parts
Don’t let other students or siblings play your instrument
Do wipe off the rosin after playing and keep the instrument clean
Do be aware of your surroundings and walk carefully in the orchestra room
If a string breaks, the bridge falls down, or any other damage to the instrument occurs, bring to Ms. Harris
immediately to assess
Concert Attire
6th Grade Orchestra
White dress shirt/blouse with sleeves: No extra colors, logos, other writing
Black pants or ankle-length skirt: no exceptions! Small, discreet jewelry permitted (no large earrings, necklaces or
bracelets). Dark hose or socks with black dress shoes.
7th and 8th Grade Advanced and Honors Orchestra
ALL BLACK:
Black dress shirt/blouse with sleeves: No extra colors, logos, other writing
Black pants or ankle-length skirt: no exceptions! Small, discreet jewelry permitted (no large earrings, necklaces or
bracelets). Dark hose or socks with black dress shoes.
Neither denim nor athletic wear is acceptable concert attire for ladies or gentlemen.
Showing up to a performance dressed inappropriately will result in a loss of 10% to the student’s concert
grade.
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Region Orchestra
The Midlands Region Orchestra is a two-day orchestra event for the strongest string players in Rich-
land, Lexington, and Aiken counties. Students who participate in the Region Orchestra may audition for
the South Carolina All-State Orchestra, drawing from the most talented players in the entire state.
Region Orchestra is wonderful opportunity for students to perform with the finest student musicians in
the midlands of South Carolina and to perform under the direction of a nationally/internationally renowned
conductor.
SC Philharmonic Youth Orchestras
The South Carolina Philharmonic Youth Orchestras provide a quality education in classical music through
the performance of symphonic and chamber music to as many talented young musicians as possible from
the Greater Columbia area and surrounding counties. All three orchestra meet on Sunday afternoons, and
perform three concerts a year, two of which will be at the Koger Center.
*For information on auditions, please contact Orchestra Manager Judy Lawrence at 803.788.8442.
USC String Project
Elementary, Middle and High School students from all over the Midlands have the unique opportunity to
study their instrument through private and group instruction. USC undergraduate music education majors
gain valuable experience through teaching group instrument classes, private
lessons and orchestral ensembles. For more information, including registration information, please visit www.music.sc.edu and click on Centers and Institutes on the left side of the screen.
Solo and Ensemble Festival
The Solo and Ensemble Festival allows students to perform a solo piece and/or a small ensemble piece.
This event will take place on Friday, May 2, 2014. Please contact the director if you are interested in partic-
ipating, as paperwork will need to be filled out and submitted in March 2015.
*Extra Credit: Students may earn 5 extra points by attending approved musical performances (SC Philharmonic
Concerts, USC Symphony Concerts), by participating in outside performances, or by assisting the orchestra director
with projects. The student must bring some proof of attendance (ticket stub or program) to the orchestra director.
Outside Opportunities
Discipline Policy
We follow the Kelly Mill discipline policy as printed
in the student handbook
Students who choose to break a rule(s) will receive
the following disciplinary actions:
1st time: Warning
2nd time: Warning/Parent Contact
3rd time: After School Detention/Parent Contact
4th time: Referral to Administrator/Parent Contact
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WHAT YOU NEED FOR ORCHESTRA CLASS
PLEASE TAKE THIS FORM WITH YOU TO THE MUSIC STORE
__________________________________________ is officially enrolled in the Richland Two Orchestra Program.
An instrument may be obtained from any of three local music stores who have agreed to stock the proper sizes and
specifications for our district. These stores have reasonable lease, rental, and/or trial purchase plans available. All three
stores meet the Richland Two standards for student instruments.
One of the principle causes of pupil failure is an inferior instrument and we want to ensure that each child is successful! Due
to the fact that there are many school districts in the Columbia/Lexington area, requirements vary from one district to the
other. When renting or purchasing an instrument, please be sure it is not only “school approved” but “Richland Two”
approved, to be sure you are obtaining the best quality instrument needed for a beginning student. DO NOT purchase an
instrument online or from alternative sources without consulting your teacher first.
The following stores have excellent instruments available. They are listed in alphabetical order. You may do business with
whichever store you prefer.
Music & Arts Center Palmetto Strings
Pecknel Music Star Music
Musical Innovations Sims Music
You should obtain the following for your child no later than Monday, September 7, 2015.
1. Instrument: 6th Grade: Once the instrument is decided upon by the student, parent and director, the child will be
given their instrument name and appropriate size.
2. Method Book (be sure the book has the same name as the instrument-i.e. Viola Book II)
6th Grade: Essential Elements for Strings, Book I (Orange)
7th Grade: Essential Elements for Strings, Book II (Purple)
8th Grade: String Basics, Book 3 (Green)
3. A folding metal music stand (stays at home-one is provided at school). Having a music stand at home is important and
helps with developing healthy practicing habits at home.
4. A shoulder rest for violins and violas. We recommend the Kun, Viva or Everest. They are a worthwhile investment.
Junior and Intermediate violas need to purchase a violin shoulder rest.
5. A rock stop for cello and bass students. Rosin (included with your instrument) and rock stop come to every class.
6. A pencil – BRING TO EVERY CLASS!!!
7. A soft cloth to keep the instrument clean – old, clean T–shirts and clean, cloth diapers work well. The cloth will stay in
the case for easy cleaning.
Students enrolling in orchestra must understand they are making a commitment to daily practice at home.
Good practice habits and a positive attitude have a great effect on the success your child will achieve through
this class. Parents are urged to consult the teacher at any time a question or problem arises. The earlier a real
working relationship is reached between child, parent, and teacher, the greater your child’s success will be.
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MY RESPONSIBILITIES AS YOUR TEACHER
1. To treat you and your peers with respect;
2. To arrive on time and prepared with the necessary materials;
3. To give clear instructions and assignments;
4. To provide the discipline necessary for an effective and enjoyable class;
5. To grade fairly and objectively;
6. To teach you the skills you will need to become a superior orchestra student.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES AS MY STUDENT
1. To treat me and your peers with respect;
2. To arrive on time and prepared to all rehearsals and concerts (during and outside of school)
with the necessary materials;
3. To raise your hand before voicing questions or concerns;
4. To listen and follow all instructions the first time they are given;
5. To give your best effort from the first rehearsal to the last concert;
6. To practice and master the skills you will need to become a superior orchestra student.
Orchestra Contract
Please remove this page and return to Ms. Harris by Monday, August 22
I verify that I have read the Orchestra Handbook and am familiar with the rules and policies of the
Kelly Mill Orchestra. I agree to attend all required rehearsals and performances, and understand
the grading procedures for these events.
Student Signature ________________________________ Date ____________
Parent Signature _________________________________ Date ____________
This contract pertains to the Kelly Mill Orchestra Handbook 2016-17 available on our website at
www,kellymillorchestra.weebly.com. Please read the Handbook and Orchestra Calendar, and make sure to
take note of all concert dates and rehearsals for your orchestra, as well as grading procedures and Concert
Attire. Please notify Ms. Harris if you need a paper copy of this handbook.