1

HOLCOMB BRIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Alpharetta, GA

ORCHESTRA HANDBOOK

2013-2014

Mrs Heather Chlup, Orchestra Director

Email: ChlupH@fultonschools.org

Orchestra Website:

www.hbmsorchestra.weebly.com

2

Table of Contents

Introduction Schedule of Orchestra Activities General Information Purpose GMEA/NAfME Standards Description of Orchestra Classes Course Requirements Method Books/Course Equipment Sourcing of Instruments Concert Attire Grading Procedures Grading Scale Homework Merit/Demerit Procedures Attendance Policies Classroom Rules and Procedures Tardiness Rehearsal & Concert Attendance Policies/Concert Etiquette Individual Progress Chair Assignment Co-Curricular Orchestras Private lessons Facility and Equipment Rehearsal Rooms Instrument Storage Library Lost Music Fines Miscellaneous Information Scheduling of Additional Rehearsals Orchestra Website Parent Support & Involvement Holcomb Bridge Middle School Orchestra Student Leadership Orchestra Officer Duties and Responsibilities

3

Introduction

I would like to welcome you to the Holcomb Bridge Middle School Orchestra Program for 2013-2014. In my first year at the school, I am looking forward to getting to know each and every one of my students and their parents and forming a solid orchestral program at the school. This handbook is designed with both the student and parent in mind. Please read it carefully. After you have read the handbook, you and your child should sign the information form and return it no later than: Monday, August 19th. Over the years, the HBMS Orchestra Program has performed in Savannah at the Georgia Music Educator’s Conference twice, at Disneyworld, FL and at many community and school events. We have been represented by students at various events including the GMEA All State Orchestra, the GMEA Solo and Ensemble, the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Fulton Middle School Honor Orchestra and the Atlanta Youth Symphony Orchestra. We also have a long streak of superior ratings from the annual performance evaluation. As you can see, membership in the HBMS Orchestra Program is quite an honor not to be taken lightly!

About the Orchestra Director

One of the first things the students will notice is my accent! This is because I was born and educated in Australia. My own orchestral performance experience is extensive. In my youth I performed regularly in school orchestra and choral ensembles and was a member of both the Sydney and Australian Youth Orchestras where I received a prestigious level of instruction as a violinist. Whilst in college, I performed as a soloist with the University of New South Wales Orchestra playing Beethoven. I also participated as a performer in master classes with Prof. John Harding, Concertmaster of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and was a student of Elizabeth Holowell, founding violinist with the Australian Chamber Orchestra. I have also played with the Sydney Philharmonic Orchestra (Australia), the Edinburgh Philharmonic Orchestra (Scotland) and the Dekalb Symphony Orchestra. Throughout my college years, I developed a passion for teaching private violin students and chose to make teaching my career. I have been teaching private instruction in violin for sixteen years and have taught as an Assistant Orchestra Director/Orchestra Director for both private and public schools here and in Australia and the United Kingdom for the past ten years. I am certified in Music (P-12) and Elementary Education (K-5) (General) and have extensive classroom experience. I migrated to the United States in 2008 and over the past few years, I have taken time out from full time work to raise a family. Since then, I have been Orchestra Director at both Summit Hill and Cogburn Woods Elementary Schools in Fulton County and as Music Director to a Saturday non-profit youth orchestra organization I founded called Scherzo Kids Orchestra. I also continue to run my own private teaching studio. I look forward to meeting you and growing the HBMS Orchestra Program this year.

Mrs Heather Chlup

HBMS Orchestra Director

4

Holcomb Bridge Middle School Orchestra

Schedule of Orchestra Activities (2013-2014)

Note: Some events/dates on the calendar are tentative!

DATE TIME EVENT EVENT SITE

8/26 - 8/28/13 Class period Seating Auditions (Gr 7-8) Room 608

9/10/13 Postmark date Application deadlines:

GMEA All-State Orchestra

& Fall Solo/Ensemble

Applications

N/A

**10/10/13 6:30-7:30pm Fall Orchestra Concert Gymnasium

11/15/13 8:00pm Start Field Trip

(Optional):Atlanta

Symphony Orchestra

Concert

Symphony Hall,

Woodruff Arts Center

12/4/13 TBA Cluster Concert:

Holcomb Bridge, Haynes

Bridge & CHS Orchestras

Centennial HS

**12/12/13 6:30-7:30pm Winter Orchestra Concert Gymnasium

02/06/14 TBD Pre-LGPE Cluster Concert

Holcomb Bridge, Haynes

Bridge & CHS Orchestras

Centennial HS

4/3/13 (TBD) TBD Cluster Concert:

Holcomb Bridge, Haynes

Bridge & CHS Orchestras

Centennial HS

April 2014 TBD Auditions for 2014-15 Room 608

**5/2/14 6:30-7:30pm Spring Orchestra Concert Gymnasium

** Mandatory event for Orchestra members as part of course requirement

5

Calendar Notes

All orchestra members will perform at all scheduled performances for their group. All

orchestra students will be allowed to participate in the Solo and Ensemble Festival and they are

also eligible to audition for GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) All-State

competition.

Any student (6th-8th) who would like to pursue auditions for the GMEA All-State Orchestra

must speak to me by Friday, August 23rd. You will have to go through two auditions in order

to make this prestigious orchestra. You must be: Extremely serious, totally committed and take

private lessons if you are to take on this challenge.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Purpose Our Orchestra's purpose is to: -Serve the school and community through quality concert performances - Furnish members with an invaluable experience in music as an art form. - Develop individual responsibility and self-discipline. - Further school spirit. - Encourage and develop leadership and teamwork.

Goals and Objectives in line with MENC/GPS Standards 1. Singing alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music 2. Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music 3. Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments 4. Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines 5. Reading and notating music 6. Listening to, analyzing, and describing music 7. Evaluating music and music performances 8. Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts 9. Understanding music in relation to history and culture

Description of Orchestra Classes

6th Grade Orchestra This 6th grade group has members that have little or no string experience. This group will learn foundational string techniques. The following topics will be covered as our skills develop through the year: Characteristic tone quality of string instruments, rhythmic studies, bowing technique development, left hand finger patterns, scales and arpeggios, ear training, music reading, music vocabulary, shifting, vibrato, music theory, music history, composer study, orchestral literature, and musical creativity.

6

7th Grade Orchestra This 7th grade group will continue to progress with more advanced instrumental technique and music literature study. They also have the opportunity to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival, play in Chamber Ensembles and audition for GMEA All-State Orchestra. 8th Grade Orchestra This 8th grade group will continue to excel at more advanced music literature. The goal for this group is to become the leader group for all HBMS orchestras, and to prepare them for high school orchestra. They also have the opportunity to participate in Solo and Ensemble Festival, play in Chamber Ensembles, and audition for GMEA All-State. HBMS Chamber Orchestra (Advanced Grade 6-8 Students; Approx. 30 players) This group is open to all interested advanced orchestra students. Membership of the group will be determined by auditions which will take place within the first few weeks of school. Students will be able to sign up for an audition time, and audition material will be available in the orchestra room. The meeting time for this group will be determined based on student schedules. The chamber orchestra will perform at various school functions as well as at community events.

GMEA Solo and Ensemble Festival

All students in 7th-8th grade strings (and advanced 6th grade students) are encouraged to perform some type of solo or ensemble piece(s). This is an excellent opportunity for you to play a piece that you normally wouldn’t get to play in orchestra. You also have the opportunity to get together with some friends and work on an ensemble piece together. I will hand the Solo and Ensemble sheet out to students, so they can pick their piece(s) out as soon as possible (the cut-off date for handing in forms will be approaching soon).

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Method Books Grade 6:

Essential Elements 2000 for Strings Books, 1 AND 2 (violin, viola, cello or bass) Grade 7:

Essential Elements 2000 for Strings Book 2 (*purchased in 6th Grade)

Essential Technique 2000 for Strings (violin, viola, cello or bass) Grade 8:

Essential Technique 2000 for Strings (*purchased in 7th Grade)

NB. These are required texts for this course. Students are asked to purchase their own books since classroom resources are not intended for take home use and the classroom does not have enough supplies of the books for all students to use.

7

Other Course Equipment Students must bring the following to class EVERY DAY:

1. Instrument in good working order. 2. Please have a nametag on each case.

3. A soft lead pencil (not a pen or a mechanical pencil).

4. Your method book(s).

5. Any sheet music or written materials handed out in class. This must be in your folder, and

numbered with your box number. Music is not to be folded, crumpled or otherwise damaged!

6. Accessories:

Rosin – All instruments must have a cake of rosin on hand every day. Violins and violas should purchase violin/viola rosin and celli should purchase cello rosin. Rosin must be brought to all class everyday (no exceptions will be made). Basses must use bass rosin. Most private rental instruments come with rosin.

Cleaning Cloth – All students need to have a small soft cloth every day to wipe down their

instrument as well as wiping off rosin that has built up on the strings and fingerboard.

Rubber Rock Stops/Straps – All celli and basses need a rubber rock stop or a cello/bass strap. This item is used to stop the instrument from slipping, thus providing poor playing position. Students should label items with an identifying mark on the top of the rock stop. You will NOT be allowed to simply stick your cello or bass endpin into the floor for support. If your instrument slips, it could crash to the floor, causing it serious damage!!!

Shoulder Pad/Shoulder Rest – All violins and violas must have some type of shoulder rest device (e.g. Zaret style shoulder rest sponge or better quality shoulder rest such as Kun, Everest or Wolf brand). Shoulder rests are used to keep the instrument in good playing position.

Spare Set of Strings – Since the school does not provide spare strings, it is up to the

student to have spare strings on hand. Violins need a spare E and A, violas need a spare A and D. Cellos need to bring a spare A and D. These are the strings that break the quickest. Basses do not need to purchase any spare strings.

Folding music stand – For home practice

Sourcing of instruments Students are responsible for providing their own instruments. In addition to ensuring that the instruments are of good quality, parents are responsible for maintaining the instruments. This includes providing strings, rosin and re-hairing of bows as necessary.

8

There are a limited number of school instruments available for student use. Assignment of these instruments will be at the discretion of the director. Those interested in renting a school instrument should notify the Orchestra Director a.s.a.p. Students using a school-owned instrument shall complete a County loan contract, have parental consent and pay a non-refundable usage fee of $25.00 per school year (This is about what it costs to rent an instrument PER MONTH from a music store). Repairs will be your responsibility with school instruments. Instruments will be checked in and inspected at the end of the school year. Any extensive damage to a school-owned instrument will be billed to the student. Lost instruments must be replaced by the student who checked the instrument out. Students may procure instruments from any of the music stores on the music store list provided. Parents are strongly encouraged not to purchase and/or rent instruments from stores which do not provide professional repair. Please note: Instruments purchased off the internet are not always from reputable dealers and are often of questionable quality and typically necessitate many expensive repairs. Any families considering purchasing an instrument should consult Mrs.Chlup prior to purchase so that I can make good recommendations for where to purchase instruments either on-line or in store.

Instrument Care and Maintenance

After Playing: 1. Use a clean, soft cloth to remove rosin from the strings, instrument, and bow stick. 2. Loosen the bow hair, but not so much as to allow the hair to touch the stick or for the

individual hairs to separate and hang loose. 3. Remove any sponge or shoulder pad you may use and keep it in the case if possible. If

not possible, a drawstring bag may be attached to the case handle to carry the shoulder pad.

4. Place the instrument and bow in its case. Celli should put the bow in the case after the instrument case is zipped closed. Use the cleaning cloth to cover the instrument and close the case securely. DO NOT FORCE THE CASE OR ZIPPER TO CLOSE!

Occasionally, especially before a concert, you may wish to polish your instrument. If so, use a bona fide instrument but DO NOT get any on the strings, bridge, fingerboard, neck, pegs, chin rest, or tail piece. Things to Avoid

1. Never bump or jar the instrument sharply even while it is in its case. Never attempt to glue or repair cracks yourself. Only special glues should be used or an instrument can be ruined. Take it to the repair store!

2. Never touch the hair of the bow, nor allow anything but rosin to come in contact with it. Always loosen the bow before putting it away.

3. Do not put anything in the case with the instrument except what is meant to go there, and this means no music in the interior of the case. Celli, Bass, and upper string cases with exterior music pockets may be used for carrying music.

4. Check your bridge often to make sure that it is not leaning. Have your teacher straighten it immediately if it is not straight or warping may result.

5. Do not allow the instrument to get too hot or too cold. Especially do not leave the instrument in a closed automobile which is subject to the rays of the sun, or near a heating/air conditioning outlet or fireplace.

9

6. NO ONE but the string student should handle the instrument, including brothers, sisters, friends, and/or family pets! YOU are the expert.

Recommendations

1. Everyone should have a nametag attached to the outside of his/her instrument case which includes: student name, address, phone number and school name and phone number.

2. An extra set of strings should be in the case at all times. Your teacher cannot furnish strings should they need replacing.

Remember – The care and maintenance of your instrument is YOUR responsibility! Repairs, string replacements, and bow re-hairs should be taken care of by you or your parents immediately to avoid lowered class grades!

Concert Attire

Appearance is an important part of the total effect of a performance; therefore, the performing

groups have adopted a basic performance uniform. Students will not be excluded from the group for

financial inability to provide appropriate dress. They are expected to communicate with the director

in writing at least three weeks prior to a scheduled event so that assistance can be provided in

attaining the article(s) necessary to complete the suggested attire ensemble. Please see enclosed

form to order your child’s polo shirt.

For all performances (excluding Solo/Ensemble) the following must be worn: Girls: School Concert Shirt Black Dress Pants (Solid, full-length and without patterns or stripes. No jeans!) Black Dress Shoes (No wedge or stiletto heels allowed. Flat shoes/small heels ONLY) Boys: School Concert Shirt Black Dress Pants (Solid, full-length and without patterns or stripes. No jeans!) Black Dress Shoes Your child will get a minimum three uses of their concert shirt per year. The concert shirt will be implemented and enforced so that we all can look as good as we play. No child will be allowed to participate in performances without the proper uniform.

GRADING PROCEDURES

The evaluation is curriculum-and-standards-based and allows flexibility to grade each individual student based on their own abilities on entrance and exit of the program.

10

Grading Policy Grades are weighted at the following percentages. The percentages equal 100%: DAILY GRADES - 15% (*Class Participation) 5 points per day, 1 point for each completed category: a. On time

b. Materials: Has present all sheet music, method book(s) and equipment (incl. pencil)

c. Posture and Correct technique

d. On task for the entire rehearsal

e. Prepared assignments

NB. Daily points are totaled at the end of each reporting period to gain a daily grade for that period.

AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSALS - 10% (*Lab Assignment)

Attends and participates appropriately in all scheduled after school rehearsals. Points are deducted

for each rehearsal missed or for inappropriate participation.

CONCERT PERFORMANCES – 20% (*Class Project)

100 points per performance possible; 0 for unexcused absence from performance.

WRITTEN EXAMS & WRITING ASSIGNMENTS – 5% (*Quizzes/Tests) 100 points per exam possible

PLAYING EXAMS– 15% (*Class Assignment) Points vary with each playing exam. A rubric will be used for each playing exam to indicate areas of

excellence or needed improvement.

INDIVIDUAL PRACTICE – 15% (*Homework)

Recommended minimums per week. 80 Minutes – String Orchestra (Grade 6)

90 Minutes – Sinfonietta (Grade 7)

100 Minutes – Symphony (Grade 8) FINAL EXAM – 15% (*Final Exam)

EXTRA CREDIT – 5% (*EOCT: Extra Orchestra Credit Task)

Extra credit-earning opportunities include:

a) Practice Records: Each additional 40 minutes per week will be added as extra credit.

b) Concert Attendance: Attendance at other concerts such as ASO, Chorus, Band, Feeder

schools etc. All concert attendance requires a 2 paragraph minimum written concert review.

c) Being an Orchestra Leadership Member and performing duties appropriately. d) Mentoring a peer: Working with a peer to assist them 1:1 with a musical difficulty (e.g.

before school, after school, at lunch etc). e) Exemplary participation in orchestra activities

Note About Homework Assignments The students’ grade will be lowered when homework is turned in late—one letter grade lowered per day. All students are responsible in learning music and completing all written/oral homework. All students will be responsible for numbering the measures in his/her music within 2 days of issuance. This is not to be done during class.

11

CLASSROOM RULES AND PROCEDURES

Personal Conduct Rules

It is the right of every musician to learn, and it is the right of your director to teach. These

rules are to be preserved and respected.

A positive, hardworking, and respectful attitude is

expected at all times. Respect yourself and respect others.

1. Always follow directions. Have a pencil on your stand to make notes.

2. Raise your hand when you wish to speak and wait for your director to call on you.

3. Show proper respect to other musicians and property. NEVER play any other

instrument but your own, even if invited to. You will be liable if you damage it!

4. Be seated with your instrument and music immediately upon arrival in class.

5. No food, candy, or gum may be eaten or chewed during orchestra.

6. All books, personal items, personal electronic devices etc. should be placed in your book bag during class. Book bags should be left on the book bag shelf of the rehearsal room and may not be brought to your playing area. Homework for other classes is to remain in your bag during orchestra class. All items left in the room after class will be turned in to lost and found.

7. All Personal Electronic Devices must be turned off stowed away in your book bag according to Fulton County School Policy.

8. Vandalism is a criminal act, punishable by law. Report vandalism immediately, no matter how small, no matter where you may find it (including restrooms).

9. NEVER leave money or other valuables unattended in the Orchestra Room. We cannot be responsible for your personal belongings.

Music Rules

1. Always write your part number in a box in pencil in the upper right hand corner of your music and books.

2. Mark your music in PENCIL only. No erasable pen. Always mark instructions on music as instructions are provided. Keep up with instructions as they are taught.

12

3. You are responsible for your music. Please keep up with it and take good care of it.

Never fold it, crumple it or allow it to get wet or soiled! Music is expensive. Music

damaged or lost will be paid for by the responsible person at the determined

replacement rate.

3. Always put your instrument in the appropriate storage when not in use.

4. Instruments are required for class every day. If an instrument is being repaired, a

note must be brought from home stating where it is being repaired or the grade will

be lowered for not having required equipment.

5. Students are responsible for re-setting and tidying the room after rehearsals. Return all chairs and stands to their proper place. No student will be dismissed until such time that the Orchestra Director feels the room is re-set properly. Students who do not participate in the re-setting process will risk a lowering of grade.

Merit Procedures

We will add to the character education program (I C.A.R.E.) that has been established here at Holcomb Bridge. When staff members observe students exhibiting model behaviors, they can reward students by giving them “I C.A.R.E.” bucks.

What does I C.A.R.E. mean?

I… Commit acts of kindness

I…Act responsibly

I…Respect people and property

I…Ensure safety

How will the bucks be used? Students can use the bucks to “purchase” specific rewards (i.e. having lunch outside with class).

WHO? Who receives the rewards? Any student enrolled here at Holcomb Bridge is eligible to receive I C.A.R.E. bucks.

WHY? Holcomb Bridge Middle School already has a culture that focuses on developing and maintaining a positive climate and relationships among students, staff, and parents; having a school wide positive behavior system will aid in this process.

13

Establishing a positive/ proactive school wide discipline plan is critical so we can focus even more on positive behaviors instead of negative behaviors among students. Additionally, developing positive relationships with students is critical to ensure that they have successful and positive academic and social experiences in school.

Demerit Procedures

Demerit points can and will be given to students not following rules of orchestra program as explained in this handbook.

Tardiness to Class Students are expected to be in class before the bell rings. The students need to understand the nature of our class in which much preparation (such as tuning/warming up, getting music, instrument, etc…. prior to actual class instruction) needs to take place. Tardiness will not be tolerated in this class. Tardiness can count toward the loss of school privileges as well as deduction towards student's classroom participation grade and merit points. Students must also serve private detentions. The student may also be demoted to lower chair. Please do not be late to class!!!

Rehearsal and Performance Attendance Policies and Concert Etiquette

1. Attendance is expected at all rehearsals during, before and after school

2. Attendance is expected at all performances.

Arrive at the performance venue on time! Prior to each concert, a warm-up period is provided to allow musicians to adjust to the concert environment and be at ease before playing. Please be on stage and in position at the planned warm-up period. Once your instrument is tuned and the concert begins, “quiet on stage” is to be maintained. Absolutely no talking is allowed during the performance of your group or any other group. Members are expected to maintain a calm and mature behavior. Please remember that each musician is a representative of the entire orchestra and behavior inappropriate for the occasion will not be tolerated. After each piece, the conductor will bow to accept the applause from the audience on behalf of the orchestra. At times, the conductor will recognize individual musicians or sections based upon solo performances. In addition, the conductor will determine when it is appropriate for the entire orchestra to stand and accept applause. When this occurs, each member should watch Orchestra Director and stand when motioned to do so.

INDIVIDUAL PROGRESS

Chair Assignment Students in Grades 7-8 will be assigned seating and parts in their section according to their demonstrated playing ability, which will be determined through auditions in the first few weeks of class. Section leaders and assigned parts will be determined following these auditions. Section leaders will assist other students in learning the assigned music. First stands shall make every effort to be at

14

all rehearsals and be in their seats before rehearsal begins. The first stands should be one of the first persons to learn the music. Failure to learn quickly will result in demoting to lower seating. ALL students are expected to progress through individual, daily practice. It is unacceptable to not come to rehearsals without having rehearsed parts privately.

SEATING AUDITION REQUIREMENTS (GRADES 7 & 8 ONLY)

Scale 7th Grade Orchestra (Sinfonietta)

Scale 8th Grade Orchestra (Symphony)

Violin

G Major scale with arpeggio C Major scale with arpeggio

Violin

A Major Scale with arpeggio A Melodic Minor Scale with arpeggio

Viola

D Major scale with arpeggio C Major scale with arpeggio

Viola

D Major Scale with arpeggio D Melodic Minor Scale with arpeggio

Cello

D Major scale with arpeggio C Major scale with arpeggio

Cello

D Major Scale with arpeggio D Melodic Minor Scale with arpeggio

Double Bass

F Major scale with arpeggio G Major scale with arpeggio

Double Bass

F Major Scale with arpeggio G Melodic Minor Scale with arpeggio

Youth Symphonies and other ensembles Fulton County Youth Orchestra www.fultonyouthorchestra.org Atlanta Youth Symphony www.atlantasymphony.org Metropolitan Youth Symphony www.mysoatlanta.com Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra www.music.emory.edu/eyso Buckhead Youth Symphony www.buckheadyouthorchestra.org Georgia Youth Symphony www.georgiasymphony.org/youth-programs Georgia Piedmont Youth Orchestra www.gpyoa.org

15

Private Lessons

All students are encouraged to take private lessons. Studying one on one with a private instructor allows a student to excel in developing individual talents. The students who study privately contribute to the orchestra program also by raising the standard of performance in the ensemble and by sharing their talents and skills with other students. A list of local private teachers is available for perusal on the orchestra’s website: www.hbmsorchestra.weebly.com

FACILITY AND EQUIPMENT

Director's Office Students shall enter the Director's office only for official business. This area is off limits to all students except those engaged in work or meeting. Please do feel free to come in to the office to seek help/advice or discussions. Students are requested not to interrupt during conferences.

Rehearsal Rooms Each orchestra member shall assume the responsibility of picking his/her music, instrument, books, clothing, etc. and storing such items properly at the end of each rehearsal or performance. Any music and/or items left in rehearsal room and rehearsal areas may result in a lowering of student grade and/or demerit points. No personal items should be left in the rehearsal rooms. The school will not be responsible for any personal items left in the classroom. All equipment, including instruments, must be stored properly on shelves, lockers, and racks. Chairs, stands, equipment must not be removed without permission. Only orchestra/music students are allowed in the orchestra room.

Instrument Storage All instruments must be properly stored in assigned lockers/bins at all times when not in use. Instruments that are too large for shelving will be assigned in specified storage area. Storage bins/lockers are to be kept clean and free of litter and personal items. Students are expected to take their instrument home daily. Therefore, every storage bin should be empty of personal items, including instruments, at the end of school day.

Library The librarians/helpers will assist students with all music needs. Students other than the librarians/helpers are not allowed to remove music or return music to library filing cabinets. Each orchestra member shall be issued with music. Students not receiving issued parts shall immediately inform a Librarian in order to obtain it. All students need to have their own parts at ALL rehearsals (NOT JUST YOUR STAND PARTNER).

16

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

Parent Conferences Parent conferences are encouraged as needed. Please feel free to contact the Orchestra Director, Mrs Heather Chlup, for an appointment. HBMS Office: (770) 594-5280 Email: ChlupH@fultonschools.org

Parental Involvement Involved parents are the key to successful students. Parents are an essential ingredient in a smoothly operating program. We will have a small council of parents who will help coordinate activities, concerts, fundraisers and trips. Holcomb Bridge Middle School parents are known for being extraordinarily helpful and always immensely appreciated. On the parent response form, please indicate any jobs that you would be interested in performing. Some of the helpful roles include phone committees, coordinating orders for orchestra uniform shirts, chaperoning field trips, helping organize the cluster concert, and providing refreshments. Please call or write about other suggestions or concerns. Even if you are unable to provide direct support to our orchestra program by donating your time, you can still show your support and involvement by doing your part to help your child develop as a musician. Such as:

1. HBMS Orchestra Program provides an outstanding musical experience for your musician. Please read this handbook and discuss its contents with your child so that the program’s expectations are clear to both of you.

2. Provide your child with an instrument in good working condition and stay on top of maintenance and supplies. Your child will stay more motivated as long as their instrument is producing to its best capabilities.

3. Provide encouragement for your child’s efforts during daily practice at home and ask questions about the class. Please be sure to sign all weekly practice records. These form part of the grade for this course.

4. Attend as many school performances with them as possible. 5. Provide a quiet place for music practice. 6. Keep all conflicts with after school rehearsals (usually scheduled a few weeks prior to each

concert) to a minimum. Please remember that attendance at these rehearsals forms part of our child’s grade in the course.

7. Communicate with the Orchestra Director as soon as any problems or concerns arise. 8. Actively participate in all fund-raising events. 9. Regularly check orchestra email, read parent handouts, visit the orchestra blog and generally

stay up to date with orchestra announcements and information.

I encourage you as parents to get involved! If you would like to share your relevant talents, experience and time with the program, I welcome you to do so!

17

HBMS ORCHESTRA STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Each year, the orchestra program in each of Grades 6-8 will comprise of a Orchestra Managers as determined on a quarterly rotation. Student Leadership Members go above and beyond the call of duty. Responsibilities and duties of leadership begin with being leaders not only during rehearsals and performances, but at all times. During rehearsal time, leadership is expected to be participating in the rehearsal. Interested students should complete the self-nomination form during the first week of class indicating their preferred position(s). Open positions for 2013-14 for each orchestra include:

Warm-up Manager

◦ Assist with warm-ups, sometimes conduct! Mentor

◦ When a new student joins band, help them get settled! (procedures, expectations, etc.)

Host

◦ Greet people who arrive to Orchestra during class. If you can help them, do! Chair Squad

◦ First to arrive!! Make sure chairs are set up correctly for your class. Stand Squad:

◦ First to arrive!! Make sure chairs are set up correctly for your class. Librarians

◦ Assist Mrs. Chlup as needed; pass out music, books, materials when used.

18

Holcomb Bridge Middle School Orchestra

Parent Volunteer Nomination Form

I am the parent/guardian of:

Student’s Name: _____________________________________

Grade: _____________________

I would be interested in becoming involved as a parent supporter of the

HBMS Orchestras and could offer my assistance in the following areas:

(please check those that apply):

_______ Co-ordinating/assisting in fundraising activities

_______ Assisting with refreshments at concerts

_______Copying music as required

_______Assisting in parent communication (E.g. Newsletters, emails etc)

_______Chaperoning on field trips

_______Joining a teacher-parent committee to initiate an Orchestra Booster

Club at HBMS

_______Parent leadership on the Orchestra Booster Club

_______Web technology

_______ Transporting instruments to off-site concerts

_______Drop off/pick up of school instruments for repair locally

_______Other (Please specify):________________________________________

Your offer of support is greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Heather Chlup

Orchestra Director

19

Holcomb Bridge Orchestra Sign-Off Sheet

Please return to Mrs Chlup no later than Monday August 19, 2013.

Student’s Name: _______________________________________________ Grade: ____________________ Homeroom Teacher: ___________________________________________ Instrument: ___________________ Parent’s Name: ___________________________________________ Parent’s E mail address (Please write clearly): ___________________________________ Home Phone: ______________________________________________ We have read and understand all the orchestra information printed in this packet, and agree to follow the guidelines presented. We also understand that all orchestra students are encouraged to attend all rehearsals and performances for the school orchestra. Parent’s Signature____________________________________ Student’s Signature___________________________________