The Commodore Band Handbook 2021-2022 - Brevard Public ...

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The Commodore Band Handbook 2021-2022 - Brevard Public ...
The Commodore Band
          Handbook

                   2021-2022
             Mr. Jeremy Salmon, Principal
         Mr. Benjamin Hart, Director of Bands
   Mr. Brandon Gentile, Associate Director of Bands

                     Eau Gallie High School Band
           1400 Commodore Blvd. Melbourne, FL 32935
(321)-242-6400 ext. 23721 email: Hart.Benjamin@brevardschools.org
 (321)-242-6400 23722 email: Gentile.Brandon@brevardschools.org
The Commodore Band Handbook 2021-2022 - Brevard Public ...
Table of Contents

Table of Contents...................................................................................2
Forward..................................................................................................3
Band Motto.............................................................................................4
 Class Descriptions................................................................................5
Code of Conduct.....................................................................................6
Grading Policy........................................................................................7
 Academic Eligibility/Ineligibility...........................................................8
Attendance Policy..................................................................................8
 Financial Responsibility........................................................................9
Fundraising..........................................................................................10
 Equipment and Storage......................................................................11
Travel Policy.........................................................................................13
Uniform Policy.....................................................................................13
Procedures...........................................................................................15
 Band Booster Organization................................................................16
 Charms Office Assistant.....................................................................17
Procedures...........................................................................................18

                                                   pg. 2
The Commodore Band Handbook 2021-2022 - Brevard Public ...
Contract (Please Sign and Return).....................................................11

                                          pg. 3
Forward
The purpose of this handbook is to provide valuable information about the
  Band program at Eau Gallie High School. To achieve and maintain the
  high standards of excellence desired by this organization, all members
 should familiarize themselves with the rules and procedures of the band
                    that are included in this handbook.

                                   pg. 4
Band Motto

  “Live It, Learn It, Love
             It”
      Welcome to the Eau Gallie High School Commodore Band Program! The
   Commodore Band has upheld a tradition of excellence for many years. In that
 time, the band has consistently earned the highest ratings at Florida Bandmasters
 Association Music Assessments. Our concerts have been of the finest quality, well
    attended and entertaining. We strive to continue the tradition of excellence.
 Annually, qualified Band Members from EGHS represent us at Community Events,
 Parades, All-County Honor Bands, The Tri-State Band Festival, FBA All-State Band,
FBA Solo-Ensemble and Concert Music Assessments and other similarly prestigious
events. It is the goal of the EGHS Band Program to always give our best and to Live,
  Learn and Love what we do every day in our actions, attitude and performances.

                                        pg. 5
Percussion Techniques 1/2-
This class is for all percussion students in the band program. This class allows percussion students to get formal
training on the various percussion instruments. Percussionists in this class will also rehearse the music for their
specified band, as well as percussion ensemble music. The percussion ensemble regularly performs at concerts,
community events and participates in group and individual assessments, both inside and outside of school.

Concert Band-
This ensemble is open to all students, however; students that have no formal musical experience are required to
be in Concert band their first year. Instruction in basic music literacy as well as fundamentals on each
instrument will be studied throughout the year. The Concert Band performs concerts every nine weeks, as well
as participates in group and individual assessments, both in class and out of class, including the Florida
Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment.

Symphonic Band-
Symphonic Band is composed of mostly sophomores and juniors, but a student’s placement in this ensemble is
subject to attitude and ability. Students must audition for this ensemble. This ensemble is open to students with
previous instruction in wind and percussion instruments. It consists of modern wind band instrumentation and
provides instruction in common-practice period and twentieth century wind literature and transcriptions The
Symphonic Band is a class that meets throughout the entire year and performs several concerts and festivals
each year, including the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance Assessment.

Wind Ensemble-
The Wind Ensemble is composed of the highest quality musicians at EGHS, but a student’s placement in this
ensemble is subject to attitude and ability. The Wind Ensemble is a select group of individuals with select
instrumentation. Membership is by audition only. Private study is suggested of members of the ensemble. The
Wind Ensemble is a class that meets throughout the entire year and performs several concerts and festivals each
year, including traveling to the middle school and the Florida Bandmasters Association Music Performance
Assessment.

Commodore Jazz Orchestra and EGHS Jazz Ensemble-
The Jazz Bands are open to all members of the band program, by audition. Instruction in jazz idioms and
literature of the twentieth century are studied. The Jazz Band classes meets every day and performs several
concerts, community events and festivals each year, Including Lakeside Jazz Festival, traveling to the
elementary and middle schools as well as the Florida Bandmasters Association Jazz Music Performance
Assessment

                                      Audition Requirements
    Auditions are required for all ensembles. Students wishing to be placed in any of these ensembles must
                          demonstrate musical skills as listed by the Band Directors.
                                                       pg. 6
Student Code of Conduct-
    All band students are responsible for the reading and adherence to the
    BREVARD COUNTY CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT. Here are some
    rules about conduct in the Band Room and when representing
    our school as a member of the Band:

          1. Loud, boisterous behavior is inappropriate in the Band Room. This type of
          behavior distracts from a positive learning environment and is never
          acceptable.

          2. Gum, food or drinks will not be tolerated in the Band Room.

          3. Be respectful of other peoples’ property. If it is not yours, do not touch it.

          4. Due to the amount of hard work and dedication band students put forth;
          being allowed in the band room is considered a privilege and not available
          to non-band students.

          5. Remember the golden rule, “Always treat others as you want to be
          treated.”

          6. If there are any questions regarding these rules, please contact the
          Directors for further clarification.
Consequences-

    Band class grades are graded largely on participation; therefore, all rule infractions
    will result in a point deduction from the daily participation percentage of the grade.

          1st Offense-- A Verbal Warning will be given if a student is not acting according
          to the rules set forth in this Handbook.

          2nd Offense—Student will be moved to front of class and lose participation
          points for that day. Detentions may be assigned.

          3rd Offense—Detention/Parent phone call or conference as well as loss of
          participation points.

          4th Offense- Referral and possible removal from the program.

                                            pg. 7
Grading Policy
Students will be graded in the following areas: participation, attendance at performances and
rehearsals, written tests and/or worksheets, and Individual Assessments. Semester exams count
no more than 10% of the total grade, as per Brevard County School Board Policy. Grading will
be as follows:

             Preparation/Participation 15%
                Concerts/Rehearsals 40%
               Individual Assessment 40%
                Written Assignments 5%

Concerts/Rehearsals

40% of your grade will count for Concerts/Rehearsals (all concerts for your class are required
– notice is requested two weeks before a concert date if you are aware of a conflict – the concert
calendar was created in June 2019 and is provided on the first day of school – please plan
ahead!) Students whether excused or unexcused must make up the points for the rehearsal or
concert by playing their music for the class within one week.

Individual Assessments-

40% of your grade will count for individual assessments (all students will have performance
requirements for each class – this includes etudes, rhythms, scales, or any musical exercise
assigned by the director.

Preparation/Participation-

15% of your grade will count for Preparation and Participation (2 points per day, earned by
coming to class with all materials, instrument, instrument supplies, music, pencil, and by being
prepared to perform). If a student does not follow code of conduct and or does not follow
classroom procedures, the Director will take away these points.

Written Assignments-

5% of your grade will count for Written Assignments (includes returning parent signature
forms, permission slips, and worksheets or assignments handed out for class.)

                                               pg. 8
Academic Eligibility/Ineligibility-
Rules for eligibility in all band functions are set forth by the Florida Legislature. All students
must maintain a 2.0 GPA. These are minimum requirements and most students will exceed
them with ease, however it is important to remember that one ineligible student can lower the
performance level of the band by their absence. The director will check student grades each
marking period to determine eligibility. Students must attend study hall on Tuesday during
anchor hour in the event they have a D or an F.

Attendance Policy
School Day Rehearsals-

If a student is absent from school – whether excused or not- there will not be a deduction in the
student’s participation points. That student is responsible for getting any make-up assignments
that were given – this includes, but isn’t limited to playing tests.

After-School Rehearsals-

To receive full points for an out of school rehearsal, the student must be at their spot ready to
start when the rehearsal starts. If a student is late for the rehearsal they will not be issued full
points. Students whether excused or unexcused must make up the points for the rehearsal or
concert by signing up for a time either before school, during Anchor Hour Block, or after school
to play the music for the Director. This make up must take place within one week from the
rehearsal.

Concert/Festival Performances-

To receive full points for any Performance, the student must be in their seat/spot ready to start
with all required materials and in uniform at the call time. If a student is late for the concert they
will not be issued full points. Students whether excused or unexcused must make up the points
for the concert by playing their music for the class. This make up will take place within one
week of the performance.

Tardy Policy – Students who are not seated/standing in assigned location at the start time will
be considered tardy. If a student is tardy half of the points will be deducted.

“To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, to be late is to
                            be forgotten.” –Elin Hinderbrand

                                                 pg. 9
Financial Responsibility- (Revised 2021)

ALL NEW WINDS/PERCUSSION MEMBERS                                         $300
Includes:
   • Performance Dri-fit                           • Uniform cleanings
   • Show Shirt                                    • Transportation
   • Performance cap                               • Clinicians
   • Gloves                                        • Competitions
   • Drawstring bag                                • Fair Share for improving
   • Band polo                                        inventory/music need
   • Water cooler
__________________________________________________________________________________________
ALL RETURNING WINDS/PERCUSSION MEMBERS                                         $178
Includes:
   • Show Shirt                                    • Competitions
   • Uniform cleaning                              • Fair Share for improving
   • Transportation                                   inventory/music needs
   • Clinicians

          (New apparel items may be purchased prices will be given out at band camp)
__________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW COLOR GUARD STUDENTS                                                           $375
Includes
   • Costume                                        • Water cooler
   • Show Shirt                                     • Uniform cleaning
   • Performance Dri-fit                            • Transportation
   • Performance cap                                • Fair Share for improving
   • Drawstring bag                                     inventory/music need
   • Band polo
__________________________________________________________________________________________
RETURNING COLOR GUARD STUDENTS                                                    $253
Includes
   • Show Shirt                                     • Clinicians
   • Uniform cleaning
   • Transportation                                 • Fair Share for improving
                                                        inventory/music needs
__________________________________________________________________________________________

                         Expenses not included for all members
                                • Marching Shoes ($30.00)
                               • Instrument Rental ($60.00)

             Checks can be made out to EGHS Band Boosters                           ____

                                          pg. 10
Fundraising-
Every year the Florida legislature and State Department continue to cut funding for education in
our state. This in turn forces our local school system to cut back on vital funding in all areas,
but probably most in the area of arts. One of the most important functions of the Eau Gallie
High School Band Boosters is to supplement this ever decreasing school funding with the
purchase of needed instruments, supplies and services necessary to allow the band to grow and
perform at a higher level. The only way to make this possible is through fund raising.

All band students are strongly encouraged to participate in these projects. Some
fundraising projects will go directly to the students account to help pay for trips, apparel
items, instrument rental, while others will go to the band account. ALL fundraisers will
have incentives for the students. Parents, we need your help as well. Please join our Band
Booster Organization.

Some Potential Fundraising Opportunities-
     • Spirit Nights
     • Silent Auctions
     • Strawberry Sales
     • Krispy Kreme
     • Pretzel Rods
     • Performance Under the Stars
     • Quarter Auction
     • Mattress Sales
     • Sponsorships

                                              pg. 10
Equipment-

Below you will find a list that is broken down into each instrument. If you are interested in
buying an instrument, please use the list below of approved brands and models. Before
purchasing any instruments, please consult the directors, so we can be sure you are getting
the best quality instrument for your budget. Absolutely NO Colored Instruments!

Flute- Gemeinhardt, Yamaha

Oboe- Fox, Yamaha, Renard, Vito

      With med-soft and plastic reed. Good Quality Handmade Double Reeds available by
      Stellar Oboe Products at www.oboe.net Bassoon- Good Quality Handmade Double Reeds
      available at www.oboe.net or www.charlesmusic.com

Clarinet and Bass Clarinet- Buffet, Selmer/Bundy, Vito, Yamaha

      Mouthpiece- Vandoren B45 or M30 with Rovner Leather Ligature & Vandoren 2 1⁄2
      reeds

      Wood vs. Plastic- Wood gets a warmer sound but is for indoor use only, plastic is more
      durable and is able to be played outdoors.

Saxophones (alto & tenor and Baritone)- Keilwerth, Buescher, Yahama, Selmer, Vito

      Mouthpiece- Caravan or Selmer C* with Rovner Leather Ligature & Vandoren 2 1⁄2
      reeds & Padded neck strap.

Trumpet- Bach, Yamaha, Conn, Besson, Selmer, Blessing

      Mouthpiece- Bach 7C or 3C

                    st    rd
      Need to have 1 and 3 valve slide saddles; avoid triggers, they aren’t as precise

Horn- Holton, Yahama, Conn, Bach, Selmer (double preferred if financially possible for
student)

      Mouthpiece- Bach 11

Trombone/Euphonium- Yamaha, Bach, Holton, Blessing, Conn, Meinel Westen, and Wilson.

                                            pg. 11
Mouthpiece- Schike 51D, Dennis Wick Classic series.

Tuba- Yamaha, Miraphone,

      Mouthpiece- Helleberg, Bach 18 or 24 AW

Percussion- Percussionists need their own stick bag with a drum key, at least 3 sizes of sticks,
brushes and an assortment of mallets and beaters.

New instruments are preferred, but please Avoid eBay High Quality Instruments are a MUST!
 No First act, Deg, Allora, Glory, Mendini Instruments. Avoid inexpensive Band instruments
                           manufactured in Asia & the Middle East.

Storage/ Instrument Care-
Naturally, we cannot be responsible for your instruments...that’s your job!!! It is strongly
recommended that you keep your horn or other large instruments in the instrument storage
room. Measures will be taken to protect it from the “wrath” of others. If you would rather keep
it elsewhere; however, that is fine, as long as you keep it out of the other rooms in the music
department. Instruments cannot be left lying around.

If you own and are using your own instrument, you are advised to take care of it in an extremely
conscientious manner. You shall be expected to handle your instrument at all times in the
correct manner and do periodic maintenance and cleaning on it especially during marching
season-- suggested weekly. AT NO TIME is your instrument to be handled or played by any
other person in this band without your permission. We must maintain trust in our band room,
using other students instruments without their permission does not contribute to that. The same
rules as stated above, shall apply to all school-owned instruments. These instruments are being
loaned to you by the county and are not your property. Therefore, a proper and mature treatment
will be enforced at ALL times. You are the ONLY person who is to use your equipment at any
time unless cleared by the band directors. Violators will be dealt with individually. Percussion
equipment and drumsticks ARE NO exceptions. Students will receive a Band locker the first
week of school and will NOT need to bring a combination lock.

   Brevard County Schools is in no way responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items from
                                          lockers.

                                              pg. 12
Travel Policy-

The band takes several trips throughout the year for Marching, Concert and Jazz Band
opportunities. Permission slips and Medical forms must be on file with the band for the student
to participate. Itineraries will be distributed the week of the trip.

Even though we are off the EGHS campus, we still ad hear to the Brevard County School Board
Code of Conduct. Therefore, students must act appropriately at all times. If a student is not
acting accordingly, their parent will be called to pick them up immediately. There will be no
refund given.

Uniform Policy
The attire used for each performance is up to the discretion of the Band Director. It is of the upmost importance
that we portray the EGHS Band program in a professional way. One way that can be reflected is in the
cleanliness of our attire. The Band Director reserves the right to dismiss a student from a performance, if he/she
does not meet these requirements and those listed below.

Uniforms for CONCERT and SYMPHONIC Band:
Both Concert and Symphonic Bands will perform once every 9 weeks. They will be required to wear black dress
pants with a black button down shirt, black belt, black socks and black dress shoes. Ladies may wear a black
dress that does not show shoulders, and must extend below the knee, if they choose.

Uniforms for WIND ENSEMBLE:
Wind Ensemble will perform once every 9 weeks. They will be required to wear a school issued tuxedo
combined with a tux shirt, bowtie and cummerbund students will also need to wear black socks and black
dress shoes. Ladies may wear a school issued black dress if they so choose.

Uniforms for Jazz Bands:
 Commodore Jazz Orchestra (Jazz 1)                        Eau Gallie Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 2)
 Concert Attire:                                          Concert Attire:
 Black Tuxedo, White tux shirt, Cummerbund, Bowtie,       Black button down dress shirt, black pants, black
 black dress shoes and black socks.                       belt, black socks, black shoes.
 Ladies may wear school issued black dress if they so     Ladies may wear a black dress that does not show
 choose.                                                  shoulders and extends below the knee, if they so
                                                          choose.
 Gig Attire:                                              Gig Attire:
 Band polo, Black Dress pants, black belt, black dress    Band polo, Black Dress pants, black belt, black dress
 shoes, black socks                                       shoes, black socks

                            * Undergarments must not be visible while in uniform *
 Students that arrive in the incorrect uniform - up to the discretion of the Directors - will not be permitted to
                                 perform and will get a 0 for the performance.

                                                      pg. 13
Uniform Policy cont.
EGHS Marching Commodores Uniform

The school will issue each student a pair of bibbers (pants), uniform jacket, and shako (hat). All of
these items should be kept in the same condition that they are received in at the beginning of the
school year. We will keep these uniforms on campus for all games and on-site performances.
Uniforms will be distributed for parades and students will be expected to show up to the parade site
wearing the uniform correctly.

Students will be expected to wear the following items underneath and in addition to their uniform:
   • White Gloves
   • EGHS Marching Band Hat
   • EGHS Performance Shirt (Football Games)
   • EGHS Show Shirt (Competitions)
   • Calf High Black Socks
   • Black DInkle Shoes
   • Gym Shorts

In the event that we have a performance that does not require the full uniform we will wear the
“Summer Uniform.” The Summer Uniform consists of:
    • EGHS Marching Band Hat
    • EGHS Performance Shirt
    • Khaki Shorts
    • Brown or Black Belt
    • White or Black Socks
    • Tennis Shoes

At no time should a student wear the following items during a marching performance:
    • Visible Jewelry (i.e. earrings, rings, and spacers)
    • Nail Polish

At no time should a student in full uniform be:
    • Eating food or drinks not provided by the band department
    • Acting outside the BCS and EGHS Band Handbook Conduct
    • Wearing the uniform the wrong way

If a student does not meet the requirements listed above - at the discretion of the directors - that
student will lose participation points for the performance and will not be allowed to perform with the
band. The student will still remain under the supervision of the directors and chaperones at the
performance. Notice of which uniform we will be wearing for each performance will be given at least
one week in advance with the itinerary.

Rehearsal/Performance Procedures-
                                                 pg. 14
Rehearsal/Performance Procedures All Band Members Should:

     1. Read the board or screen for pertinent Info.
     2. Keep food, drinks, gum, etc. out of the band room.
     3. Store instruments properly in the storage room. Keep your lockers locked at all times.
     Use the instrument storage room for the storage of private and school-owned
            instruments.
     5. Have ALL necessary materials for class, rehearsals and performances. Everyone needs
            to bring a pencil to each rehearsal.
     6. Be early to class, rehearsals and performances. Attendance will be taken 2 minutes
            after the tardy bell. You are tardy if you are not in your seat ready to play.
     7. Warm up responsibly before class begins, unless music is playing.
     8. Do not cause disruptions during class, rehearsals and performances.
     9. Do not talk while the band director, or designee, is on the podium or while instruction
            or information is being given.
     10. Do not tamper with any item in the band room unless it is yours. Remember, all
            equipment (unless privately owned) is the property of Eau Gallie High School and
            the Brevard County School Board.
      11. Do not bring non-band members into the band room.
     12. Posture is of the utmost importance. Students should avoid crossed legs or ankles and
            slumping when seated in chairs. DO NOT LEAN BACK ON YOUR CHAIR!! DO
            NOT LEAN ON MUSIC STANDS!!
     13. Music folders, instruments, and equipment should be kept in their proper storage
            places when not in use. Music and folders should not be left on the music stands.
     14. Books and personal items should not be left in the rehearsal room or in instrument
            lockers.
     15. All trash should be thrown in the waste container.
     16. Students may not bring books, personal belongings including cell phones, or study
     materials to their seats. - Loud talking, shouting, or horseplay is not allowed in the Band
     Room. THE LESS DISTRACTIONS, THE MORE WE CAN ACCOMPLISH.

     Cell Phone Policy-

            Cell phones are not to be used in class. Students are to leave cell phones in their
     backpacks or out of sight. If a student is caught using their cell phone the following will
     occur:
            1. Phone taken away
            2.Detention and parent phone call.
            3. Referral

Commodore Band Parent Organization-
                                             pg. 15
It is the purpose of the EGHS Band Boosters to support the band director, engage in activities
that are in the students’ best interest and promote the Eau Gallie High School Band Program.
To cooperate with those in charge of the Band Department and the School Board to the highest
possible degree of proficiency.

The EGHS Band Boosters consists of all of the EGHS Band Parents and Guardians. We use
this group to help facilitate fundraisers, field trips, instrument purchases, and any other needs
the band may have. Please come and support the band and your child by attending these
meetings. If you are interested in being on the board or helping in anyway, please contact

Mary Spatafora- EGHSmommodore@gmail.com

         All Band Booster Meetings will be held the 1st Thursday of each month at 6pm.

Band Materials Needed-
  Welcome to the EGHS Band Family. It is our goal to show you why we love music! Below
           are some things you need to consider for the 2019-2020 school year.

    Materials Needed for Class:                                       Percussion Students:
       • Instrument                                                        • Timpani Mallets
       • Instrument Supplies (Reeds, Oil, sticks, etc.)                    • Snare Sticks
       • Pencil                                                            • Hard Mallets
       • 1-inch 3 ring binder with at least 25 page protectors             • Soft Yarn Mallets
       • EGHS issued Band Folder                                           • Drum pad
    EGHS provided breathing tubes & balloons                               • Metronome
                                                                      Stick Bag
    Oboes, Clarinets, Saxophones, Bassoons:                           Trombones:
    At least THREE working reeds at all times(one you are playing          • Slide Cream
    and two others as well)                                                • Small Spray Bottle (for water)
                                                                      Trumpet, Euphonium, Tuba:
                                                                      Valve Oil

Charms Office Assistant-
The charms website allows the Director and members of the Band Booster Board to
                                                             pg. 16
communicate with Band parents. An updated calendar is on the website in addition to
procedures for volunteering for particular events. Charms also allows band parents to remain
informed on their financial obligations.

                                           pg. 17
Procedures-

Excused absence for Rehearsal procedure (Performances are mandatory)
    An excused absence form QR code can be found in the band room. This form must be
    filled out completely. Once form is turned in. Directors will then either approve or deny
    the excused absence request. An email will be sent back regarding the decision.

    All requests for excused absences must be made 2 weeks in advance, if later absence
    will not be excused.

Procedure regarding money
    All money brought in for fees or any donations, must be place in an envelope and filled
    out completely! Before money can be dropped in the safe (gary 2.0)

    *EGHS Directors and the Band Parent Organization will take no responsibility for funds
    placed in the box without an envelope or proper identification.*

                                            pg. 18
Handbook Acknowledgment Agreement for Parents and Students-

I have read and understand all rules, regulations and guidelines in this HANDBOOK and will
comply in order to keep my membership in the Eau Gallie High School Band. I understand that
these guidelines will be handled at the DIRECTOR’S discretion and that the DIRECTOR has
the final approval in all situations.

______________________________________________               ____________________
              Student Signature                                     Date

______________________________________________               ____________________

               Parent Signature                                     Date

                         PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN

                                           pg. 19
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