handbook

Contact Information …………………………………………………. 5

Band Camp Itinerary ………………………………………………....7-8

Apparel ………………………………………………………………...10

Apparel Order Form ……………………………………………….....10

Volunteer Form …………………………………………………….....11

Course Syllabus ……………………………………………………....13

Member Expectations

· Be on time for all rehearsals and performances. If you are going to miss a rehearsal/performance, advise your section leader at least one week prior. It is your responsibility to know when the next rehearsal is. Arrive at all rehearsals/performances prepared and ready to perform. Know and understand the objectives/goals for each rehearsal. If you don’t know – ASK!

· Excessive swearing and abusive language is not acceptable. Rehearse and perform professionally. You have the right to expect the same professionalism from the instructional staff.

· You are a role model for other Band/Guard members. It is your responsibility to remember that at all times. Band/Guard members will act and behave as they see you act and behave. This role model responsibility applies at all times on the rehearsal/performance field as well as off the field.

· Set high standards for yourself. Ensure that you know and understand the organizations, directors, and instructional staff’s expectation for the year. If you don’t know their expectations, you can’t meet or exceed them.

· Take care and respect your uniform, your equipment, and your rehearsal facilities. If something requires repair, please advise your section leader, an instructional staff member, or the director. Eating in full dress is not allowed at any time.

· Treat instructional staff, bus drivers, board members, volunteers, and other bands with respect. They will respond to you much more positively. If you have concerns with someone, please advise the director for further support or action.

· You represent Great Oak High School and The Spirit at all times. It does not matter where you are – rehearsal, performance, on the Internet, etc. What you say and write as a member of the Spirit is viewed as the opinion and thoughts of the Spirit. If someone knows you are a member of the Spirit of Great Oak, then you are representing the entire Band. Make any of your actions happen with pride, class and integrity!

Member Fees Information (Please See Membership Agreement last page)

· Because there is no funding from the school district for Performance Band and the extensive cost of participating at off-site venues, the Band will be segmented into two groups. Those that can not pay fees can choose to be a part of the Year-Round Concert Band. The Concert Band will not be a part of the field shows, or competitive ensembles, but will perform at on-site performances. The Competitive Ensembles will travel to off-site venues, such as parades and competitions.

· Scholarships are available for those members qualifying for the “Free Lunch” program with the District. Please notify the Bookkeeper so that verification can be ascertained.

· The member fee is a set amount (MEMBERS JOINING LATE WILL BE PRORATED). This fee covers costs including, but not limited to: Equipment, including instrument and uniform repair, meals, transportation, competition fees, and professional instruction.

· Fundraising will be set up to offset some of the cost of overnight touring (e.g. Washington D.C.); to reduce or offset fees for participation in upcoming years; and as a means to purchase new instruments and equipment for Band/Guard. Because everyone benefits, ALL are required to participate.

Note: The collection of all fees by October is to insure students that remain in the program for the full year do not have to pick up costs for any students leaving the program.

1) If Students/Parents fall more than 30 days (or one month) behind on dues, they will not be allowed to participate at off-site events. The student’s uniform will be pulled, an alternate will replace him or her until fees are brought current.

2) Students/Parents will stay informed of practice, event, and other scheduling issues by way of the Band programs’ website at: www.spiritofgreatoak.com. The Booster program will have various methods of communicating with students/parents, but ultimately it is the students/parent’s responsibility to check the website for up-to-date information. Students/Parents may also contact the Band Director, Booster President, Booster Vice-Presidents, or other Booster Board members as appropriate.

3) Students/Parents will volunteer to assist at various events. Volunteers will be coordinated by the Board representative – Volunteer Coordinator. Students may be rewarded based on the amount of volunteer work done on their behalf. This program’s success is due, in large part, to the amount of volunteer hours donated to the program..

Member Payments and Balances Due

Students/Parents may contact the Booster Treasurer for payment histories and/or amounts owing.

Individual Sponsorship

Members are encouraged to solicit sponsors to help with fees and overnight trip expenses. Sample sponsorship letters are available; please contact the Secretary if you need a sample letter.

Some parents have expressed an interest in providing scholarships. If you are interested in doing so, please contact the Treasurer as soon as possible.

Current Information

· The Director posts information on the whiteboard in the Band room on upcoming events.

2008-09 Parent Support Group (PSG) Board Members

PRESIDENT: Oversees all functions of the Band Parent Booster Board. Manages board meetings. Delegates responsibilities to the appropriate board and/or committee members. Direct liaison with the Director of Instrumental Music. Works with and oversees Board positions of Secretary, Auditor, Treasurer, Equipment, and Website Coordinator. Approval of disbursements with Treasurer and Director of Instrumental Music. Handles parent concerns. Works through other Board members to keep parents informed on Booster activities.

John Rossi 302-2319 pjrossi@roadrunner.com

VICE PRESIDENT - Programs: Oversees programs and works with and oversees Board positions of Ways & Means, Uniform Managers, Volunteer Coordinator, Competition / Festival Coordination, and Parent Liaison. Includes public relations functions for Band Parent Booster Board. Manages meetings in absence of the President. Direct liaison for the band with the media and community.

JoAnn Larsen 232-4088 joann@proimagead.com

VICE PRESIDENT - Events: Oversees traveling events and works with and oversees Board positions of Travel Event Coordinator, Hospitality Coordinator, Head Chaperone, Color Guard Representative, Jazz Ensemble Representative, and Drum Line Representative. Responsible for coordinating event logistics to insure timely, well run events.

Scott Thudium

SECRETARY: Records the minutes from all booster meetings. Assists in updating Board Members and Parents Booster on a variety of information through emails and publication of pertinent information, including (but not limited to): budgets, volunteer lists, general parent announcements, etc. Maintains records and lists of students and parent related information. Handles sign-ups and maintains parent/student contracts.

Marsi Yount 302-7699 marsi_yount@adelphia.net

AUDITOR: Prepares budget in conjunction with Treasurer. Monitors actual-to-budget variances in monthly financials. Oversees appropriate funding and expenditures as a "check and balance" to the designated members who can approve funding, and distribute appropriate funds.

TREASURER: Assists with the collection of competitive fees from the general membership; Records all incoming and outgoing funds via the most appripriate software. Provides monthly financial. Assists Auditor with development and maintenance of the annual budget. Processes checks for approval by Board. Works through GOALS for deposits and cash disbursements.

Jeanne Davis 676-3578 maestrodavis@earthlink.net

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR: Establishes sign-up sheets for parent chaperones to the off campus and on campus competitions and other events. Calls parent volunteers to confirm their shift and role 1-2 weeks prior to the competition. Responsible to ensure appropriate number of volunteers attend events. Maintains records for volunteer attendance and lack there of.

COMPETITION/FESTIVAL COORDINATOR: Organizes, plans, obtains necessary approvals and permits, and oversees the large event hosted by the GOHS Band & Guard. Assigns sub-committee chairpersons, and oversees the completion of: concessions; logistics; ticket sales (if appropriate); vendors; hospitality; first aid; awards; programs; and public relations by coordinating with responsible Board members as appropriate. Maintains communication with all participating units for purposes of the competition program, concessions and logistics.

____________________________ Tues. Nov. 18^th Fall Exhibition of Champions

____________________________ Sat.-Sun. Feb. 7^th-8^th WGI Color Guard So Cal Reg.

____________________________ Sat.-Sun March 28^th-29^th WGI Drum Line Temecula Reg.

TRAVEL EVENT COORDINATOR: Coordinates with the booster group and Director to establish logistics for upcoming off campus competitions and events including (but not limited to) facilitating food; water; meal, overnight accommodation options; and/or group entertainment (e.g. College University Visitations; Theme parks). Completes event logistics form for approval by Director and President.

WAYS & MEANS: Coordinates all fund-raising events for parents and students. Prepares and submits GOALS forms for event approval to Board, then Goals for approvals.

EQUIPMENT MANAGER: The equipment manager coordinates with the Director and President for logistics, travel, parking, equipment on and off the competitive field, and loading & unloading. Facilitates the movement of the equipment, but not be responsible for the physical loading and unloading. Student crews assigned by the Director to the Manager will need to be responsible for loading and unloading.

George Marshall 265-2905 geomarsh@adelphia.net

UNIFORM MANAGER: Coordinates the fitting of the uniforms, develops procedures and iustructions for parents for uniform hemming and cleaning. Coordinates distribution and return of the uniforms from the room, to the trailer, and at competitions. Works with student crews assigned by the Director for setting up logistics of Uniform storage, movement, care & maintenance, and cleanings. Recommends to the Director and Booster board new and/or additional items necessary for incoming Freshman and membership (e.g. additional uniform needs; tour shirt needs; etc..)

HEAD CHAPERONE: Coordinates with Volunteer Coordinator to oversee volunteers for events including timimg, responsibilities, and roles specific to each chaperone/volunteer. Establishes a procedure for parent chaperones to check-in each student to their respective bus, and provides a means for parents to check their students out following competitions (with written permission). Holds on to a copy of the permission slips. Coordinates student phone calls home 15 minutes prior to arrival at GOHS while on Field Trips.

HOSPITALITY COORDINATORS: Coordinates with Travel Event Coordinator to plan and implement hospitality for students, volunteers, Judges, Director, and Coaches, if appropriate as defined by the event logistic form. Coordinates hospitality rooms associated competitions and Festivals hosted at GOHS.

COLOR GUARD REPRESENTATIVE: Coordinates with the Director and Color Guard Coaches on the Development of Color Guard Uniforms, Flags, and Props for the Fall and Winter Guards. Completes all Guard fittings for uniforms, and coordinates with Uniform Companies to establish a budget for all of the items. Acts as liaison to Board and President on Color Guard issues. Coordinates with the Director, Coaches, Auditor, Treasurer, and to recommend a budget for the Guard.

Coordinates Guard Parent Chaperones and roles associated with on and off campus performances, including (but not limited to): uniform; make-up; permission slips; student volunteers to assist with props; and coordination from transportation to check-in and warm-up procedures at competitions.

Coordinates the Winter Guard Competition volunteers, and sub-committees to host a winter guard competition including (but not limited to): concessions; logistics; ticket sales (if appropriate); vendors; hospitality; first aid; awards; programs; and public relations. Establishes communication with all participating units for purposes of the competition program, concessions and logistics.

Coordinates with the Director and Drum Line Coaches on the Development of Winter Drum Line Uniforms, and Props for the Fall and Winter seasons. Coordinates all drum line fittings for uniforms, and coordinates with the coaches and uniform companies to establish a budget for all of the items. Acts as liaison to Board and President on Drum Line issues. Coordinates with the Director, Coaches, Auditor, Treasurer, and to recommend a budget for the Drum Line.

Coordinates Drum Line Parent Chaperones and roles associated with on and off campus performances, including (but not limited to): uniforms; permission slips; student volunteers to assist with props; and coordination from transportation to check-in and warm-up procedures at competitions.

Assists Competition/Festival Coordinators to organize the Drum Line Competition volunteers, and sub-committees to host a winter Drum Line Competition including (but not limited to): concessions; logistics; ticket sales (if appropriate); vendors; hospitality; first aid; awards; programs; and public relations. Establishes communication with all participating units for purposes of the competition program, concessions and logistics.

JAZZ BAND REPRESENTATIVE: Coordinates all parent Chaperones and Students for Jazz Ensemble Performances on and off campus. Works with the Director to coordinate instrument, equipment, uniform, and transportation needs. Acts as liaison to Board and President on Jazz Band issues. Coordinates with the Director, Coaches, Auditor, Treasurer, and to recommend a budget for the Jazz Band.

PARENT LIAISON SOPHOMORE TO SENIOR STUDENTS: Coordinates Veteran Members and Parent Chaperones and roles associated with on and off campus performances, including (but not limited to): uniforms; permission slips; student volunteers; and coordination from transportation to check-in and warm-up procedures at competitions.

PARENT LIAISON FRESHMEN: Coordinates Freshman Members and Parent Chaperones and roles associated with on and off campus performances, including (but not limited to): uniforms; permission slips; student volunteers; and coordination from transportation to check-in and warm-up procedures at competitions.

Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard

Apparel

Uniforms are provided for all Band members, with the exception of under garments. Students are expected to wear modest under garments, and it is recommended to wear (white) “under armour.” Members are required to wear tour shirts, white socks (with the white pants), and/or blue socks (with the blue pants).

A tour shirt is provided. 50/50 Poly Blend Shirts representing the logo of the Marching Season, and Tour Dates will be standard. The Spirit of Great Oak Tour Shirt for the 2008-09 Season will be a Navy Blue Shirt with white and Red Trim. The logo on the front left side will be that of the show “Four Seasons.” On the back side of the shirt, the logo will be in the background, with the tour dates of the fall season listed.

The price of the tour shirt is included in the competitive band fees for all members. Additional shirts for members, and family may be ordered with the form below.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Member’s Name:__________________________________________________ GRADE:_____________

Indicate the number of T-Shirts you are ordering next to the appropriate size & gender:

Indicate the number of Pullover Sweatshirts you are ordering next to the appropriate size:

Indicate the number of Pullover Hooded Sweatshirts you are ordering next to the appropriate size:

Indicate the number of Zip-Up Jackets you are ordering next to the appropriate size:

Hospitality - Assist in setting up and serving meals to students at various events.

Fundraising – Numerous activities are planned. Most fundraising events will require some parental involvement. Fundraising is our main source of revenue for overnight trips.

Uniforms – Assist in checking uniforms in and out after a performance, including home football games, tournaments and special performances. This will include occasional cleaning of shoes and laundering.

Costumes/Props – Assist in sewing items needed for costumes, flags, and alterations. Assist in building of props.

Chaperone – Chaperone for various competitions, parades, and other various performances. Chaperones must on the bus to and from events with students. Chaperones must be at least 18 years of age. Please do not bring younger children.

Field Crew – Assist with props and equipment at home football games and competitions.

Telephone Tree – Keep parents informed about upcoming events and schedule changes by phone. Communication is especially important during marching season as there are always last minute developments and schedule changes.

Member Name: ______________________________________ Grade: ___________

Prerequisites: Previous experience in a high school music program, or recommendation from their middle school band director. New instrumentalists will be accepted by audition only.

Books & Resources: All course music, and manuals will be provided. Students will be expected to have a 3 ring binder for storage of their materials. It will also be expected that students make efforts to purchase supplemental materials for practicing.

Rules: The Teacher and student are ultimately responsible to teach and learn to….

Consequences: If a student is having difficulty mastering any of the above rules they will receive:

2. A phone Conference with a parent or guardian to communicate students need for development and improvement (determine a plan).

3. Scheduled Conference with the director, parent or guardian, student, and counselor.

Purpose: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for performance based activities. Students will learn standard music repertoire, performance & practice skills, marching skills (during marching band), and music reading & theory practices. These skills will be evaluated at several performance venues that require high levels of focus and performance.

To accomplish these goals students will be expected to meet the expectations of the class including the following: reading music; memorizing music; developing aural recognition & sight-singing skills; developing physical coordination to perform marching tasks.

Rehearsals, sectionals, class participation, and performances will make up a high percentage of practice used to achieve the goals of the ensemble. Refer to the course timeline or calendar to follow assignment responsibilities.

Because of the unique nature of this course, it is also expected that students meet all social behaviors within, and especially outside of the Great Oak Community. Students who do not meet these expectations on a consistent basis will be subject to having their grade lowered.

Grading: The following are the categories and percentages of how students are graded:

I. Projects (New Year Res. Or Concert Critique) 20% II. Rehearsals 20% III. School Performances 20% IV. Competitive Performances 20% V. Tests 20%

Student and Parent Signature

Once you have read through the complete course syllabi, please sign, date, and return this form to the director. Forms are due: The Second Monday In September.

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I have read, and I understand the information that guides the rules, consequences, objectives, assignments and grading procedures for the Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard:

______________________________________ _________ ___________________________________________ (Parent or guardians signature) (Date) (Student’s signature)

In participation with the Spirit of Great Oak HS Marching Band, Concert Band, Drum Line & Guard, I, _________________________, the "MEMBER" and " The Spirit" agree to the following:

1. All Parents/Guardians and Student Members understand that participating in fundraising activities or paying a fundraiser waiver fee is required as well as other Program functions. I understand the success of the Program is based in large part on the participation of parents. Fundraisers will be planned at various times throughout the year. Certain events will be conducted as general fundraising for the entire program. Other fundraising events will be for the purpose of allowing students to earn funds to reduce their fees. It is each student/parent’s responsibility to obtain an understanding of the fundraising purposes, dates, and activities. Information on each event will be made available on the Program’s website.

2. Attendance is a critical aspect of my membership within the Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard. I have/will received rehearsal and performance Schedules and understand that the only reason I will be excused from them will be due to a medical/family emergency or at the discretion of the Director.

3. I will be responsible for my uniform and equipment, which is the property of Great Oak HS. I may be financially responsible for damage and/or replacement from negligent use of said property while it is in my possession. All uniforms and equipment will be returned (unless otherwise stated) to the Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard at the end of the school year, or when my membership in the Spirit of Great Oak Band &Guard is completed.

4. I understand that as a Member I must ride the bus to and from all offsite venues, unless granted release to my parent/guardian only, by prior written authorization.

5. I have received, read, and agreed to the terms of the membership handbook (which contains information on Member Expectations, Fees, Volunteer Information, Member Statements, Sponsorship, Apparel, Contacts, Booster Board, Minor & adult field trip waivers, emergency consent forms, academic standards, varsity lettering, and performance schedules).

6. I understand and agree that the Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard may use my image, sound, and likeness within the Spirit of Great Oak Band & Guard’s corporate materials, press releases, website, merchandise, and advertising materials.

7. I fully understand that this is a group activity in which my personal involvement and commitment is extremely important to the group as a whole.

Payable on: June August September October November Total

A. Competitive Band (Fall)

B. Jazz Band (Spring)

C. Winter Drum Line

D. Winter Color Guard

E. Concert Band

9. I understand that my membership fees must be paid and up-to-date, including any past fee amounts owing, prior to being assigned a competitive band position, and/or before being allowed to travel on the program provided transportation in any given month, and/or before performing in any competitive event in any given month.

Students/Parents are responsible for keeping informed of dates for, or changes in dates for rehearsals, event schedules, meeting dates including the monthly mandatory parent meetings, and other events by accessing the Program’s website.

Member Expectations ………………………………………………..3