CONCERT ATTENDANCE Attendance at all scheduled performances is required and is part of the grading criteria in band classes. This is a fundamental and integral part of your membership in the Century High School Band. Concerts are a public demonstration of what has been learned in band. They are considered final exams for the class. Music is meant to be heard. Each performer in the ensemble is dependent on every band member being present to perform their specific and integral part.
If WE are to be successful, YOU must be there. Every member is a "starter" there are no "bench warmers" and no substitutions.
The only excused absences from a scheduled special rehearsal are: 1. You are ill the day of the rehearsal, and if school were in session you would be absent from school. 2. A family emergency occurs.
The only excused absences from a scheduled performance are: 1. You are ill the day of the rehearsal/performance, and are absent from school. 2. A family emergency occurs.
Always notify the directors if you will be unable to attend. The band office has direct-answer 24 hour voice mail, (701) 323-4900 ext. 6654. Any other absence from a rehearsal or performance is unexcused. Failure to notify the band directors in a timely manner of your absence is also unexcused.
STUDENT JOBS OR WORK CONFLICTS ARE ABSOLUTELY NO EXCUSE FOR MISSING A REHEARSAL OR PERFORMANCE!!!
Unexcused absences from concerts will negatively affect your grade in band, restrict your opportunity to earn a varsity letter in band, and may result in a meeting between, you, your parents, and the directors to discuss your continued participation in band. Use a planner to stay organized in managing your schedule and time.
SCHEDULING CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY In the event of a conflict, communication is the key. Talk to your band directors. WE support YOU. Every attempt will be made to be fair and understanding in the event of unusual circumstances. If a scheduling conflict should occur with a band event and another school event you are involved with, we will utilize the guidelines found below.
Situation #1 – Band practice and SCHOOL RELATED* activity practice Action: Communicate with the adults in charge. Resolution: Split time with each 50/50 as best as possible.
Situation #2 – Band practice and SCHOOL RELATED* activity game Action: Communicate with the adults in charge. Resolution: Attend activity game.
Situation #3 – Band performance and SCHOOL RELATED* activity practice Action: Communicate with the adults in charge. Resolution: Attend performance. (This includes concerts and pep band events.)
Situation #4 – Band performance and SCHOOL RELATED* activity game. Action: Communicate with the adults in charge. Resolution: Objectively determine where you believe you are most needed, and which situation will allow you to make the greatest contribution to your peers and do the “greatest good.” We will respect whatever thoughtful decision you make, assign an appropriate make up assignment if necessary, and grade you accordingly.
*Please note that club sports are NOT school related activities.
GRADING Students will be graded in the following areas:
Performances: The reason to be in music is to perform. It is the culmination of all those hours of practice. By choosing not to participate in a performance, the student has effectively decided that the class has no purpose and that their role in the performance and the experience they would gain is unimportant. This is equivalent to not taking a final exam or not handing in a major paper. Each concert or marching performance is worth 100 points.
Assessments: Students may be asked to present a performance assessment once per quarter. Performance assessments can come in either written or playing formats. These assessments are used to monitor and evaluate individual student progress as it relates to the study of their instrument and their contributions to the overall ensemble. Points will be given for each assessment. NOTE: Additional or early rehearsals and the West State Music Contest are considered assignments and will be graded at the director's discretion.
Participation: Proper rehearsal etiquette is paramount for all ensembles to succeed. Each student will be allowed to accumulate three points daily, consistent with their participation. Proper participation includes being ready to play with all necessary materials (instrument, music, pencil, etc.) when the instructor is ready to begin. No food, gum, candy, or beverages are allowed in the band room. During rehearsals, all caps and hats are to be removed.
Grading Scale A (Superior): 92-100 B (Good): 83-91 C (Average): 74-82 D (Poor): 65-73 F (Failure): 0-64