Fairland Middle School Band
Grade Policy
I. Class Participation.
A. Students are required to play in class every day. You will be excused only for a doctor’s written statement that you are unable to play.
B. Students are required to have the proper equipment in class each day. Proper equipment is whatever it takes to play your instrument [Reeds, Valve Oil, Slide Cream, sticks, mallets, neck straps, mutes, music, pencil, etc. Broken, chipped, split or otherwise un-playable reeds do not count! (ex. Lip stick coated reeds)
C. After school rehearsals are part of your grade. Absences that are not excused will result in grade reduction as well as suspension from performances. A note does not automatically excuse you. The director must excuse the absence in advance. (There may not be any after school rehearsals)
D. The quality of your participation in class is evaluated daily. Just being here with your instrument and music is not enough. Examples of things that will result in grade reduction include the following: improper posture while playing (legs crossed, not sitting correctly in chair, incorrect hand position, etc.), missed entrances, lack of preparation for class, excessive noise disrupting musical performance, not being in place at the proper time.
II. Test
A. Written test as deemed necessary and appropriate.
B. Playing test
1. You may be ask to perform a short example during rehearsal.
2. Recorded at home and/or school
3. Music assigned for testing purposes – scales, etudes, concert music
III. Practice at Home
1. At home practice is required.
2. Class time is for ensemble development.
IV. Performances.
All full band performances are required of all students. You will be excused by
doctor’s order only.). The penalty for missing any performance is a 2-letter grade
reduction for the grading period. There are no make-up assignments for a missed
performance
V. Extra Credit
Extra credit is given for auditioning for and/or performing with Honor groups such
as all-county band, solo & ensemble participation etc.
VI. Grades
Grades will be calculated on a percentage system. You will receive 100 pts each week for a musicianship grade. Grades will be reduced for lack of preparation for class, performance during class, and outside performance requirements