Griswold High School Band

Student Handbook

Dear New and Returning Members,

Welcome to the Griswold High School Band Program! As a member of this prestigious group of
young musicians within our award-winning music department, you are amongst the most hard-working,
responsible, talented and fun group of students on campus! As the new school year begins, I encourage
each of you to challenge yourselves both in school and out, and get involved in the many musical
opportunities you have as a student at Griswold High School. You wont regret it!
This handbook contains everything you need to know about your involvement, commitment and
expectations you have as part of the Griswold High School Band Program. This is not meant to overwhelm
you, but to give you exactly what you need in order to succeed. If any student or parent has any questions
about the contents of this handbook, please contact me! I am looking forward to an exciting year!
Musically yours,

Amanda Richmond
Director of Bands
Griswold High School

Griswold High School Mission Statement

The faculty and staff of Griswold High School provide a safe and accepting atmosphere in
which all individuals learn, broaden their horizons, and achieve their full potential. Through
the high expectations of a diverse and challenging curriculum, students acquire the
knowledge and skills essential to take their places as responsible citizens and productive
members of society. In alliance with the community, parents, students and faculty share
responsibility for the success of the mission.
 Grading Policy

Daily Grade: 40% of Final Grade

Performances: 30% of Final Grade
Assessments (Including Mid-year/Final Exam) 30% of Final Grade
Playing Assessments: 15%; Written Assessments: 15%)

Daily Grade: Students receive 10 points for each rehearsal,

however, there are detractions for the following

No Music -2 points (-3 if not reported to Director or Band Captain)

No Instrument -2 points (-3 if not reported to Director or Band Captain)
Disruptive Behavior -2 points (each disturbance, after initial warning)
Cell-phone use (non-class related) -2 points and phone confiscated until the end of class
Arriving Late to Class without pass -1 point

While one or two bad days will not drastically lower a students grade, consistent bad behavioral habits
and/or unpreparedness will result in a lowered grade for the semester. Do your job!!!!

Course Descriptions

Wind Ensemble
COURSE # 938- CREDIT: 1 credit Honors
Wind Ensemble is a year-long class. Membership in the band is open (by teacher recommendation and/or
audition) to all woodwind brass, and percussion players. Students will learn the language, skills, habits, and
techniques necessary for effective musical expression. Quality band literature will also be studied and
performed. Students are required to attend all concerts, performances, and contribute to the musical life of
the school. Private lessons and festival participation are highly recommended. Wind Ensemble auditions
take place at the end of each school year. Members of this ensemble will also perform with the Concert
Band, Pep Band and occasionally with the Orchestra.
Requirement: Membership in this group is by teacher recommendation and/or audition. Students must play
a recognized woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument.

Concert Band
COURSE # 910- CREDIT: 1 Credit
Concert Band is a year-long class. Membership in the band is open to all woodwind, brass, and percussion
players. Students will learn the language, skills, habits, and techniques necessary for effective musical
expression. Quality band literature will also be studied and performed. Students are required to attend all
concerts, performances, and contribute to the musical life of the school. The Concert Band members will
also perform as a Pep Band during all home football games and parades.
Requirement: Students must play a recognized band instrument which includes woodwinds, brass, or
percussion.
 Pep Band and Parade Band

All members of Wind Ensemble and Concert Band perform in GHS Pep Band. Pep Band performs at all
Home Varsity Football Games as well as community parades and events. Please see attendance policy for
more information.

Griswold High School Jazz Band

The Griswold High School Jazz Band is an extra-curricular instrumental ensemble open to all students
enrolled in the Music Department offerings. Students will learn about the history of Jazz music, musical
styles within the genre and study the art of improvisation. The GHS Jazz Band will perform at all
Instrumental Concerts as well as community events throughout the year, including the Berklee Jazz
Festival in Boston, MA. As a member of this ensemble, students are required to attend all after-school
rehearsals and performances. (See attendance policy for more information).

Performances

Every student has received a schedule of performances that will occur throughout the year. Information
regarding these events will be posted on the band message board and will be posted to our website,
www.griswoldband.com as well as our Band Facebook page and information will be given through REMIND
101. Parents are urged to read this specific information. Always report (rain or shine) to the designated
meeting place unless otherwise notified by Ms. Richmond.
Performances are the opportunity for the bands to showcase their achievements to family, friends,
teachers and the community and are a significant portion of the students grade. Attendance is mandatory
for each and every performance. The absence of a student to a performance is to be taken very seriously.
Each ensemble member plays an integral role in our performances. A missing piece of this group prevents
the ensemble from performing to its fullest potential.

Attendance Policy

The GHS Band Program depends on its members to be present for all commitments throughout the year to
achieve the utmost success. It is understood, however, that conflicts do arise.

Unexcused Absences - Will effect final grade (Performances are 30% of final grade)
Work conflicts schedule is given with plenty of notice to make arrangements
Transportation - schedule is given with plenty of notice to make arrangements
Study for Exams/Homework use WEB
Absence Form not submitted in timely manner (within 1 week of event)

**If student receives an unexcused absence, there will be no opportunity to receive credit for the
performance**
 Excused Absences- Must be approved by Director at one weeks before the event
A known scheduling conflict (family wedding, graduation etc.)
A severe illness, death in the family or other family emergency

Absence Forms If a performance MUST be missed, an absence form, signed by both student and parent
must be submitted to the director no fewer than 1 week before the performance. If the absence is due to an
illness or family emergency, the form must be submitted on the next school day (or when student arrives) to
school.

Unexpected Absence If you are unable to attend a performance or special rehearsal due to a sudden
event, please do your best to contact Ms. Richmond. (860)376-7640 X 4104, through the Remind 101
server, or arichmond@griswoldpublicschools.org.

To receive full credit for a missed performance, due to an excused absence, students will be required to
make-up the lost time through additional opportunities. See Ms. Richmond for more details.

Sports/School Conflict - The Music Department works closely with school activities/sports to
assure students have the opportunity to be involved in the school community. If a performance conflicts
with a sports practice, the student is required to attend the performance on time. If you are involved in
Football or Cheerleading, it is expected that equal effort is displayed in both areas. See Ms. Richmond for
specific questions on personal situations.

Classroom Procedures

1. Every student will bring their instrument, music, pencil and necessary accessories to every rehearsal.
2. Talking and disturbances will not be permitted during rehearsals. Soft discussion is permitted with
directors permission or when the director/speaker leaves the podium. Talking stops when
director/speaker stands on the podium.
3. Gum chewing or eating of any kind is not permitted during rehearsal or performances.
4. Food and beverages (except water) are not permitted in the band room, practice rooms, or instrument
storage room.
5. Students must be in the Band room at the sound of the bell. Points will be deduced from students daily
grade if late without pass.
6. Every student must be seated in their assigned seat with instrument and music ready at 12:20pm for
attendance to be submitted to Main Office
7. If late, students must check in with a Band Captain or other leadership so that they are not absent in
records.
8. Students will notify director through pre-made passes/agenda if must go to bathroom, nurse, etc.
9. Posture must be held to the highest importance during every rehearsal and performance. Look
professional to sound professional.
10. Students will order their music on their stand according to the order indicated on the Smartboard at the
start of rehearsal.
11. Students must have a pencil on their stand at all times. Pencil Quizzes occur randomly throughout the
year.
12. Instruments, equipment, folders, etc. will be kept in their proper storage places when not in use.
13. Books and personal belongings will not be left in the band room. Each student will keep each other
accountable for the cleanliness of our band room. This is not negotiable.
14. Shouting, inappropriate playing (blatting, loud hits etc.) are not permitted before, during or after any
performance or rehearsal.
15. Failure to meet these expectations will reflect in students daily grade.

Performance Attire

It is important that we have professional and unison attire for our performances. Students who do not
wear proper attire to concerts, will not be permitted to perform. The following attire is required:

Women: floor length black skirt (provided), black long sleeved blouse or dress shirt, black nylons/socks
and black shoes. No sweaters, t-shirts, turtlenecks, or low-cut shirts. No sandals, sneakers, or flip-flops.
Men:
Concert Band: black dress pants, long sleeved white, button-up dress shirt, Black Bow Tie
(provided), black socks and black dress shoes. No navy blue or off white. NO sneakers, flip
flops, or work boots.
Wind Ensemble: tux jacket, pants, tux shirt, bow tie and cumber bun (all provided). The student
will be required to furnish his own black socks and black shoes. No navy blue or off white. NO
sneakers, flip flops, or work boots.
Pep Band and Parade Attire: Pep and Parade attire is different from the more formal concert attire. The
Pep and Parade attire for both men and women is: Black Pants, black shoes and socks, Green
Wolverines Pep Band T-shirt and the black GHS Band Fleece (for colder events). Student must purchase
this fleece. Students first T-shirt on year 1 of membership is provided. Ask a Band Captain or Ms.
Richmond for an order form.

Ensemble Uniform Care

1. Students must be very careful at all times.
2. Do not let the uniform hit the ground.
3. Do not drink food or eat in uniform
4. Never sit on the ground or concrete in uniform.
6. Put the jacket and pants on the correct hanger.
7. Hang your uniform in your bag at all times.
8. Keep performance attire clean!
 Instruments

GHS will provide instruments for those students who do not have their own instrument. An Instrument Sign-
Out Agreement Form should be filled out and signed by the students and parents at the beginning of the
school year. Once returned to the director, students may bring that instrument home. Each ensemble member
is responsible for the proper care, condition, and repairs of this instrument for the length of the agreement.
Any damages of serious malfunctions should be reported to the director at once. Damages due to the
negligence of the student will be charged to the student. If the instrument is lost or stolen while away from
the band room or performance space, the student must reimburse the school for the cost of the instrument.
A privately owned instrument is the responsibility of the student who owns it. Students should check
with their parents to see that the instrument is included on their homeowner insurance policy. Before
purchasing an instrument, students should consult the director.
All instruments should be kept in excellent playing condition and should be cleaned and polished
before every performance. Inspections will be held periodically before games and performances.
All clarinet, saxophone and oboe players should at least three reeds in good playing condition at all
times.

Chair Placement
Chair Placement
The director will assign students to parts or chairs to achieve proper balance. Generally, students
will be placed according to their age/effort/skill etc. Ms. Richmond encourages an open dialogue in regards
to seating.

Practice Procedures

Practice Rooms
1. Rooms are to be used for practicing music only. No exceptions.
2. One or two people are allowed in a practice room at a time.
3. Small groups should use the main ensemble room or other large rehearsal space as directed by director.

Practice at Home
1. Students should be practicing a minimum of 30 minutes per day, 4-5 days per week.
2. Private Study All Students are encouraged to study their instrument privately. See Ms. Richmond for
information on music schools and teachers.
 Honor Ensembles
Students that would like to audition for extra-curricular music festivals such as Eastern Region Music
Festival, All-State Music Festival, Thames Valley Symphony Youth Orchestra, Thames Valley Wind
Symphony or New England Music Festival must be a member in good standing and must have at least a 75
average in their performing ensemble. Each student MUST be a member of their school music program to
be considered. Each student must be in the corresponding ensemble. For example: If a student wishes to
audition for the All-State Band, that student must be in the school band. These rules are set forth by the
governing festivals.

Wind Ensemble Auditions

There are two ways to be recommended for Wind Ensemble.
1. No Audition - Students are recommended by the director.
2. Formal Audition - Formal auditions are required for 99% of students interested in Wind Ensemble.
Students audition will determine readiness for the ensemble and placement.

Use and Care of Music

1. Do not fold, tear, or mutilate music. Avoid putting any music in instrument cases. The music is not designed
to be placed on top of the instrument in the case. Valves and keys will go out of alignment.
2. Do not mark on music without approval of the director. Use pencil only when marking music.
3. Students will be charged for music that is not cared for properly.

Student Leadership
Student Leadership is essential in the Griswold Instrumental Ensembles. These students work closely
with the director in many aspects of the program and represent fellow ensemble members on important
issues. Leadership positions are selected in June in anticipation of the upcoming school year.

Tri-M Music Honor Society

Tri-M is an international music honor society for high school students, which recognizes musical
achievement, academic excellence and community service. Through over 1700 active chapters, Tri-M
shares and supports the objectives of every dedicated music educator-to increase student and school
involvement with music, and strengthen and unify the school music program. GHS Wind Ensemble,
Concert Band and Orchestra are eligible to be inducted.

Calendar
(Events can be added throughout year and will be communicated in advance)

September: 8: Football Game ............................................................................... 6:30pm report time: 5:00pm

12: GHS: MANDATORY STUDENT/PARENT MEETING ..................... 7:00PM GHS AUD.
14: Jazz Band meeting ................................................................................ 6:00pm in the band room
17: CT State Firefighters Parade ............................................... 11am Report time 9am at GHS
29: Football v. CREC ........................................................................ 6:30pm report time: 5:00pm
October: 20: Football v. Woodstock ................................................................ 6:30pm report time: 5:00pm
20: Homecoming Pep Rally .................................................................................. TBA (in school)
20: Homecoming Parade ........................................ TBA (report time immediately after school)
23: Air Force Band at GHS ......................................................................................................... TBA
28: Mattress Sale AND Walk-a-thon (12-3pm) .................................................................10am-5pm
November: 1: GHS Band to US Coast Guard Academy: Coast Guard Band .......................TBA (during school)
3: Football v. Stonington .................................................................. 6:30pm report time: 5:00pm
3: Homecoming Pep Rally .................................................................................... TBA (in school)
3: Homecoming Parade .......................................... TBA (report time immediately after school)
10: Football v. Windham .................................................................. 6:30pm report time: 5:00pm
17: Madrigal Dinner Rehearsal (Chamber/Orchestra/Brass Quintet) ............................. 2:30pm-5pm
18: Madrigal Dinner Show (Chamber/Orchestra/Brass Quintet) .............................. 6:00pm-8:00pm
18: GHS: Eastern Region Audition at EO Smith ........................................................................ TBA
19: Snowflake Parade (Bands) ................................. 2:00pm Report time 1:00pm location TBA
23: Thanksgiving Football v. Plainfield ......................................... 10:00am report time: 8:45am
December: 9: NEMFA Auditions. ................................................................................................................. TBA
21: Instrumental Holiday Concert ......................................................7pm Report Time: 5:45pm
22: In-school Holiday Concert ................................................................................................. TBA
January: 5-6: Eastern Region Festival ........................................................................................ UCONN TBA
Tuition Town Tour Wind Ensemble/ Jazz (Voluntown, Sprague, Lisbon, Canterbury)\ ......... TBA
February: GHS Band Day ....................................................................................................... TBA (in school)
10: Berklee Jazz Fest (Jazz Band/Chamber Choir) ..................................................................... TBA
March: 15-17: NEMFA Festival..................................................................................... Burlington, CT TBA
26: GHS Music Trip Chaperone Meeting. .............................................................................. 6:00pm
April: 2: Mandatory Student/Parent Virginia Trip Meeting. ............................................................ 7: 00pm
10: Trip Preview Concert .................................................... GHS Gym: 7:00pm report time: 5:45pm
11: Luggage Drop-off ......................................................................................................... 5pm-7pm
12-15: Music Department Trip to Virginia Beach .............................................. Virginia Beach, VA
19-21: All State Music Festival............................................................................. Hartford, CT TBA
May: RISE pep rally (Bands) .................................................................................. TBA (during school)
24: GHS Instrumental Pops Concert ..................................................7pm Report Time: 5:45pm
29th: Memorial Day Parade (Bands) ........................ Fanning Park 9:00am report time 8:15am
June: Graduation (Bands) ............................................................................................... Time/date TBA