M

MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK
2019-2020

Student Name: ______________________________________________

 Table of Contents

Why Music?/ Music Advocacy 3

Letter from the Director 4
Philosophy Statement 5
Ensembles 6
Grading Policy 8
Marching Band 9
-Summer Rehearsals/Band Camp
-Fall Evening Practices
Concert Band/Orchestra 9
-Auditions
-Evening Rehearsals
-Large Group Contest
Rehearsal Etiquette 10
Code of Conduct/Behavior Guidelines 10
Uniforms 11
Instrument Rental 12
Travel Guidelines 12
Calendar 12
Contact Information at a Glance 13
Forms
-Emergency Medical Form 14
-Health History 15
-Permission Slip 16
-Absence Excuse Form 17
-Handbook Contract 18

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 2

 Why Music?

WHY IS MUSIC EDUCATION IMPORTANT FOR STUDENTS?

• Music students scored higher on the 2009 SAT—College Board Website

• “At Risk” students cite participation in the arts as a reason to stay in school
• A ten-year study by the President’s Committee on the Arts showed that music students tested higher on all
standardized tests, regardless of socioeconomic group
• Music helps us to better understand our motives, fears, memories, and to communicate more boldly and
creatively. (Levitin, This is your Brain on Music)

WHY IS MUSIC EDUCATION IMPORTANT FOR PARENTS?

• 94% agree—music education is necessary for a well-rounded education—2005 Gallup Poll

• Schools with music programs have significantly higher graduation rates (90.2% to 72.9%)— MENC
• Music Education enhances cooperative learning, instills disciplined work habits, and correlates with gains in
standardized tests.
• Studies of kindergarten children showed the more music skills, the great their reading skills and development
(Anvari, et.al.)

WHY IS MUSIC EDUCATION IMPORTANT FOR THE COMMUNITY?

• The “back-to-basics curricula,” while it has merit, ignores the most urgent void in our present system—absence
of self-discipline. The arts, requiring self-discipline, may be more “basic” to our nation’s survival than traditional
credit courses. We are spending 20 times more on science than on the arts, and the result so far is worldwide
intellectual embarrassment. –Paul Harvey, syndicated radio host
• The arts are an economic plus—second only to aerospace as our most lucrative national export. Michael Greene,
National Academy of Arts and Sciences
• Arts-centered schools have fewer dropouts, higher attendance, better team players, an increased love of
learning, greater student dignity, enhanced creativity, and they produce citizens better prepared for the
workplace of tomorrow.

Source: Takako Fujioka, Bernhard Ross, Ryusuke Kakigi, Christo Pantev, and Laurel J. Trainor. Brain, a Journal of Neurology. Oxford University Press, September 20

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 3

 Letter from the Director

Welcome to the Music Family of Matthews High School!

We are excited to welcome you into the instrumental music program here at Matthews. The
ultimate goal of the music program is to provide our students with a lifelong understanding and appreciation
for music and music making. Additionally, another of our biggest goals is to use music to teach life lessons and
cultivate good citizens.

Please make sure to read the entirety of this handbook as it is designed to keep you well-
informed of our program. Refer to it often, as it is filled with policies, procedures, expectations, and hopefully
anything you might need to know. This document is very complete and should answer any questions that may
come up. At the conclusion of this document I have included a contract for you to sign and return, stating
that you are familiar with the information covered in this handbook.

As we continue to provide experiences for our students, we look forward to seeing you at our
events. Our ensembles could not run without the support of our parents or booster organization, which you
will see more information about later in the handbook, and just as we set expectations for our students, we
also expect parents to be attentive to students and their performances, practicing, and general well-being.

Students from our ensembles consistently participate in honors ensembles, including the Ohio
All-State Band and Orchestra, Kent State University All Star Band, Baldwin-Wallace Youth Symphony, and
various ensembles throughout the state of Ohio. More information on these ensembles will become available
as information becomes available on auditions/performance opportunities to the directors. If you are
interested in participating in one of these organizations, we strongly encourage participating in private
instruction with a lesson instructor. Included in this handbook is a list of private lesson instructors our
program has had success with in the past and we would strongly encourage you to reach out to these
instructors to see if they have any openings within their studio.

The various ensemble opportunities at Matthews allow our students to be well-rounded

musicians, but we have also taken on a commitment to instill positive leadership and citizenship qualities in all
of our students. These are “teachable moments” that develop important life skills.

Again, welcome to the musical family here at Matthews. We cannot wait to see where this road takes us.

Best,

Ms. Montana Hollis

Director of Instrumental Music
Matthews High School

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 4

 PHILOSOPHY of the Matthews HS INSTRUMENTAL DEPARTMENT
Students drive the philosophy of our program here at Matthews High School. Every decision made by
the directors of this program is made with specific thought as to the betterment of the students we serve. The
happiest student is one who is improving through habits of practice and daily progress, who stands for
principles, knows right from wrong, and has a high sense of purpose toward which they are willing to work.

We strive to teach music through performance, using high level and appropriate repertoire and
instruction to develop performance skills of the various wind, percussion and colorguard instruments visually
and musically. As we are one of the most notable of the arts departments in our school, we also strive to
provide for the musical needs of our school and community. Students will be asked to hold themselves to the
highest standard as a beacon of the principles of this program and school district. Matthews High School
works to provide all students an opportunity to use their time as a means for self-expression and developing a
healthy social experience through interactions with their peers in and outside of rehearsal and to foster
leadership skills within all students.

Being a part of the ensembles at Matthews High School is hard work. While we certainly have fun,
“family” oriented moments, students will be held to the highest standard. As a staff, we are working to instill
discipline, fulfillment, pride, work ethic, expression, respect, and passion into all of our students to add to
their professional toolbox as they progress outside of our program.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 5

 Ensemble opportunities
Concert Bands
Wind Ensemble
Open to students grades 10-12 by audition only, this ensemble is comprised of advanced instrumental
musicians and will have a primary focus on the preparation and performance of standard and new literature
for the wind band (grades 3-6). Further advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble is
paramount to the success of the student and the organization. To accomplish this, there will be out of school
time required for rehearsals and performances.

Symphonic Band
Open to students grades 10-12 with placement by audition, this class will concentrate on developing basic
playing skills such as tone production, rhythmic proficiency, intonation, and technical ability, as well as
preparation and performance of fine concert band literature. This ensemble will perform on several concert
programs and in concert festivals. There will be potential out of school time required for rehearsals and
performances.

Concert Band
Open to students in grade 9, this class will concentrate on the continuation of developmental foundational
skills necessary for success in future ensembles, as well as acclimating students to the High School performing
arts environment. There will be potential out of school time required for rehearsals and performances.

Jazz
Jazz Ensemble
Open to students in grades 9-12, by audition only. This ensemble meets daily during the regular school day.
This ensemble, using standard big band instrumentation, studies and performs the music of the foremost big
band composers. Participation in band is required for eligibility in Jazz Ensemble, with the exception of bass,
guitar, and piano. There will be potential out of school time required for rehearsals and performances.

Jazz Workshop
Open to students grades 9-12, this ensemble meets three times a week outside of the regular school day. The
ensemble does not use standard big band instrumentation and is an opportunity for students that do not fit
standard instrumentation to participate in a jazz setting. There will be out of school time required for
rehearsals and performances.

Marching
Marching Band
The Marching Band rehearses and performs from late May/June through early November each year. The
Marching Band is a required part of the band courses offered by Matthews High School. The ensemble
performs at various marching band festivals and competitions as well as Matthews Varsity Football games and
local parades and events. Band at the high school requires participation in both marching band and concert
band.

Indoor Drumline
Indoor Drumline develops performance skills on the instruments of the percussion family, including both
melodic and non- melodic instruments. Indoor Drumlines often use various props, visual and dance
movements, and electronics. Additional fees required and are set at the beginning of the Indoor Drumline
season. All rehearsals and performances for this ensemble occur outside of the school day and students must
participate in our school percussion ensemble to be eligible for independent percussion groups.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 6

Winter Guard
Winter guard is an indoor colorguard activity, performed in a gym of indoor arena during the winter and
spring season. Winter guards use various equipment, props, and dance moves. Additional fees required and
are set at the beginning of the winter guard season. All rehearsals and performances for this ensemble occur
outside of the school day and students must participate in our school guard to be eligible for independent
guards (WGI).

Orchestra
Symphony Orchestra
Open to students grades 9-12, this ensemble is comprised of instrumental musicians and will have a primary
focus on the preparation and performance of standard and new literature for the string orchestra. Further
advancement of musical skills, both individual and ensemble is paramount to the success of the student and the
organization. There will be potential out of school time required for rehearsals and performances.

Small ensembles
Jazz Combo
On occasion, select students will be chosen to participate in a Jazz Combo that will set their own rehearsal
schedule and receive guidance by the director. These students are often asked to perform at various school
functions throughout the year with supervision.

Chamber Ensembles
Chamber ensembles are another performance opportunity for instrumental students in the Woodwind, Brass,
Percussion, and String areas. This extra-curricular performance class is designed to supplement the
performance training students receive in private lessons and school ensembles. Performance opportunities
within these areas span from full Woodwind, Brass, Percussion, and String Ensembles all the way down to
small ensembles of quartets, trios and duets. The make-up of these ensembles is dictated by the participation
of the students in the group and the individual needs of the students that do choose to participate.
Participation in this group requires a small fee that covers the cost of OMEA events. These ensembles
perform yearly in the OMEA Solo and Ensemble, as well as various performance opportunities that arise in the
holiday season or for a final yearly spring concert in late May.

Steel Band
Open to all students regardless of age or ability (or instrument). Steel Band meets twice a week on Tuesdays
and Thursdays immediately after school. The purpose of the steel band is to introduce students to world
music as well as share our performances with the surrounding community. This ensemble performs at the
Winter concert in December and the Spring concert in May, as well as various community events as needed.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 7

 Grading policy
The high school band grading policy is composed of four sections. Your final grade for each grading period will
be the combination of these sections: Attendance Quizzes and Tests, Participation and Outside Activities.

ATTENDANCE – 30% of the final grade

All scheduled rehearsals and band activities 0 unexcused absences = A
(Example: Sectionals or Tag Day) 1 unexcused absence = C
2+ unexcused. Absences = F
All Performances: Live Performances cannot be made up. Absence forms must be received by July 1st in order
to be excused from a performance.
0 absences = A
1 excused absence = B
2 excused absences =C
3 or more excused absences or unexcused = F failure
Request to be excused from a rehearsal must be:
1) Submitted in writing at least 30 days prior to the missed rehearsal
2) Signed by both parent and student
3) Received a copy of director’s signature form confirming approval.
Types of excuses accepted are weddings and funerals. Please make every attempt to notify the director as far
in advance of a possible absence. If the occasion arises that your child becomes ill or injured before a rehearsal
or performance; the parent must call and leave a detailed message on the band phone. A written note is
required the next day of attendance. Failure to call and send a note will make the absence unexcused.

QUIZES AND TESTS – 40% of the final grade

Students will be given a combination of both written and playing exams.
A) Written tests or exams will have review and study material provided
B) Playing exams will be assigned and played for the director. Some will require memorization and some will
be played with music.
C) Performance dress is also graded. Pass/Fail for each event.

PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE – 25% of the final grade

Cooperation, interest, enthusiasm and determination are essential elements each band member must provide
for the band to reach its fullest potential and are successful. Daily participation grade is based on the student’s
behavior, cooperation, attitude and willingness to learn the tasks presented. Points are accumulated and then
averaged against the total possible.
Daily class = + 5pts Tardy or Unprepared for class = -5pts
Competition or Concert = + 400 pts Tardy to Competition or Concert = - 200 pts
Football performances = + 100 pts Tardy to Football Performance = -50 pts
Performance points will be deducted for disruptions, failure to participate or to be prepared for class.

Outside Activities – 5 % of the final grade

Each nine-week period, students must participate in or attend or participate in a musically related activity
outside of the class performances. These activities would include: attending a band, orchestra or instrument
recital concert at Kent State or the University of Akron, other high school band concerts, performing a solo
at church, and solo and ensemble contest.
A program from the concert and 100 words about the concert are to be turned by the last Thursday of the
nine weeks. Extra credit for additional concerts attended.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 8

 Marching band
Summer Rehearsals/Band Camp
Marching Band is the entirety of the first grading period of the school year. In order for students to participate
in any other major ensemble, they must be a member of the Marching Band. While this ensemble is during the
first semester, rehearsals begin in May of the previous year and are held on a semi-regular basis throughout
the summer until band camp and full rehearsal weeks in August. The first full week of August is Band Camp,
please note that attendance is MANDATORY for this week. The following weeks up until school consist of full
ensemble rehearsals during the weekdays from 8am-12pm. Camp is taught by the Matthews directors, camp
staff, and student leadership. Camp is required of all students in the band. Approximately “seven weeks” of
normal rehearsal time is crammed into the week so attendance is a must. Parent volunteers will be in
attendance to help out with whatever needs may arise.

Fall Evening Practices

Students are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. Throughout the fall students will be required
to attend two after school rehearsals, one sectional night and one full ensemble night (please see the calendar
for specific dates). If there is a situation that will prevent this, an excuse form must be filled out in accordance
with our absence excuse policy.

Concert band and orchestra

Auditions
For Band ensembles, auditions are held in the Fall immediately concluding the Marching Band season, there will
be auditions to determine chair or band placement. Auditions will be announced well in advance and will
consist of scales, technique, a required solo, sight-reading, tone and range exercise. The November auditions
will be judged by area professionals. In some cases, a student on a brass instrument with a higher score may be
put on a lower part to achieve balance or to allow a younger student to develop his/her range. If this is the
case, the student will be informed of the reason for his / her placement. All students will be placed in an
ensemble based on ability.
Orchestra auditions are typically held during the first weeks of the school year and information will be shared
with registered students well in advance. These auditions consist of scales, technical exercises, solos, and sight-
reading judged by area professionals. All students will be placed in the Symphony Orchestra, auditions help the
directors with chair placement and evaluating students abilities.

Evening Rehearsals
There will be Wind Ensemble practices on Thursday evenings as stated in the calendar. Sectionals/chamber
music will also be required throughout the semester (note the Master Schedule) for Concert Band, Symphonic
Band and the Symphony Orchestra. These extra rehearsals are essential for student development and help
give students more one on one specialized instruction.

Large Group Contest

Each concert ensemble will perform for the OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event held in the third grading
period. Here students are assessed on their performance abilities as well as their sight-reading abilities. More
information will be shared as we near this performance opportunity.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 9

 Rehearsal etiquette
1. Arrive on time with all your materials.
2. Immediately get quiet when the conductor steps on the podium.
3. Listen attentively to the conductor at all times.
4. Have sharpened pencil in hand. All musical directions should be written in your music.
5. Maintain appropriate posture- sitting tall with both feet flat on the ground.
6. Keep stands raised where you can see the conductor and your music at the same time.
7. Stay engaged in rehearsal, refrain from talking unless given permission.
8. Respect your neighbors and fellow musicians.
9. Listen across the ensemble for proper blend and balance and adjust as necessary.
10. Always give your best effort being a contributing member of the ensemble.

Code of conduct/behavior guidelines

o Shoes and Socks must be warn/Athletic attire must be appropriate for marching band activities
o All school dress code policies apply
o Uniforms must be treated with respect and worn properly at all times
o Food and drink are not permitted in the band room with the exception of water
o To be early is to be on time
o All adults are to be shown respect at all times, this includes Directors, Staff, Chaperones and other
Parents
o Drinking, smoking, and drugs are STRICTLY PROHIBITED. All school policies regarding are enforced
during any band activity
o Students are required to remain with the band at all times until dismissed as a group
o Students may practice in the band room before school, after school, and during lunch, only if a director
is present. Students must ask to use the practice rooms, which are first come first served.
o No horseplay in and around the band room
o All percussion and guard equipment is off limits to anyone not specifically designated to use them
o Personal belongings are not to be stored in band lockers except for tennis shoes and additional
clothing during marching season.
o Students should not be in the band office without a staff member present.
o Public displays of affection are not acceptable in the band room
o Running or yelling in uniform of any type is prohibited as it is out of character and shows a lack of
respect for the uniform and members of the ensemble.
o Appropriate language, attitude and respect is expected at all times.

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 10

 Uniforms
Marching Band

Students participating in the Marching Band will be supplied with school owned uniforms that are
maintained and stored at the school within the uniform room. At the end of every performance, members will
turn in their uniforms, neatly hung and have completed inspection by the designated student or staff member.
You can make this process run smoother and faster by doing the job right the first time. Members are not
allowed to turn in any uniform but their own as each person is responsible for their own uniform.

Gloves may be kept in the hatbox, but no shoes, socks, or other clothing besides gauntlets will be left in the
garment bags. Any other clothing items found will be removed from the garment bag and put into the lost and
found. Please put your name in your shoes as soon as you get them.

If you lose gauntlets, gloves, or some other accessory, please tell the uniform parent or staff member right
away so we can begin looking for them, or replace them as needed. Each item has your number on it, if you
lose some part and take someone else’s, we will know. Normal wear and tear is expected but if uniform parts
are damaged through abuse or neglect, or there are any missing or lost items, the member will be charged the
replacement cost as listed below.

Coat $115 Black Bibbers $60

Gauntlets $35 Garment Bag $20
Hat Box $15 Hat $30
Plume $17
Grand Total: $292.00

Concert Bands/Orchestras

Students participating in the Concert Ensembles will be supplied with school owned uniforms that are
maintained and stored at the school within the uniform room. At the end of every performance, members will
turn in their uniforms, neatly hung and have completed inspection by the designated student or staff member.
You can make this process run smoother and faster by doing the job right the first time. Members are not
allowed to turn in any uniform but their own as each person is responsible for their own uniform.

Option One: Tuxedo; Long Black Socks; Black Dress Shoes; Bow Tie and Cummerbund

Option Two: Concert Dress; Black Opaque Panty Hose; Closed Toe Dress Shoes

Tuxedo $120 Concert Dress $80

Bow Tie $10 Cummerbund $15

GENERAL UNIFORM POLICIES

o Nails must be clean and well-trimmed

o Hair must be neatly pinned up and off the collar/pulled back from the face
o Shoes should be clean and able to be walked in
o There is to be no jewelry in the marching band uniform, concert uniforms must keep jewelry
conservative
o Final considerations of all the aforementioned to be at the discretion of the director

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 11

 Instrument rental
There are many school-owned instruments available for rental from the Matthews music program.
These instruments are assigned on an as-needed basis with priority given to students who have no other
means to acquire said instrument (tuba, specific percussion instruments, oboe, etc.) and the rest on a first
come first serve basis. There is a small fee associated with a school instrument rental, $20.00 per academic
year. This fee covers any normal wear and tear repairs that may be needed throughout the year. School-
owned instruments become the responsibility of the student to whom they are issued. Any damage other than
normal wear and tear will be repaired at the student's expense. Please see the instrument rental agreement
for school owned property. Rental requests must be made to a director as soon as possible.

Travel guidelines
1. Whenever we travel, to a football game, competition, or overnight trip, band members are to be at the
right place, at the right time, with the right equipment.
2. Follow instructions of all directors or chaperones, if you do not understand please ask.
3. No standing in seats, sitting on backs or arms of seats or unnecessary moving on the bus.
4. Do as the bus driver asks.
5. Be quiet and cooperative during roll call on buses.
6. Use the restroom prior to departure to and from an event.
7. No alcoholic beverages, or any controlled substances (including tobacco and alcohol) are to be in the
possession of a student or chaperone during the trip.
8. No changing buses or rooms without the director’s permission.
9. Leave non-essential valuables at home.
10. Personal electronic devices are allowed on the bus, but for your own hearing protection the volume
should not be loud enough to be heard outside of your headphones. No speakers are allowed.
11. All school rules are in effect throughout the duration of any trip.
12. There shall be no action for which an explanation is necessary. (If you think someone might ask you
“Why did you do that?” then don’t do it.) Think before you act and don’t do it. Violations of these
rules will result in disciplinary action.

Calendar
Visit our website for our virtual calendar at the following link:
instrumentalmusic.matthews.k12.oh.us
OR Subscribe to our Google iCalendar on your smartphone with the following link:
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/b/matthewsinstrumentalmusic

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 12

 Contact information at a glance

Directors
Montana Hollis mhollis@matthews.k12.oh.us
Director of Instrumental Music 330.762.5505 ext. 2020
Wind Ensemble Director
Concert Band Director
Marching Band Director

Charlotte Daugherty cdaugherty@matthews.k12.oh.us

Symphonic Band Director 330.762.5505 ext. 2021
Marching Band Assistant Director
Steel Band Director
Indoor Drumline Coordinator

Eric Vasquez evasquez@matthews.k12.oh.us

Jazz Ensemble Director 330.762.5505 ext. 2022
Jazz Workshop Director
Jazz Combo Director
Chamber Ensemble Coordinator

Caren Atanackovic catanackovic@matthews.k12.oh.us

Symphony Orchestra Director 330.762.5505 ext. 2023
Chamber Ensemble Coordinator

Private Lesson Instructors

Michaela Paxton mpaxton@kent.edu
Flute/Oboe

Kaitlyn Mabrey kmabrey@kent.edu

Clarinet/Saxophone

Faye Maccaglia fmaccaglia@kent.edu

Trumpet/French Horn

Brandon Thomas bthomas@kent.edu

Trombone/Tuba

Matthew Szekely mszekely@kent.edu

Percussion

Katie Klein kklein@kent.edu

String

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 13

Matthews HS Emergency Medical Form

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 14

 Health History

Name: _______________________________________________ Age: _____________

Allergies (circle/list): None Penicillin Bee Sting Iodine

Other:____________________________________________________________

Wear Glasses? Y / N Contacts? Y / N Date of Last Eye Exam:______________

Dental Problems?_________________________Date of Last Dental Exam:____________

Are Immunizations Current? Y / N Date of Last Tetanus Booster:_________

Family History of Unexplained or Cardiac Sudden Death (under 50)? Y / N

Chronic Problems (circle/list):

Asthma/
Diabetes Seizures Heart Problems Rheumatic Fever
Breathing Problems

High Blood
Fainting Kidney Problems Back/Neck Injury Bleeding Problems
Pressure

Other:______________________________________________________________
Serious Illness/Injury:

Current Health Problems:

Current Medications:

Parent Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________

Adapted from: Firestone High School Performing Ensembles Handbook

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 15

 Permission/Responsibility Form

I give permission for my child __________________________________________ to participate

in the supervised activities of the Matthews High School Music Program and the Matthews High
School Instrumental Music Association, commencing with summer rehearsals and performances and
continuing throughout the school year.

I agree to the terms and conditions of payment, deadlines, and eligibility requirements for participation,
as applicable to the specific organization to which my child belongs.

I understand that if my child is responsible for theft or vandalism during any of the supervised activities
of the Matthews High School Music Program and the Matthews High School Instrumental Music Association, I,
the parent or guardian, will be responsible to pay for loss or damages.

I understand that if my child fails to comply with the rules or guidelines set by the Directors of Music
and/or the Matthews Public Schools Code of Student Behavior, my child will be sent home, and I, the parent
or guardian, will be responsible to pay any costs associated. If my child is sent home from Band Camp, there
will be no refund of fees.

If my child is a member of the band or flag line, I understand the Formal Uniform (not the same as the
summer uniform) is the property of the Matthews High School Instrumental Music Association, and I, the
parent or guardian, will be financially responsible for the repair of any damages, destruction or loss due to
negligence. I understand that uniforms will be worn in the proper manner as instructed by the Directors of
Music and/or supervisors.

Signature of Parent/Guardian: ______________________________________ Date: _______________

Adapted from: Firestone High School Performing Ensembles Handbook

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 16

 Absence Excuse Form
Name: _____________________________________________

Date of Requested Absence: _____________________________

Reason for Requested Absence: Be Specific – Please note the excused/unexcused guidelines in the handbook.

This form is due no later than:

July 1, 2019 to miss a performance for the 2019-2020 school year
30 days prior to a missed rehearsal
In the event of an emergency absence, the band office should be called before the event and this form filled
out immediately upon returning. Please attach appropriate documentation with the form (Dr. note, etc.)

Student Signature: ___________________________________ Date:____________

Parent Signature: ____________________________________ Date:____________

To be completed by the director:

Excused Unexcused

Director Signature: ____________________________________ Date:____________

Adapted from: Firestone High School Performing Ensembles Handbook

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 17
 Student/Parent Agreement

As a member of the Matthews High School Instrumental Music Ensembles (Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band,
Chamber Ensembles, Marching Band, Indoor Performance Ensembles), I have read, understand, and agree to
comply with all of the set policies of the Handbook.

Student Date

As conscientious parents, we have read, understand, and agree to comply with the set policies of the
Handbook.

Student Date

I agree to uphold the policies and procedures outlined in the Handbook.

Student Date

Adapted from: Firestone High School Performing Ensembles Handbook

2019-2020 MATTHEWS HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC HANDBOOK 18