For a printable version of the handbook, click HERE
WELCOME!
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome to the Orchestras of
It is our goal to give every student the finest musical experiences available. Being a member of one of the Hayfield Secondary School Orchestras requires commitment, responsibility, and organization. Members are given the opportunity to develop self-esteem, poise, and confidence in addition to strengthening their musical abilities. These personal traits are vital to success in adult occupations and professions.
We encourage your support and participation and look forward to an exciting and successful year!
Carrie New, Conductor
703-924-7429
Contents
Welcome
Beginning Orchestra
Intermediate Orchestra
Advanced Orchestra
Symphonic Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Practice Tips
Final Grades
Orchestra Seating
Excused Absences from Rehearsal
Co-curricular Absenteeism Policy
Unexcused Absences from Class
Rehearsal Expectations
Minor and Major Infractions
Daily Classroom Rules
Student Responsibilities
Restroom and Locker Procedures
In the Orchestra Room
Instrument Security
Use of Instrument Storage
Care of Sheet Music
Care of Instruments
Instrument Requirements
Other Recommended Items
Concert Behavior
Concert Dress
Other Performance Opportunities
VBODA Festival
Beginning Orchestra
(Middle and High School Class):
Course Description
No prior orchestra experience is needed. Ownership or rental of an instrument is required. Musical literature and method books will be provided by the school.
Objectives
- The student will develop a working knowledge of the proper position and technique necessary in playing a musical instrument.
- The student will develop the ability to play a string instrument from notation at the grade I/II level as described by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (VBODA).
- The student will experience the performance of musical literature at the grade I/II level as described by the VBODA.
- The student will demonstrate a practical understanding through performance of expressive musical concepts.
- The student will be able to discriminate between various expressive levels of musical performance.
Intermediate Orchestra
(Middle School Class):
Course Description
Previous participation in orchestra for at least one year, and/or an audition for the conductor in required. Ownership or rental of an instrument is required. Musical literature and method books will be provided by the school. Students in intermediate orchestra work on refining skills such as tone production, music reading, and accuracy of pitch. A variety of musical styles will be studied through the playing of orchestra literature. Rehearsals and performances outside of normal school hours are required as part of this course.
Objectives
- The student will reinforce and/or improve his/her working knowledge of the proper position and technique necessary in playing a musical instrument.
- The student will develop the ability to play a string instrument from notation at the grade II/III level as described by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (VBODA).
- The student will experience the performance of musical literature at the grade II/III level as described by the VBODA.
- The student will demonstrate a practical understanding through performance of expressive musical concepts.
- The student will be able to discriminate between various expressive levels of musical performance.
Advanced Orchestra
(Middle School Class):
Course Description
Previous participation in orchestra for at least two years, and/or an audition for the conductor is required. Ownership or rental of an instrument is required. Musical literature and method books will be provided by the school. Advanced orchestra will build left-hand skills such as shifting and vibrato, as well as advanced bow techniques.
A variety of musical styles will be studied through the playing of orchestra literature. Rehearsals and performances outside of normal school hours are required as part of this course.
Objectives
- The student will reinforce and/or improve his/her working knowledge of the proper position and technique necessary in playing a musical instrument.
- The student will develop the ability to play a string instrument from notation at the grade III/IV level as described by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (VBODA).
- The student will experience the performance of musical literature at the grade III/IV level as described by the VBODA.
- The student will clearly demonstrate a practical understanding through performance of expressive musical concepts.
- The student will be able to assess adequately his/her performance of expressive musical concepts.
Symphonic Orchestra
(High School Class):
Course Description
An audition with the orchestra conductor is required for enrollment in this course. Ownership or rental of an instrument is required. Musical literature and method books will be provided by the school. Symphonic orchestra offers instruction to the advancing player. A variety of musical styles will be studied through the playing of orchestra literature. Rehearsals and performances outside of normal school hours are required as part of this course. Students are encouraged to take private lessons.
Objectives
- The student will reinforce and/or improve his/her working knowledge of the proper position and technique necessary in playing a musical instrument.
- The student will develop the ability to play a string instrument from notation at the grade IV/V level and above as described by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (VBODA).
- The student will experience the performance of musical literature at the grade IV/V level and above as described by the VBODA.
- The student will clearly demonstrate a practical understanding through performance of expressive musical concepts.
- The student will be able to assess adequately his/her performance of expressive musical concepts.
Chamber Orchestra
(High School Class):
Course Description
An audition with the orchestra conductor is required for enrollment in this course. Ownership or rental of an instrument is required. Musical literature and method books will be provided by the school. Chamber orchestra offers instruction to the advanced player. An in depth study of musical styles will be realized through challenging orchestral literature. Rehearsals and performances outside of normal school hours are required as part of this course. Private lessons are required for this course and all students must audition for District Honors Orchestra. The spring trip is also mandatory for students enrolled in this course.
Objectives
- The student will reinforce and/or improve his/her working knowledge of the proper position and technique necessary in playing a musical instrument.
- The student will develop the ability to play a string instrument from notation at the grade V/VI level and above as described by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association (VBODA).
- The student will experience the performance of musical literature at the grade V/VI level and above as described by the VBODA.
- The student will clearly demonstrate a practical understanding through performance of expressive musical concepts.
- The student will be able to assess adequately his/her performance of expressive musical concepts.
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Auditions will be held during the last quarter of school, or as scheduled by the instructor. |
Practice Tips
-- Spend a minimum of 20-30 minutes practicing each night.
A little work every day is better than long sessions every other day. Parents are encouraged to help their orchestra student keep a practice log. Forms are available from the orchestra instructor.
-- Practice slowly and accurately. Using a metronome is recommended.
-- Set goals for yourself… maybe work only 8 measures, but make sure you learn those 8 measures.
-- Practice the difficult sections longer than the easy sections.
-- Play everything with expression.
-- Learn from mistakes.
--Think for yourself. Be creative with your practice, and find out that works best for you.
-- Be optimistic. You may not be able to play as well as you would like to, but you will improve.
-- The “UPSIDE”: The more you practice, the better you become. The better you become, the more fun it is to play your instrument. The more fun it is to play your instrument, the more you want to practice!
-- The “DOWNSIDE”: The less you practice, the more difficult it is to play your instrument. The more difficult it is to play your instrument, the less enjoyable it is to play. The less enjoyable it is to play your instrument, the less you want to practice!
Music is fun when you are able to play your part and be a part of the team, so do yourself a favor and… PRACTICE!
***Always remember… Practice makes permanent, but perfect practice makes perfect!
50%: The daily grade will be based on the following areas:
· Punctuality and readiness to play 3 minutes after the bell
· Understanding of the concept that music, to be properly performed, evaluated or rehearsed, must be rendered in an atmosphere of silence
· Attention to the conductor and an attitude of cooperation
· Alertness and readiness for the downbeat, including proper posture and hand position for the instrument
· Sensitivity towards conducting gestures
· Full participation in class
· Prepared with equipment, music, and pencil
· Evidence of home practice
· Mastery of music in the folders
You are expected to participate in class everyday without exception. This means you must bring your instrument, music, pencil, and a willing attitude to class everyday. You are awarded 10 points everyday for participation and for following the above criteria.
Unexcused absences cannot be made up, and will result in a zero for the day missed.
10%: The test portion of your grade will be based
on the
following areas:
· Playing tests
· In-class written quizzes and tests
You are expected to learn your instrument and to learn to read music. Playing exams will be held regularly for chair placement and progress evaluation. These are tests where you play your instrument in front of the class. Each mistake is one point off your score. The tests are based on a 100-point scale and are graded according to the FCPS guidelines:
100-94=A
93-90=B+
89-84=B
83-80=C+
79-74=C
73-70=D+
69-64=D
63-below=F
20%: The
performance portion of your grade will be based
on the following:
· Attendance and level of performance at various concerts and festivals given throughout the year
· You are expected to be at all performances
(Please read attendance policy on p.16)
If a performance is missed, the student will have one week from the performance date to make-up the grade. To make-up the grade, the student must perform his/her concert music in front of a video recorder that will be viewed and graded at the discretion of the instructor.
It is the responsibility of the student to make-up the grade. The instructor will not "hunt you down". After 1 week, the grade becomes a zero.
*Chamber Orchestra members
must audition for the District 10 Honors Orchestra. Auditions are held in
November and music will be available during the first week of school.
20%:
The practice portion of your grade will be based on
the following:
· Practice records
Practice records are to be turned in every 4 weeks with a parent signature. The following scale will determine weekly practice goals:
100 points (A) 150 minutes or more
90 points (B+) 120-149 minutes
75 points (C) 90-119 minutes
65 points (D) 60-89 minutes
30 points (F) less than 60 minutes
0 points (F) no record turned in
*Students taking private lessons may include their lesson time into their practice record.
5% bonus: Students who take private lessons on a weekly basis from an approved instructor will be rewarded with a 5% bonus each grading period. Only the conductor can approve the private lesson teacher. Approved instructors are professional musicians on a particular instrument with teaching experience. To receive your bonus, please submit a 3x5 index card with the following information: your name and instrument, your teacher’s name, and your teacher’s phone number and email address.
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Various extra credit opportunities will arise throughout the year. The instructor will announce these opportunities or post them on the bulletin board.
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Final Grades
Final grades are not cumulative, but reflect the student’s progress in areas of knowledge and abilities at the end of the school year.
Orchestra Seating
Students are seated according to their musical and technical proficiency on their instrument. This is done to insure proper blend and balance throughout the ensemble. Seat placement is relative to the abilities of those in the group. (This placement may be referred to as what “chair” a student has, such as 1st chair, 2nd chair, etc.) Each student is responsible for his/her own performance.
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Private Lessons
Private lessons are highly recommended for those who are interested in getting the most out of their musical experience. The ensemble nature of orchestra makes it impossible to provide the kind of focused individual attention that can be gained in private lessons. If you have trouble finding a private instructor, your orchestra conductor can provide a list of local instructors. |
Absence affects performance in orchestra classes. Each student’s participation affects the group outcome, and each student plays a valuable role in the process. It is imperative that we establish attendance guidelines that support this learning process for both the individual and the group. Attendance is related to both self-discipline and learning.
Orchestra students are required to attend all after school rehearsals. It is your responsibility to attend all rehearsals and performances.
Excused Absences From Rehearsal Include:
· personal absence which confines you at home
(excused absence from school)
· death in the family
· religious holiday (please notify ahead of time)
· other prearranged absences approved by the school and/or instructor (5 day written notice is required)
Please do not hesitate to call or email the orchestra conductor for clarifications.
Co-Curricular Activity Absenteeism Policy:
In order for a student to participate in an after-school performance or practice, he/she must either:
· attend for more than half of the school day.
· have an excused absence.
A student may not participate in an after school performance or practice if:
· the absence from school that day is unexcused.
· the student is serving an out-of-school suspension.
· the student is serving an in-school suspension.
· the student has not been in school half of the school day.
Unexcused Absences from Class:
(FCPS guidelines apply)
· 3 unexcused tardies from in-school or after-school rehearsals and performances translates into 1 unexcused absence.
3 unexcused absences= failure for the quarter
Our positive behavior has the potential for lasting impressions on people with whom we may not have direct contact. It is, therefore, important for everyone to maintain a positive and cooperative attitude when associated with the Orchestras of Hayfield Secondary School.
Inappropriate or offensive behavior or language
will not be tolerated. We represent each other,
Rehearsal Expectations:
Each section shall exemplify the highest standards of efficiency, conduct, and musicianship during rehearsals and public performances. High standards will demand the utmost in determination, concentration, and self-control from each individual. Orchestra members are expected to take a serious, musical approach to their instruments. Take pride in yourself, your section, and in the entire ensemble. If you do not have a part to play, support others by listening and exercising courteous behavior.
Minor Infractions:
From time to time, student behavior management issues occur. Due to the unique group relationship in a musical ensemble, these issues must be addressed. A pro-active policy and quick resolution will ensure a positive atmosphere for all students. Parental support to correct such behavior is critical. Disciplinary procedures include:
1. general reminder to class
2. personal reminder in class
3. private conversation
4. consequences beyond class period
(detention, phone call or email home, counselor or
principal conversation)
5. removal from rehearsal or performance
(time out, referral)
Major Infractions:
The school policies that apply to the school day also apply to all orchestra activities on and off school property.
Examples: competitions
festivals
the spring trip
Daily Classroom Rules:
1. Students are not permitted to eat, drink, or chew gum in class. ONLY WATER IS ALLOWED
2. Students are expected to come into class in an
orderly manner. YOU MUST BE IN THE CLASSROOM WHEN THE TARDY
3. Students are expected to take care of all school property, and to keep an orderly room. All school instruments are to be taken care of properly. Music stands are to be handled with care. Do not lean or write on the music stands.
4. Students are to speak to the conductor and to each other with respect and courtesy.
5. Students are expected to keep their fingernails short. NO EXCUSES! Long fingernails interfere with curving the fingers correctly to produce a quality sound.
6. Students are expected to try their best and to take pride in this organization.
REMEMBER, THIS IS YOUR ENSEMBLE! J
Student Responsibilities:
Students in Hayfield Secondary School Orchestras enjoy the reputation of participating in superior ensembles, and are personally responsible for giving their best effort. An orchestra can be outstanding only if its members pursue excellence as individuals.
An excellent orchestra student:
1. Comes prepared for class with instrument, music
and a pencil.
2. Refrains from classroom talking and
interruptions.
3. Attends all performances in their entirety.
4. Practices daily at home.
5. Shows respect for others.
6. Represents the school and orchestra in a dignified fashion, with a high degree of character, responsibility and integrity.
Restroom and Locker Procedures:
Students should use the restroom and visit their lockers between classes. Students may use the restroom during class at the teacher’s discretion.
In the Orchestra Room:
Students need to be prompt and prepared for rehearsal each day. Attendance will be taken daily. Students will have their instruments assembled, be warmed-up, and have the proper music out of their folders and ready to be rehearsed. Each day an agenda will be on the board. Students must have a sharpened pencil available for taking notes.
Students should treat the rehearsal areas and surrounding department areas well (i.e., no food, gum, drinks, etc.). Papers, pencils, and all other materials should be picked-up. It is important to have and maintain a neat and orderly room for rehearsals.
Instrument Security:
At the beginning of the year, each student will be asked to write his/her name, instrument, and instrument model and serial number on a security list. This list will be used to identify any lost and/or found instruments. Parents are encouraged to obtain insurance for their child’s instrument. Fairfax County Public Schools will not replace lost or stolen instruments.
We suggest that parents check into coverage through their homeowner or renter insurance policy.
Storage Room:
An instrument storage room is available for students to keep their instruments during the school day. Students using the room must reserve a storage bin at the beginning of the year by signing a logbook. At that time, the student will be assigned a combination lock to use at all times on the locker. Students who opt to use the storage room do so at their own risk.
Students may not store their instrument in the storage room without a lock for their storage bin. Instruments and music folders are the only items allowed in the storage room.
NO BACKPACKS, LUNCHES, BINDERS, ETC. Combination locks are to be used at all times and combinations are to be kept with Ms. New. Key locks are not allowed. Care should be taken to shield your locker combination from others. Lockers should never be left in the open position.
Use of the storage room is a privilege. Any student found tampering with another student’s locker or playing around in the storage room will lose that privilege.
Students who store their instruments in hall lockers should avoid placing music or instruments on the ledge above the lockers. Instrument cases must be labeled with the student's name at all times. This will ensure that misplaced instruments are promptly returned to their owners.
Care of Sheet Music:
ALL SHEET MUSIC MUST BE STORED IN FOLDERS. Students who do not return original copies of sheet music on time and in good condition will be charged for the cost of replacement ($1 per page). Names are submitted to the obligation list in the Hayfield Secondary School Finance Office.
Students should write their name in pencil at the top of each page of music.
Students will be charged $0.20 for lost photocopied pages.
Care of Instruments:
All instruments should be treated with care and stored properly. It is the responsibility of the student to maintain accessories and to keep the instructor informed of instrument problems that affect his/her ability to participate.
Please follow these guidelines:
· Loosen the bow hair when you are done playing.
·
Never use household cleaners to
clean or polish the
instrument. Gently wipe it with a clean, soft cloth.
· The instrument and the bow should be stored in
the
case. String instruments break easily when left
unprotected.
·
Retract
endpins before placing in a storage bin. Never
leave
an instrument on a chair or hanging from a music stand.
·
Never put an instrument down on
top of the bridge, even
when it is in the case.
·
Never touch the bow hair with
your hands. This
deteriorates the hair, which causes poor tone quality on the
instrument.
Instrument Requirements:
Violins and Violas
· Shoulder rest. Kun and Wolff are good brands.
· A clean, soft cloth.
· Rosin
· Pencil
· Mute
Cellos and Basses
· An end pin “rock stop”.
· A clean, soft cloth.
· Rosin. Bass players should buy special bass rosin
such as Pops Bass Rosin.
· Pencil
· Mute
School Instruments:
Most instruments are available for rent at local music stores. Those students who are eligible for free or reduced cost lunch may be able to rent an instrument through Fairfax County Public Schools at a reduced cost. These instrument rentals are subject to eligibility requirements and availability. Students should see their orchestra instructor for details.
Cello and Bass Fee
There is an annual fee charged to cello and bass students ($92 per year) for the use of the school’s instruments. This does not replace the need for students to come to class with their own rock stop, cleaning cloth, rosin and mute.
Great Gift Ideas!!!
Recommended Items
Music Stand—For home practice, foldable/portable stands come in a variety of models. Heavy-duty music stands are also available at many music stores.
Metronome—This device sounds a steady pulse at a number of given tempos. Electronic metronomes are the most reliable.
Electronic Tuner—This device tells the student the exact pitch being played. Students can learn to play in tune with the help of an electronic tuner. Pocket-sized models are recommended.
Visit www.sharmusic.com for a great selection of instruments and accessories at reasonable prices.
A number of concerts are scheduled throughout the school year. Students are required to attend each concert designated for their orchestra, and are strongly encouraged to attend the concerts of other orchestras.
These concerts are mandatory:
Fall Pops Concert
(Chamber, Symphonic, and Advanced Orchestras)
Wednesday, October 24, 2007, 7:00 p.m.
Winter Concert
(All Groups)
Wednesday, December 12, 2007, 7:00 p.m.
Pre-Festival Concert
(All Groups)
Wednesday, February 27, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
Spring Concert
(All Groups)
Wednesday, May 28, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
VBODA Orchestra Festival
Friday & Sat., March 7 OR 8, 2008 /
Exact date and time to be announced
DATES AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO REVISION
Concert Behavior:
10 Rules for Students
1. Refrain from talking
The first and greatest rule. It also includes whispering during the music.
2. No singing, tapping fingers or feet
The musicians do not need your help, and your neighbors need silence. Learn to tap your toes quietly inside your shoes- it’s a good exercise.
3. Please have nothing in your mouth, besides your teeth and tongue
Gum and candy are not allowed.
4. Do not wear watches with alarms and turn all cell phones to the silent mode
You may enjoy the sound, but it is disturbing to everyone around you.
5. Do not open and close your purse, or rip open your velcro wallet
The best plan is to leave purses, etc., in a locked classroom or at home.
6. Do not sigh with boredom
If you are in agony, keep it to yourself. Your neighbor just may be in ecstasy, which should also be kept under control.
7. Do not applaud between movements
Wait for the conductor’s hands to drop, and for him/her to turn around. This is your cue that the piece is over.
8. Do not embarrass your teacher, parents, or school
Remember that you are a representative of the Hayfield Orchestras. There are many eyes looking at you.
9. Do not read or play with electric devices in your pocket or in your hands.
To listen means just that. Use the time to turn on a “video screen” in your mind and create a story to the music.
10. Do not go to a concert thinking you will hate the music
You may be surprised- millions of people all over the world enjoy classical music, and if you give yourself a chance, you might, too!
Concert Attire:
The student furnishes the uniform. Each student is responsible for cleaning, pressing, and repairing his or her uniform before each performance.
Middle School Orchestras:
Gentlemen:
Black pants
Wing tip pleated tuxedo shirt
Black bow tie (provided by school)
Black cummerbund (provided by school)
Black socks
Black dress shoes
Ladies:
Black ankle-length skirt with black blouse or
black ankle-length dress
Black or nude hose
Black dress shoes (no open-toed shoes)
Ladies may wear black dress pants. Black jeans and pants with spandex (even a minimal amount) will not be allowed!
*Dresses and blouses must have sleeves. No spaghetti straps or off-the-shoulder attire. Absolutely no bare upper arms, legs, midriffs, or backs. Try to play your instrument in your concert attire at home before the concert. If your knees show when you sit down, or your midriff is exposed, FIND ANOTHER OUTFIT! You will not be allowed to perform in inappropriate attire and your grade will be lowered if you are unable to perform.
High School Orchestras:
Men (full tuxedo):
Tuxedo pants
Tuxedo jacket
Wing tip pleated tuxedo shirt
Black bow tie
Black cummerbund
Black socks
Black dress shoes
Women:
High School women wear black uniform dresses. Students will have the opportunity to purchase or rent their dress. The cost of the dress will be $65. Information on renting and purchasing dresses will go home at the beginning of the school year.
Other Performance Opportunities
Senior Regional Auditions…
Monday, September 24, 2007/
Senior Regional Event…
Friday and Saturday, November 9-10, 2007/ Hayfield SS
Jr./Sr. District Orchestra Auditions…
Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2007/
*(mandatory for Chamber Orchestra)*
Jr./Sr. District Orchestra Event…
Thursday thru Saturday, January 10-12, 2008/
All-State Orchestra Auditions…
TBA
All-State Orchestra Event…
TBA
Solo and Ensemble…
Friday, April 25, 2008/ location TBA
KEEP A CALENDAR!
All students are given a calendar/planner by the school. Students should record all rehearsal requirements, upcoming exams, projects, and other special school events.
Attendance at meetings for other school activities and clubs must be arranged so as not to conflict with orchestra rehearsals and concerts.
Failure to be prepared in any way for class, a scheduled performance, or after-school rehearsal will result in a lowered daily grade for that class period. You must arrive 5 minutes before the meeting time, in concert attire (unless otherwise stated), warmed-up, and ready to play.
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VBODA Orchestra Festival-
March 7-8, 2008
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