Handbook

Home
Band Camp
Emergency/Medical Form
Member Information Sheet

Rules and Regulations

The purpose of this handbook is to establish a common ground of procedures and expectations from which all individual members can best accomplish their own musical goals, as well as the musical goals of the organization. These policies were designed to encompass the overall interests and goals of the Marching Band and to establish order, personal responsibility, and efficiency to the entire Band and to each member. 

Philosophy

The art and activity of marching band is one that combines quality music with an effective visual presentation. Through consistent and positive instruction, it is the goal of the staff to provide our students and audiences with both a highly competitive, yet equally entertaining marching band show. We want to teach students who want to learn.

Code of Conduct

All members of the marching band are expected to adhere to the code of conduct set forth in the Kingsway Regional High School student handbook.  In addition, all members of the marching band must adhere to the following conduct guidelines:

REHEARSAL CONDUC T

All members of the ensemble will be taught and given specific details as to proper etiquette during music rehearsal, basics block, sectionals and field rehearsals. There are 4 basic behaviors that are not tolerated in Marching Band that will always be in effect during all activities:

            1. SWEARING
            2. CHEWING GUM
            3. OPEN DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
            4. DISRESPECT TOWARDS STAFF & FELLOW STUDENTS
            5. NO CELL PHONES ON THE FIELD

UNIF ORM CONDUCT

Please refer to the Uniform Procedures portion of this handbook for specific details on the care and maintenance of your uniform. The following is a list of behaviors that are NOT acceptable while you are in uniform. The reason for these strict guidelines is simply because when we are in uniform we are representing not only ourselves, but also Kingsway Regional High School . Our conduct in the uniform is crucial to developing a strong sense of pride and uniformity in what we do:

            1. “Rehearsal Conduct” as listed above
            2. SPITTING
            3. RUNNING
            4. SCREAMING

Attendance

Since the Band functions as a single unit and not a group of individuals, Band performances are diminished by even a single absence. Hence, you are required to be at all band rehearsals and performances. It is the member's responsibility to notify the Director IN ADVANCE with a note or phone call from the parent or guardian. Each request will be evaluated individually.

Fall schedules have been distributed. These will be periodically updated. Time management is an important part of the band experience. Any unexcused absence from a Performance will result in Immediate Dismissal. It is up to the discretion of the Band Director as to the acceptability of the excuse. Some un-acceptable absence reasons are college visitations (which should be scheduled around rehearsal and performance schedules), public music concerts of any kind (regardless of whether it's Kelly Clarkson, Barney, Carrie Underwood, Justin Timberlake, Lady Gaga, and so on), college games, sports, banquets, and parties.

Any individual with an unexcused absence from rehearsals will attend the next performance in full dress uniform.  However, he/she may not be permitted to participate in warm-ups and will stand at attention during the performance.  This rule is strictly to ensure the safety of your child and the safety of other students on the field.  This will be considered on a case by case basis by the Band Director.

Students are at NO TIME permitted to leave the school grounds once a rehearsal or report time has started. This includes days when there is a rehearsal followed by a lunch or dinner break before departure for a performance. Students must bring everything they need for the day at the start of rehearsal or have it delivered to school.

Rehearsals

All students are required to wear sneakers to each rehearsal and to dress appropriately for the weather. We will experience a wide variety of weather conditions throughout the season, so it is your responsibility to be prepared for any possible weather. Marching Band is an outdoor activity and requires us to be outside during uncomfortable conditions at times (i.e. heat and humidity, cold weather, rain, etc.).

Additionally, students should come prepared to all rehearsals with WATER. Ample breaks for water will be given throughout each rehearsal and it is the student’s responsibility to have this available to themselves during rehearsals.

It is important to note that marching band, by its nature, is a physical activity. There is a great demand placed on a student to be able to march and play a complete show. There needs to be some proper conditioning on the part of the student, in order to facilitate a strong personal performance and to prevent injury. Calisthenics, stretching and running will be advocated and supported at rehearsals. Students are always encouraged to stretch and warm-up their instrument and their bodies before rehearsing or performing.

As with any physical activity, injuries can and probably will affect a few students. Illness may also affect a student’s ability to rehearse and perform. A doctor’s note should always be obtained in the case of a physical injury. In this case of illness or injury, the proper attendance policies must be used to notify the director of an absence.

Students eligible to donate blood are restricted to do so on the day of a competition, football game or rehearsal.  The physical demands of playing in class, rehearsing after school, and then being on your feet until 10 pm are too much for a 17 or 18 year old who's given blood.  If you are a donator, give blood on a day you do not have marching band.

Rehearsal Etiquette

As we get into the rehearsals for the season, etiquette for various types of rehearsals will be clearly defined by the staff. It is expected that all members will adhere to the defined procedures (see rehearsal conduct). Should a student demonstrate on a regular basis that he or she does not subscribe to the proper conduct at a rehearsal, the band director reserves the right to evaluate the student’s performance, and to make a decision as to whether the student should perform in upcoming shows. The director also reserves the right to send such a student home from rehearsal and request a parent/student conference to determine future course of action.

It is the goal of the staff to provide a teaching atmosphere that is both positive and effective. As a student, please take the time to understand the rehearsal etiquette and speak to the individual instructors and/or director about such issues on a personal basis.

Protocol for Football Games

1.    No one will play their instrument unless instructed to do so.

2.    Everyone will have their own music and lyre with them.

3.    Recently graduated Band members may not distract, socialize, or sit with the band or color guard, unless permitted by the band staff.  All others will be escorted from the section.

4.    Even though it's "stand music," we will perform with the high musical standards in mind, but should have fun doing so.

5.    No one may leave the stands without permission from the Staff.  Away games require an escort to the restrooms for safety reasons.

6.    The Drum Major(s) and senior members will be allowed to greet the "opposing" band at home games.  We must be capable of playing at any time.  Too many students out of the stands will detract from the music.

7.    Following halftime performances, members must return to the bleachers with 1 (one) minute left in the third (3rd) quarter.  Failure to promptly return from the 3rd quarter break will result in denial of that privilege in the future.  Adjustments can be made by the Director due to special circumstances.   

Travel

We travel to events together and we return together. If a parent wishes to make other arrangements, it must be done in writing, IN ADVANCE. The only exception is at the conclusion of an event the parent must make personal contact with the Director to verify that they are in attendance and will take responsibility for their child. Otherwise, students will ride the bus. School law states that simply signing a note allowing a student to go with someone else will not hold up in court. Driving yourself, traveling with a friend, non-immediate family member, boyfriend, girlfriend or neighbor is unacceptable. When in doubt, call the band office.

A few more guidelines:  

1. Only band members, staff, and appointed band boosters may sit in the band section, ride the bus or handle equipment unless approved by the director. No one may leave the stands alone or without permission.

2. Bus conduct will be exemplary at all times. The bus driver's instructions/restrictions must be followed.  Each bus will have (2) two chaperones at all times.

3. Only personal MP3 or CD players with headphones will be permitted.

4. You must be seated at all times. Do not kneel or stand on the seats or sit on the back of the seats. They won't drive if you’re not seated.

5. Wear the correct designated clothing under your uniform (see uniform and uniform maintenance). Appropriate attire is needed for uniformity and for changing into the uniform on the bus.  Black socks and plain black t-shirts (no designs or writing) are required with official uniform.    

6. The buses shall be kept clean. All riders are responsible and no one may go home until it is done in accordance to the senior bus captain and chaperone.

7. HELP TO UNLOAD THE EQUIPMENT TRUCK. It is your responsibility to make sure that your instrument/equipment returns to the proper place. It is also expected that students WILL help other sections of the band with larger instruments (i.e. pit percussion).

Competitions:

We move as a group.  Once we are done performing and the equipment bus has been packed, we will return to our buses as a group.  There, students will be able to get changed out of their uniforms (see rules for uniforms).  Once everyone has changed, we will proceed to the visitor bleachers as a group and select a spot for the group to sit together.  From that point, all students will have the freedom to go see parents in the stands, go get food from concessions, use the restrooms and watch the other group performances.  Just like football games, you must be in pairs or small groups.  You are to never walk alone.  Make sure you have everything you need from the bus, because you will not be permitted to leave the stadium once you enter the gates until the event is over.

Pick up and Return:

Returning times after football games and competitions are subject to changes that are beyond the Staff's control. The usual return time for an away football game is 11:30 pm. Home football games are typically completed by 10:00 pm.

For every event, the times of departure and arrival are posted on the white board in the band room and will be posted on the marching band website.  STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR NOTIFYING THEIR PARENTS OF THIS ARRIVAL TIME. Competition times are often subject to last minute changes. Travel times will often vary depending on road conditions and bus drivers. Parents are expected to pick up their children within 30 minutes of the estimated arrival time. If the estimated time has changed, students will call on a cell phone with notification of a new arrival time.  Phones available for student use are the hall pay phone, and band office.   Please look for an updated schedule on the outside door of the school when dropping students off.

 Uniform and Uniform Maintenance

While you are in uniform, you are constantly being observed. Your personal appearance and your actions represent not only you, but also your band, school, community and country. The uniform assigned to you is a valuable asset to the band. You will be responsible for its care and maintenance.  If something needs to be fixed or adjusted on your uniform, simply report it to one of the Uniform Parents. The desired goal is that the Kingsway Regional High School Marching Band continues a tradition of excellence. The manner in which the band presents itself can leave either a positive or negative impression on its audience. The care of the uniform and the band member’s behavior while wearing it, goes far toward creating pride and continuing tradition.

Only gym shorts, black shirt, Thermal underwear, Under Armour or spandex will be worn under the uniform in cold weather. Jeans, sweatshirts and sweat pants are un-acceptable (too bulky). You are expected to return the uniform in the same condition it was issued.

Uniform Jacket and Pants - Pants will be folded along the crease.  Jackets are to be draped over the hanger, zipped and buttoned.  

Uniforms will be hung neatly in the garment bag (unless told otherwise) going to and from every away event.  DO NOT leave any part of the uniform balled up on the floor of the band room, restroom, or bus!

The Shako (hat) - should always be worn squarely on your head, not tilted back or to one side.  The visual judges partially base our visual score on whether or not your plume is sitting up straight. The strap should rest gently against your bottom lip. (NOT UNDER YOUR CHIN OR IN YOUR MOUTH.) It may feel awkward at first, but after some time, this will feel natural.  When you are not wearing your Shako, it should be carried the proper way. It should be held squarely in the left hand, with the index and middle fingers and thumb clasped gently on the brim. ALWAYS carry the Shako in this fashion when not wearing it and NEVER WEAR YOUR HAT BACKWARDS!!  Do not place anything on top of the Shako because it will crush easily.

Hats- Are stored in the Hat box only ... not in garment bags.

Once issued a rain coat, it will remain on the hanger in the assigned room until you are instructed to wear it.  Rain coats will not be kept with your uniform in the lockers.  Remember your raincoat number that is issued to you.

Guard - In accordance with the show.

Shoes- You are responsible for keeping them clean.   

Gloves- Can be purchased through the band boosters.  Keep these gloves in your hat box or garment bag, as not to lose them.

Socks- The Band wears black socks only.  The socks must be knee high in length. Keep an extra pair in your garment bag.

Guard - Flesh tone panty hose or in accordance with the show.

Jewelry- Absolutely NO JEWELRY can be worn, including class rings, earrings, eye rings, or nose rings. Watches must be taken off and placed in your pocket or given to a chaperone.

Hair- Hair may not cover the collar. All hair (male or female) must be pulled into a bun to be able to fit under the hat.  Bring extra hair bands and allow extra time before each performance.

Guard - In accordance with the show.

Make up- NO Fingernail polish or make-up for Band members.  No temporary tattoos or facial piercing are permitted.

Guard - in accordance with the show.  

Every part of the uniform must be neat and clean in appearance. Members should look as good from one foot away as from 100 feet away. How you look is the first indication of the commitment, pride, discipline, and talent that the audience will see and hear.

Following a rainy event, all uniforms/rain coats and guard equipment will be hung up as directed. Cases must be left open and instruments dried off. The following school day morning, you will put your instrument/equipment and uniforms/rain coats away BEFORE 1^st PERIOD. You will also help put other member’s equipment away and assist the Director.

A Deposit of $10.00 is due to the band boosters once your uniform has been fitted and handed to you.  At the conclusion of the marching band season, you are responsible for having the uniform dry cleaned.  When you return your uniform in with the receipt from the dry cleaners, you will receive your $10.00 deposit back.

YOUR UNIFORM IS A SYMBOL OF DIGNITY, PRESTIGE AND STATURE. 

WEAR IT PROUDLY!

Equipment:

All equipment will be stored in designated areas.  All students will help load and unload trucks, trailers, etc. You are responsible for your instrument and other equipment getting to and from the performance. Guard - All members will keep their equipment in their bags and the bags will be neatly stored in the closet or on the trailer. Just tossing your stuff in the corner is not acceptable.

Parent Support and Responsibilities

The participation of your student in this program will hopefully prove to be not only rewarding for your student but for you the parents and guardians as well. Please help us in establishing the proper attitude toward music at home. Also, support what your child is doing by attending regular performances of the band and encouraging your son or daughter to practice at home.

Band Booster Organization

The Kingsway Marching Band Boosters (KMUBI) is a booster organization that has helped the Dragon Marching Band reach their high level of success over the years.  The KMUBI performs many services such as fundraising, uniform alterations, transporting equipment for performances, and chaperoning trips just to name a few.  KMUBI helps to raise funds to hire additional staff members as well as providing additional needs not covered by the school district’s budget.  And, of course, KMUBI provides moral support for the members of the group by showing school spirit whenever we travel for competition.

There are many ways to become involved in the band boosters and to help support the hard work that your student puts forth for the program.  There are a number of committees to be a part of and we are always looking for volunteers to help.  Being a part of the band boosters does not need to be a full-time commitment.  You can help as much or as little as your schedule allows.  Your donated time will always be appreciated by the students, boosters and staff.  To become involved, please contact one of the officers listed below to see how you can help.

2011-2012 Band Booster Officers

President - Dan Battisti

Vice-President - Jan Sheldon

Treasurer - Barbara Corcoran

Recording Secretary - Kathy Courtney

Corresponding Secretary - Kathy Rebechi

Meeting dates are listed on the band booster section of the web site.

Fundraisers

Throughout the school year, there will be several opportunities for students and parents to make money for the marching band program and for individual accounts.  Everyone, Students and Parents, is encouraged to participate.  These fundraisers are important for the continued success of the marching band program.