2008-2009
Band Handbook
Band Department
This is your life! Welcome to it.
Welcome to
the Sahuaro Cougar Band program! My name
is
This handbook is your life. It is intended to give all readers an idea of what being a member of the Sahuaro Band is really like: what to do, what to expect, what to look forward to, what to look out for, and most important – how to be a successful and contributing member of this outstanding organization. As a member of the Sahuaro Band, a student can look forward to a positive, rewarding, exciting, enjoyable, and hard-working experience.
This can be a landmark year, not only for the Sahuaro Band, but for you, too! In order to accomplish all that we have set out in front of us, we will all need to truly understand teamwork and dedication. This packet is a preface to the year that awaits. Please read and understand everything that is to follow. The information here will help you to contribute all that you can to your own success and the success of our team.
Welcome to the Sahuaro High School Band program. Let’s work together for another memorable year! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
This handbook contains anything and everything you might want to know. Please read through everything.
Learn it. Live it. Love it.
Sincerely,
Director of Bands
(520) 731-7314
Overview of Band Program
Wind Ensemble **
Wind Ensemble is the core of the program. All of the fundamentals learned here will apply to other areas, such as marching band and jazz band. The Wind Ensemble will meet during first period all year. It is an audition only group. Auditions will take place for this ensemble each year in the spring before registration. It is comprised on the most advanced musicians and plays advanced wind band literature. During the fall semester this ensemble will also work on the marching band music. This group performs at ABODA festivals, concerts, graduation, and other events.
Symphonic Band *
The symphonic band is the introductory ensemble at
Jazz Band *
The Jazz Band is an audition only group. It meets during fourth period. It is comprised of 5-7 saxophones, up to 5 trombones, up to 5 trumpets, and one player on each of the following instruments: piano, guitar, bass, and percussion. The Jazz Band performs at ABODA festivals, concerts, and various other events throughout the year.
Color Guard **
The Color Guard meets during fifth hour of the school day. This is an auxiliary unit to the marching band, participating with them in all events. During the spring, this group will transition and perform as the Sahuaro Winter Guard.
Percussion *
This class meets during sixth hour of the school day. The percussion class will function as the marching and pit percussion for the marching band during the fall. This group also will be the percussion ensemble for the Wind Ensemble and the Symphonic Band, as well as work on various percussion ensemble settings, including the Winter Drumline. All students in this ensemble are required to participate with the concert bands and in percussion ensembles.
Sahuaro Cougar Marching Band **
The marching band meets in various capacities during first, second, fifth, and sixth periods during the first semester. It also rehearses outside of school on scheduled days as outlined in the Sahuaro Band Schedule. It is comprised of winds, drumline, pit, and auxiliaries (color guard, dancers, twirlers.). The Cougar Marching Band performs in the stands and at halftime of all home football games. It also performs in the stands and at pregame for most away football games. It competes at ABODA festivals and performs at various other events throughout the year.
Uniforms/Concert Dress
* - Formal performance attire is required for this ensemble.
All members of Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band must wear all black or black and white.
-NO jeans, tank tops, low cut necks, high-slitted skirts, flip-flops, athletic shoes, or any other revealing attire
** - See Uniform section of the Cougar Marching Band
Renting Instruments
Any students using a TUSD instrument, need to get the proper forms and paperwork from the director. We are limited in the amount of instruments we have, and MUST take care of them. As stated in the classroom rules, students are responsible for their equipment, and their equipment only. This also applies to district owned instrument after they have been assigned to an individual. Any damage or repair needs must be reported to the director immediately. The student may be held responsible for cost of repair, depending on the incident or damage. Daily care and upkeep of all instrument is also the responsibility of each student. This includes basic cleaning, valve oil, slide and cork grease, reeds, mouthpieces where applicable, drum sticks, mallets, etc.
Private Lessons
The importance of private lessons cannot be stressed enough. This is the best way to quickly improve as a musician. The one-on-one (or at least small group) time is absolutely invaluable. Private lessons are readily available at most music stores and from several private teachers. They can be relatively inexpensive, especially when weighed with the results. If you (student or parent) has ever given the slightest thought to obtaining private lessons, please contact me AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! I can put you in touch with multiple teachers for each instrument so that you may choose one that can best suit your situation. I would love for every student in the band program to be involved in some sort of individualized instruction.
Attendance Policy
In any high school band, success is based not solely upon a student’s individual skills, but rather on the entire group’s collective ability to work together as a BAND. This is one of the most important reasons that high school bands exist; to let students of all ability levels reach extremely high levels of accomplishment while working together as a unit. When even one member of the unit is missing, for even a moment, with even a valid excuse, the total group fails to be its very best. For this very obvious reason, parents and students wishing to see the Sahuaro High School Band reach its highest possible goals must constantly strive to eliminate all absences, for any reason.
In order for us to accomplish our goal of excellence, the attendance policy is established as follows:
- Attendance at all regularly scheduled rehearsals, sectionals, and performances, including extra events, is mandatory.
- Excused absences are possible. Some examples of excused absences are a student’s personal illness, death in student’s immediate family, an extreme family emergency, or another Sahuaro High School-related activity approved by the other sponsor and band director in advance.
- Some examples of unexcused absences are: part time jobs, no transportation, family outings, family reunions, family vacations, babysitting siblings, dance class, piano lessons, or regularly scheduled doctor’s appointments. Any student who receives an unexcused absence from a curricular activity can expect his grade to be lowered, and may find himself removed from an upcoming performance. A written parent note explaining an absence for an unexcused reason is appreciated, however, the director’s acceptance of the written note does not turn the unexcused absence into an excused absence.
- If you do have to miss a rehearsal, it is important to get the absence approved by Mr. Kinnaman in advance. An unexcused absence from ANY rehearsal (morning, evening, or sectional) will result in placement on alternate status.
- To get an excused absence approved, fill out the “Request for Excused Absence” form. These forms are in the Band Office. This form must be submitted 2 weeks in advance in order for it to be excused. If the absence is due to illness, the student is responsible for filling out the form at the next rehearsal they are present at.
- No form will be accepted incomplete. Also, the absence IS NOT approved until signed “Approved” by the director. Approved form will be available the school day following submission.
- Excessive absences make it difficult for the other performers in the ensemble to rely on you and will result in a loss of performance/participation.
- A member who misses the rehearsal before a performance will not be permitted to march at that performance.
Expectations of Members of the Cougar Marching Band
1. Give 100% Effort All of the Time
“Practice as you will perform.” Don’t sell yourself or your fellow band members short. Give ALL you’ve got ALL the time!
2. Be Early to Rehearsal
Arrive at rehearsal a minimum of 15 minutes early so that you can warm up and get to the field before rehearsal starts. “To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late.”
3. Be Organized
Take good care of your music, equipment, uniform, etc. Respect yourself enough to always have your music, drill, etc. with you for every rehearsal. Take the time to put away your equipment, uniform, etc. properly after each rehearsal or performance.
4. Avoid Wasting Time
Learn to have total concentration on the task at hand whether in rehearsal or performance.
5. Be Respectful to All Instructors
The instructional staff puts out a tremendous effort on your behalf. Help them to help you by being polite, attentive, and helpful. This is the best way to take advantage of the amazing expertise the instructors provide.
6. Be Professional
Complete professionalism is expected at all times. You are always a recognized member of the Sahuaro Band program. Out of respect for yourself and others, you should always compose yourself with dignity and foresight.
7. Accept Criticism Without Excuses
Criticism should always be given and received in a constructive manner. It should always be the goal of the critique to help improve the situation.
8. Practice Individually Between Rehearsals!
Individual perfection takes place outside of rehearsal time. You must work on your music, marching, and routines on your own for the group rehearsals to be effective.
9. Memorize All Music and Routines
To memorize music and routines is not knowing most of it. “It kind of goes like…” is not good enough. Music will be COMPLETELY memorized, including all rhythms, notes, dynamic markings, articulation markings, rehearsal letters, stick heights, flag angles, etc. Stands tunes do not need to be memorized, however, flip folders are required at every game.
10. Perform as a Group in the Stands
All playing at games will be done in an orderly manner and will be directed by the Drum Majors. No one, including percussion, will play when not directed to do so.
11. Deal With It!
What it is, learn to deal with it and always try to part of the solution, not a part of the problem.
Failure to meet these expectations may result in any of the following:
- Dismissal from a rehearsal/performance
- Change in class grade
- Parent conference
- Referral
- Removal form the band program
Rehearsal
and Classroom Expectations
A. Be ON TIME!
B. Be prepared
1. Have a pencil
2. Have all of
your music
3. Instrument in
working condition
C. Be focused
1.
Raise your hand if you have a question
2.
No food, drink, or gum (water is the ONLY exception)
3.
No cell phones or other electronic devices (see electronic device policy)
Grading Policies
A. Practice Records
1. 2 hours per week of practice
is required for a passing grade
2. Forms can be found at www.Sahuaroband.com and
must be submitted on the official practice record form to receive credit
3. Forms are due on the last
Wednesday of the month. 50 Points Total
B. Jazz Band
Listening Logs
1. 5 Jazz albums are reviewed,
only 2 are critiqued
2. One PAGE per critique, (12
pt. font, single spaced one inch margins) written in the style of a music
critic.
3. Also list what was learned
from the piece, how the content can be applied to the listener in improving
musicianship, etc.
4. List each album as follows:
artist name, name of album, style of music, recording company name and year
released
a. Must be typed, again:
single space format. 100 points total
Transcription
1. 4 transcriptions will be
composed during the year.
2. The first transcription
exercise will be given to the class, the following
3 will be selected by student.
4. Each student is to transcribe
their instrument solo and submit for points
5. Transcriptions will be graded
on pitch accuracy and rhythmic accuracy
100 Points Total
C. Performance Test
1. Each group will be graded on musical
performance/memorization and choreography throughout the year.
2. Performed for the instructor
or Director
3. Based on a 100 pt scale
4. Announced and posted one week
before the test
D. Concerts, Festivals
1. Each event will receive 400 pts.
E. Rehearsals
1. Class participation in daily rehearsals 10 pts. See classroom/rehearsal expectations section.
*Any infraction will cause the loss
of 10 points for the day.
2. Each out of class rehearsal 50 pts.
a. During marching season the 50 points will be equally divided between 4 areas: 1) Participation, 2) attendance, having and using 3) music AND 4) drill during a rehearsal.
3. Out of class Sectionals 20 pts.
a. This time will be selected by the section leader and section.
F. Special Projects
1. During the spring semester there will be special projects assigned in order to supplement the student’s practice and performance grade.
2. Assignments will be given and assigned a due date during class. Point totals will also be announced at the time of assignment.
G. Absence Forms
1. The director must be notified by absence form 2 weeks prior to the scheduled absence, at that time the director will determine if an alternate assignment will be assigned to make up the missed points.
H. Extra Credit
1. During the semester students may attend concerts and write a 1-2 page paper on the event, per director approval.
2. Students who make All-State and/or South Central U of A Honor Band will receive extra credit.
3. Students who take private lessons will receive extra credit when their private instructor signs their practice record prior to the quarter grades.
(30 points total for the semester)
4. 15 points per documented event will be awarded following director approval.
The grading scale is as follows: 100-90% A
89-80% B
79-70% C
69-60% D
59-0% F
Eligibility
A. All members must be eligible to compete according to guidelines set by TUSD and AIA.
B. Eligibility is defined as passing (60% or better) in all classes.
1. A member that is reported failing by a teacher will be placed on INELIGIBLE STATUS and will become an alternate.
2. A member who is reported failing after a second quarter progress report will lose their position on the field for the remainder of the season.
3. Students may become eligible during a quarter progress report to retain their performance position in the group.
C. Ineligible members may not compete nor travel with the group in any capacity. In order to maintain the integrity of the group, the directors have the responsibility to
replace or reassign positions as needed to cover the absence of ineligible members.
1. Any member who is ineligible, is still expected to attend and participate fully in any rehearsal. At home football games, those students are also expected
to be in attendance in uniform, but will not be allowed to participate in any performance aspect of the game.
Hierarchy of the Band’s Instructional Staff
Please follow this ‘chain of command’ and direct your comments and questions accordingly and at an appropriate time.
The Director
Mr. Kinnaman is in charge of every aspect of the band’s performances and rehearsals. This includes the administration of the program as well as the vision of the band’s musical and visual direction.
Instructors
The coaches for winds, drum line, and auxiliaries are in charge of these groups’ performances and rehearsals. They should receive the same level of respect as the director.
Drum Majors
The Drum Majors serve as teacher, conductor, motivator, and model of the ideal bands member. This prestigious position is reached through an in-depth audition process after the marching season.
Student Staff
This group consists of section leaders of each section of the band. These student leaders call and lead sectionals, help teach music and drill, set the example for all performers, and basically help out whenever and wherever. Section leaders are mainly responsible for their assigned sections, but you will often find them helping other sections or even the band as a whole. Any member of the Student Staff should get the same level of respect as your own section leader. These positions are selected by audition.
Band Council
This group of students is elected by the Sahuaro Band at the beginning of the school year. This group helps with facilitation of the band program and procedures. They act always, as ambassadors for the Sahuaro Band program.
Student Marching Instructors
These students are excellent leaders, and utilized primarily during the drill learning process. They are allowed to rove to help other learn drill. They can be utilized in any other role that will involve them helping the band improve as a visual unit.
Equipment and Uniform Managers
These students do the enormous task of setting up the practice field, loading and unloading the equipment truck, instrument and uniform check out, etc. This is an extremely important and sometimes thankless job.
GENERAL RULES OF CONDUCT
While the Sahuaro Band
operates with a minimum number of rules and regulations, the list below is not
intended to be all-encompassing. There are many additional rules and policies
of the Sahuaro Band that are not listed here. This list is intended only to
give a general outline of expectations for student conduct and parental
responsibilities. Parents are expected to be aware of these rules and help
their child(ren) follow the rules at all times. It is the belief of the Band
Director of
1. The members of the band
will follow all TUSD rules regarding Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs and Behavior. Rule
violations in this are will not be tolerated.
2. Students will be on time
(which means early) for all rehearsals, performances and activities.
3. Students will have all
appropriate equipment and a great attitude at all times.
4. Students will not verbally
or non-verbally disrupt instruction at any time. All rehearsals must be
extremely quiet.
5. Students will follow
instructions from directors, instructors, designated band chaperones, and
student leaders.
Instructions will be followed – cheerfully
- the first time they are given.
6. Students will use
appropriate language at all times.
7. Students will show respect
for all fellow students, directors and staff members.
8. Students will treat
carefully at all times all equipment and facilities of the Sahuaro Band (this
includes all instruments, uniforms, music stands, etc.).
Students will play only instruments
belonging to them or instruments checked out to them.
9. Food, gum, and trash are not allowed at
practice. No TRASH, DRILL BOOKS, MUSIC or WATER BOTTLES are to be left at any
rehearsal or performance site.
There is to be no gum in the band room at
any time. Each section will be assigned game and contest days to clean the band
room.
ALL RULES IN THIS AREA WILL BE STRICTLY
ENFORCED IN THE BAND ROOM!
10. All school policies will be enforced. THINK! - Don’t
let your actions infringe on others. This is in effect on all bus rides as
well! STUDENTS MAY LOSE PERFORMANCE
PRIVILEGES DUE TO INFRACTIONS OF THIS
RULE!
12. Cell phones and electronic devices are not allowed in class, at rehearsal, or
at any performance. Students may only
respond to emergencies through the office by following the procedures that are
outlined in the Sahuaro High School Student Handbook.
ANY infraction of this policy at any
time will result in loss in grade and/or loss of performance opportunity.
Basic Instrument Care
Each
student who uses a school-owned instrument must fill out a school instrument
use form with the requested information before the instrument can be taken
home. It is the responsibility of every student to keep his/her instrument
clean and in performance order. Each
instrument case must be labeled with the student’s name and phone
number. If a school instrument needs repair, please notify the Director
immediately so that he can get it repaired. If damage to a school instrument is
due to negligence or vandalism, the student who
checked out the instrument will be held responsible.
Woodwinds
Keep the instruments as clean as possible. Avoid
exposing the instrument to water. Always swab the inside of the instrument
after each use. Keep the corks greased. If the instrument’s mechanisms get
stuck, a spring breaks, or a pad falls out, bring the instrument to the
director so that it can be repaired. All reed instruments will have three (3)
reeds in their case for each rehearsal and performance.
Brass
Use the thinnest valve oil you can find and oil the
valves often. If the valves stick or become sluggish, take them out and wipe
the valve and casing clean with a soft cotton cloth and oil them again. Use a
quality slide grease to keep the slides moving. If a slide or mouthpiece
becomes stuck, DO NOT force them out. Brass players must have valve and slide
oil at all times. Trombone players should have a container of slide grease and
a spray water bottle.
Percussion
Percussionists need to have a basic stick bag with
mallets and sticks. Please ask the Director if you have any questions about
instrument maintenance.
IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN THE HEALTH OF YOUR INSTRUMENT AND
AVOID MISHAPS, EACH STUDENT WILL PLAY ONLY THEIR INSTRUMENT UNLESS THE DIRECTOR
HAS APPROVED A SWITCH. PERCUSSIONISTS ARE THE ONLY ONES ALLOWED TO PLAY
PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS!!
Uniforms / Concert Dress
1. Ladies: T-length (mid-calf) black skirt or black slacks (no jeans), long sleeve black blouse, black flats, pumps, or heels
2. Gentlemen: Long sleeve black dress shirt, black slacks (no jeans), black socks, and black dress shoes. Short sleeved polo shirts, black jeans, and black tennis
or skater shoes are not allowed.
Marching Band
See section on Cougar Marching Band Uniform.
Internet
Etiquette
A. Background
1. There are an abundance of newsgroups and blogs visited by band members and parents. These sites are a great way to hear about
what bands are doing around the Country.
2. Though entertaining, these places are littered with posts, which reflect poorly on individuals and organizations. It’s obvious that many people
either don’t realize or don’t care that their personal thoughts, when subjective or inflammatory, reflect on their entire group.
B. Policy: Be smart and aware of the comments you place on band related newsgroups and blogs.
1. The safest way to avoid criticism or scrutiny is NOT to post. However,
if you choose to post comments remember that when you are speaking, you represent the entire Sahuaro Band and we want to continue our tradition of excellence.
2. This policy applies to members and parents.
The Cougar Marching Band
Goals of the Cougar Marching Band
1. To create a high energy, high quality musical and visual performance. Quality comes from attention to the smallest details and dedication to art.
2. To learn more about ourselves and each other through energy, goals, teamwork, commitment, focus, and music.
Responsibilities as a Member of the Cougar Marching Band
1. Responsibility to Yourself
You owe it to yourself to always “give it your best!” Play your best, march your best, perform your routine your best every time. Practice like you will perform. Be positive and productive. Try to get along with others. Always be the most focused, dedicated, and energetic you can be.
2. Responsibility to Each Other
You are part of a team. You will depend on others, and others will depend on you. While you will not necessarily be the best of friends with every member of your team, you have an obligation and responsibility to respect the rights and opinions of others. This is a diverse group that is always trying to learn more and understand more about each other. Everything you do will affect those around you. Your attitude is contagious, so make it an attitude worth catching.
________________________________________________________________________
Football Games
Please be aware of the following guidelines for football games. If students do not follow these rules, their grade may be affected or they may be asked to leave the game.
- Only band students will sit in the band seating area in the stands during the game.
- No one is to leave the stands during the game unless excused by the director.
- There is NO eating or drinking in uniform at any time. The only exception is clear liquids (preferably water).
- Uniforms are to be worn for the entire game. To keep the best possible appearance for the crowd, we wear our uniform in “performance ready” fashion at all times.
- All wind and percussion players must have their stand tune music with them at every football game. It is important that we sound our best all the time, not just when we’re on the field. Students are not expected to memorize the ‘stand tunes,’ so they must have their music with them in a flip folder and on a lyre.
- There will be uniform inspection before each game. If a student does not pass this inspection, they may not be permitted to perform.
Eligibility
Eligibility is critical to our success. I expect each student to constantly improve in all areas of his/her education. All band students are held to the same academic standards as athletes on sports teams, and in accordance with Arizona Interscholastics Association eligibility guidelines. Band students must maintain a passing grade at all times in order to be eligible.
Ineligible students will NOT be allowed to perform at any games, festivals, or any rated, ranked, or adjudicated event. Grade checks will be done in accordance
with school and Arizona Interscholastics Association policy.
Uniforms
All students will be fitted and issued a uniform. A portion of the band fees at the beginning of the year will contribute to the cleaning fees for the uniforms. Each student will be required to purchase the black marching shoes (styles pre-selected) and black socks. Gloves will also be included in the band fee. Guard members will have a different uniform depending on the theme of the show. Inspections will be held before each performance to make sure each band student:
· has all necessary parts of his/her uniform
· has his/her uniform neat, clean and is wearing black socks and shoes
The Uniform Includes: a band shirt, light weight shorts to be worn under the uniform pants, black band bibber pants (hemmed correctly), crew length black socks with no design or striping, polished black band shoes, a band jacket, gauntlets, black marching band gloves, a band hat in its box, and a plume.
Students who fail any part of this inspection may not be allowed to march that performance.
Inspection
The following checklist should be used when preparing for marching uniform inspection:
1. Polished black marching band shoes
2. Solid black crew length socks
3. Light weight (suggest nylon) shorts to be worn under band pants
4. Black bibber pants hemmed correctly
5. 2008 - 2009 Sahuaro Band t-shirt
6. Marching jacket
7. Gauntlets
8. Black marching band gloves
9. Hat and hatbox
10. Plume
Included in the inspection, but not a part of the uniform:
1. Instrument - sparkling clean and in great working condition
2. Music - in a flip folder with student’s name on the front of each piece
3. Lyre
4. Neck Strap, extra reeds, etc.
Other inspection considerations include:
1. No jewelry of any kind is worn with the band uniform. This includes watches, rings, bracelets, and earrings. Necklaces worn under the band t-shirt are permitted.
2. No colored nail polish is to be worn. Clear polish is permitted.
3. When wearing the marching hat, hair must be pulled up off the collar and worn inside the hat.
4. Eating or drinking is not permitted in uniform, except for one band booster provided food and drinks, or water.
Inspection will be held prior to each performance. Failure to meet the standards of the Sahuaro Band will result in disciplinary action and/or lowering of a student’s performance grade. In the event of a serious infraction, marching privileges will be lost for that game. A student’s drill position can be taken away permanently for repeat offenses.
_____________________________________________________________________
The Alternate System
Full-time or alternate status will be determined by:
- Attendance at all rehearsals, including band camp
- Eligibility
- Work ethic, playing ability, and marching ability
Alternates may or may not be eligible to march at performances, but are expected to work just as hard as full-time members at all times. Full-time status may be regained upon notice from the director. If a full-time member has an unexcused absence for any rehearsal, he/she automatically becomes an alternate for the next performance. All absences must be approved by Mr. Kinnaman in advance. Extreme circumstances will be taken into consideration on an individual basis.
WHY STUDY MUSIC? WHY MAKE
MUSIC?
MUSIC IS A SCIENCE It is
exact, specific, and it demands exact acoustics. A conductor's full score is a
chart, a graph that indicates frequencies, intensities, volume changes, melody,
and harmony all at once and with the most exact control of time.
MUSIC IS MATHEMATICAL It is
rhythmically based on the subdivision of time into fractions that must be done
instantaneously, not worked out on paper.
MUSIC IS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Most of the terms are in Italian, German, or French, and the notation is certainly
not English, but rather is a highly developed kind of shorthand that uses
symbols to represent ideas. The semantics of music is the most complete and
universal language.
MUSIC IS HISTORY Music often
reflects the environment of its creation, offering insight into other cultures
and times.
MUSIC IS PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Playing an instrument requires fantastic coordination of fingers, hands, arms,
lips, cheeks, and facial muscles, in addition to extraordinary control of the
diaphragm, back, stomach, and chest muscles, which respond instantly to the
sound the ear hears and the mind interprets.
MUSIC IS ALL OF THESE THINGS,
BUT MOST OF ALL MUSIC IS ART It allows a human being to take all these
techniques and use them to create emotion. That is one thing science cannot
duplicate: spirituality, humanism, feeling, transcendence, emotion, call it
what you will.
THIS IS WHY WE STUDY MUSIC -
MAKE MUSIC!
Not
because we expect you to major in music
Not
because we expect you to play or sing all your life
Not
just so you can relax
Not
just so you can have fun
But
- so you will be human
so you will recognize beauty
so you will be sensitive
so
you will be closer to an infinite beyond this world
so
you will have something to cling to
so
you will have more love, more compassion, more gentleness, more good – in
short, more life!
Of what value will it be to
make a prosperous living unless you know how to live? To what end is it to know
the price of everything and the value of nothing?
WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT THE BAND EXPERIENCE
From the Harvard University Admission Department:
“We always consider extracurricular talents and personal strengths
when we evaluate a candidate’s credentials. We look for students whose previous
participation in the arts shows that they can make a substantial contribution
to our community.”
and from the Admissions Department at
“Participation in the performing arts during the pre-college years
is a clear indication to our admission committee that a student is dedicated
to, excited about and engaged in the educational journey.”
and this from The College Board concerning SAT takers:
“Students with course work in music performance scored 51 points
higher on the verbal portion of the SAT and 39 points higher on the math
portion of the SAT than students without music course work. (Further)...those
who studied four or more years scored 59 points higher on verbal and 44 points
higher on math portions of the SAT than students with no experience.”
and this from Thomas Meyers - Director of Investor Relations, TRW,
Inc:
“I view the instrumental music program as leadership development.
One of my tasks is to find new employees who will become the company's senior
leaders in ten to twenty years. Most of the students we hire have impressive
grades, good business experience with major companies, and the leadership,
character, and skills they acquired while being a member of their high school
band.”
and this from “An Evaluation of Achievement in
and this from Dr. F. Rauscher and Dr. G. Shaw of the
“Music lessons have been shown to improve a child's performance in school. After eight months of keyboard lessons, preschoolers showed a 46% boost in their spatial IQ, which is crucial for higher brain functions such as complex mathematics.”