Attendance at rehearsals is required
Band is a group activity: we succeed or fail as a group. That requires everyone to be present at the same time in the same space to prepare. To make this easier on students and parents, instructors schedule rehearsals as far in advance as possible in as regular a pattern as possible, and keep that schedule updated in both the Charms and Google Calendars. We ask that students be ready to begin rehearsal on time (changed out, instrument/equipment in hand, in place where ever rehearsal begins at the scheduled time) and we do our best to end rehearsals on time.
Grades
Any student that is unexcused absent or tardy for rehearsals or performances will see consequences in their classroom grade. Students that come to class or rehearsal unprepared to participate will see consequences in their classroom grade. This is largely due to the negative impact absences/tardiness/lack of preparation have on the group. Imagine if the quarterback didn’t show up for the football game or if the defensive line all left their pads at home; everyone else has to work harder with less chance of success.
Calendars
Is there a rehearsal today? Does my student have to attend? What time is it over? All these questions can be answered in the Google Calendar (a link is in the signature of every email sent by Mrs. Smith and can also be found on our website www.theplayingcats.com) and the Charms calendar (accessible by logging into your Charms account). When Mrs. Smith creates events in either calendar she tries to include information in the description that includes which students are involved, required dress or equipment involved, itineraries, etc. Please use these resources to stay on top! If you are ever in doubt, try asking in the band parent GroupMe; you can join here if you haven’t already: https://groupme.com/join_group/86606090/oYAwnJ7o
BRAT form
If you know your student is going to be absent or tardy from a rehearsal or performance, please fill out this online form: bit.ly/2324bratform We use the info from this form to track excused absences/tardies.
Students are expected to learn what they missed when absent/tardy
We plan our rehearsals to be as efficient as possible. We do not have time to reteach what already taught in a previous class or rehearsal – we must keep moving forward in order to be successful. We do review new material but can not waste the time of the other 100+ students to teach the 1 that was absent. Students should check with their section leader/captain to update their music with any new changes, as well as to pick up any changes that may happen in the drill or work.
Appointments
Please try to schedule appointments for your band student around rehearsal schedules. We understand what a chore it can be and we do understand that sometimes it is unavoidable.
Excused absences/tardies
Doctor appointments, illness, club meetings, split time with other sports/clubs/organizations (this must be set up by the student ahead of time)
You must fill out the BRAT form for all of these. Filling out the BRAT form does not mean the absence/tardy will be excused!
Unexcused absence/tardies
Work. Tired. Hungry. Homework. Testing.
Please plan ahead. Be efficient. Provide your rehearsal schedule to your boss. Plan time to do your homework and study. You can’t practice scales in math class, so you’re not going to be able to sit out of rehearsal and do algebra.
ALL rehearsals/performances!
These rules do not only apply to marching season! Once we start rehearsing for concert season events we expect students to attend and be prepared for every after school rehearsal for their ensemble(s).
Why?!
We are not here to win trophies or accolades from competitions. The band’s mission statement and goals are quite literal guides:
Mission Statement: We will achieve our goals. We will strive for excellence through hard work and a positive attitude. We will exceed all expectations with good moral character and discipline, all while having fun and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Goal #1: High standards in academics, marching, and musicianship.
- Goal #2: Foster a band that is motivated with the concepts of unity and discipline.
- Goal #3: The Booker T. Washington High School Band will have a greater impact in our community through social actions that will increase the community’s support of the Booker T. Washington High School Band.
Please help us show these kids they can be GREAT!
Encourage your students to plan ahead: eat breakfast and lunch on marching rehearsal days. Bring a change of clothes to be successful out in the heat. Practice 15-30 min a day at home so we don’t have to take time out of everyone’s rehearsal for you to catch up. Keep yourself and your equipment in good condition. Make sure they understand they are students first and must address all homework and testing and whatnot successfully.
Rehearsal schedule, approximately
MARCHING SEASON
- Every Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 – 6:00pm: All wind, percussion, guard, and majorette students
- Bring insulated water bottle, change of clothes, and a snack if possible
- Most Wednesdays 3:30 – 5:00pm: Color guard rehearsal
- Bring insulated water bottle, change of clothes, and a snack if possible
- Some Wednesdays 3:20 – 3:50pm: sectionals. Sectionals must be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance to be required.
- Sectionals will be added to the calendars and email & text reminders will be sent to affected sections.
CONCERT SEASON
- Every Monday and Wednesday 3:30 – 5:30pm: either wind ensemble or symphonic band rehearses, wind & percussion students
- Every Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 – 5:30pm: the other ensemble rehearses, wind & percussion students
Questions?
Email directors or ask in the parent chat!
Thank you, band family. Let’s be GREAT!