Bloomfield
Community Schools
Music
Handbook
(2014-2015)
Welcome to the Bloomfield District Music Program and welcome back to those returning
members. We have an exciting year ahead of us and I can’t wait to get started! But first, we
need to introduce you to all that it takes to be a part of this music program. Please read through
this handbook and if you have any questions let me know. After you have gone through the
handbook please sign and have your parents sign the form at the back of the handbook. This will
be handed back to me by August 22, 2012. By signing this form you are agreeing to all the
policies laid out in this handbook. Again if you have any questions at all please let me know. I
am looking forward to a great and challenging year ahead!
1.0
Philosophy
1.1 The Bloomfield School Music Department’s philosophy is for every student to find their
inner confidence through the performance of instrumental and vocal music. Music is much
more than playing or singing notes and performing in concerts. Being a musician teaches hard
work and discipline. Being a part of a music department gives a chance for all students to shine
and take responsibility. There is no bench in music; everyone is accountable for knowing his or
her stuff. Most importantly, being in an ensemble teaches the students to work together to create
a bigger picture and have fun while doing it.
2.0
Calendar of Events
August
 Pop Sales Start – Monday, 18th
September
 Pop Sales End – Wednesday, 3rd
 Walking Tacos – Tuesday, 9th
 Pop Sales Delivery – Friday and Saturday, 19th & 20th
 Lion’s Parade in Norfolk – Saturday, 27th
October
 Harvest of Harmony Parade in Grand Island – Saturday, 4th ???
 Homecoming Parade – Friday, 10th
 All-State Auditions November
 Elkhorn Valley Jr. High Vocal Clinic – Friday, 7th
 Conference Vocal Clinic – Monday, 10th
 All-State –
December
 Elementary Christmas Program – Thursday, 11th
 JH/HS Christmas Concert – Tuesday, 16th
January
 Soup Supper – Tuesday, 20th
 Conference Honor Band – Saturday, 24th
March
 Pop’s Concert – Monday, 9th
 Northeast Jazz Festival – Monday, 23rd
 Music Showcase – Saturday, 28th
April
 District Music Contest – Friday, 24th
 HS Spring Concert – Monday, 27th
May



Neiligh-Oakdale Elementary Honor Band – Saturday, 2nd
Elem/JH Spring Concert – Tuesday, 5th
Graduation – Saturday, 9th
3.0
Grading Policies
3.1
Grading will be measured on a point scale. All students have the opportunity and ability
to get a high grade; however, it is up to each student to fulfill the requirements. Each student
will start at 0% and will earn points to add up to his or her grade. Be advised, simply showing
up to a performance, rehearsal, etc. will not grant you FULL points.
3.2
Criteria
3.2.1 Point System
pts. each
Performance (concert or marching band)
Pep band (for each performance of the night)
Quarterly Performance Checks
Homework
Lessons
Practice reflections
Practice recordings
Attitude (daily grade)
3.2.2
Grading Scale
92.5-100%
A
90.5-92.4% B+
83.5-85.4% C+
75.5-77.4% D+
Below 69.5% NC
85.5-90.4%
77.5-83.4%
69.5-75.4%
Passing
150
5
25
TBA
10
10
40
5
B
C
DP
3.2.3
Practice Log Description (High School)
Part One
 What: Write a reflection on what you practiced this week.
 Time: The amount of time it takes to master/improve a new concept or selection.
 When: Due every Monday.
 Why: To really think about what and how you are practicing.
Part Two
 What: Record a practice session.
 Time: 15 – 30 minutes. (could be longer)
 When: Quartly
 Why: So I can hear what your procedures are when you practice and how you are
progressing throughout the year.
3.2.4
Practice Log Description (Jr. High & Elementary)
Part One
 What: Turn in a practice log signed by a parent.
 Time: 50 minuets per week
 When: Due every Monday to Tuesday depending on what grade they are in.
 Why: To put in adequate time to become proficient players and get parents
involved with their improvement.
Part Two
 What: Write a reflection on one practice this month.
 Time: The amount of time it takes to master/improve a new concept or selection.
 When: Due by the last day of the month.
 Why: To really think about what and how you are practicing.
(further points could be added or deducted upon the directors discretion)
3.3 Extra Credit
3.3.1 Recovery Credit
Participation in Solo Contest
Participation in Small Group Contest
Participation is outside music experiences
Taking a lesson that is not required
Additional practice per hour
pts. earned
20
15
10
10
5
(additional practice points will be given only if productive practice is prevalent)
3.4
Attendance
3.4.1 If a student does not attend a performance or rehearsal they will simply not earn
the points for that given activity. If a student arrives late or leave early, they will not be given
full points. Negotiations can always be made to excused absences. An assignment will be given
to make up for the absence.
3.4.2 Acceptable reasons for an excused absence include but are not limited to:
Sickness, Death in the family, School Activity
Unacceptable reasons for an absence include but are not limited to: Work,
Sleeping In, Personal Day.
*As a schedule has been provided to you, work obligations are not excusable. This allows the
students to be able to request these days off in advance.
3.4.3 A phone call or email is requested from the parent to excuse a student from a
particular activity. If these phone calls or emails could be made in advance that would be much
appreciated.
4.0
Behavior Polices
4.1 Expectations: The following will lay out the general expectations for all participating in the
music department. Failure to adhere to the following guidelines will result in the loss of points
toward your final grade for the semester. Refer to the point system in section 3.0.
4.1.1 Rehearsal:
Good rehearsal etiquette includes being on time, bringing a pencil, all required
music and specific accessories for each instrument and not interrupting the director with
issues that should have been resolved before rehearsal started.
All students must be on time for rehearsal; being on time means being in your seat
with your instrument and your music out when the bell rings. By failing to be in your
chair when the bell rings you will be considered tardy. If you are in your chair and still
putting your instrument together when we begin to warm up you will be also considered
tardy.
Bringing a pencil is essential to every rehearsal, this eliminates the number of
times we need to go over things again in later rehearsals. Always bring all the required
music to every rehearsal. Even if a schedule has been posted for the day, these schedules
are always subject to change depending how the rehearsal goes. Be sure to bring all
equipment accessories necessary to rehearsal. This includes reeds for woodwind players,
mutes, valve oil and water for brass players and all necessary mallets for percussion
players.
If you forgot your instrument, are having technical issues with your instrument,
or are unable to sing today due to illness, inform the director before the rehearsal begins.
4.1.2 Travel
All students will travel together on a bus unless special arrangements have been
made. Special arrangements will only be approved with a signed note from the student’s
parents/guardian. If a student rides the bus to our destination and then rides home with a
parent or family member/friend that person must come sign them out with the director
before departing and must still provide a signed note.
Always remember when on trips that you are representing your school and your
music department. It is important that you are on your best behavior and are obedient to
all those in charge.
4.1.3 Performances
Always dress appropriately in concert attire for every performance. Refer to
section 6.0. No talking, cell phones or gum on stage. Remember as soon as the audience
can see or hear you, you are performing. Always conduct yourself in a professional
manner.
4.1.4 Computers
The music room is a computer free zone. Students are not to have their computers
out unless otherwise stated by the teacher. There will be times the computer is necessary
for assignments in class, but outside these times they should be put away and to the back
of the room. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in loss of daily points. Also, due
to having added software on the teachers computers, you must always be on Channel 11
so I can monitor appropriate behavior on the computers.
5.0
Chair Placement
5.1
Chair placements are likely to change throughout the year in order to facilitate the best
sound and cooperation for our band. If necessary, formal chair placements will be done.
5.1.1
Marching Band

Drum Major: One student leader is needed to be our Drum Major or
Drum Majorette to lead the band down the street for parades. This person
will be selected in the form of an audition by the end of the third week of
school. Auditions will consist of learning to march with the rest of the
band, learning to conduct the school song, and say the marching
commands.

Color Guard: Auditions will take place at the beginning of the Marching
Band season to select members of the Color Guard. The color guard offers
another visual effect for the marching band. Number of members will be
based on the size of the band in any given year.

Color Guard Captain: Once student leader is needed in the Color Guard
to help lead rehearsal when Mrs. Lange is working with another section of
the band. This student will be in charge of knowing all routines and
possibly teaching the routines to the rest of the Color Guard.
5.1.2
Concert Band
Chair placements will be decided following marching band. Chair placements
will be based off of performance and leadership shown during marching band/pep
band season. If a student is unhappy with a chair placement, please consult the
teacher directly to discuss the decision made and what can be done to change the
situation.
5.1.3
Jazz Band
Jazz band will take place during regular band time. All who want to join will be
found a spot in the band, however, you must be in classroom Band everyday to
participate. Chair placements will be the same for this ensemble as it was for
Concert Band. Jazz band will begin following marching band season.
5.1.4
Concert Choir
Students will be selected to their section by voice capabilities. Singing exercises
will be done as a group to help determine which section would be most
appropriate for each student. If a student is unhappy with a chair placement,
please consult the teacher directly to discuss the decision made and what can be
done to change the situation.
5.1.5
Swing Choir
Students will be selected for this ensemble by a two-step audition process.
Students must be able to perform both vocally and visually. The first step will be
the vocal audition. The students will audition in a trio with a Soprano, Alto and
Bass. Students may select whom they would like to sing with. The second step
will be a group dancing audition. All students participating will sing and dance
together; Mrs. Lange and another faculty member will then select the participants.
Number of students selected will vary from year to year. Auditions will be
complete by the end of the third full week of school.
6.0
Concert Attire
6.1
Students will be expected to dress professionally for each ensemble. Dressing
appropriately provides a positive and professional appearance for the ensemble. Any student
failing to wear the appropriate attire may not be allowed to perform with the ensemble. Failure
to take part in the performance will result in loss of performance points. Adherence to the
concert attire policies listed below will be strictly monitored. If you have any issues with the
concert attire please contact Mrs. Lange.
6.2 Student Expectations
6.2.1 Marching Band
 Marching Band Uniform
 Black Shoes and socks
6.2.2 Concert Band
 Men
o Back Collared shirts
o Black Slacks (no jeans!)
o Black Dress shoes (no tennis shoes!)
o School Uniform Jacket
 Women
o Black Blouse/Dress
o Black Slacks or skirt (no jeans!)
o Black Dress Shoes (no tennis shoes!)
o School Uniform Jacket
6.2.3 Concert Choir/Jazz Band/Jr. High Band and Choir
 Men
o Collared shirt
o Dress Slacks (no jeans!)
o Dress Shoes (no tennis shoes!)
 Women
o Blouse/Dress
o Slacks or skirt (no jeans!)
o Dress Shoes (no tennis shoes!)
6.2.4


Swing Choir
Men
o White button-down long sleeve shirt
o Black Pants
o Black Shoes
o Blue Swing Choir Vest
o Blue Swing Choir Bow Tie
Women
o Black Swing Choir Dress
o Pantyhose
o Black close toed dress shoes
 The school has swing choir shoes available.
7.0
School Owned Equipment
7.1
The department owns a variety of instruments (percussion, tubas, f horns, euphoniums,
baritone and tenor saxophones, etc.) that can be issued for use in the marching, concert, and jazz
bands. A rental fee will be assessed to each student using a school instrument. The rental fee
will be based on the time period the instrument is used. The director will issue the school
instruments after an agreement listing the student’s responsibility and financial liability has been
signed. This form is shown on the next page. The director will send a copy of this form home
with every student that needs it.
7.1.1 Students using school instruments will be required to pay a rental fee. This rental
fee will go towards annual maintenance that will take place every summer to ensure the
instruments are always in working order. Students who use a school instrument year
round will have a fee of $40. This includes Jr. High and High School percussionists.
Students who only use a school instrument for Jazz Band or Marching band will have a
fee of $20. This includes elementary percussionists. Half of the rental fee is due
September 5th and the other half will be due January 9th. If an instrument is checked out
later in the year, payment will be discussed at that time.
7.2
The student is responsible for the care and maintenance of the instrument he or she uses
and should return the instrument in the same condition as it was when it was checked out. All
instruments should be maintained and treated as if they were your own. Instruments should be
stored in their cases. Instruments should be cleaned after use to ensure a longer life span. Any
damage to a school instrument should be reported to the director immediately. All students must
sign a form stating they understand and agree to these conditions.
7.2.1

Consequences
If there is damage to a school instrument (due to student negligence) it will be the
responsibility of the individual using the instrument to pay for the cost of repairs.
* If you are limited by financial circumstances please consult with the director and an appropriate solution
will be given.
School Owned Instrument Form
I _____________________ take responsibility for playing a school instrument. I agree to
pay the $250/$50 that is associated with using a school instrument. I understand that this money
is to go towards typical yearly maintenance for my instrument. I understand if there is damage
considered to be more than yearly wear and tear that I will be responsible for the repair fees on
that instrument. I agree to turn this instrument at the close of the year or the given season I am
using the instrument for.
Student name: ___________________________________
Parent(s) name(s): _________________________________________
Home Phone: _____________________________ Work Phone: _______________________
Email Address:
____________________________________________________________________________
8.0
Required Equipment
8.1 The following is a list of items all players of each specific instrument should own. In
addition to the items below, every student will purchase their own lesson/etude books as
specified by the director. The school will have reeds, valve oil, slide grease, etc. on hand for
students to purchase on a per reed basis. Every student will also provide their own pencils.
8.2 Woodwinds
8.2.1 Flute
 Cleaning rod
 Swab
8.2.2 Clarinet
 Reeds
 Cork grease
 Swab
 Key oil
 Neck strap (optional)
8.2.3 Saxophone
 Reeds
 Swab
 Key oil
 Cork grease
 Neck strap
 Jazz mouthpiece (optional)
8.2.4 Oboe/Bassoon
 Reeds
8.3 Brass
8.3.1 Trumpet
 Valve oil
 Cleaning brushes
 Polishing rag
 Mutes (optional)
 Slide grease
8.3.2 Horn
 Valve Oil
 Cleaning brushes
 Polishing rag


Mute (optional)
Slide grease
8.3.3 Trombone
 Slide grease
 Spray Bottle
 Mutes (optional)
 Polishing rag
8.3.4 Euphonium/Baritone/Tuba
 Valve oil
 Slide grease
8.4 Cost
8.4.1 Reeds
When the students are in need of new reeds or a new bottle of valve oil, they can
either purchase the from the music store or from the music teacher. It is preferred
the students pay for these items as they use them, however if there is an
immediate need and money is not available they can write their name down for
the parents to be notified at the end of the school year what is owed. The ability
to essentially charge the cost of the reed ensures that the students are playing on
good reeds all the time. This is necessary to keep confidence with the students
high and keep them producing good sounds. Payments are expected before the
close of the school year. Any reeds needed after the notice is sent out for the
school year will need to be paid for prior to receiving the reed.
8.4.2 Books
Elementary Band students will need to purchase the Essential Elements 2000
book through the music store. The Essential Elements 2000 book is a more
progressive book that will allow some of the students to move at a faster pace
individually. We ask that this book is purchased so the students can keep them
and therefore write in whatever is most helpful for them to succeed. If you do not
already have the Essential Elements 2000 book contact Mrs. Lange and she can
order it for you.
* If you are limited by financial circumstances please consult with the teacher and an appropriate solution
will be given.
9.0
Fundraising
9.1 Fundraising goes towards items that will improve the quality of our department in addition
to building funds to go on our music trip we take every 4 years. All students are expected to
participate to the fullest of their ability. However, no grade is taken for their participation in
fundraising. I expect the students to do their best with their own integrity and dedication to the
program. Take pride in your program to do what is necessary to be a part of something that will
be the start of a new legacy!
9.1.1 Music Showcase Dinner This is an afternoon or evening where the music boosters
provides food and drinks while the Bloomfield Music program provides entertainment. Students
are required to sell tickets in advance and are expected for perform and work at the showcase.
9.1.2 Pops Sales Pop Sales will take place right at the beginning of the school year this
year. We are separating our two big fundraisers into two different semesters to ease the “selling
load” on the students and the “buying load” on the community. Students are expected to sell 10
cases per student or 15 cases per family. This year we would like the kids to pick up and deliver
their pop to their customers.
9.1.3 Soup Supper The Soup Supper takes place during a double header basketball
game. The music booster parents provide the soup, sandwiches and drinks. Students are expected
to help set up, serve and clean up.
10.0
Awards
10.1 High School Awards include the letter of excellence, the John Philip Sousa award, and
the National School Choral Award.
10.1.1 If a student is awarded a letter of excellence from the music department it
exemplifies his or her musicianship and dedication to the department. This award should
be looked upon as a great honor and students should work hard to earn this award. All
students are eligible for this award and it is up to each student to complete the necessary
requirements. The first time a student earns this award he or she will receive a felt letter
to be placed on a letter jacket. Subsequent earnings of this award will result in the
student receiving pins to accompany the letter. This letter is based on a point system
which can be referenced on the following page. In order to earn a letter a student must
earn 500 points.
10.1.2 “The John Philip Sousa award is the pinnacle of achievement for high school
band students. The award honors the top student in a high-school band and recognizes
superior musicianship and outstanding dedication.
*Information found at: <http://www.instrumentalistmagazine.com/products.asp?cat=10>

High school seniors will be eligible for this award. The selection for this award
will be based on the point totals from the letter point system.
10.1.3 The National School Choral Award is the highest honor you can receive in a high
school choral setting. It recognizes students with dedication and musical achievement.
*Information found at: http://www.instrumentalistmagazine.com/products.asp?cat=10

High school seniors will be eligible for this award. The selection for this award
will be based on the point totals from the letter point system.
10.2 Middle School and Elementary Awards will be handed out at the end of the year based on
the discretion of the director. Awards may include but are not limited to: “Best Musician in the
Section,” “Most Improved Musician in the Section,” “Best Musician in the Ensemble,” “Most
Improved Musician in the Ensemble,” “Hardest Worker,” etc.
High School Band Letter Point System
Name:______________________________
Grade:______________
Points
100
Merit Activity
Participating in band the full year
25
Playing a solo or participating in an ensemble in public.
(Taps, church, etc.)
40
30
20
Solo at State Contest receives a I rating
Solo at State Contest receives a II rating
Solo at State Contest receives a III rating
25
15
10
Ensemble at State Contest receves a I rating
Ensemble at State Contest receives a II rating
Ensemble at State Contest receives a III rating
50
Selected as Outstanding in Center at State Contest
10
Each Pep Band Performance
50
100
Audition for All-State Band
Selected for All-State Band
50
25
Participating in Honor Band
Auditioning for Honor Band
35
Music Booster Fundraiser Participation
25
Set-up crew, tear-down crew, percussion mover
10
Misc. band room work
50
Drum Major
50
Large Group receives a I at contest
___________Total Points
* More points could be given at the discretion of the instructor for reasons not listed here.
High School Choir Letter Point System
Name:______________________________
Grade:______________
Points
100
Merit Activity
Participating in choir the full year
25
Performing a solo or participating in an ensemble in public.
(Taps, church, etc.)
40
30
20
Solo at State Contest receives a I rating
Solo at State Contest receives a II rating
Solo at State Contest receives a III rating
25
15
10
Ensemble at State Contest receives a I rating
Ensemble at State Contest receives a II rating
Ensemble at State Contest receives a III rating
50
Selected as Outstanding in Center at State Contest
50
100
Audition for All-State Choir
Selected for All-State Chior
50
25
Participating in Honor Choir
Auditioning for Honor Choir
35
Music Booster Fundraiser Participation
25
Set-up crew, tear-down crew, percussion mover
10
Misc. choir room work
50
Assistant Choreographer
50
Large Group receives a I at contest
___________Total Points
* More points could be given at the discretion of the instructor for reasons not listed here.
11.0
Rationale for Policies
11.1 The polices explained in this handbook have been created to sustain a reputable program
for the school, students and the Bloomfield Community. By implementing and following these
polices we are creating a good learning environment for the students to learn a good work ethic
with self discipline. Along with a good ethics we are expanding the life span of the instruments.
By expanding the life span of the instruments and taking proper care of the instruments we leave
more money available for things like trips and academic tools. These rules and regulations
provide a safe learning environment for students and teachers. In order to achieve the goals we
have set for the success of this program, these polices must be strictly adhered too.
12.0
Adherence to Handbook
12.1 It is expected that all students and parents read this handbook to better understand the
polices set forth in the music department. The last page of the handbook is a Parent Support
Form. By initialing and signing this form the student and parents/guardians are agreeing to the
policies presented in this handbook.
12.1.1 Parent Accountability
Parents are expected to guide their student through the rules and regulations
described in this handbook by going through the handbook with their students. After the
completion of the reading this handbook, the expectations of student performance will be
understood by all participants and parent support in the administering of these policies
would be appreciated. With the student and parents/guardians signing the parent support
form, I also hold the parents/guardians accountable for their student’s actions.
12.1.2 Student Accountability
Students will be held accountable for their own actions. By reading this
handbook and signing the form at the end you are agreeing to all the protocols expressed.
13.0
Liability
13.1 If you deviate from the rules and regulations set forth in this handbook and the correlated
school handbook you will be responsible for the consequences of your actions. The school and
department waive liability of students in the event that this handbook is not adhered to. This
includes trips, contests, and any event in which the band will be representing our school. Your
actions not only reflect upon you but also upon the school. If for any reason you are injured or
engage in illegal activities the school is not responsible. Be smart and always, always think
about the consequences of your actions.
*Deviations from the guidelines set in this handbook may be made by the director and/or Administration.
Such deviations shall be made only when circumstances warrant a change in order to best serve the needs of
an individual student or group of students.
Parent’s Support Form
Please read the entire “Bloomfield Community School’s Music Handbook.” When you have
finished, initial and sign the form as requested below. Please only sign and initial if you are in
agreeance with the policies stated. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me so
we can discuss them. By signing this support form you are agreeing to the policies stated.
Parent
Student
(Initial each statement below)
_____
_____
Adherence to all handbook rules and expectations
_____
_____
The policy on grading
_____
_____
The expectations of behavior
_____
_____
The process of chair placement
_____
_____
The expectations of the concert attire
_____
_____
The expectations on care of school owned equipment
_____
_____
The policy on awards
I ________________________ have read the “Bloomfield Community School’s Music
Handbook.” I understand and will help to assure that my child, _____________________ will
adhere to all of the expectations as they are outlined in the handbook. I also understand and will
support the consequences for my child if the expectations are not met.
Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature ___________________ Student’s Signature _________________
Parent’s/Guardian’s email address____________________________Date __________________