JONES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
BAND HANDBOOK
339 Railroad Street
Gray, Georgia 31032
(478) 986-5444
Corey Tanner – Director of Bands
jonescountybands.com
DIRECTORS
Corey Tanner
Tiffany Tanner
Erin Peavy
Sarina Kent
Director of Bands
Assistant Band Director
Assistant Band Director
Auxiliary Coach
STUDENT LEADERS 2013-2014
Drum Major
Drum Major
Band Captain
Brass Captain
Woodwind Captain
Percussion Captain
Aux. Captain
Aux. Co Captain
Aux. Co Captain
Mike Akins
Warren Walker
ZaBrina Warren
Matthew Billingsley
Adelia Henderson
Mitch Harrell
Ansley Miller
Waynera McElroy
Kaley Baggett
BAND BOOSTERS EXECUTIVE BOARD
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Treasurer
Jody Moroney
Karen Harrison
Becky Ledford
Dawn Norris
Tonya Merritt
BAND PROFILE
OFFICIAL NAME:
SCHOOL COLORS:
SCHOOL MASCOT:
PRINCIPAL:
Jones County High School Band
Purple and Gold
Greyhound
Mr. Chuck Gibson
CURRICULUM
Concert Band – Everyone is a part of the concert bands at their level of performance.
They play a wide range of concert literature including marches, concert works, pop
literature and even some jazz.
Our freshmen go into the Concert Band, which plays level 3 music. Our second
band is Symphonic Band, which plays level 4-5 music. Upperclassmen are placed based
on scale auditions and sight-reading.
Marching Bands
Marching Greyhounds – All students participate in our most visible group with the
exception of some of our fall athletes. Even those students join us when they can for the
outdoor musical/visual experience. There is nothing like being in front of hundreds of
cheering supporters under the big lights on Friday night.
Auxiliaries – This highly visible part of our marching bands provides a neat
outlet for those that enjoy the dance and visual part of the marching experience. To
participate in this group, you must audition during our spring clinic. Members use flags,
rifles, swords, props, and dance styles. All members participate in the marching band.
Drumline & Pit – Of course, the heartbeat of the marching bands adds to the overall
effect through precision percussive performance. Many times the guard and drumline
groups have extra performance opportunities like special pep rally performances.
Jazz Band – This American-born genre of music is one that many students find
appealing. Students must be enrolled in a concert band class to try out for the
jazz bands. These rehearsals are held twice a week after school. This group is one of the
most visible groups and travels for many gigs.
Chamber Groups – We also have opportunities for students to participate in small
ensembles like Flute Choir, Brass Quartets and Quintets to name a few. These ensembles
often perform at our concerts, for special engagements and at the Solo/Ensemble Festival.
Welcome to the
Jones County High School Band Program
In this handbook, you will find guidelines that have helped this program be the positive
experience it has been for many students. We ask that you read the handbook carefully
and understand that this organization has high expectations for each individual student,
whatever their potential might be. Basically, if you can uphold the standards listed below,
you will find success and an understanding and appreciation of music. And hopefully,
memories of a lifetime!
♪ Be prompt.
♪ Be prepared.
♪ Be polite.
♪ Be positive.
♪ Be proud.
Mission Statement
The Jones County High School Band program will facilitate students’ opportunities to
experience the aesthetic pleasure of music and the success of being a vital member of a
musical ensemble. This occurs while the student gains a better understanding and
appreciation of music through a variety of genres.
Jones County High School Band Objectives
The Jones County High School Bands and Guard form an integral part of school life and
is recognized as an all-school activity. It is one of the largest and most active voluntary
student organizations and its members form an active cosmopolitan group. The primary
objectives of the band program are:
1. Cultural - To foster the continued development of music appreciation and
understanding through the study and performance of the best in music.
2. Educational -To develop interested and discriminating listeners, provide a well
rounded musical education and prepare students for musical activities beyond high
school.
3. Service -To lend color and atmosphere to certain school and community affairs while
promoting and enhancing the dignity and reputation of Jones County High School at all
appearances.
4. Citizenship -To develop the ability to function as a responsible member of the group,
to enhance the student’s ability to interact with others in a positive manner, and to
develop the ability to function as a responsible member of the community.
5. Recreational - To provide all students with the opportunity for worthy use of leisure
time, an emotional outlet, and good social experiences.
PREFACE
The Jones County High School Band Program is a vital part of the school and the
community. This group represents a large, colorful, visible, and highly disciplined
segment of the school. The JCHS Band adds much to the many traditions of Jones
County High School and Jones County.
The band’s appearance at sporting events, assembly programs, concerts, parades,
festivals, as well as community and civic events adds a great deal of color and life to
Jones County and the surrounding area. Citizenship, tradition, morale, spirit, and loyalty
are important aspects to the success of this program.
Musicianship goes hand in hand with the elements of success mentioned above. The
study of music is extremely beneficial to the student. This course is one of the few in
which the student can experience the combination of physical exercise, math, literature,
science, social studies, and foreign language. It is also an area of study where the student
can exercise both the left and right side of the brain. Participation in the instrumental
program is an opportunity for the student to be as creative as he/she wants to be.
As you can see, we strive to have a well-balanced program at JCHS. The information in
this Handbook is given to assist the student in understanding what is expected of him/her
while participating in the Jones County Band Program. It also provides important
information to the parents/guardians so they can assist the student in fulfilling the
requirements of the program.
The directors of this program are dedicated to making the student’s participation in the
program a worthwhile experience. The requirements of the program are set to benefit the
student. Levels of musicianship are attained through daily practice and attendance to
classes, rehearsals, and performances. By fulfilling the requirements of this program, the
students broaden their basic educational skills. The students may also discover that they
can use these musical skills later as a vocation or avocation.
A successful program is comprised of the following:
1. Directors dedicated to the students and the program.
2. Dedicated students who set high goals and do what
is necessary to attain them.
3. The support of administration, faculty, and staff.
4. An active Boosters group participating in the
musical activities of the band student.
We hope that all students and parents will become an active part of the band program at
Jones County High School.
MAKING A COMMITMENT
We understand and encourage our JCHS students to be a part of student clubs, sports, and
organizations. But, if you make a commitment to the band, you need to stick to it. With
good planning on the student’s part, it works! Be sure if you join a club or group after
school starts that they know you have a prior commitment. The teachers, coaches, and
directors at Jones County will work very closely with you and each other to be sure to
help our students that are heavily involved in various activities, but you as the student are
responsible for your commitments and plans.
PROFESSIONALISM
We will make every effort to be as professional as possible in all aspects of our band
program, on and off the field, in and out of the classroom. Here are some points to think
about when trying to be professional:
-Be on time to rehearsals and performances (early is on time, on time is late!)
-Does not play until the director asks
-Has his/her instrument in playing condition at all times
-Has everything needed to play when rehearsals begin
-Take care of instruments
-Bring a pencil to all rehearsals
-Listens to instructions
-Always ready
-Practices in between rehearsals
-Well-disciplined
ATTITUDE
The greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or
organization is attitude. It takes intense dedication to reach goals. Students should learn
to discipline themselves to daily practice on fundamentals and routine practice. The
“right attitude” must be present along with sincerity, concentration, and dedication.
Attitudes make the difference between a winning organization and a mediocre group. The
band can do much for you, so make the most of it for yourself and others around you!
DISCIPLINE
We cannot express the importance of discipline in the band, or any organization. Band
students and parents must be willing to accept the ideals, principles, and rules of the
organization. Because the band members and group are constantly on display in the
community and traveling, each member must always be aware of the importance of good
behavior. Any misconduct casts a negative appearance to our group and to our school.
Any student who casts discredit on the band by their conduct and actions, either at school
Discipline (Cont.)
or on a trip, shall be subject to dismissal from the band in addition to any disciplinary
action by the school. Students who are repeatedly disciplined by school authorities for
any school violations are a liability to the program and will be subject to dismissal.
UNIFORMS
While in uniform, each band member represents Jones County High School. Uniforms
are never to be worn to any other function unless designated by the band director. Always
wear the band uniform and all parts and accessories at all times unless otherwise
specified by the director.
Concert Attire- The attire for any performances by Jones County concert bands will
consist of:
Female
-All black dress or black slacks and black top.
-Dress must be mid-calf
-No sleeveless dresses or tops
-Stockings are optional, only nude/neutral
-No flip flops or tennis shoes
Male
-Black slacks
-Black button-up shirt (no polos)
-Black socks and black dress shoes
-Black tie is optional
-No flip flops or tennis shoes
*Absolutely no jeans! Students not in the proper attire will not perform*
Marching Band- The attire for any performances by Jones County marching band will
consist of:
Jacket
Pants
Gauntlets
Gloves
Helmet
Plumes
Shoes
The Jones County High School Band has one marching band uniform. The students are
responsible for cleaning their own band pants. No cheerleading or “sophie” shorts are
allowed under the band pants. Long black socks are a must. We will not provide socks to
students. The yearly band show shirt will be worn under the jacket, unless specified by
the band director. Band t-shirts will not be altered (cut up/ripped) in ANY WAY!
While wearing the marching band uniform, no jewelry is allowed. This includes earrings,
necklaces, watches, bracelets and rings. Minimal make-up is allowed, as long as it does
not cause a distraction. Hair is to be pulled up while the marching helmet/hat is worn. No
extreme hair colors during the marching season!
Marching Band Practices- For marching band rehearsals, we want to look like a
uniformed group. You will be given two practice t-shirts and practice shorts. This applies
to all band members and auxiliaries. Shorts are required for outdoor rehearsals. Tennis
shoes and socks must be worn. NO FLIP FLOPS!
BAND CAMP
Band camp is an integral part of being ready for our fall season. Attendance at camp is a
requirement for a marching band patch and band letter. Start off right and make
arrangements to attend all sessions. Students should report to the bandroom for all camp
sessions. A typical day of camp consists of being outside learning marching fundamentals
and drill from 8-12 am. Indoor sectionals and full band rehearsal are in the afternoon.
The following items need to be brought with you to camp: instrument, music, pencil,
sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, etc. Water bottles or Camelbacks are highly recommended.
You need to bring a sack lunch with you for the lunch break. You are not allowed to
leave campus to go get lunch.
We will be very careful in helping our students stay hydrated during the hot days of band
camp. However, students need to know how to take care of themselves in preparation for
each day. This begins with lots of hydration, good meals, and rest. HYDRATE! Drink
plenty of water before being outside. Stay away from carbonated drinks. Wear light
clothing, tennis shoes, and socks. Eat a good breakfast in the mornings and prepare a
good, but not too heavy, lunch. We encourage students to acclimate themselves to the
heat by being outside before camp starts.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Band Rules:
1. Drinking alcoholic beverages and taking non-prescription drugs will not be tolerated
and will cause immediate dismissal from the band.
2. Smoking, dipping, and chewing of tobacco or tobacco products will not be tolerated
and will cause immediate dismissal from the band.
3. Absolutely no hazing or initiation of rookies of any form will be tolerated.
4. All school rules will be strictly enforced. PROFANITY WILL NOT BE
TOLERATED!
5. Absences from regularly scheduled rehearsals will not be tolerated and may result in
loss of your position. Please refer to the attendance policy for details.
6. Insubordination directed towards staff, chaperones, and officers will not be tolerated.
7. All students are required to attend all band activities unless excused by the band staff.
8. Courtesy is expected at all times. When assigned to a particular group or bus you are
expected to stay with that group until the chaperones or band staff releases you.
9. Do not damage property or equipment. As JCHS band members, you reflect not only
the values you learn at JCHS, but in the community as well.
10. The reputation of the JCHS Band program will be built on quality of character and
musicianship. We expect your best!
11. Parents are asked to pick up their students immediately following events. Please
consult schedules are be at Jones County High School at the given arrival time. Waiting
for students to call home after we arrive results in a 45-minute wait for staff and
chaperones. Please be courteous and arrange rides ahead of time.
Band Facilities:
1. Band office- this area is private and is not to be entered by any student unless the
director is present. All students should keep in mind this is an area or business.
2. Uniform storage- these rooms are private areas to be used by uniform staff only.
3. Band library- this area is private and should only be used by the library staff and
directors. Materials may be checked out only through the librarian.
4. Storage rooms- these rooms are to be kept neat and clean with items returned to their
proper place. Use of these rooms is with permission of the director only. No personal
items (books, clothes, etc.) are to be stored here.
5. Absolutely NO FOOD OR DRINK is allowed in the band room. (if found, it will be
thrown away)
6. No outside students are permitted inside the band facilities, except for business with
the director.
7. Absolutely no horse-playing!
8. All equipment, including instruments, auxiliary items, percussion items, etc. are off
limits without expressed permission of the director.
*Any abuse or damage to band facilities will be considered vandalism.
Conduct during Football games/competitions
Students must remember that when they perform, they represent the school and
community. It is a big responsibility that needs to be approached with maturity and
professionalism. Be on time, exhibit good sportsmanship, play only when asked, stay in
your assigned stadium seat, and keep all parts of your uniform on unless instructed
otherwise. Be alert, be attentive to instructions during games, do not encourage people to
visit you while in the bandstand, absolutely no public display of affection while in
uniform (includes holding hands), show the utmost respect to directors, chaperones, and
student leaders.
For away games you will have the privilege of signing up for a seat on the bus, unless
you are a discipline problem and you will be assigned a seat. All students will be
instructed when to get on and off the buses. The buses are to be left clean of any trash.
Absolutely no public display of affection on buses (if caught you will re-assigned
seat/bus). Boys and girls are not allowed to sit together on buses, per Jones County High
School. The director has the authority to move any student from a bus or assign buses as
he sees fit.
For away games, if a signed note by the parent is provided before we leave for the game
the student may ride home with a parent, member of the immediate family age 21 or
older, or the parents of another student. The note must state that the band, school, and
directors are released from all responsibility. You may only leave once you and your
parents have visually met with a director or chaperone.
For home games, the bandroom will be locked from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Students are not
allowed to be in the bandroom at this time. The bandroom will be open at 5:30 for student
to arrive and change into their uniform. Students are to be in their seat, in uniform, at
6:10 with your jacket on the back of your chair. We will line up at 6:30. When the game
is over, we will play a few tunes for the audience. We will then line up and march back to
the bandroom in parade formation. Non band members are not allowed in the band
room before or after a game. We have limited space so please respect this rule if asked
to leave.
Third Quarter
After the halftime performance, we will get back into the stands as quickly as possible.
You will then be dismissed for your third quarter break. You will be dismissed by rank,
and then class. Food and drinks are not allowed in the bandstands except for bottled
water. Everyone needs to be back in the bandstands ready to play at the beginning of the
fourth quarter. Failure to do so will have consequences such as: no third quarter break, no
break for your section or class. Please try to move quickly through the concession lines.
Be courteous and DO NOT break in line.
ATTENDANCE
Students who miss an abnormal amount of class time will find it hard in keeping up with
classwork and daily grades. It is understood that in some cases of extreme illnesses that
attendance will be affected. These instances will be handled on an individual basis.
Marching Band
Our program is set up to allow four unexcused absences. If a student is too sick to come
to school, we do not expect them to come to afternoon rehearsal. If there is a death in the
immediate family, or in some cases in the death of a close friend, the absence will be
excused, with a note from a parent/guardian. If a student has a serious family emergency,
the absence will be excused. It is understood that some doctor’s appointments cannot be
arranged around band practices, and in some cases an emergency doctor’s appointment
must be made. In these cases the student will be excused only with a doctor's note.
Please turn in your excuses to Mr. or Mrs. Tanner ASAP. However, it is the individual’s
responsibility to plan around the marching schedule. Unexcused absences include
doctor’s appointments with no notes or notice, work, etc. After the fourth unexcused
absence the student will be removed from marching band. JOBS are never an excused
absence.
IF YOU MISS A THURSDAY PRACTICE
YOU DO NOT MARCH ON FRIDAY NIGHT!
Tardies
Tardies are easily avoidable. Always be here before the call time given. If you arrive at or
after call time, you are tardy. Three tardies will equal one unexcused absence. Excessive
tardiness will be dealt with on a case by case basis. If you on staff or hold a leadership
position and you obtain four tardies, you will be put on probation and possibly lose your
leadership position.
"Early is on time…on time is late!!"
PERFORMANCES
Instrumental music is a performing art. The preparations done during the school day are
realized through the interaction of the performer and the audience at a performance. Part
of the student’s grade depends on how he/she reacts and interacts with a live audience in
a performance setting. When a student misses a performance, it is virtually impossible to
make it up as one would by missing an academic exam or test. It is next to impossible to
re-create the performance atmosphere if the student misses the performance. It is
therefore, extremely important for each student to attend all scheduled performances of
the Jones County High School Band. If a student misses a concert performance, he/she
must play the music of the concert for the director. This grade will be averaged in with a
zero or a 100 depending on whether the absence was excused of not.
If you miss a performance during marching season (football
game/competition/parades), and it is not excused, you can be subject to removal of
the marching band. Trips, concerts, jobs are not excused! If you are going to miss a
performance, you must inform Mr. Tanner two weeks prior
BAND LETTER REQUIRMENTS
All band students are eligible to earn a band letter. The band letter is given for year-round
participation, not just the marching season (exception: auxiliaries) The following is a list
of requirements:
1. You may not have any ISS or OSS referrals.
2. You may not have any unexcused absences from any performances.
4. You must audition (and participate if chosen) in District Honor Band auditions.
5. You must attend LGPE performance.
6. You must pass off all 12 major scales and arpeggios and or rudiments with a 90 or
above.
7. You must pass off the chromatic scale for the range of your instrument with a 90 or
above.
Band Letter
Once a student has completed all of the requirements for a band letter, he/she will
receive the letter at the band banquet. Freshmen are eligible to receive a letter. After a
student receives a letter, he/she may go through the same procedures each year to
receive a lettermen’s bar.
Marching Band Patch Requirements
1. No unexcused absences.
2. No more than 3 excused absences.
3. Attendance at all scheduled band camps.
4. You must pass off all music that is required for marching band with an 85 or better and
90 or better on marching fundamentals. (receive Rank)
RANK
Students who attain rank will receive many privileges during the marching band season.
Students with rank will be permitted to sign up for buses first, released from rehearsals
and performances first, and any other rewards at the director’s discretions. All students
are eligible for rank, including auxiliaries. The following is a list of requirements for
receiving rank by the given deadline:
1. Student must pass off all pre-game music from memory with an 85 or better.
2. Student must pass off all show music from memory with an 85 or better.
3. Student must pass off all marching fundamentals with a 90 or better.
Keep in mind, that rank can be taken away due to discipline problems, excessive
absences, or failure to pass off music later on in the season if asked.
AWARDS
The Jones County High School Band Program offers a variety of incentives for each
student. Other awards given are:
The John Philip Sousa Award – Given to a deserving senior. This award goes to the
senior who exemplifies the model band student. Participation in all District and State
functions, attendance at all JCHS Band functions, outstanding musicianship, loyalty and
dedication and its members, and above all demonstrates self-discipline.
The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – Given to a deserving student in the Jazz Band. The
student must be in attendance to all rehearsals and performances, audition for the District
and All-State Jazz Band, and meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.
The Director’s Award – This is award is given to a deserving band student. The student
must meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.
Most Outstanding Junior, Sophomore, Freshmen Award – Given to students in their
respective classes meet all qualifications of the John Philip Sousa Award.
The Musicianship Award – Any wind or percussion player is eligible for this award.
The student must score at least a 90 on all auditions, at least a 90 on playing test, and pass
off all twelve major scales from memory and chromatic scale. Percussionists must pass
off their thirteen rudiments from memory and demonstrate musical ability on all three
instruments: snare, timpani, and mallets.
FUNDRAISING
All students should participate in band booster fundraising in one form or another. The
band cannot function without participation in fundraisers. Each student is expected to do
his or her part. Some fundraiser money will go directly into student accounts for trips.
Other fundraising money will be used to purchase new instruments, repair school
instruments, purchase new music, and band supplies. Students who do not participate in
fundraising should not expect any financial assistance from the band.
TRIPS
The JCHS Band will have performance opportunities locally, statewide, and nationally.
We never take trips without consulting the students, parents, and administration. We
perform wherever we go either for adjudication or special performances. The first step is
always getting approval from the administration and the BOE.
The next step is the commitment from the students and parents to attend the trip. And
lastly is the commitment by the directors.
There have been many instances where the parent and the student sign the contract and
commit to the trip and then back out. In most of these cases, the cause is due to the
student not keeping up with the grades or a discipline problem occurs and parents pull
their student from the trip. When this happens the people who actually get punished are
the rest of the band members. Parents please do not make the band trip a “carrot” for
good discipline and grades. If you choose to do so, do not make the commitment to send
your child on the trip.
There will be no refunds of trip payments, unless agreed upon by the director and booster
officers (extreme circumstances)
No student will be able to travel with the band if he/she more than 4 ISS or OSS on their
record for the school year. Students should see the school handbook in regards to your
needed school grades to travel.
JCHS BAND BOOSTERS
The JCHS Band Boosters is the support group for band students, directors, and music
education. The organization is made up of parents who have a student in the band
program or auxiliaries. A booster member can hold office in the boosters if qualified
according to the Booster Handbook.
Funds are raised through the band booster organization. Some of the main fundraisers
consist of the football concession stands, yearly fruit sale, and the Beauty Pageant. The
boosters are responsible for purchasing and the upkeep of band uniforms. They also
purchase awards for students, festival, competition, and other District 11 registration fees
and events, and summer music camp scholarships.
There are many committees set up to assist the director to run and operate the band
program. We need your help! If you are interested in donating your time and talents to
the band, please contact the band boosters or attend monthly band booster meetings. It
takes a very active booster organization to support a very active band. For constant
updates please refer to our website: jonescountybands.com
Band Booster Committees
Chaperones- Mrs. Tanner will be in charge of all parent volunteers, including
chaperones. Please keep in mind, chaperoning is not a "free ride," but a duty. You are
responsible for students and enforcing all JCHS Band rules.
Fundraising- Assists with fundraisers that benefit the band and student trips. This
committee will help organize and maintain any active and ongoing fundraisers, prepare
flyers, collect student turn ins, preparing sales kits for students, and preparing orders.
Concessions- Involves planning, purchasing supplies, pre-icing drinks, working in the
concessions during a game, clean up, and maintenance. Supplies drinks for special
activities for the band. This is most active in the fall.
Uniforms- Outfits all students with band uniforms. Responsible for maintaining uniforms,
including repair and replacement. The committee needs volunteers for uniform issues and
inventory work. Also responsible for distributing uniforms before games, competitions,
and other band performances.
PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK AGREEMENT FORM
I, __________________________________ have read and fully agree to follow the
terms and conditions as set forth in the Jones County High School Band Handbook.
Student Signature: ___________________________________
Date: __________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________
Date: __________
*This page is to be turned in to a director before the end of band camp. Students
may not participate or travel with the band until signed by them and a
parent/guardian. *