INDEPENDENCE MIDDLE SCHOOL
EAGLE BAND
HANDBOOK
2010 - 2011
J. Christine Murray
Director of Bands
Lori Bonino
Principal
1
CONTENTS
1. Welcome
2. About Mrs. Murray
3. About The IMS Band
4. About You
5. Discipline
6. Skills and Practice
7. Your Instrument
8. School Owned Instruments
9. About the Band Room
10. About Trips and Performances
11. About Grades
12. Seating and Position
13. Money and Fundraising
14. What to Wear
15. Who to Contact
16. Other Band Activities
17. IMS Band Resource Page
18. Band Calendar
19. Student Data / Email Form
20.Volunteer Form
21. Signature Page
22. Band Polo Shirt Order Form
23. Band T-Shirt Order Form
24. Band Sweatshirt Order Form
25. Field Trip Permission Form**
26. Release and Consent Form*
Page 3
Page 3
Page 3
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Page 6
Page 6
Page 7
Page 7
Page 7
Page 8
Page 8
Page 8
Page 8
Page 9
Page 10
Page 11 (yellow – in packet)
Page 12 (green – in packet)
Page 13 (blue – in packet )
Page 14 (gold ½ sheet – in packet)
Page 14 (gold ½ sheet – in packet)
Page 15 (gold – in packet)
Page 16 (pink – in packet)
Page 17 (yellow – in packet)
*Please complete this form for your band student, even if you’ve already
filled one out for school.
**PINK Field Trip Permission was added later…please add this one to
your list!
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Welcome!
Welcome to the Independence Middle School Eagle Band. This handbook will provide a concise look at
our band program. The information contained within will help both parents and students get the most out
of our band program. You are to be congratulated for taking a small step into a bigger world. The skills
you learn and experiences you share will be with you the rest of your life.
About our new Band Director
J. Christine (Bowie) Murray was born in West Palm Beach and is a graduate of the outstanding band
program at Jupiter Middle School under the direction of Randy Sonntag, as well as a graduate of Jupiter
High School’s band and choral programs. She was selected for the All-State Bands four times on the
clarinet, participated in Solo and Ensemble Festival at the District and State levels routinely, was the
student conductor at JHS, and received the Outstanding Musician Award for band. She went on to receive
a full tuition scholarship at the University of Florida where she also received the Outstanding Musician
Award for Symphonic Band, was principal clarinet, section leader in the Gator Band, was selected as a
Concerto Competition Winner and performed with the University of Florida Orchestra. Mrs. Murray
graduated from The University of Florida in 1987 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree with High
Honors, and a Performance Certificate on Clarinet.
Mrs. Murray began her teaching career at Southwest Jr. High School (7-9th grades) in 1987 in Lakeland,
Florida, as Choral Director and Associate Band Director. The band program, under the direction of Frank
Howes (former FBA President), had won the esteemed “Sudler Cup” in 1986, denoting the most
outstanding Jr. High Band Program in the country. In 1989, Mrs. Murray assumed the Director of Bands
position of this exceptional program. Under her direction at Southwest Jr. High, the bands consistently
received Superior ratings, the top band played music of level IV-VI, they performed at the USF Festival of
Winds, and many of her students participated in All-District Honor Bands, All-State Bands and
Solo/Ensemble Festivals. The various bands Mrs. Murray was responsible for were the Symphonic,
Concert, Advanced Beginning, Beginning, and Jazz Bands as well as a 160-member Marching Band which
performed at numerous football games and parades including the Magic Kingdom’s 3:00 parade and the
parade at MGM Studios. In 1992, Mrs. Murray married Jim Murray whom she had met in the UF Gator
Band. Jim is a percussionist and loves to help drummers! Mr. and Mrs. Murray moved to Broward County
where Mrs. Murray was the band director at Attucks Middle School from 1992-93, and then the band
director at Nova Middle School from 1993-96. Mrs. Murray’s bands at Nova were very active in FBA
events, received consistent Superior ratings, and grew for three years until June of 1996 when their son,
Shaun(14) was born and the family moved back to Palm Beach County. Mrs. Murray has been happy to
have had the opportunity to assist the middle and lower school bands and teach lower school music at The
Benjamin School during the time when her children were young. Shaun has 2 sisters; Shannon(12) and
Lindsey(8). Mrs. Murray is excited and proud to have been chosen to become the band director at
Independence Middle School and is very much looking forward to continuing to share music with our
students here at IMS for years to come.
A little about The Independence Middle School Eagle Band
The IMS band program is now in its ninth year and is one of the largest middle school band programs in
Palm Beach County. We have been recognized as one of the outstanding middle school band programs in
our state. We have had over 500 students participate in the District Solo and Ensemble Festival, over
eighty students have made the All District Band, and sixteen students have been selected for the All State
Middle School Honors Band. Bands at IMS have generated top ratings at both district and national band
festivals. We offer students a wide variety of musical experiences from jazz bands to marching bands;
from solo and small ensemble work to concert band and large ensemble work; from private instruction to
small group and large class instruction. IMS band students can select from, and perform in a variety of
ensembles. Music students at IMS are limited only by the size of their dreams and their desire to do more.
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…. Nobody has been the best…there is always room at the top…
Band can seem a little overwhelming at first, but if you take small steps, follow instructions, and take your
music to heart, you will go far…real far…. in some cases further that you can imagine right now.
A little about you
Kids (parents too!) like to learn new stuff. As far as mammals go, we are SUPERIOR at learning new
skills. We are MAMMALUS SUPERIOROUS (Superior mammals)! As superior as we are, we need a
system to help us learn music. The next few pages will outline the steps you will need to take to become a
superior musician. It all starts with learning to have a humble, teachable spirit.
It’s the set of your sails, and not the gales that determine the way you go.
You have total control of your attitude. No matter how your parents feel, they go to work every day to
support your goals and dreams. It is up to you to bring a good attitude to school every day regardless of
how you feel. You will have many feelings about learning music. Among them will be joy and elation.
Frustration and anger will make brief appearances too! I will help you maintain a humble, teachable
attitude, no matter how you feel. You will not be alone…you will be part of a great team!
Success is the progressive realization of a dream.
Discipline
The secret to success is discipline. Discipline is job number one for a band student. The best kind is selfdiscipline. Some students come into the band program with good self-discipline. If you don’t have it, I
will help you. Your success will be measured against the following expectations:
I expect that:
1. You will be on time for class and be prepared to play within two minutes of the tardy bell.
2. You will be prepared to play in class every day.
3. You will do all assigned work and practice.
4. You will care for and store your instrument properly. (Instruments are very expensive).
5. You will attend all required band functions.
6. You will not chew gum or eat in the music room.
7. You will treat each other with kindness and respect.
8. You will use the rest room properly (Duh!).
9. You will take all communications home for your parents to read.
10. You will not loiter in the instrument storage room.
11. You will speak only when you are invited to speak.
12. You will play only when you are invited to play.
13. You will remain seated in your assigned seat and raise your hand if you have a question.
If you fail to meet these expectations, your parents will get a call and you will serve a work detail in the
music room. Work details usually consist of doing clerical work in the music library, light cleaning in the
band room, or music work sheets. The choice will be mine. If your parents and I can help you meet these
expectations, you will become a true MAMMALUS SUPERIOROUS! If not, we will bring in our
outstanding administrative staff to help us get you on the right track. You can read about the school
discipline plan in your agenda.
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Skill - Practice Journals
Practice Record
____________________________
Name (please print)
Date
Long Tones
_________________
Date (due date Monday)
Lip Slurs
Rhythms
Scales
________
Period
Book Excer.
Band Music
Daily Total
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Total Each Column
Weekly Total
Parent/Guardian Signature:__________________________
_______
Date: _______
Percussion Practice Record
____________________________
Name (please print)
Date
rudiments
_________________
Date (due date Monday)
mallets
timpani
Scales
________
Period
Book Excer.
Band Music
Daily Total
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Total Each Column
Weekly Total
Parent/Guardian Signature:__________________________
________
Date: _______
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The practice record above is to be turned in every Monday of the school year beginning on September 7,
2010 (which is a Tuesday since there is no school on Monday the 6 th). Start keeping records on August
30th. For beginning band students, the first practice record will not be due until notice from Mrs. Murray.
To fill out the practice record, please keep track of the number of minutes you practice on your own at
home and minutes practiced at school before or after school. Your band class time does not count for your
practice record. These practice records count for 10% of your grade and are extremely important in helping
you monitor the areas in which you need work. These reports, when used wisely, will greatly enhance your
progress. You will need to practice. You will need to teach your body to play with a steady beat. You will
need to learn to read the language of rhythm and the language of melody! You will need practice and
patience. You will keep a weekly practice report that will be turned in every Monday as part of your grade.
These reports are to be signed by your parents as verification of the accuracy of your report. You will
practice! Only practice can improve your musical skills. Only practice will help you become a confident
musician. You will practice! Are you picking up what I’m saying? For beginners, I recommend two short
sessions per day, working up to at least 30 minutes daily. I have found this is the minimum for students
who are rapidly improving. Rapid improvement is the most fun. You will get immediate positive feedback
for your efforts.
A private teacher can help you get a super quick and correct start. A private teacher can help you take
advantage of your natural gifts. A list of private teachers in the area is available from Mrs. Murray.
Your Instrument
There are three ways to get an instrument.
1. Borrow an instrument from a relative or a friend (It’s free). Take it to one of the local repair shops and
have them give it a tune up.
2. Purchase an instrument outright. This is the most economical way to go in the long run. CHECK
WITH MRS. MURRAY OR YOUR PRIVATE TEACHER BEFORE BUYING AN INSTRUMENT
FROM ANY PLACE OTHER THAN A REPUTABLE MUSIC STORE. You will need a good
quality instrument in order to have a chance at success. Don’t be fooled by a shiny instrument that
sells for a low price Many parents have been disappointed or worse when buying inferior instruments.
3. Rent to own. For a very small fee, music stores will rent a new instrument with the option to purchase
at a discount. This is a very popular program. I highly recommend this option.
BEAUTY IS ONLY SKIN DEEP
You may purchase instruments anywhere you would like. I will provide you with a list of vendors who call
on Independence Middle School on a weekly basis and have school board certified repair facilities. This
means you can call them and they will deliver and pick up (like DOMINO’S pizza). Parents find this very
helpful. All percussionists are required to own their own bell kit, sticks and snare drum. Due to the
complexity of the percussion family of instruments, these students should plan to study with a private
teacher.
School Owned Instruments
The school rents out larger instruments such as tubas, bass clarinets, and baritone saxophones etc. The cost
for rental is $60.00 per school year. Parents will need to fill out a rental contract and turn in the rental fee
before a school owned instrument will be sent home with a student. Students will be issued an instrument
that is in good playing condition. Costs for repairs due to negligence or abuse on the part of a student will
be born by the parents. Students renting school owned horns will also have to purchase their own
mouthpieces, reeds and supplies.
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About the Band Room
Our band room is a very special place for very special students. It looks great. It is our job to keep it
looking great. Students caught eating, chewing gum, or littering in the band room will be given morning or
afternoon work detail. Students should not leave instruments in the band room overnight. The
instrument room is not secure storage. We cannot be responsible for your instrument’s safety. I strongly
recommend case locks. Do not leave valuables or full boxes of reeds in your instrument case.
Students are allowed to store their instruments in the band instrument storage room during the school day.
The band room will be opened from 9:00am until 4:15pm. Otherwise students are not allowed in the band
room unless they have a pass or a class. No other students are allowed in the music room during afternoon
or morning rehearsals.
About Trips and Performances
Performances are indicated on your calendar. These are graded performances and are a required part of
your being in band. The only acceptable excuses for missing a performance are: 1. True Sickness
(fever, vomiting); 2. Death in the Family; 3. Family obligation (two weeks prior notice must be
given); 4. Participation in another school sponsored activity (two weeks notice must be given). The
band director understands that many students are involved in more than one activity in school. As long as
there is communication, any conflict with these other activities can usually be resolved between the student,
director, and sponsor of the other activity involved. If a student is given an excused absence from a
performance, a tape must be made, in a timely manner of all music that would have been played at the
performance. This must be completed before the end of the 9 weeks grading period. If a student is given
an excused absence from a rehearsal, a make-up time should be arranged with the director; in very rare
circumstances, I will allow a student to do an alternate assignment in lieu of a required performance if I am
notified in writing by a parent, in advance. No excuses after the fact.
The highest band, the Wind Ensemble, takes a performance trip each year.
The requirements for participating in this special event are:
2.0 or better GPA
No Out of School Suspension
No referrals from the band director
Director and Administrative approval
Perfect attendance at all band functions
About Grades
Band is about teamwork. Students learn that their attitude and effort can either have a positive or negative
effect on the rest of the team. Students are assigned 20 points for each class. Points are deducted for
inappropriate attitude, poor self-discipline, lack of preparation, lack of music folder or other materials, etc.
In other words if a student’s effort for a class does not meet expectations, then this negative effect on the
rest of the team will result in a lowering of the grade for that day. Grades are determined using the
following percentages:
Playing tests or quizzes
Practice journals
Performances/after school rehearsals
Daily participation
25%
10%
25%
40%
Students who miss more than eight classes will need to take a written or playing test to show mastery of the
material instructed for the semester.
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Seating and Position in the Band
Generally, band chairs are competitive. Students are required to play in class for chairs. However, the band
director may require students to play certain parts for the good of the organization. This is totally at the
director’s discretion.
About Money and Fundraising
From time to time the band collects money. Whenever you send money, please put it in a sealed
envelope. On the envelope, write the student’s name, class period and what the money is to be used for.
This will insure that your money gets credited to the correct account. The band usually has two major
fundraisers per year. The money raised goes toward operating expenses of the band and the purchase of
new instruments. Much of this money is also credited toward students travel accounts. A more detailed
explanation of how money is raised and spent will be sent out before each fund-raiser begins. Our largest
fundraiser, the Sponsor Drive, will begin in August. Additional fundraising efforts will be made as the
school year progresses. These fundraisers are important to our band. Please help as much as you can.
What to Wear
All IMS band members are required to wear an official IMS band uniform for performances and public
appearances. Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band uniform consists of :
1.
Black tux pants or black skirt (supplied by school for $10.00 annual rental)
2.
White long sleeve pleated formal tux shirt, available through Professional Images in NPB.
Students will be measured at school so you will know what size to buy.
3.
Black dress shoes and black socks for boys
4.
Black shoes (no open toes or sandals) for girls
5.
Blue bow tie and blue cummerbund (included with pant/skirt rental).
Boys may wish to wear a plain white t-shirt under their formal shirt. Please make sure your t-shirt has no
writing or other decoration. This writing can be seen through the formal shirt and looks very sloppy.
Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band members are also required to have an official red IMS band polo
shirt for performances when formal attire is not appropriate (outdoor performances). The director will
decide on the uniform for each performance.
All Concert Band members should have the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
An official red IMS band polo shirt.
Black pants, no jeans please
Black shoes and black socks for boys
Black shoes (no open toes or sandals) for girls
Beginning Band members are not required to have a uniform. We will have two performances - one in
December and one in May. Students may wear an official IMS band t-shirt or polo shirt, available from the
band, or they may wear a light color collared shirt. They should also have dark pants or skirt. No shorts or
capris. Shoes can be either sneakers or dress shoes. Sandals are not permitted.
Who to Contact
Band office phone: 799-7530. Please feel free to contact the band office at any time. I am at school early
and leave late. I am never too busy to talk to a concerned parent. If your student needs extra help or if you
have any concerns, call the band office, or drop by in the morning. I plan to arrive by 8:00 AM. Or you
may email me at any time: julie.murray@palmbeach.k12.fl.us. I can usually answer an email sooner
than I can make a phone call.
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Other Band Activities
All-State auditions- requires director approval - $10.00 application fee
All District Jazz Band- $10.00 application fee
Solo and Ensemble MPA- requires director approval, $20.00 accompanist fee.
FBA Concert MPA- required for all Wind Ensemble, and Symphonic Band students
All District Band - Requires director approval, $10.00 application fee
Jazz Band – Every Wednesday and Friday morning 8:10 – 9:10 a.m. Director approval required
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BAND INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
County approved local instrument vendors and repair:
Music Man Inc. 832-3753
Jupiter Music 746-0545
The Instrument Clinic 346-4587
These stores service our school on a weekly basis and have county approved repair
facilities and Internet comparable prices.
Use the internet and non-music dealer stores carefully. There have been quality and
service issues with these providers and some good deals to be sure. Get informed
before you use them. Refer to page 4 for more information.
Websites we use for advocacy and information.
www.imsband.org IMS Band website – contains band handbook, forms, calendar and
other important information and links
www.independencemiddleschool.com school website
www.flmusiced.org This is a state website with links to legislators, Florida Band
Masters Association and more. I recommend checking out the FMEA, FSMEA and FBA
links.
www.pbbandcamp.org this is our local, county band directors/parents site
www.selmer.com info on instruments and advocacy
www.yamaha.com info on instruments and advocacy
Email addresses:
J. Christine Murray
julie.murray@palmbeach.k12.fl.us
Phone numbers:
J. Christine Murray
561-799-7530-band office
561-799-7505-school fax
561-799-7500-Independence MS Main Number
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IMS BAND CALENDAR 2010-2011
(Tentative Schedule – some dates/times subject to change)
August
Tuesday, Aug. 24
Friday, Aug. 20
Monday, Aug. 30 – Sept. 13
September
Saturday, Sept 11
September 30
October
Tuesday, October 19
TBA ??
Wed, Oct. 23
Wednesday, Oct. 27
November
Wednesday Nov. 3
Thursday, Nov. 4
Band Parents Meeting – Everyone should come! 6:30 p.m. cafeteria
All-State Applications and $10.00 fee due to Mrs. Murray
Sponsor Drive Fundraiser, we really need everyone’s help!
All-State Auditions at Woodlands Middle School
Sweatshirt money due
Fall Concert for Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band 7 p.m.
W/S plays for opening of Abacoa Greenmarket 9:00 AM
Marching MPA @ Central H.S. (watch JHS & DHS perform)
All District Jazz Band Auditions @ DSOA 6-9PM
Friday, November 5
Tuesday, November 9
All-District Jazz Band Rehearsal at Wellington HS 8:30 AM – 5 PM
All District Jazz Band Rehearsal at Wellington HS 5-6 PM;
Concert at 7:00 PM at WHS
Band Night at Dwyer HS football game 5-9PM
Veteran’s Day Concert in Gym 6:30PM
December
TBA
December 12
Tuesday, December 7
Wind Ens. plays for Tree Lighting Ceremony at Abacoa Town Center 6 PM
Jupiter Christmas Parade 12 – 3 PM
Winter Band Concert 7 PM
January 2010
January 12-15
All-State Clinics and Band rehearsals in Tampa
February
February 2-3
February 4-5
FBA Jazz MPA (festival) at Boca Raton HS
FBA Solo/ Ensemble MPA at John I Leonard HS
March
Mar 4-5
Middle School Performance Assessment (our FCAT) at P.B. Gardens HS
(Required for all Performing Bands – exact time and date will not be available until 2 weeks prior)
April
Thursday, April 7
Thursday, April 28
Friday, April 29
APRIL OR MAY
All District Band Auditions at Omni MS 5-10PM
All District Rehearsal at Spanish River HS 9 AM – 5 PM
All District Rehearsal at SRHS 4-6PM; Concert at SRHS 7:30 PM
tentative Music Dept trip – TBA DISNEY?
May
Thursday, May 19
Friday, May 20
May 10
May ?
TBA
May 31
Spotlight On Youth rehearsal at the Kravis Center (includes All-District MS)
Spotlight On Youth Concert at the Kravis Center 7 PM
Spring Band Concert – All Bands (place & time TBA)
Band Awards Program
End of year reward trip for band students – TBA
Return all Band Uniforms (Wind Ensemble & Symphonic Band)
June 1
Return all Band Equipment
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IMS BAND
STUDENT INFORMATION FORM
IMPORTANT: Fill Out and Return
Student Name
______________________________________________
Home street address_____________________________________________
Mailing address
______________________________________________
City_______________________________________ Zip_______________
Home Phone_________________ Work or Cell #____________________
Other phone numbers___________________________________________
Mom’s Name________________
Dad’s Name___________________
Instrument __________________
Brand_________________________
Serial Number_______________
___Own/Rent ____School owned
Parent E-Mail: ___________________@________
2nd Parent E-Mail__________________@________
Student E-Mail______________________________
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IMS Band Parent Volunteer Form
Parent Name: ___________________________,_____________________
Last
First
Student Name: __________________________, ______________________
Last
First
Student Band Period or class: ________________
Parent email: _____________________________
Home Phone _____________________________
Cell Phone _______________________________
If you would be interested in volunteering for the band, please check the
areas in which you would be able to help:
School Store – 9:00-9:20 a.m. Monday through Friday (profits go to band)
_____ I am available to help on (indicate day/s)_________________
Fundraising
_____Make copies, assemble packets for distribution
_____ Process orders, count money during school day
_____ Help distribute goods to students
Uniforms
_____ Help with uniform fittings/distribution during school day
_____Help with uniform alterations (adjustments to hems only)
Office
_____ Computer Data entry
_____ Music Library/copying music
Equipment Mover
_____ Van or Truck; _____ Pull Trailer
Chaperone
______ Concerts ______ Field Trips ______ Medical personnel
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Signature Page
Fill out and return
Student (print)__________________________________Period_____
I have read the Band Handbook and understand the policies set forth. I
agree to play in the IMS Band for the 2010-2011 school year, and will strive
to meet the expectations listed in the IMS Band Handbook.
Student signature________________________________ date_______
I will support my child and my child’s band director by reviewing and
enforcing the policies and procedures of this band program.
Parent signature_________________________________ date_______
Parent signature_________________________________ date_______
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IMS BAND POLO SHIRT ORDER FORM
Required for Wind Symphony, Symphonic and Concert Bands
(Beginning band members can purchase a T-Shirt with the form below.)
Red polo shirts with the IMS band logo cost $17.00 each. Order as many as
you would like. They are dress code and make a fine fashion statement.
Parents like to show their support, too!
Student’s Name___________________________ period_________
Quantity____ Size_____
Sizes: Youth:
Small, Medium, Large, X Large
Adult:
S, M, L, XL, XXL
Total # polo shirts X $17.00___________
TOTAL__________
Please make checks payable to IMS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------IMS BAND T-SHIRT ORDER FORM
Beginning band members should purchase a T-Shirt for performances.
EVERY BAND KID CAN GET A SHIRT. Our new Band T-Shirts are red
with white and blue lettering. T-Shirts are only $10.00 each. Order as many
as you would like. They are dress code for school and make a fine
fashion statement. They look great on moms and dads too!
Student’s Name___________________________ period_________
Quantity_____ Size ______
Sizes: Youth:
Small, Medium, Large, XL
Adult:
S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3X
Total # T-Shirts X $10.00___________
TOTAL__________
Please make checks payable to IMS
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IMS BAND SWEATSHIRT ORDER FORM
IMS band sweatshirts are very popular. They are cozy red fleece
sweatshirts embroidered with your child’s name and instrument
and the Independence Middle School Band logo. They conform to
school dress code.
Please print your student’s name as you wish it to appear on the
sweatshirt. Neatness will make a huge difference!
Student’s name
Instrument
Circle a Size: Youth: S M L XL
Adult: S M L XL XXL
XXXL
Period___________________
Please send Check for $25.00 to “IMS”.
SWEATSHIRT MONEY IS DUE by September 30th
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