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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me band program! You have made the right decision in joining this exciting and energetic group!
The Sho-Me band program always strives for excellence and this year will be no different. We are looking forward to a very exciting
year and are glad you have decided to join us.
During the year, you will have the opportunity to perform in several different ensembles. These include marching band, jazz band,
concert band, color guard, drumline, and pep band. You will also have the opportunity to audition for district band in the fall and take
a solo or ensemble in the spring.
This band manual is here to answer most of your questions that pertain to band. Please take the time to read through the following
pages. I will not try to answer every question you might have because space is limited. After reading, sign and fill out the back pages
and return to Mr. Winters or Mr. Garner. Please contact one of the directors personally if you have any additional questions that are
not covered here.
Once again, welcome to the Sho-Me band program! We are glad you are here…let’s make this the best year of band yet!!!
“EIGHTY PERCENT OF SUCCESS IS SHOWING UP”
-Woody Allen
EXPECTATIONS
As with all successful organizations, quality practice time is vital. The Sho-Me band will not achieve our goals this year unless every
member is willing to dedicate themselves to the program. This includes being at all scheduled rehearsals, practicing at home, and
keeping a good attitude. We cannot improve unless everyone is at rehearsals.
As band director, I will have high expectations for every student. Rehearsals will begin and end on time and will be run in an efficient
manner. A rule to remember is if you are on time, you are late! To be adequately prepared for rehearsal it will be necessary to be
there ten to fifteen minutes early.
Also, a very important part of any successful program is responsibility and teamwork. Do not wait for a drum major or director to ask
you to do something. Take the initiative and do it (even if no one sees you do it). My philosophy in life is “If you are too big for the
small jobs, then you will be too small for the big jobs!” In other words, if you are too “big” to pick up a piece of trash, then you might
be too “small” to be drum major or section leader. You are responsible for how the band looks, sounds, and performs in public and
at contest. Act like it from day one…
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
The Board of Education is concerned about the academic status of our students. In an effort to improve student performance, Poplar
Bluff High School will be offering tutoring to any student wishing to take advantage of the service.
To be eligible, any student who participates in band must not receive a D average or below in any class. Any student who receives a
D average or below is required to attend 1 ½ hours a week of tutoring in order to continue being eligible in band. The student must
tutor until the grade is brought up at the next mid-term or quarter grading period. Tutoring slips are given the student when the finish
a tutoring session and these slips need to be turned in to the band office.
“YOU ALWAYS PASS FAILURE ON THE WAY TO SUCCESS”
-Mickey Rooney
MARCHING BAND
All students are expected to participate in marching band. Those students participating in color guard and drumline need to make
sure they take the right class. These students do not need to take a concert band the first semester. All other students will be
enrolled by audition in either Wind Ensemble (1st hour) or Concert band (2nd hour).
All instrumentalists are required to have a working instrument (or use a school instrument), a flip folder, a lyre, and their own
mouthpiece to participate in marching band. Flip folders, lyres, and mouthpieces can be purchased from a director or from a local
store.
In addition to traveling, the marching band provides musical entertainment at home football games. During these games, all students
are expected to play their instruments when the band is playing and to stay in their assigned areas in the stands. Students are also
expected to stay for the entire game.
REHEARSAL SCHEDULE
Marching rehearsals are scheduled from 3:15-5:15 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Tuesday afternoon is traditionally
the band’s day to practice on the football field at the junior high.
Attendance will be taken each day at 3:15 in an attendance block. Students are expected to stay for the entire rehearsal. Work
schedules need to be scheduled around marching rehearsal for us to be successful. Most employers will work with you if you ask
them well ahead of time. Students need to let their employer know not to schedule them for work before 6:00 p.m. Leaving rehearsal
fifteen minutes early is the same as arriving fifteen minutes late. The student will not get his or her full points for the day if this
happens.
ATTENDANCE POLICY – Directors need to be notified in writing one week before an excused absence. If you are absent because of
a doctor’s appointment, you must bring in a note from the doctor to be excused. Any unexcused absence of a marching rehearsal
can result in the student being “benched” and the student’s grade being dropped. Family emergencies that result in an absence will
be dealt with as they come up. If you are absence due to a family emergency, the directors need a note signed by a parent before
you will be able to perform at the next band function. If you need to be absent you must talk to your squad leader first and then follow
the chain of command – do not talk to a director until you have talked to the student leaders!
In case of rain, rehearsal will proceed as usual. We will have outside marching practice, sectionals or full band rehearsal inside
depending on the severity of the rain. If rain prevents us from practicing on the football field at the junior high, we will still practice at
the high school.
SUMMER BAND CAMP
Summer band camp is required for all band students. To be guaranteed a marching position you must attend all sessions. Also,
attendance is mandatory for obtaining a band letter. All students are required to leave school campus during the afternoon. No one
will be allowed to hang around the school without adult supervision.
The schedule is as follows:
Week One (July 23-27)
Percussion & Color Guard Camp
8:30-11:30 a.m.
1:00-4:30 p.m.
Week Two (July 30-August 3)
Monday & Tuesday
Freshman-Section Leaders-Percussion-Guard
8:00-12:00
ALL BAND MEMBERS
5:30-9:00 p.m.
Wednesday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
1:00-4:30
Thursday & Friday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:30-9:00
Week Three (August 6-10)
Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:30-9:00
Wednesday
8:00-12:00
1:00-4:30
Friday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:45-9:00 Band Ice Cream social and show – Parents Invited
There will also be an informational booster meeting on this evening.
Please make sure you dress for hot weather. Below is a list of items to wear and bring:
• Tennis shoes with socks. No sandals or flip-flops – you can injure yourself.
• Light, cool clothing.
• Hat
• Water container – water is provided but cups are not!
• Sunscreen
• Bug repellant for night rehearsals.
• Sunglasses
UNIFORM
Student’s uniforms are not stored at the high school between band performances. It is the responsibility of the student to take care
of it at their house. This way, they can dry clean it periodically during the season as needed. All parts of the uniform are very
expensive so make sure to take care of it. A complete uniform costs $550. The student is required to keep his or her uniform in a
clean and pressed condition. Any student with a dirty uniform will receive one warning and, if the problem is not corrected, will not be
allowed to march until the uniform is clean. Do not wash any part of the uniform in a washing machine – use a dry cleaner. A dry
cleaning fee will be charged at the beginning of the year so that the band can dry clean the uniforms at the end of the season. When
performing or at football games, the entire uniform must remain on at all times!
The morning of a marching contest, the student will be required to check in with his or her section leader and have him or her
approve all parts of the uniform. After he or she checks to make sure the student has everything, they will load it onto the instrument
bus. The students should never load it on the bus themselves!
When the band is not in full uniform, the student is expected to have his or her band shirt on. Section shirts are fun to have and wear
around the high school but they are not to be worn in place of the band’s official shirt. The goal is to look the same at awards
ceremonies and section shirts do not do this. Another shirt should be worn under the uniform so that the official band shirt will remain
clean.
Because of the expense of the different parts of the uniform and band instruments, fees will be assessed when students leave parts
of their uniform where it might be stolen. Fee must be paid before student will be allowed to perform with the band.
Entire uniform - $10.00
Any single part of uniform - $3.00
School instrument - $10.00
BUS LISTS AND BEHAVIOR
There will only be one bus sign-up list for the marching season. Signing up for buses will proceed in class order (seniors, juniors,
sophomores, and freshmen). Once the bus lists are finalized, they cannot be changed unless a director approves the change.
Good bus behavior is very important for the safety of everyone. Keep talking to a conversational level – no yelling or singing.
Remain in your seat when the bus is moving and keep arms inside the bus at all times. Also, do not distract the driver. What he or
she says goes! A chaperone will be on each bus to make sure everyone behaves. They are an extension of the band directors and
you are to respect what they say without question.
No one is to unload from a bus until a director or chaperone gives permission. Every time the buses stop, directors and chaperones
will have a conference to make sure each bus is given the same instructions. Bus privileges can be revoked at any time deemed
necessary by the directors or chaperones for bad behavior.
CONTEST DAY EXPECTATIONS
1. Make sure you have all your “stuff” – uniform, instrument, band t-shirt, sticks, mallets, etc.
2. Be courteous to other bands in our warm-up area. Show “class.”
3. You are a representative of Poplar Bluff – don’t do anything that would give you or the band a bad name.
4. After we perform and change back into our band t-shirts, you are expected to return to the stadium and watch other bands
perform. This is how you learn what other bands in our class do so you know how we stack up against them.
5. While at the stadium, you are to watch the other bands march. This is not a time to be playing football, hackie sack, frisbee,
or any other activity that would attract attention away from the band on the field. Even if another band is acting this way, you are to
hold yourself to a higher standard.
6. Awards ceremony – this is the time to show what we are made of! We will try to get together in one area of the field (usually
on the ends) before the ceremony starts. During the ceremony, be courteous of other winners. If we win or lose, we will stay for the
entire ceremony.
ALTERNATES
By the time the student arrives at band camp in the summer, the marching drill will already be done. We have to turn in our band
enrollment numbers before school is out in the spring so that the drill writer will have enough time to write us a creative and
competitive drill. For this reason, the directors have to set the number of marchers, which we expect will be in band next year. To do
this, we have to have an alternate system set up.
In the process of the marching season, we usually lose members, who move out of the district, have to drop the class, etc. If you are
designated as an alternate after auditions in the spring, the chances that you will get a marching spot are very high. The directors
will do all they can to give you a spot as they open up.
Your spot is never guaranteed! Poor attendance, bad behavior or attitudes, and poor marching are all reasons to lose your
marching spot. If you are not at band camp, your spot cannot be guaranteed.
Alternates are required to be at all practices and performances. They will march during pre-game activities, play in the stands during
games, and fill any marching spots that become available. Alternates can challenge any person on the field for their marching spot.
The student who wins the challenge wins the spot.
“WHATEVER IS WORTH DOING AT ALL, IS WORTH DOING WELL.”
-Philip Dormer Stanhope
CONCERT BANDS
Concert bands at Poplar Bluff High School are the heart of Sho-Me Band program. There are two concert bands available by
audition: Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. These bands are where students are trained in correct playing techniques like tone
quality, tonguing, musical expression, sight-reading, and performance etiquette. Without a concert band experience, the band
student is missing out on the “meat” of the band program. For this reason, all efforts should be made by the student to take a
concert band.
If the student has a scheduling conflict and does not know whether he or she should take a concert band or a jazz band, concert
band should take precedence. Any student who is placed in Wind Ensemble or Concert Band is expected to be in the class everyday
to be eligible to play at contest and on the spring concert. Only students who are enrolled in the class will be able to participate in
concerts.
CONCERT DRESS
Concert dress is black bottoms and a white top. Gentlemen are expected to have their shirts tucked in. Black shoes and socks
(hose) are also required.
WIND ENSEMBLE
This is the top concert band in the Sho-Me Band program. It is the goal of this band to play band classics and cutting edge
compositions. Since a high level of skill is required to play these pieces, membership in this band is by audition only.
CONCERT BAND
The goal of concert band is to improve the playing ability of all students enrolled. Scales, rhythms, articulation exercises, sight-
reading, chorales, and band pieces are all part of the curriculum.
JAZZ BANDS
STUDIO BAND
This jazz band meets during the regularly scheduled class day (7th hour). The goal of this band is to play challenging jazz pieces in
all styles: swing, bop, ballads, latin, funk, and rock. This class is held second semester. Studio band participates in festivals and
plays on concerts with the concert bands.
JAZZ COMBOS
All band students are invited to participate in jazz combos. These combos will focus on improvisation and will meet after school
during the spring semester. Rehearsal schedule will depend on student’s schedules.
PEP BAND
Pep band is required for all students and plays at all home basketball games – attendance will be factored in the student’s grade.
Participating in pep band is also a requirement for lettering in band. The director will split the concert bands into two pep bands that
will alternate during the basketball season. By alternating, students will not be required to play too many games in a row. The pep
band plays popular rock tunes before and during boys and girls varsity games.
“EXCELLENCE IS NEVER GRANTED TO MAN BUT AS THE REWARD OF LABOR.”
-Sir Joshua Reynolds
GRADING PROCEDURE
Band is a performance-based class. For this reason, point values will be assigned for individual practices (in school and after
school), performances, class participation, playing and written tests, class assignments, and practice sheets. Making an A in band is
very easy – all you have to do is show up to practices and performances. The following areas will be averaged to obtain your final
grade – actual number of points will depend on how many of each activity the band participates in one semester:
Practice sheets (100 minutes a week)
Daily rehearsal participation and preparedness
After school practices
Playing Tests
Daily assignments
Games
Performances
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Marching band is an expensive activity. For this reason, students need to pay a small amount to help defray the cost of t-shirts, drill
writer fees, music arrangement fees, guard and percussion instructors, and other miscellaneous expenses. Fundraising and school
district help are still necessary to cover the remainder of expenses. The following areas need to be paid to participate in band. The
first fee is the only one due this spring.
1. All students pay $35.00 to help defray marching expenses. This amount is due by May 15th for the following marching season
(this is a non-refundable fee).
2. Students using school instruments will be charged a $30.00 fee to cover basic maintenance repairs and insurance on the
instruments. Any student who damages or loses an instrument (above and beyond normal wear and tear) will be financially
responsible to repair or replace that instrument.
3. All freshmen (and anyone else who needs shoes): I will have a company deliver a complete set of shoes so that you can try
them on and be sure to get the right size. All students need to purchase the same type of shoes and these shoes usually run around
$25.00.
4. Dry cleaning fee for uniforms $10.00 (due in the fall before uniforms are given out).
5. Guard members will be expected to purchase their own uniforms. The price will depend on what uniform is picked.
Fundraising options will be available.
6. Drummers will not pay a stick fee this year. They are required to have their own stick bag full of the required equipment
needed to play in band.
7. If a student cannot afford to pay for the above requirements, they need to meet with the directors and apply for a scholarship.
We will try to help if we can!
***All guidelines and procedures outlined in this handbook are subject to change as deemed necessary by the band directors or
school administration.
“PEOPLE DO NOT LACK STRENGHTH; THEY LACK WILL.”
-Victor Hugo
2007-08 SHO-ME BAND LETTERING SYSTEM
To letter in band, you must accumulate 50 points. Some activities add more points because they require more time to fulfill. A grade
of C or D in band takes points away from the final point total (if you receive a grade of F you are ineligible to letter). Students should
keep a running total of points earned just in case.
Activity Points Given for Activity
A Grade in band class 1 point per quarter
B Grade in band class ½ point per quarter
C Grade in band class -1 point per quarter
D Grade in band class -2 points per quarter
Home football game 1 point per game
Marching Contests 2 points per contest
Home basketball game 1 point per game
Christmas Concert 2 points
TRCC Concert Festival 2 points
Concert band contest 2 points
Band camp 1 point per four hour session (10 pts. Total)
Guard and drum camp 1 point per four hour session (5 pts. Total)
Marching practices ¼ point a day (10 pts. Total for entire marching season)
Fall sports credit 12 points (given to verified team members of a fall sport)
Jazz band participation 3 points
District band audition 2 points
Placement in district band 4 points
State band audition 3 points
Placement in state band 6 points
Dexter Honor Band 3 points
Solos/Ensemble audition 2 points
I Rating for solos/ensemble 4 points
State solo/ensemble audition 3 points
I Rating state solo/ensemble 6 points
Section leader (marching) 2 points
Drum major (marching) 3 points
Private lessons 1 point per quarter documented lessons on band instrument
TRCC Community band 1 point per semester
Summer music camp 3 points
Service Projects 1 point per hour of work
Other music concerts/plays 1 point per concert or play (must bring in program to director – this does not include regularly
scheduled band concerts)
BAND CALENDER 2007-08
** The following list is not finalized. More dates will be added at a later time. Date required for the entire band in bold lettering.
Please put these dates on your calendar.
June 28-29 4th of July Parade practice (9:00-11:30) at high school band room
June 30 4th of July Parade
July 23-27 Percussion and Color Guard Camp
July 30-Aug. 10 Summer Band camp
September 14 Football Game – NMCC
September 21 Football Game – Dexter
September 22 Farmington Marching Festival (All day) - Tentative
September 28 Football Game – North County
October 6 Washington Marching Festival (All day)
October 9 Sikeston Band Festival
October 13 Bi-State Marching Invitational – Potosi (All Day)
October 19 Football Game - Cape Central
October 26 Football Game - Sikeston
October 27 Greater St. Louis Marching Festival (All day)
November 3 All District Concert and Jazz Auditions – Jackson
November 17 All District Concert
December 1 All State Band Auditions – Columbia, Mo
December 4 Christmas Concert – Kay Porter Theatre
December 17 Basketball Game – Girls
January 7 Basketball Game – Girls
January 14 Basketball Game – Girls
January 15 Basketball Game – Boys
January 25 Basketball Game – Boys
January 29 Basketball Game – Boys
January 31 Basketball Game – Girls
February 5 Basketball Game – Boys
February 15 Basketball Game – Boys
March 11 TRCC Concert Band Festival
March 29 Large Ensemble Contest (TRCC)
April 5 District Solos and Ensembles (TRCC)
April 26 State Solos and Ensembles (Columbia)
TBA Spring Concert – Kay Porter Theatre
TBA Band Banquet
SIGNATURE FORM
After reading the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band Manual, I acknowledge that I have read and understand all the enclosed rules and
procedures and I will follow them to the best of my ability. I will approach each rehearsal with a positive attitude and will strive to make
every rehearsal the best possible. I have read the enclosed band calendar and understand which dates I am required to perform
at.
I understand that by not following the rules and procedures and/or not playing at performances can result in a grade reduction and/or
removal from the band program.
________________________________ ________________________________
Student Name (Printed) Student Signature
_____________________
Date
After reading the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band Manual, I acknowledge that I have read and understand all the enclosed rules and
procedures and understand that my child will need to follow them. I also understand that they will need to approach each rehearsal
with a positive attitude and strive to make every rehearsal the best possible. I have read the enclosed band calendar and
understand which dates my child is required to perform at.
I understand that if my child does not follow the rules and procedures and/or does not play at performances it can result in a grade
reduction and/or removal from the band program.
________________________________ ________________________________
Parent Name (Printed) Parent Signature
_____________________
Date
Welcome to the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me band program! You have made the right decision in joining this exciting and energetic group!
The Sho-Me band program always strives for excellence and this year will be no different. We are looking forward to a very exciting
year and are glad you have decided to join us.
During the year, you will have the opportunity to perform in several different ensembles. These include marching band, jazz band,
concert band, color guard, drumline, and pep band. You will also have the opportunity to audition for district band in the fall and take
a solo or ensemble in the spring.
This band manual is here to answer most of your questions that pertain to band. Please take the time to read through the following
pages. I will not try to answer every question you might have because space is limited. After reading, sign and fill out the back pages
and return to Mr. Winters or Mr. Garner. Please contact one of the directors personally if you have any additional questions that are
not covered here.
Once again, welcome to the Sho-Me band program! We are glad you are here…let’s make this the best year of band yet!!!
“EIGHTY PERCENT OF SUCCESS IS SHOWING UP”
-Woody Allen
EXPECTATIONS
As with all successful organizations, quality practice time is vital. The Sho-Me band will not achieve our goals this year unless every
member is willing to dedicate themselves to the program. This includes being at all scheduled rehearsals, practicing at home, and
keeping a good attitude. We cannot improve unless everyone is at rehearsals.
As band director, I will have high expectations for every student. Rehearsals will begin and end on time and will be run in an efficient
manner. A rule to remember is if you are on time, you are late! To be adequately prepared for rehearsal it will be necessary to be
there ten to fifteen minutes early.
Also, a very important part of any successful program is responsibility and teamwork. Do not wait for a drum major or director to ask
you to do something. Take the initiative and do it (even if no one sees you do it). My philosophy in life is “If you are too big for the
small jobs, then you will be too small for the big jobs!” In other words, if you are too “big” to pick up a piece of trash, then you might
be too “small” to be drum major or section leader. You are responsible for how the band looks, sounds, and performs in public and
at contest. Act like it from day one…
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
The Board of Education is concerned about the academic status of our students. In an effort to improve student performance, Poplar
Bluff High School will be offering tutoring to any student wishing to take advantage of the service.
To be eligible, any student who participates in band must not receive a D average or below in any class. Any student who receives a
D average or below is required to attend 1 ½ hours a week of tutoring in order to continue being eligible in band. The student must
tutor until the grade is brought up at the next mid-term or quarter grading period. Tutoring slips are given the student when the finish
a tutoring session and these slips need to be turned in to the band office.
“YOU ALWAYS PASS FAILURE ON THE WAY TO SUCCESS”
-Mickey Rooney
MARCHING BAND
All students are expected to participate in marching band. Those students participating in color guard and drumline need to make
sure they take the right class. These students do not need to take a concert band the first semester. All other students will be
enrolled by audition in either Wind Ensemble (1st hour) or Concert band (2nd hour).
All instrumentalists are required to have a working instrument (or use a school instrument), a flip folder, a lyre, and their own
mouthpiece to participate in marching band. Flip folders, lyres, and mouthpieces can be purchased from a director or from a local
store.
In addition to traveling, the marching band provides musical entertainment at home football games. During these games, all students
are expected to play their instruments when the band is playing and to stay in their assigned areas in the stands. Students are also
expected to stay for the entire game.
REHEARSAL SCHEDULE
Marching rehearsals are scheduled from 3:15-5:15 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Tuesday afternoon is traditionally
the band’s day to practice on the football field at the junior high.
Attendance will be taken each day at 3:15 in an attendance block. Students are expected to stay for the entire rehearsal. Work
schedules need to be scheduled around marching rehearsal for us to be successful. Most employers will work with you if you ask
them well ahead of time. Students need to let their employer know not to schedule them for work before 6:00 p.m. Leaving rehearsal
fifteen minutes early is the same as arriving fifteen minutes late. The student will not get his or her full points for the day if this
happens.
ATTENDANCE POLICY – Directors need to be notified in writing one week before an excused absence. If you are absent because of
a doctor’s appointment, you must bring in a note from the doctor to be excused. Any unexcused absence of a marching rehearsal
can result in the student being “benched” and the student’s grade being dropped. Family emergencies that result in an absence will
be dealt with as they come up. If you are absence due to a family emergency, the directors need a note signed by a parent before
you will be able to perform at the next band function. If you need to be absent you must talk to your squad leader first and then follow
the chain of command – do not talk to a director until you have talked to the student leaders!
In case of rain, rehearsal will proceed as usual. We will have outside marching practice, sectionals or full band rehearsal inside
depending on the severity of the rain. If rain prevents us from practicing on the football field at the junior high, we will still practice at
the high school.
SUMMER BAND CAMP
Summer band camp is required for all band students. To be guaranteed a marching position you must attend all sessions. Also,
attendance is mandatory for obtaining a band letter. All students are required to leave school campus during the afternoon. No one
will be allowed to hang around the school without adult supervision.
The schedule is as follows:
Week One (July 23-27)
Percussion & Color Guard Camp
8:30-11:30 a.m.
1:00-4:30 p.m.
Week Two (July 30-August 3)
Monday & Tuesday
Freshman-Section Leaders-Percussion-Guard
8:00-12:00
ALL BAND MEMBERS
5:30-9:00 p.m.
Wednesday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
1:00-4:30
Thursday & Friday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:30-9:00
Week Three (August 6-10)
Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:30-9:00
Wednesday
8:00-12:00
1:00-4:30
Friday
All Band Members
8:00-12:00
5:45-9:00 Band Ice Cream social and show – Parents Invited
There will also be an informational booster meeting on this evening.
Please make sure you dress for hot weather. Below is a list of items to wear and bring:
• Tennis shoes with socks. No sandals or flip-flops – you can injure yourself.
• Light, cool clothing.
• Hat
• Water container – water is provided but cups are not!
• Sunscreen
• Bug repellant for night rehearsals.
• Sunglasses
UNIFORM
Student’s uniforms are not stored at the high school between band performances. It is the responsibility of the student to take care
of it at their house. This way, they can dry clean it periodically during the season as needed. All parts of the uniform are very
expensive so make sure to take care of it. A complete uniform costs $550. The student is required to keep his or her uniform in a
clean and pressed condition. Any student with a dirty uniform will receive one warning and, if the problem is not corrected, will not be
allowed to march until the uniform is clean. Do not wash any part of the uniform in a washing machine – use a dry cleaner. A dry
cleaning fee will be charged at the beginning of the year so that the band can dry clean the uniforms at the end of the season. When
performing or at football games, the entire uniform must remain on at all times!
The morning of a marching contest, the student will be required to check in with his or her section leader and have him or her
approve all parts of the uniform. After he or she checks to make sure the student has everything, they will load it onto the instrument
bus. The students should never load it on the bus themselves!
When the band is not in full uniform, the student is expected to have his or her band shirt on. Section shirts are fun to have and wear
around the high school but they are not to be worn in place of the band’s official shirt. The goal is to look the same at awards
ceremonies and section shirts do not do this. Another shirt should be worn under the uniform so that the official band shirt will remain
clean.
Because of the expense of the different parts of the uniform and band instruments, fees will be assessed when students leave parts
of their uniform where it might be stolen. Fee must be paid before student will be allowed to perform with the band.
Entire uniform - $10.00
Any single part of uniform - $3.00
School instrument - $10.00
BUS LISTS AND BEHAVIOR
There will only be one bus sign-up list for the marching season. Signing up for buses will proceed in class order (seniors, juniors,
sophomores, and freshmen). Once the bus lists are finalized, they cannot be changed unless a director approves the change.
Good bus behavior is very important for the safety of everyone. Keep talking to a conversational level – no yelling or singing.
Remain in your seat when the bus is moving and keep arms inside the bus at all times. Also, do not distract the driver. What he or
she says goes! A chaperone will be on each bus to make sure everyone behaves. They are an extension of the band directors and
you are to respect what they say without question.
No one is to unload from a bus until a director or chaperone gives permission. Every time the buses stop, directors and chaperones
will have a conference to make sure each bus is given the same instructions. Bus privileges can be revoked at any time deemed
necessary by the directors or chaperones for bad behavior.
CONTEST DAY EXPECTATIONS
1. Make sure you have all your “stuff” – uniform, instrument, band t-shirt, sticks, mallets, etc.
2. Be courteous to other bands in our warm-up area. Show “class.”
3. You are a representative of Poplar Bluff – don’t do anything that would give you or the band a bad name.
4. After we perform and change back into our band t-shirts, you are expected to return to the stadium and watch other bands
perform. This is how you learn what other bands in our class do so you know how we stack up against them.
5. While at the stadium, you are to watch the other bands march. This is not a time to be playing football, hackie sack, frisbee,
or any other activity that would attract attention away from the band on the field. Even if another band is acting this way, you are to
hold yourself to a higher standard.
6. Awards ceremony – this is the time to show what we are made of! We will try to get together in one area of the field (usually
on the ends) before the ceremony starts. During the ceremony, be courteous of other winners. If we win or lose, we will stay for the
entire ceremony.
ALTERNATES
By the time the student arrives at band camp in the summer, the marching drill will already be done. We have to turn in our band
enrollment numbers before school is out in the spring so that the drill writer will have enough time to write us a creative and
competitive drill. For this reason, the directors have to set the number of marchers, which we expect will be in band next year. To do
this, we have to have an alternate system set up.
In the process of the marching season, we usually lose members, who move out of the district, have to drop the class, etc. If you are
designated as an alternate after auditions in the spring, the chances that you will get a marching spot are very high. The directors
will do all they can to give you a spot as they open up.
Your spot is never guaranteed! Poor attendance, bad behavior or attitudes, and poor marching are all reasons to lose your
marching spot. If you are not at band camp, your spot cannot be guaranteed.
Alternates are required to be at all practices and performances. They will march during pre-game activities, play in the stands during
games, and fill any marching spots that become available. Alternates can challenge any person on the field for their marching spot.
The student who wins the challenge wins the spot.
“WHATEVER IS WORTH DOING AT ALL, IS WORTH DOING WELL.”
-Philip Dormer Stanhope
CONCERT BANDS
Concert bands at Poplar Bluff High School are the heart of Sho-Me Band program. There are two concert bands available by
audition: Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. These bands are where students are trained in correct playing techniques like tone
quality, tonguing, musical expression, sight-reading, and performance etiquette. Without a concert band experience, the band
student is missing out on the “meat” of the band program. For this reason, all efforts should be made by the student to take a
concert band.
If the student has a scheduling conflict and does not know whether he or she should take a concert band or a jazz band, concert
band should take precedence. Any student who is placed in Wind Ensemble or Concert Band is expected to be in the class everyday
to be eligible to play at contest and on the spring concert. Only students who are enrolled in the class will be able to participate in
concerts.
CONCERT DRESS
Concert dress is black bottoms and a white top. Gentlemen are expected to have their shirts tucked in. Black shoes and socks
(hose) are also required.
WIND ENSEMBLE
This is the top concert band in the Sho-Me Band program. It is the goal of this band to play band classics and cutting edge
compositions. Since a high level of skill is required to play these pieces, membership in this band is by audition only.
CONCERT BAND
The goal of concert band is to improve the playing ability of all students enrolled. Scales, rhythms, articulation exercises, sight-
reading, chorales, and band pieces are all part of the curriculum.
JAZZ BANDS
STUDIO BAND
This jazz band meets during the regularly scheduled class day (7th hour). The goal of this band is to play challenging jazz pieces in
all styles: swing, bop, ballads, latin, funk, and rock. This class is held second semester. Studio band participates in festivals and
plays on concerts with the concert bands.
JAZZ COMBOS
All band students are invited to participate in jazz combos. These combos will focus on improvisation and will meet after school
during the spring semester. Rehearsal schedule will depend on student’s schedules.
PEP BAND
Pep band is required for all students and plays at all home basketball games – attendance will be factored in the student’s grade.
Participating in pep band is also a requirement for lettering in band. The director will split the concert bands into two pep bands that
will alternate during the basketball season. By alternating, students will not be required to play too many games in a row. The pep
band plays popular rock tunes before and during boys and girls varsity games.
“EXCELLENCE IS NEVER GRANTED TO MAN BUT AS THE REWARD OF LABOR.”
-Sir Joshua Reynolds
GRADING PROCEDURE
Band is a performance-based class. For this reason, point values will be assigned for individual practices (in school and after
school), performances, class participation, playing and written tests, class assignments, and practice sheets. Making an A in band is
very easy – all you have to do is show up to practices and performances. The following areas will be averaged to obtain your final
grade – actual number of points will depend on how many of each activity the band participates in one semester:
Practice sheets (100 minutes a week)
Daily rehearsal participation and preparedness
After school practices
Playing Tests
Daily assignments
Games
Performances
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Marching band is an expensive activity. For this reason, students need to pay a small amount to help defray the cost of t-shirts, drill
writer fees, music arrangement fees, guard and percussion instructors, and other miscellaneous expenses. Fundraising and school
district help are still necessary to cover the remainder of expenses. The following areas need to be paid to participate in band. The
first fee is the only one due this spring.
1. All students pay $35.00 to help defray marching expenses. This amount is due by May 15th for the following marching season
(this is a non-refundable fee).
2. Students using school instruments will be charged a $30.00 fee to cover basic maintenance repairs and insurance on the
instruments. Any student who damages or loses an instrument (above and beyond normal wear and tear) will be financially
responsible to repair or replace that instrument.
3. All freshmen (and anyone else who needs shoes): I will have a company deliver a complete set of shoes so that you can try
them on and be sure to get the right size. All students need to purchase the same type of shoes and these shoes usually run around
$25.00.
4. Dry cleaning fee for uniforms $10.00 (due in the fall before uniforms are given out).
5. Guard members will be expected to purchase their own uniforms. The price will depend on what uniform is picked.
Fundraising options will be available.
6. Drummers will not pay a stick fee this year. They are required to have their own stick bag full of the required equipment
needed to play in band.
7. If a student cannot afford to pay for the above requirements, they need to meet with the directors and apply for a scholarship.
We will try to help if we can!
***All guidelines and procedures outlined in this handbook are subject to change as deemed necessary by the band directors or
school administration.
“PEOPLE DO NOT LACK STRENGHTH; THEY LACK WILL.”
-Victor Hugo
2007-08 SHO-ME BAND LETTERING SYSTEM
To letter in band, you must accumulate 50 points. Some activities add more points because they require more time to fulfill. A grade
of C or D in band takes points away from the final point total (if you receive a grade of F you are ineligible to letter). Students should
keep a running total of points earned just in case.
Activity Points Given for Activity
A Grade in band class 1 point per quarter
B Grade in band class ½ point per quarter
C Grade in band class -1 point per quarter
D Grade in band class -2 points per quarter
Home football game 1 point per game
Marching Contests 2 points per contest
Home basketball game 1 point per game
Christmas Concert 2 points
TRCC Concert Festival 2 points
Concert band contest 2 points
Band camp 1 point per four hour session (10 pts. Total)
Guard and drum camp 1 point per four hour session (5 pts. Total)
Marching practices ¼ point a day (10 pts. Total for entire marching season)
Fall sports credit 12 points (given to verified team members of a fall sport)
Jazz band participation 3 points
District band audition 2 points
Placement in district band 4 points
State band audition 3 points
Placement in state band 6 points
Dexter Honor Band 3 points
Solos/Ensemble audition 2 points
I Rating for solos/ensemble 4 points
State solo/ensemble audition 3 points
I Rating state solo/ensemble 6 points
Section leader (marching) 2 points
Drum major (marching) 3 points
Private lessons 1 point per quarter documented lessons on band instrument
TRCC Community band 1 point per semester
Summer music camp 3 points
Service Projects 1 point per hour of work
Other music concerts/plays 1 point per concert or play (must bring in program to director – this does not include regularly
scheduled band concerts)
BAND CALENDER 2007-08
** The following list is not finalized. More dates will be added at a later time. Date required for the entire band in bold lettering.
Please put these dates on your calendar.
June 28-29 4th of July Parade practice (9:00-11:30) at high school band room
June 30 4th of July Parade
July 23-27 Percussion and Color Guard Camp
July 30-Aug. 10 Summer Band camp
September 14 Football Game – NMCC
September 21 Football Game – Dexter
September 22 Farmington Marching Festival (All day) - Tentative
September 28 Football Game – North County
October 6 Washington Marching Festival (All day)
October 9 Sikeston Band Festival
October 13 Bi-State Marching Invitational – Potosi (All Day)
October 19 Football Game - Cape Central
October 26 Football Game - Sikeston
October 27 Greater St. Louis Marching Festival (All day)
November 3 All District Concert and Jazz Auditions – Jackson
November 17 All District Concert
December 1 All State Band Auditions – Columbia, Mo
December 4 Christmas Concert – Kay Porter Theatre
December 17 Basketball Game – Girls
January 7 Basketball Game – Girls
January 14 Basketball Game – Girls
January 15 Basketball Game – Boys
January 25 Basketball Game – Boys
January 29 Basketball Game – Boys
January 31 Basketball Game – Girls
February 5 Basketball Game – Boys
February 15 Basketball Game – Boys
March 11 TRCC Concert Band Festival
March 29 Large Ensemble Contest (TRCC)
April 5 District Solos and Ensembles (TRCC)
April 26 State Solos and Ensembles (Columbia)
TBA Spring Concert – Kay Porter Theatre
TBA Band Banquet
SIGNATURE FORM
After reading the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band Manual, I acknowledge that I have read and understand all the enclosed rules and
procedures and I will follow them to the best of my ability. I will approach each rehearsal with a positive attitude and will strive to make
every rehearsal the best possible. I have read the enclosed band calendar and understand which dates I am required to perform
at.
I understand that by not following the rules and procedures and/or not playing at performances can result in a grade reduction and/or
removal from the band program.
________________________________ ________________________________
Student Name (Printed) Student Signature
_____________________
Date
After reading the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band Manual, I acknowledge that I have read and understand all the enclosed rules and
procedures and understand that my child will need to follow them. I also understand that they will need to approach each rehearsal
with a positive attitude and strive to make every rehearsal the best possible. I have read the enclosed band calendar and
understand which dates my child is required to perform at.
I understand that if my child does not follow the rules and procedures and/or does not play at performances it can result in a grade
reduction and/or removal from the band program.
________________________________ ________________________________
Parent Name (Printed) Parent Signature
_____________________
Date
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