Rules and Responsibilities

 

Please remember that this group is a Top-Rated Vocal Ensemble.  We need to practice in order to succeed.  These rules are to ensure that you have the best experience possible while at the same time adding to the prestige of the group.

 

GENERAL RULES

1.    We rehearse every other day during 2nd period as well as the first 10th period of the week.  Lateness to class will not be tolerated.  Missing more than 15 minutes of a rehearsal is considered “missing” a rehearsal.  7 missed rehearsals will result in probation (see below).

2.    Most “out of school” gigs will be announced 2 weeks in advance.  Once you have committed to a gig, you are expected to attend.  Missing a gig will result in immediate probation. Similarly, if you are late for the announced warm-up time/bus departure for a gig, you will not be allowed to perform.

3.    Rehearsal etiquette: 

•    Please be prepared with a pencil and your music at each rehearsal. “I forgot my pencil” is not an acceptable excuse at this level. 

•    Do not talk when directions are being given.  We only have a short amount of time and it is wasted when directions need to be repeated.

•    No gum/candy, of course! :)

 

SPECIFIC RULES

4.    Grading:

-    Practice/Preparedness (including sectionals) 75%

-    Section Leader will announce sectionals. You are expected to attend at least 75% of them. Section Leaders will report attendance. Every effort will be made to schedule sectionals around non-core classes; however, sometimes this is unavoidable. You are responsible for any work that is missed in the class.  Similarly, you will not be missing the same class every time.

-    YOU MUST PRACTICE ON YOUR OWN as well as with others.

-    When a section of the music is rehearsed in school, you are expected to review it at home.  I do not like to constantly review previously taught material.

-    Musical “Tests” 25%

    o    Tests will be announced in advance.  Students may be asked to play/sing his or her part individually or in small groups.  Tests WILL be memorized (including musicians).

    o    Tests will be graded as follows: “+” = 100% (Excellent), 

                     “OK” = 80% (Good),                 “-”  = 60% (Needs Improvement)

    o    Any “retests” are at my discretion and must be done in a timely manner.

•    Any student whose grade falls below an 85% may also be placed on probation.

 

5.    Probation:

-    Students placed on probation will not be allowed to rehearse until a meeting is planned with the student, the parents and myself.  Students may be asked to perform for a “rehearing” at this meeting.

-    The future of the student in the choir may be discussed.

 

6.    Fundraiser participation is up to the student and parents.  When fundraising, all money raised will be applied to the student’s “choir” account.  This money may be used for trip payments or outfit payments.  After graduation, any remaining money in your account will be moved in to the general fund unless you have a sibling joining the choir.

7.    Once outfits/trip payments have been made, I am unable to give a refund if your circumstances change (such as removal from the group, change in plans on our trip dates…)

8.    Football games: Please note the dates of the home games (8/31,  9/21,  10/5 (Homecoming Game)). The President and Vice-President will coordinate singers.  All voice parts must be represented at each game.  Everyone is expected to perform at least 2 games.

9.    You must remain academically eligible in order to participate in this ensemble.

10.    Please contact me personally via one of the methods on thecontact page if there is a concern.  DO NOT relay a message through another choir member.

11.    10th periods are NOT optional and cannot be “made up” – we need to do this together in order for it to be successful.

 

In general, please be aware that we are all in this group together; please do not be afraid to ask for help.  I guarantee that you will get the most from your experience with this group if you put forth the effort.  I also guarantee that you will have a great time and enjoy making music together. Please seek the assistance of your section leader, officers or myself if any questions arise.