PARENT HANDBOOK

"Everything you need to know about being a band parent"

 

Table of Contents

 

A Statement of Policy

 

Band Curriculum Overview

 

Attendance Policy

 

Duties of the Band Member

 

The Role of Parents

 

Student"s Responsibility

 

Basic Procedures/ Marching Band

 

Uniform/ Concert Attire Information

 

Football games/Traveling/Hotels-Overnight Trips/ Festivals Competitions

 

Concert Band and Classroom Procedures

 

School Owned Instrument Policy/Facility Usage

 

Practice

 

Spring and Summer Camp General Information

 

Glossary of Terms

 

Special Thanks

 


Hillgrove High School Bands

 

A Statement of Policy

 

 

In order to assist band members and parents in understanding areas of responsibility, a statement of band policy is herein set forth. Becoming familiar with this policy will enable each individual to make the most of this great opportunity to be a member of the Hillgrove High School band program, becoming a better person and a better musician.

 

We firmly believe that the student should improve through regular practice. In the Hillgrove band program we believe that when the student has lost the will to improve him/herself or make a positive contribution to the band, he or she is wasting the time and efforts of his/her fellow members and the community by continuing in this program. The HAPPIEST student is the one who is improving through regular habits of practice and daily progress. He/she must not only know right from wrong, but must be able to stand for principles. He/she must develop a high sense of purpose toward which he/she is willing to work. RESPONSIBILITY is the focus behind any level of achievement within this program. We intend to conduct ourselves in a manner that will facilitate all students in learning and bettering themselves.

 

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OBJECTIVES OF THE BAND PROGRAM

 


BAND CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

 

Wind Symphony

The Wind Symphony is the advanced performing organization in both the fall and spring semesters. Membership is by audition only.

 

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band is the intermediate performing organization in both the fall and spring semesters. Membership is by audition only.

 

Concert Band

The Concert Band is a fundamental performing organization in both the fall and spring semesters. Membership is by audition only.

 

Marching Band

Membership in the marching band involves sometimes-strenuous physical exercise and the ability play the difficult literature and perform physical movements encountered in the activity. Membership is open to all band students by audition. Any female member of the Hillgrove student body is eligible to audition for colorguard.

 

Chamber Ensembles

During the fall and spring semesters, chamber ensembles will be formed. ALL band members will be encouraged to perform in a chamber ensemble. Possible groups would be woodwind quintet, brass quintet, saxophone quartet, horn ensemble, trombone quartet, low brass ensemble, flute choir, clarinet choir, percussion ensemble as well as additional small groups.

 

Colorguard/Winterguard

Female students who are interested in dance, choreography, and movement may choose to audition for our marching auxiliary unit, the colorguard. The colorguard is an extension of the winterguard program and is coordinated by Robby Duke and Jennifer Albertson.

 

Percussion Ensemble

All percussionists in the band program will participate in percussion ensemble and training sessions outside of the school day. Students learn performance techniques on all percussion instruments. This will include marching battery and front ensemble literature as well as chamber ensembles. The percussion program is coordinated by Chris Romanowski.

 

Concert Band Camp

Concert Band Camp is two days of intensive training with nationally recognized clinicians. It will be held on the campus of Hillgrove High School and will feature a performance at its conclusion.

 

Leadership Workshops

In the spring, we will host two leadership workshops to help students become effective leaders within the band program and beyond. The workshops are required of all students who wish to be considered for leadership.

 

Hillgrove Music Institute

As one might expect, private lessons on a musical instrument are the best way to improve performance skills. The one-on-one approach allows the student to benefit from the individual attention as opposed to an instructor monitoring a class of ever fifty students. A recent survey of the All-State Band revealed that approximately 80% of the students in the band studied privately. Students are generally more inclined to practice diligently for a weekly music assignment and this discipline increases their enjoyment of the instrument. Please see Mr. Ferrell or Mr. Erwin for more information.

 

All-State/District Honor Band

Members of the band program are eligible to audition for the Georgia All-State and District 12 Honor Bands. Auditions are held during the second semester with concerts for District 12 in Cobb County and Savannah for the All-State Band. These are the highest honors that a high-school musician can receive and all are highly encouraged to work toward these goals.

 

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ATTENDANCE POLICY

 

THE ONLY EXCUSED ABSENCES ARE PRE-ARRANGED* SCHOOL CONFLICTS AND THOSE THAT ARE EXCUSED PER COBB COUNTY DISTRICT POLICY FOR REGULAR ATTENDANCE (ILLNESS, DEATH IN THE FAMILY, RELIGIOUS HOLIDAY).

*Individual needs will be addressed as they occur. This system is subject to modification by the directors.

 

For ALL absences, the students and parents must follow the following procedure:

 

 

The filing of an absentee request form does not constitute an excused absence. The policy above applies in all but the most extreme cases. Unexcused absences will result in removal from performance.

 

ACTIVITY CONFLICTS

 

Conflicts between band and other activities or events are the responsibility of the student. Rehearsal and performance information is given out well in advance, and posted on the website, www.hillgroveband.com, so that proper arrangements can be made. When band activities are missed, the entire group is at an instant disadvantage. Students should be careful not to become involved with activities that may directly conflict with band activities. Students should have a calendar book and be aware of all band dates well ahead of schedule. It is the policy of the band to assist students when conflicts occur within the scope of band policy. The band schedule is demanding and involvement in too many activities usually reduces the enjoyment and worthiness of each one. Remember that work is not an excuse for missing any band activity.

 

Students missing only ‘part’ of a rehearsal for a club meeting or other related conflict (tutoring, etc…) must make up that time prior to the next performance to be eligible to march.  For example, if a student missing 30 minutes of rehearsal for tutoring, he/she must stay after rehearsal with a student leader or staff member and make up the time they missed.  Students must also bring a note from the teacher in charge of the club/tutoring for verification purposes.

 

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DUTIES OF THE BAND MEMBER

 

BE PREPARED, IN PLACE, ON TIME!

 

 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF ATTITUDE

 

The greatest single factor that will determine the success of any individual or organization is ATTITUDE. The kind of person you are is an individual choice and how we feel about something, which involves attitude, is one of the few actual independent choices that we have in life. It takes intense dedication to reach goals. Students should learn to discipline themselves to daily practice on fundamentals. The ’right attitude’ must be present along with sincerity, concentration, and dedication as the basic foundation. Such an attitude makes an artistic performance inevitable and is the difference between a professional organization and a mediocre group. The band program can do much for you. Make the most of every moment together.

 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLINE

 

Because of the nature of the organization, band discipline must be all encompassing and firm. Band students and parents must believe in the ideals, principles, and philosophy of the organization. Everyone must be aware of behavior and the behavior of those connected to our organization. Any action intentional or unintentional that projects unfavorably on the school, community or band program, whether it be in band or outside of band, could result in dismissal or exclusion from activity.

 

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THE ROLE OF PARENTS

 

It is the responsibility of every parent and guardian to see that the policies and procedures outlined in this handbook are followed and that the Statement of Intent is signed and returned. This states that you understand the policies as set within and any questions are to be directed to the band directors by appointment. Each parent is responsible for the attendance of his/her child at all band functions. It is also the responsibility of parents to make sure that their child practices DAILY. Being involved with your child’s development in this activity is a reward that has far-reaching benefits. An active parent is aware and receives the gift of healthy participation and growth.

 

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP

 

It is most important that any and all concerns are addressed with the parties that can help solve them. One of the most destructive forces in our society is based on ’negative bonding’ including rumor and innuendo. Please carefully gather facts on all sides before forming an opinion. When we base our decisions on the ’heat of the moment’, we usually find later that the solution lies in communication. The band staff and boosters are more than happy to communicate in the event of any questions.  Additionally parents and families can help in the following ways:

 

 

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STUDENT’ RESPONSIBILITY

 

As members of the Hillgrove High School Bands, you have a great deal of responsibility. It is important that if expectations are to be met, the privileges, rewards and duties must align properly.

 

TO OURSELVES

 

You have the primary responsibility of developing your own abilities. The benefits of a professional-quality instrument and private lessons should not be underestimated. In order to reap reward, consistent and constant effort must be put forth at all times.

 

TO OUR SCHOOL

 

The Cobb County School District provides us with many of the resources for rehearsal, performance and equipment. The needs of our program reach far beyond what the district is able to provide. The Hillgrove Bands Booster Association also provides a support network, both financially and by being your biggest fan. We have a responsibility to be the best possible example for both of these entities.

 

TO EACH OTHER

 

We must always do what is best for the welfare of the group. There can be no selfish acts solely for the benefit of the individual, but for all. Respect each other. If there are conflicts, find a peaceful way to resolve them. Never insult another member’s integrity. We are here to grow and learn together.

 

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MARCHING BAND

 

BASIC PROCEDURES

 

 

CAMPS

 

Camps are held immediately following school year dismissal (late May to early June) and from late July until the start of the school year. The Hillgrove Band Directors, percussion and guard staff, technicians and student leadership teach camps. Attendance is crucial, as most of the marching band material will be introduced this time. Missing any portion of this camp is a safety and design hazard and may result in a student being assigned ’alternate’ status.

 

REHEARSAL

 

Students are expected to be at all rehearsals and performances. If there is a situation that will prevent this, an excuse form must be requested and submitted before the absence is to occur. If a student is absent from school on the day of a rehearsal or performance, they are ineligible to participate that day and we ask that you contact the directors to verify absence. Any student assigned disciplinary action by school administration will also be ineligible to participate during the period of punishment (ISS, OSS etc.). Students with disciplinary infractions will not be eligible for student leadership.

 

ALTERNATES

 

One of the most important groups of members of the marching band is the alternates. Due to the absence of others or inability to work out their part, it is necessary to ’fill-in’ drill positions. Alternate members must be enthusiastic and willing to learn new material at a rapid pace. The chances of an alternate working his or her way into a spot if the alternate participates, works hard, learns the music and does it with a good attitude are good. They are full-fledged members and will have a role in all marching band activities. Some will elect to work in the logistics crew, run sound, or be on the metronome crew.

 

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UNIFORM/CONCERT ATTIRE INFORMATION

 

Uniforms (marching band and concert attire) are either ’on-loan’, or ’rented’ by the students.  As such, it is the student’s responsibility to keep the uniform/concert attire complete and in good condition while it is in their possession.

 

Checking Uniforms/Concert Attire In and Out

Uniforms and Concert Attire will not go home with students.  The uniform committee will check out the uniforms/CA before and after each event.  Gloves and Shoes will not be picked up.  It is the student’s responsibility to keep up with his or her own gloves and shoes.

 

Once the uniform/CA has been checked out to the student, it is their responsibility to keep up with the uniform and all parts associated with it while it is in the student’s possession.  Any lost parts should be turned into the uniform lost and found in the uniform room.

 

Uniform alterations:  Some alterations may need to be done to your child’s uniform.  Do not make alterations without first informing the uniform committee chair and receiving permission.  Do not cut or remove material from a uniform. 

 

When turning the uniform in, make sure that the pockets are empty.  Also notify the uniform committee if there is a need for any repair. 

 

Replacement Cost for Uniform and Concert Attire

 

The Department of Education, State of Georgia, (JS 160-5-1.12 Student Fees and charges/required student equipment and materials) states that Students may be charged for replacement/repair costs due to loss or abuse of school system property.

Replacement costs for uniform parts is as follows.  Repair costs will be determined based on actual cost of repair.

 

Uniform:

1.  Jacket                                            $150

2.  Bib Pants                                      $50     

3.  Plume                                            $20

4.  Shako Hat                                    $40

5.  Gauntlets                                      $30 (pair)

6.  Hat Box                                         $20

 

Concert Attire

1.  Concert Dress                              $80

2.  Men’s Jacket                                $60

3.  Men’s Pants                                 $30

4.  Men’s Shirt                                  $15

5.  Men’s Bow Tie & Cumber bun $20 (priced as a set)

 

 

Marching Uniform Additional Information

 

Marching Shoes and Gloves

Marching Shoes and Gloves are a separate purchase and are the responsibility of the band student.  Each Non-Guard Marching Band Student must have:

                                                                                                Cost

 

Each Guard Member must have:

                                                                                                Cost

 

Uniforms and accessories will be fitted during the first few days of Summer Band.  Payment in advance is expected for accessories.

 

Uniform Rules

 

  1. Unless instructed to do so by a band director, students may not remove any piece of their uniform.  This includes the Shako.
  2. No eating or drinking anything other than water while in uniform
  3. Do not touch plumes without gloves
  4. Solid Black Crew Socks are to be worn with the uniform
  5. Under Armor is to be worn under the jacket
  6. No blue jeans or pants are to be worn under the pants (long johns are acceptable for cold weather)
  7. No jewelry.
  8. Clear nail polish only
  9. Facial hair is not allowed in the band uniform.
  10. Students with long hair (male and female) must be able to tuck all hair into the Shako.  Hair may not touch the collar.  This includes members of the front ensemble who do not wear shakos.

 


Concert Attire (CA)

 

Concert Attire will be checked out from the uniform room before each event and returned after each event.  Each student is responsible for the care of his or her concert attire.  There is no eating or drinking, other than water while wearing CA.  Students may not at any time wear ’part’ of their Concert Uniform.  It is either all on, or all off.

 

Dress:              Ladies:  Black hose and black closed toe dress shoes

                                    (Tall-heels not recommended)

                                    No jewelry.

Gentlemen:  White undershirt, Black Socks, Black dress shoes (no tennis shoes).

                                    No Jewelry

 

All hair for Ladies and Gentlemen (facial hair included) must be neatly groomed.

 

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FOOTBALL GAMES

 

 

INSPECTION

 

Prior to leaving for a performance, all band members will stand inspection. Any band member that does not pass inspection will not participate in the given performance. The following will be checked:

Gloves will be inspected for cleanliness, holes, or tears.

 

TRAVELING

 


 

HOTELS/OVERNIGHT TRIPS

 

 

 

FESTIVALS/COMPETITIONS

 

These events allow the organization to perform for an informed audience and receive pertinent feedback from professional educators and designers in our activity. The purpose is not to win trophies or compete with other groups. We only compete against a standard. It is important for both students and families to realize this. We will only put our best foot forward by being supportive of other groups as well as our own. Negativity will not be allowed from students OR parents. Negative comments or attitudes toward another group undermine every principle on which our program is built.

 

TRAVEL POLICY – ADULT SUPERVISION

 

In order to maintain a clear and fair policy on adult attendance on band trips, the Hillgrove Bands will adhere to the following policy, as set forth by the Band Directors:

 

1.       Band Directors will have their lodging and transportation paid for by HBBA.  Any meals not included in the cost of the trip will be their own responsibility.

 

2.       Staff Members will their have lodging and transportation paid for by HBBA.  Any meals not included in the cost of the trip will be their own responsibility.

 

3.       Parent Chaperones will be responsible for the cost of their own trip as well as meals not included in the cost of the trip.

 

Cooperation and understanding regarding this policy is appreciated.  Cobb County requires all trips to have a ratio of adults to students of 1:25.  This ratio includes Directors and Staff Members, who are expected to perform certain supervisory duties. 

 

The Chaperone Committee chair, in conjunction with the Band Directors, will determine which Parent Chaperones will accompany the students on trips.

 

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CONCERT BAND AND CLASSROOM PROCEDURES

 

Rehearsal Procedure

 

Period 1 – 8:25 AM

Period 2 – 5 minutes after bell

Period 3 – 5 minutes after bell

Period 4 – 5 minutes after bell

 

 

 

 

Materials/Class Preparation

 

Each student should have the following materials in class every day:

§  A sharpened pencil

§  Your instrument and necessary accessories (slide cream, screwdriver, mutes etc.)

§  Your music and binder

§  At least 4 good reeds for clarinet and saxophones

§  At least 2 good reeds for oboe and bassoon

 

***Students will be graded every day on having the above materials at their seat (not in cases or lockers).***

 

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SCHOOL-OWNED INSTRUMENT POLICY

 

Each student who uses a school-owned instrument will be completely responsible for its care. The band will pay for yearly maintenance. Damages are the responsibility of the player. The band directors will check out instruments to the student and parents.

 

BAND FACILITY USAGE

 

Band Hall

 

The use of the band facilities before, after, and during the school day is considered a privilege. Students who abuse, or use the facility in an improper manner will be disciplined accordingly. Any abuse or damage will be considered vandalism. NO NON-BAND STUDENTS ARE PERMITTED IN THE BAND FACILITY except for business with the directors. There will be no horseplay in or around the band facility. All equipment is off-limits to anyone not specifically designated to use it (i.e. percussion or guard equipment). Band lockers are for band equipment only. Lockers are to be kept locked with a band-issued lock at ALL TIMES. The band will not be responsible for any personal items left in the band area.

 

Lockers are not to be locked with personal locks. Any personal locks will be cut. Unlocked lockers will be locked by the band directors and will require director assistance for access.

 

PRACTICE ROOMS

 

Practice rooms are for individual practice and for private instruction. Students must have permission to use a practice room. Practice must be left neat and clean following each session.

 

We are extremely privileged to be supplied with a fine facility and equipment.

It is crucial that good care is taken at all times.

 

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PRACTICE

 

As with any activity, you get out if it what you put into it. Band is only ’fun’ when it is of a high quality. We will work hard and play hard. There is ’getting-good’ fun and ’beach-party’ fun. We will have the former in rehearsal and the latter afterward. There are many values in the study of music as a discipline that transfer to other areas of life. Although it is a slow process, persistent, correct practice will lead to success.

 

’Only Perfect Practice Makes Perfect’.

 

 

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HILLGROVE MARCHING BAND

SPRING TRAINING AND SUMMER CAMP

 
SPRING TRAINING
 
Although the main purpose of Spring Camp is to introduce incoming freshmen to marching techniques, the full band is required to attend.  The older members are a tremendous help with the teaching process while building camaraderie with the new band members.  The camp is held in the days immediately following school dismissal to prevent any disruptions in vacation plans.  If you anticipate any problems with attendance, please contact one of the directors, ASAP.
 
SUMMER CAMP

 

What is Summer Band Camp?

Summer Band Camp occurs before school starts.  The fall show is built at this time.  All aspects of the show will be covered during this time.  It is vital that the student attends all of these sessions.  Missing any portion of these rehearsals will jeopardize the student’s participation in the production.  (See Attendance Policy)  Times will vary and schedules will be sent out.  Guard and Percussion will have slightly different schedules.

 

Some of the things happening at summer camp include:
 
1. Marching tryouts
2. Learning show music
3. Learning drill
4. Uniform distribution
5. Football program pictures
6. Learning ’stand tunes’ (music for football games and pep rallies)
8. Purchasing gloves and shoes
Lots & lots of bonding between old and new band members.

 

Preparation for Summer Band Camp

How to Prepare:  Marching Band Students are athletes in training, so you need to treat your body to proper nutrition, sleep, and hydration, especially during the intense training at band camp.  If your body is starved of these important things, your performance will suffer and you may experience problems such as heat exhaustion, fainting, decreased concentration, and weakness.

 

Hydration:  Start drinking fluids days before band camp (as well as competitions), especially in hot weather.  Water, fruit juice, or Gatorade type drinks are good choices.  Most carbonated beverages (soda) contain sodium and does NOT do an effective job of hydrating the body.  During camp you will have frequent water breaks to replenish the fluid you will be losing.  You must drink during these breaks.

NOTE:  Carbonated beverages are not allowed nor served before, during, or after band camp or performances.  You will be allowed water, fruit juices, and Gatorade type drink only. 

 

Dehydration means your body does not have the fluid it needs to maintain normal bodily functions.  Early symptoms are dry mouth, headache, lightheadedness; thirst may or may not be present.  

 

Heat Exhaustion is also serious and means your body is overheating and cannot cool itself properly.  Symptoms include:  increase in body temperature, absence, of perspiration, nausea, fainting, weakness, and probably thirst.

 

These conditions can be very serious.  Chaperones are available on the field during practices.  If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see one of the directors or the chaperones immediately.  Also, if a chaperone is concerned about your health and asks to leave the practice field for any reason, you must comply.

 

Additional medical issues:  You must have a completed, up-to-date, medical form.  If students use an inhaler, the student should carry his/her inhaler at all times—especially on the field.  Please consider bringing a spare inhaler.  Students who have food or bee sting allergies, should also carry an epi-pen with them if it is warranted.

 

Band Camp attire: 

o   Sun Hats

o   Sunglasses

o   Shorts and T-shirts—light color clothing

o   Shoes are required (Preferably running or cross-training shoes)

o   NO Flip-Flops or Sandals

 

Band Camp Necessities:

o   Water Jug:  This needs to come filled in the morning.  Most students will fill theirs with water and place it in the freezer over night.  This also needs to be a ’jug’ with a large mouth, so that it can be refilled quickly and easily during water breaks.

o   Sun Block

o   Pencil (and an extra)

o   Dot Book:  This is a spiral bound 3X5 index card book.  They can be purchased at any office supply store. 

o   Shoe string or canvas tool bag:  This is to either tie the spiral index cards around your waist or, in the case of the tool bag, to place them in, so they are easily accessible on the marching field.

           

 

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Glossary of Terms

 

All-State Band – Students who excel at their Honor Band (see below) audition may be invited to audition for the Georgia All-State Band. If selected, students will participate in a clinic weekend with superior high school musicians from around the state.

 

Band President – The motivational field leader for the marching band.  The Band President is a marching member in charge of maintaining the morale and tempo of each rehearsal.  The Band President is 2nd in command to the Drum Major.

 

Battery – Percussion members who march on the field.  Instruments include Snare Drums, Tenor Drums, and Bass Drums.

 

BOA  (Bands of America)– A non-profit educational organization that is the nation’s leading presenter of music events for high school band students. Sponsored events include various regional competitions, Grand National Marching Band Championships, National Concert Band Festival, and Summer Symposium. BOA’s stated mission is to provide ’positively life-changing experiences’ for students, teachers, parents, and communities.

 

BOA Summer Symposium – An excellent summer camp held for one week in June at Illinois State University. Students can enroll in concert band, jazz band, orchestra, color guard, and drum major camps where they are taught by leading instructors from around the country.

 

Chain of Command – The hierarchy of leadership for the band program.  It goes as follows: Band Directors, Band Staff, Drum Majors, Band President, Section Captains, Section Leaders, Members.

 

Chamber Music Compositions written for small groups, usually 4-12 players.

 

Color GuardMarching band members who add visual impact and color to the musical performance in a challenging activity that combines equipment work using flags, rifles, and sabers, with dancing and marching. Membership is open to any student at Hillgrove High School and members are not required to be enrolled in band class. Auditions are typically held in April of each year.

 

Concert Bands – Any of the three band classes: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, or Wind Symphony.

 

DCI (Drum Corps International) – A non-profit youth organization that sponsors Drum and Bugle Corps (brass, percussion and color guard). These corps are made up of high school and college students up to age 21, who spend the summer traveling and competing against other corps in shows across the country.  It is the professional opinion of the Hillgrove Directors that Drum Corps is best left to students who have graduated from High School.

 

Drum Major – The highest rank of student leadership.  The drum major (s) lead the band on and off the field.  He or She also serves as the student conductor for the Marching Band.

 

Dot Book – The small notebook worn by all band members during rehearsal to record their marching band drill coordinates

 

Dots – A coordinate on the drill page that represents each individual performer.

 

DrillMarching formations on the field.  Usually ranges from 60 – 150 pages of varying difficulty.

 

Drill Set – Each individual page of drill.  Represents one single moment of our show.

 

Drill Charts A tool for the directors/staff to see where each member belongs in each drill set.

 

Embouchure – The formation of the lips, jaw, and tongue necessary for proper playing of an instrument.

 

Front Ensemble – Non-Marching members of the percussion who play mallets and other instruments on the front sideline during performances.

 

HBBA (Hillgrove Bands Booster Association) – The volunteer organization responsible for supporting the band program financially and administratively.  All parents are eligible and encouraged to participate in HBBA.

 

LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation) a.k.a. ’District Festival’; An evaluated performance and clinic, sponsored by GMEA, for all concert bands within the District. LGPE is held each spring.  The Hillgrove Bands are in GMEA District XII.

 

GauntletsA piece of the marching uniform worn at the end of the sleeve to prevent the arm from showing between the sleeve and gloves.

 

GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) – A professional organization for music educators in Georgia that sponsors District Festival, Solo and Ensemble, District Band, All-State Band, and an annual convention in Savannah, GA.

 

District Honor BandStudents from throughout the district may audition for District Honor Band. Based on the audition results, students may be selected for either the 9th & 10th grade Clinic or Honor Band or 11th & 12th grade Clinic or Honor Band. During Honor Band weekend, students will practice with guest conductors on Friday night, all day Saturday, then perform a concert on Sunday.

 

UGA Jan-Fest - A clinic weekend for selected band members, held at the University of Georgia each January.

 

Mellophone – The marching equivalent of a French Horn.

 

MTX’s – Black uniform shoes worn by non-guard marching band members.

 

Pass-OffAfter a student has memorized his or her marching music, it must be played for the band directors with two or fewer mistakes. Students will not be allowed to participate in a show until they have ’passed-off’ on the music.

 

Percussion Ensemble – An extra-curricular opportunity offered in the winter for students to explore percussion.

 

PlumeThe large, very expensive feather worn on top of the shako (uniform hat).

 

SAPA (Southern Association for Performing Arts) – The winter guard/winter percussion circuit that serves GA and AL.  SAPA championships are held in Macon at the end of March.

 

Section Captains – The chief member of each of the Woodwind, Brass, Percussion, and Guard sections.  These student leaders are 3rd in the chain-of-command to the Drum Major and Band President.

 

Section Leaders – The principal member of each individual section (i.e. Flute, Saxophone, Trumpet).  These student leaders are 4th in the chain-of-command.

 

SectionalSpecially scheduled practices for all band members who all play the same instrument. Sectionals are scheduled to give members of each section an opportunity to practice their own music or routines.

 

ShakosUniform hats worn by non-guard marching band members.

 

Solo & EnsembleA performance arena sponsored by GMEA in which individual students or ensembles of students prepare a piece of music and perform for a rating.

 

Summer workshop opportunitiesSpecialized instruction with professionals in a camp-like setting. Summer workshops are held in a number of locations across the country including university campuses and a variety of specialty camps.

 

Concert Band Camp A mandatory mini-camp weekend, in February, for all concert band class students. Guest conductors and clinicians teach the students in a condensed weekend workshop.

 

Teens 2 Teams Leadership Workshop – A series of world-renowned student workshops led by Mr Peter Ferrito, specifically designed to develop teamwork, leadership skills, character, and confidence.  Students desiring to become student leaders are required to attend.

 

WGI (Winter Guard International) – A non-profit youth organization that serves as the governing body for Winter Guard and Indoor Percussion activities.

 

Winter GuardA color guard ensemble that performs to recorded music at indoor competitions from January through April. This activity combines modern dance with flag, rifle, and saber work. Membership is open to anyone at Hillgrove High School and members are not required to be enrolled in band class. Auditions are typically held in late November or early December of each year.

 

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SPECIAL THANKS

 

This Handbook is a result of the work and experiences of many. We would like to thank the following for their contributions and advice.

 

Alfred Watkins, Laura Borchert, James Thompson - Lassiter High School Bands, Marietta, Georgia

 

Garry Gribble, Josh Rudolph - Pope High School Bands, Marietta, Georgia

 

David McGrath, David Roth - Kell High School Bands, Marietta, Georgia

 

David Starnes, Mike Heubner - Kennesaw Mountain High School Bands, Kennesaw, Georgia

 

David Vandewalker, Stephen Meyer, Josh Ray - Harrison High School Bands, Kennesaw, Georgia

 

Jeff Harper, Cecilia Cicco, Brittany Knight - McEachern High School Bands, Powder Springs, Georgia

 

Dr Chuck Jackson, John Jeffres – Dodgen Middle School, Marietta, Georgia

 

Joe Gunn – Trinity High School Bands, Euless, Texas

 

Scott Rush - Wando High School Bands, Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina

 

Bill Watson, Richland High School Bands, North Richland Hills, Texas

 

Eugene Migliaro Corporon  and Dennis Fisher – University of North Texas Wind Studies, Denton, Texas

 

H. Robert Reynolds and Michael Haithcock – University of Michigan Bands, Ann Arbor, Michigan

 

Jerry Junkin – University of Texas Bands, Austin, Texas

 

Peter Ferrito – Teens2Teams Leadership, McKinney, Texas

 

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