Expectations and Policies for the Orchestra Classroom
Rehearsal Expectations: A smoothly run rehearsal is essential to the success of the beginning orchestra ensemble. To help rehearsal run smoothly on a regular basis, the following guidelines have been established. Students are expected to follow all guidelines at all times.
Students will arrive on time to every rehearsal unless previously excused by the director or a note from another teacher.
Students will enter the room, get their instrument ready quickly and quietly, and take a seat within 3 minutes of the bell.
Students will be prepared for every rehearsal with their instruments, music, and a pencil.
Students will be prepared musically for every rehearsal and will have appropriate questions about difficult passages.
Students must refrain from any behaviors that disrupt the rehearsal. This includes but is not limited to: speaking without permission during instruction, walking around the room or in front of the class without permission, and any other loud or disruptive behavior.
Students are prohibited from playing any instrument other than their own.
Ample time will be provided at the end of the rehearsal for clean-up. Students do not exit the room until dismissed by the teacher, not the bell!
Behavior Plan: If a student chooses not to follow the established rehearsal expectations, the following penalties will be assigned:
First Offense - verbal warning Second Offense – seat moved (if applicable), lunch detention, parent contact Third Offense – behavior essay completed in alternate setting signed by parent Fourth Offense – after school detention, parent contact Fifth Offense – office referral
In the event of a major infraction such as fighting, threats, vandalism, etc, students will be referred to the office and the consequences in the CMS Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.
Grading Procedures: The following grading procedures are based on the CMS grading guidelines:
Daily Participation, Informal Assignments, Homework (practice charts) -------- 35% Concert Performances, Playing Tests, Written Tests, Other Formal Assignments ----- 65%
Participation Grade: Each class period, students will a participation grade based on the following criteria: preparation (coming to class with all materials), playing position (demonstrating correct playing position at all times), performance (playing the music with a reasonable accuracy), and effort (putting forth an appropriate effort). Failure to meet all of the above elements will result in a reduction in participation grade.
Homework/Practice Charts: Though there may be small written assignments, the majority of the homework will be practice charts. Practice is ESSENTIAL to developing skill on a string instruments, and students are therefore strongly encouraged to practice regularly throughout the week. Practice charts will be collected every other Monday. All areas including parent signature must be complete to receive credit. Students are required to practice a minimum of 75 minutes per week. If students are unable to practice because of travel, illness, or instrument repair, it should be noted on the practice chart with a parent signature.
Individual Student Assessment Playing and written assessments, will be administered over the course of the semester to measure student progress on an individual basis and to determine improvements that should be made.
Concert Performances: Performance in all orchestra concerts is mandatory. Students should report on time the evening of the concert with all necessary materials. Report time for all concerts is 5:45 and performances begin promptly at 6:30 unless otherwise communicated. Concert attire is black and white professional attire. Black pants or knee length skirt, white dress shirt, and black dress shoes.