Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.

1. When does band rehearse?
2. What are sectionals? When are they? Do I have to go?
3. Does everyone go to Hershey Park?
4. Do I have to go to my band's Winter and Spring concerts?
5. I'm in chorus. Will I be excused from band rehearsal that day?
6. What are the band expectations?
7. What should I remember during rehearsals and sectionals?
8. I lost my mouthpiece and it is school property. What happens now?
9. What happens if I am not following expectations?
10. Do I need to buy the method book?
11. Will there be an audition for seat placement?
12. Do I have to take private lessons?
13. Do I really have to practice every day?
14. How do I dress for the concert?
15. How can I contact Ms. Miranda?
16. I want to know more about Jazz Band...
17. What happens if I miss sectional and a quiz was given?

When does band rehearse?

Concert Band rehearses every day during 9th Period.
Symphonic Band rehearses every day during "Pack Time".

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What are sectionals? When are they? Do I have to go?

Sectionals are 45 min. classes that consist of a small group of students. 
During sectionals, students have the opportunity to work on tone, technique, 
and music on a more individualized basis. Sectionals are once a week. There 
will always be a sectional schedule posted on the band room door. Students 
must attend sectionals. Each sectional is worth points! Students are only
excused if they have a test or are absent. Students must inform me if they are
unable to attend sectionals due to a test.

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Does everyone go to Hershey Park?

Symphonic Band has the opportunity to participate in the Hershey Park 
Festival. This trip is scheduled for May 2010. This trip is a reward for 
students who are respectful, responsible, and committed to band. Students 
who do not fulfill these expectations will not be able to attend. The Jazz
Band also participates in this festival.

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Do I have to go to my band's Winter and Spring concerts?

Students must participate in both concerts. Attendance to concerts is required
in order to participate in the band program.

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I'm in chorus. Will I be excused from band rehearsal that day?

Students who participate in chorus will be excused on that particular day 
from band rehearsal.

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What are the band expectations?

Students will be expected to:
Attend every rehearsal.
Attend sectionals.
Be prepared for class with: instrument, mouthpiece/reed, method book, music, 
folder, and pencil.
Complete all assignments.
Practice everyday.
RESPECT all students, staff, and property (stands, chairs, percussion 
instruments).
Have a POSITIVE Attitude!

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What should I remember during rehearsals and sectionals?

Be ready to begin as soon as Ms. Miranda flicks the lights (this means no 
playing or talking). This is the only way to have a productive rehearsal.
We will always warm up as a group. Silently practice fingerings or slide 
positions until the class is ready to begin.
Sit with good posture.
No gum, food, or drink of any kind is permitted in the band room.
Use courtesy by raising your hand. Only one person speaks at a time.
NEVER use another person's equipment.
Be sure to LABEL your instrument case, music, method book, and folder.

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I lost my mouthpiece and it is school property. What happens now?

Students who lose mouthpieces will be responsible of paying a replacement 
cost. This will pay for the replacement of the school mouthpiece. The 
mouthpiece will not be of the student's property. Students should contact 
Ms. Miranda for the exact amount and further instructions.

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What happens if I am not following expectations?

Students will lose daily points for not following expectations. Ms. Miranda 
will give the student a first warning. A second warning will mean contacting 
the parent. If the situation persists Ms. Miranda will consider asking the 
student to leave the ensemble. Infractions can and will be issued for 
persistent disruptions and disrespect.

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Do I need to buy the method book?

Every student should purchase a method book.

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Will there be an audition for seat placement?

Seat placement will be given based on ability and the needs of the ensemble. 
The director's decisions in this matter are final. Students will be 
evaluated during sectionals and rehearsals.

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Do I have to take private lessons?

Private lessons provide one on one attention with a private instructor who 
specializes on a certain instrument. They are always strongly encouraged.

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Do I really have to practice every day?

It is recommended that instruments be taken home daily for practice. 
Students who practice 30 minutes per day, 6 days per week will have the 
greatest success. Practice is vital to maitain and increase skills.

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How do I dress for the concert?

Students must wear standard concert dress:
Dark colored leather dress shoes (no sneakers)
White dress shirt/blouse (with collar)
Black pants and dark socks for boys
Black skirt or pants for girls

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How can I contact Ms. Miranda?

You can contact Ms. Miranda by e-mail at c_miranda@hcpss.org or by phone at 
410-313-6929.

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I want to know more about Jazz Band...

Jazz band is open to 7th and 8th grade students who pass an audition. Regular
rehearsals are
Wednesdays from 3-4PM. 

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What happens if I miss sectional and a quiz was given?

If you miss the day a quiz was given during sectional you must schedule a 
make-up day and time with Ms. Miranda for that same week.

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