General+Information

** __General Information__: **

 * All instruments and music must be stored in the assigned area. All members must have their instrument and music for each rehearsal or 3/5 points will be lost from the class participation grade for the day. Students are not permitted to play or handle any instrument other than their own. **ALL INSTRUMENT CASES MUST BE LABLED WITH STUDENT’S NAME. INSTRUMENTS MAY NOT BE KEPT IN YOUR HALL LOCKER!**


 * All instruments must go home at least one day a week.


 * Private lessons are always beneficial if the teacher has the proper credentials. Be sure to get lessons from a professional with a degree in music that majored on the instrument being taught. Contact me for a list of teachers. Time spent at private lessons counts as practice points!


 * Purchasing a new band instrument is an important investment. PLEASE beware of instruments that have a cheaper sticker price -- they look great, but there is a reason that they don't cost as much, and usually they develop major wear problems very quickly. Ask your private teacher or me about the brand you are considering. Don't just buy off the shelf at the local discount store or the internet. Get accurate information before you purchase!


 * Various honors bands are available for all Band members:

//PMEA Elementary Band Fest West//: Selection is based on my recommendation and the instrumentation of the ensemble. Only 5th & 6th Grade Band members are eligible.

//Allegheny Valley Honors Band// is based on audition and my recommendation, competing with students in grades 7, 8 & 9 from 8 local school districts.

//Northern Area Honors Band and the PMEA District 1 Honors Band//: Selection is based on my recommendation and the instrumentation of the ensemble. (8th Grade Students get highest priority)


 * A qualified instrument repairman makes weekly visits to the middle school. If your instrument is not working properly, please see me first. I can make many minor repairs at no cost to the parents. If it needs a professional repairman, I will send home a form to be filled out and returned with the instrument. Most repairs only take one week. //__Do not attempt to repair the instrument yourself!__//


 * Students who want to learn a different instrument have an opportunity to make the change during the middle school years. In 6th grade, I will be looking for new tuba, French horn and baritone horn players. These instruments are provided by the school district because of their higher cost and their importance to the sound of the band. Students will be selected after auditions are finished at the end of September. Only students with good practice habits will be considered. Many other factors enter into the decision including individual compatibility with the instrument chosen. Students or parents can talk to me personally about trying a different instrument.

Boys: Black pants, white shirt, tie (optional) dress shoes. Girls: Black pants, white shirt, dress shoes. //Please note change: pants only!//
 * Appropriate concert attire for all HMS Bands is required for all concerts: