PCFC

*Daily Requirements and Expectations (15 pts daily):*	Black, 1-inch, 3-ring binder: Add notebook paper for class notes and information. Folders will be collected and graded periodically to check that music is being correctly marked during rehearsals. Pencil: Orchestra members need to have a pencil ready in rehearsal at all times. Pencils should be kept in your music folder or instrument case. Your Instrument and Accessories: In good working condition! See www.evphil.issaquah.wednet.edu under “Sites” for a list of vendors. Students must also arrange for the transportation of their own instruments and music to and from events. Professional and Positive rehearsal behavior: The daily orchestra class is a rehearsal, and orchestra members are expected to exhibit behavior which would be acceptable in a professional orchestra rehearsal. Promptness: Orchestra members will be on time to class, be set-up, and have instruments tuned and music ready when the director is ready to begin the rehearsal (2 minutes). Gum, Food and Drinks are not allowed in the music room.
*Practice:*	At-home practicing is required for high school orchestra. I suggest about 30 minutes a day, 6 days a week or a variation that keeps a student practicing regularly and works within their schedule. We learn music at a much faster pace than in middle school, so it is not acceptable to use only rehearsal time to learn the music.
*Lessons:*	Private lessons are highly recommended. Our time in orchestra includes some instruction on the techniques of playing, but orchestra is not a group lesson class. Most of the time is spent working on the music that we perform. The demands of this music, and the level of playing required, mean that every student would benefit from the technical help that is only available through private lessons. Please see me if you are interested.
*Playing Tests:*	The grading scale includes an area for playing tests. These will be done during the class time. If a student is absent, they must make up the test when they return. Some tests might allow for students to record themselves at home or after school; students will be informed of these situations in advance.
*Musical Terms:*	Please see www.evphil.issaquah.wednet.edu for a list of musical terms that will appear in music and on tests throughout the year (semester finals, etc.).
*Performances:*	Performances are the ultimate goal of the orchestra and each member is expected to be in attendance for the complete concert at the appointed time, with their music, instrument, and the proper attire. Students are responsible for keeping their family calendars up-to-date to avoid conflicts.
*Performance Conflict Policy:*	If you have a PRIOR commitment that conflicts with a concert date, you must give me written notice of the conflict at least 10 days before the performance. This is important for your stand partner, your section, and the entire orchestra. You will certainly be missed, but if we can plan ahead, we can minimize the impact on everyone else. In the event of illness or family emergency, please call right away (837-5958) and leave a message if necessary. If a student cannot participate due to an unavoidable conflict, an alternate assignment will be made, typically a research paper. Arrangements for alternate assignments must be made well in advance, by the student. If a student misses a concert or rehearsal and does not follow the Performance Conflict Policy, points cannot be entirely made up.
*Uniform:*	Participation in the orchestra requires a performing uniform. Boys must rent a tuxedo for the school year. The cost is $80-100.00 for the year and all parts will be collected at the end of the school year. Measurements will be taken in class in September. If you are a parent who would like to help with measurements or hemming, please email me. Girls will be wearing solid black dress shirts and solid black dress pants or full length skirts. All students (male and female) must also purchase black dress shoes (closed toe) and black socks or panty hose. If the cost of the uniform items causes financial hardship, there are resources available for such a situation; please call, email, or see me privately.
*Extra Credit:*	A form will be available for students who attend live musical performances outside of our performance schedule. Extra credit is available only to students who have done all assignments and tests.