MT. VERNON HIGH SCHOOL

2024-25 Band Program Handbook

8112 N 200 W, Fortville, IN 46040

mtvernonbands.com 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

“Can you take band every year and receive a Core 40 diploma!?”

YES!!!

Sample Four-Year Plan – Core 40

This table provides a recommended list of courses to take each year. You will not necessarily take a certain class during the quarter or year shown on the table.

~ This table has been reviewed and approved by the Mt. Vernon High School Guidance Office. ~

Students can earn a Core 40 diploma while enrolled in band each year and have 19 quarters available for additional electives!!!

See the inside back cover for an example Core 40 w/ Academic Honors diploma schedule.

“Can you take band every year and receive an Academic Honors diploma!?”

YES!!!

Sample Four-Year Plan – Core 40 w/ Academic Honors

This table provides a recommended list of courses to take each year. You will not necessarily take a certain class during the quarter or year shown on the table.

~ This table has been reviewed and approved by the Mt. Vernon High School Guidance Office. ~

Students can earn a Core 40 With Academic Honors diploma while enrolled in band each year and have up to 6 quarters available for additional electives!!!

See the inside front cover for an example Core 40 diploma schedule. 

Greetings!

Welcome to the start of another fantastic year at Mt. Vernon High School! It will be a year full of excitement, hard work, fun, travel, and new opportunities for growth. We will come together as parents, students, and staff to work towards a common goal of education, excellence, and making music. Our mission is to provide our students with the tools and resources needed to succeed, while developing a lifelong love of music. We believe in empowering our students to achieve their dreams through the development of positive relationships, compassion, respect, and leadership through music. We are excited you have chosen to participate in the band and look forward to working with you to provide life-changing experiences!

This handbook contains all necessary information for our students to enjoy a successful year in the band program. The final pages are to be filled out and returned by the designated due dates. If you have any questions regarding the information provided in this handbook, please do not hesitate to contact any of the individuals listed at the bottom of this page.

Let’s have a great year of making music at Mt. Vernon High School!

Dr. Kathryn D. Spangler

Director of Bands

kathryn.spangler@mvcsc.k12.in.us

Mt. Vernon Community Schools

Music Boosters Contact Information

Administrative Assistant

Karen Cole                                        317-485-3131                        karen.cole@mvcsc.k12.in.us

Booster Officers

President                                        Tracy Paris                        tracparis3@gmail.com 

President Elect                                Vacant                                                                        Vice President        of Programs                        Michelle Tooke                    mtooke75@gmail.com 

Treasurer (Student Accounts)                        Karen Cole                        karen.cole@mvcsc.k12.in.us

Secretary                                        Amanda Allton                    amandaallton80@gmail.com 

Band Booster Committee Positions

Volunteer Coordinator                                

Fundraising Coordinator                                                                                                

Equip./Props/Maintenance Coordinator                                

Hospitality Coordinator                        

Uniform Coordinator                                

SCRIP Coordinator                                                        

Spirit Coordinator

Mt. Vernon High School Band Opportunities

NOTE: Most ensembles will have a brief addendum to this handbook provided at the start of each activity.

CONCERT BANDS – Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band  MVHS has two ability based concert bands to meet the needs of each student’s musical development. Students must audition in the spring for ensemble placement in August and November for ensemble placement in January. Our concert bands perform many times throughout the school year and participate at the ISSMA Organizational Festival every spring. Students will have the opportunity to work with guest clinicians, guest conductors, and other outside experts in the field of music. We end our school year with ‘Extravaganza’, which has been held annually since 1964.

‘BAND OF MARAUDERS’ MARCHING BAND  The ‘Band of Marauders’ is one of the most exciting and visible performing ensembles offered at MVHS. During the summer, the ensemble begins rehearsing the new show, which blends exciting music with unique visuals. Students will have the opportunity to compete with other bands from around the state at various marching invitationals and official ISSMA (Indiana State School Music Association) competitions. To be a member of the Marching Band, the student must be enrolled in a concert band class.

JAZZ BAND  A smaller performing group focusing on the styles of swing, bebop, rock, and funk. Students involved in jazz band work on the development of basic jazz and pop styles, as well as solo development and improvisation. The jazz band performs at concerts, the ISSMA Jazz Festivals, and other events. To be a member of the Jazz Band, the student must be enrolled in a concert band class.

PEP BAND  Pep band is a voluntary group that performs at varsity men’s and women’s basketball games. The music is fast-paced and fun! To be a member of the Pep Band, the student must be enrolled in a concert band class.

WINTER PERCUSSION PROGRAM  Our winter percussion program begins shortly after the conclusion of our marching band season. This ensemble offers percussion and select non-percussion students an opportunity to prepare a performance focusing solely on percussion instruments. The winter percussion ensemble performs during the spring semester at concerts, basketball games, and competes in the IPA (Indiana Percussion Association). Additional fees are required as set forth by the staff and booster organization. To be a member of the Winter Percussion Program, the student must have been a wind, percussion, or color guard member of the Band of Marauders marching band or a member of the MVMS band program and be enrolled in a concert band class.

WINTER GUARD PROGRAM – Varsity Guard/JV Guard  As an extension of the Band program, JV and Varsity winter guard, offers additional pageantry arts training through the winter months. Auditions are open to any MVCSC student who auditions for color guard. This voluntary performance ensemble dances and manipulates equipment (Flag, Saber and Rifle) to music, capturing expressive and dynamic dance qualities. Additional fees are required as set forth by the staff and booster organization. The winter guard travels frequently on weekends and competes throughout the nation. To be a member of the Varsity Guard, the student must have been a wind, percussion, or color guard member of the fall guard (part of the Band of Marauders).

PIT ORCHESTRA  MVHS band students and professional musicians make up the pit orchestra for our musical(s). This ensemble typically begins preparing music two months prior to opening night. The theater department may hold a musical in the fall, spring, or both seasons. To be a member of the Pit Orchestra, the student must be enrolled in a concert band class.

STEEL PAN PROGRAM  The steel pan program is a unique ensemble offered at MVHS. Typically called a “steel drum,” these instruments are well-suited to perform various musical genres. This ensemble performs calypso and soco styles, original music created for these instruments, but also performs pop and jazz music. Mt. Vernon is fortunate to be one of few high schools in the state of Indiana with a steel pan program. It is a very popular, fun, and engaging ensemble! To be a member of the Steel Band Program, the student must be enrolled in a concert band class.

Website

mtvernonbands.com

Please visit our website frequently for updates and information regarding the band program. The website contains information including, calendars, online fee payment, staff bios, background check link, itineraries, and more.

How To Pay Fees

Online Fee Center

mtvernonbands.com

When visiting the website follow the pay student fees link on the home page. Parents may use this website to pay band fees online; all payments are deposited directly into your child’s band account. The available fees rotate as ensembles start and end throughout the school year. Make sure to choose the appropriate activity for which the fees should be applied. Please allow a few days for the Music Boosters treasurer to transfer money to the appropriate account.

A note about transaction fees

All credit card payments incur a credit card transaction fee of 2.6%. This fee is added to each credit card based payment option. All organizations/companies accepting credit card payments are assessed fees by credit card companies for every transaction. Unlike large corporations, we do not have the resources to cover these fees. Please understand our need to pass this cost on to you for the convenience of accepting payments via credit cards.

Deposit Box

Checks payable to “MVMB” (Mt. Vernon Music Boosters)

Cash, checks, and money orders can be placed in the deposit box located on the wall to the right of the music office. The Music Booster treasurer and the administrative assistant are the only two individuals with a key to this box and it is checked regularly. Please allow a few days for the treasurer to transfer money to your student’s account, payments will be reflected on your monthly statement.  If you do not receive a statement, please check with the booster treasurer or secretary to ensure that we have a good email on file for you. Statements are emailed monthly and will not be printed and mailed.

Envelopes are available at the deposit box to indicate the student, activity, and amount enclosed for each payment. Envelopes must be filled out completely to ensure the included money is appropriately assigned..

Financial Assistance

There are numerous fundraising opportunities to help raise funds to pay student fees, however sometimes everyone needs a little extra help. If you are in need of financial assistance, please fill out the financial assistance form on the band website.

Account Credits

When your child exits the program and has a credit in their account (reflected as a negative number on your statement), there are several options available to determine where that money goes. A refund is not an option; however, you may choose one of the options below:

• Hold funds in the account for any future children in your family that may enter the program
• Transfer to the Make a Difference Fund
• Transfer to another student within the program

Please email or send a written request to the booster treasurer to indicate which option you have chosen for your student’s credit. Requests must be received in writing or via email.

Mt. Vernon Music Boosters Financial Policies

The Music Boosters work very hard to keep fees as low as possible and work with families encountering financial hardships. The following financial policies have been created with the best interest of the band program, students, parents, and the executive booster officers in mind.

1. A student will not be permitted to join an extracurricular ensemble if they have past due fees from any previous ensemble. Extracurricular ensembles include: Marching Band, Color Guard, Winter Guard, Steel Pan, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Cadet Guard, and any other extra-curricular ensembles throughout the course of the school year. This also affects any sibling(s) that may want to participate.

2. A payment plan will be available for any ensemble with a fee over $100, determined and set by the executive board. The list of payment amounts and payment due dates will be available on the website, mtvernonbands.com, for each ensemble. A parent or guardian must sign the payment plan and return all necessary paperwork to the booster secretary or booster treasurer along with the first non-refundable payment. Payment for any necessary accessories that need to be purchased through the boosters is due at this time as well. This first payment acts as a deposit for the ensemble and must be submitted on time.

3. The Mt. Vernon Music Boosters offer an extended payment plan for families communicating the need for smaller payments over a longer period of time. This extended payment program can be done weekly or monthly. Each family requesting an extended payment plan must be in good standing with their student’s past fees and must make the first non-refundable payment in full for each new ensemble in which their student is enrolled. Extended payment plans are unique to each family’s situation. A signed payment agreement will be completed between the parent and the current Mt. Vernon Music Boosters Treasurer and the Director of Bands. The treasurer will track all payments made on the extended plan as well as give notice to the family when the payment plan has been completed. All of the above policies still apply to families utilizing an extended payment program.

4. In the event a family/individual is unable to fulfill the fundraising activity they are assigned, they must identify a replacement(s) for the slots they are unable to complete. If they do not have a replacement or just cause for canceling, a fine will be incurred on your child's account commensurate with the amount lost due to lack of fulfilling the obligation.

5. Families will be sent written notice requesting payment for unpaid fees 30 and 60 days after any due date. Student accounts with large outstanding balances, a lack of payment plan, failure to meet the requirements of an established payment plan, lack of communication with the Music Boosters to bring an account current, and/or intentionally failing to make payments may be subject to reporting to a collections agency. These policies are in line with financial policies established by the Mt.Vernon Community School Corporation.  Students may also be prevented from performing if outstanding fees exist in accordance to specific performing ensembles at the discretion of the Director of Bands.
   
6. Refunds are not given due to the nature of fundraising and the tax implications that would result.  Options for credits are addressed in the fee payment section of this handbook.

Mt. Vernon Music Boosters

We are fortunate to have an active and productive band booster organization, which raises thousands of dollars each year to help offset the cost of marching band and other band activities. This organization is an official 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization. Contact information for our Music Booster Executive Board can be found on Page 5.

Fundraisers

The more WE fundraise, the lower our fees!

The more YOU fundraise, the less paid out-of-pocket!

On-going/Event-Based Fundraisers

-These fundraisers drop fees by hundreds of dollars

Traditional Annual Fundraisers (not a complete list and subject to change)

Student Expectations

1. BE PROFESSIONAL This encompasses everything we do during rehearsal, individual practice, and performance. This includes supporting each other’s musical training and holding yourself to a standard of excellence in the community at all times.

WORK HARD – Nothing in life comes without hard work, work hard and success will follow.

BE NICE – You never know what another person may be going through and we all have good and bad days. Be nice to each other, parents, and staff!

#LOVEMUSIC – Continue to enjoy music throughout your life, always!

2. RESPECT YOUR INSTRUMENT Keeping your instrument in good working order is paramount to creating quality sounds. Failure to properly maintain your instrument completely nullifies any attempts to create the best possible sounds. If you are using a school-owned instrument, treat it as though it were your own. Keep your instrument clean and polished, put it properly in its case, store the case appropriately, and have all necessary repairs made in a timely manner.

3. RESPECT YOUR FACILITY This is your school. Mt. Vernon is extremely fortunate to have one of the most state-of-the-art music facilities in Indiana. All students, parents, and staff are expected to pick up after themselves, store instruments in the proper location, and not bring food or drink into the performing arts area. Storage areas in the band room will be used for instruments and band equipment only. Please note that personal items (such as clothing, books, and other class materials) may not be stored in your band locker outside of class or rehearsal time. Also, the only items permitted in a rehearsal setting are those required for rehearsal. Instrument cases, other school materials, and all other miscellaneous items must be in your locker or the instrument locker room during rehearsal (NOT IN THE BAND ROOM).

4. RESPECT EACH OTHER Showing respect for one another at all times is critical to our growth and success. During rehearsals and performances, do not worry about anyone other than yourself. Showing respect for each other, your instrument, each other’s instrument, and each other’s personal property is a priority.

5. LEARN YOUR MUSIC/WORK Students are expected to prepare notes and rhythms during personal practice time outside of class. Failure to do so hinders our growth and success.

The following are examples of what it means to be professional:

• Be ON TIME. “To be on time is to be late. To be early is to be on time.”
• Be prepared for rehearsal. This includes having the proper materials and a positive attitude.
• Remain quiet during rehearsal. This allows those being addressed to focus on improvement.
• Always mind what you say when representing the band. Profanity is NOT tolerated.
• Extend respect to those outside the band. Leave a positive impression in the mind of others.
• Kindness can have the most profound impact of all. If you have nothing nice to say, keep it to yourself. If you will brighten someone’s day…say it!

Performance Attendance Policy

Performances are REQUIRED. Excused absences for a concert will be handled on a case-by-case basis. These must be established at least two weeks before the performance in question and can be granted or denied at the discretion of the band director. Extenuating circumstances existing within the two-week period will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

For curricular courses, each unexcused absence from a performance will result in a two-letter grade deduction from the final nine-weeks’ grade. Non-curricular courses will have consequences such as, but not limited to: inability to perform at the next performance and/or removal from the activity (without refund). Performances are REQUIRED. Plan ahead!

Examples of excused absences:

• Funerals for a family member (documentation may be required)
• Illness/injuries (documentation by the attending physician is required)
• Activities sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (accepted only with prior attempts to work around the conflict)

Examples of unexcused absences:

MVCSC-Band/Sports Conflict Resolution Policies

The following policies have been approved by the Principal, Athletic Director, and Director of Bands. Use these policies to determine which event you will attend (the sport, the band event, or both).

• It is the student’s responsibility to notify a coach and the band director of conflicts as soon as possible.
• An overlapping band practice and team practice will utilize a 50/50 split in time.
• A game/meet takes precedence over a band practice.
• A band competition/performance takes precedence over a team practice.
• An ISSMA event (marching band, concert band, etc) takes precedence over a regular-season game/meet.
• If a conflict occurs between a conference or play-off and an ISSMA event, the coach and band director will determine which activity the student will attend (we will try to get them to both events if possible, even if this means missing the band’s practice, the sport's practice, or both).
• Students involved in home varsity football games (football, cheerleading, or dance) will participate in football, cheerleading, or dance during the game and participate in the halftime performance with the band.

PLEASE NOTE:

Parents may be responsible for providing transportation between activities when two events occur the same day.

Social Media Policy

While using any form of social media, please adhere to the following policies. These guidelines are designed to help our program maintain a professional and positive public image. It also helps maintain a collegial atmosphere throughout rehearsals.

Keep in mind that whatever you say on the internet is permanently and irreversibly available for anyone to view worldwide for the remainder of human history. This includes everything you delete and everything you post privately.

• Band members and adults connected to the Mt. Vernon Bands should not make statements that could be misunderstood as official policy of the band program.
• Band members and adults connected to the Mt. Vernon Bands should avoid escalating drama and spreading rumors about members of the band or the band as a whole.
• Making comments promoting poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated.
• Racial, sexist, homophobic, anti-religious, and any other inflammatory content directed toward ANY individual or organization will not be tolerated.
• Harassment or threats of violence made by a student or adult connected to the Mt.Vernon Bands toward anyone connected to the band department or any other organization will not be tolerated.
• Sexually explicit comments directed toward ANY individual or organization will not be tolerated.

Travel/Bus Guidelines

Traveling to performances inside and outside of the Mt. Vernon High School community is a privilege that all marching band members will experience. This is not a privilege to be abused. Each band member must realize that personal behavior is a direct reflection on the band program at all times. All Mt. Vernon High School band members shall follow all band, school, county, state, and federal laws while on a trip. Students must have a current travel permission slip and medical information sheet on file to travel with the band.

Students will travel in pairs, no exceptions will be made!

Acceptable Bus Carry-On Items:

• All items must fit in your seat

Each bus driver will ultimately determine what is acceptable for his/her bus. Each individual bus driver may disallow items deemed acceptable for bus travel by the band program.

Uniform Guidelines

GARMENT BAG

The following items should be hung inside your garment bag (for traditional uniform):

1.        Bibbers - bibbers should be folded along the crease (line up inside seams and fold in half over the

hanger).

2.        Jacket - jacket should be hung with the hanger curving forward and zipped in the back to ensure it stays

 secure.

GARMENT BAG ZIPPER POCKET

Only the following items should be placed in your zipper pocket.  ABSOLUTELY NO SHOES!

1.        Gauntlets (2)

2.        Gloves

3.        Hair Ties, bobby pins

4.        Extra pair of long black socks

Garment bags must be zipped up before placing it on the cart or in the uniform room.  Place your bag on the cart or in your section in the uniform room facing the front where your name tag can be read.  

SHOES

Once they are issued by the uniform committee, shoes are the responsibility of the marcher.  It is the student’s responsibility to remember to bring them for football games and competitions and keep them clean.  Marchers are also responsible for their own long black socks, with no color on the heels.

UNDERGARMENTS

Because there will be times the students need to change in/out of their uniforms in a parking lot or on the bus, students need to wear clothing under their uniforms. Marchers are expected to wear their show shirts and a pair of black shorts under their bibbers. Please do not wear anything that will cause bunching of fabric or show through the bibbers.

SHAKOS/SHAKO WRAPS/HAIR

Shakos should be worn low and flat. Plumes and shako wraps will be passed out and secured by a member of the uniform committee. Plumes should not be touched without wearing gloves. Marchers with hair longer than the collar of the uniform will be required to secure their hair up under the shako in a very high bun/pony so that it can be tucked up under the shako. You are responsible for your own hair supplies. Plumes and shako wraps will be collected by the uniform committee at the end of any performance. When putting your shako away, they should be placed upside down in the shako boxes to air out. You are responsible for your shako.  Shakos are not to be shared or traded. If there is an issue with your shako, see a member of the uniform committee.

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

No jewelry is to be worn with the uniform - this means earrings, nose rings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, visible gauges, etc. Once jewelry is removed a skin-matching bandage must be applied to the gauged body part.  

Fingernail polish and makeup are prohibited while in uniform.

No non-natural hair color (pink, green, purple, red, yellow, blue, etc.) for those in marching band. We do not want the color to bleed onto the Shakos or uniforms.  Color guard participants may be an exception, at the director’s discretion.  

NO food or drinks other than water when in uniform.  Absolutely no chewing gum is allowed.

LEADERSHIP TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES

Leaders must check their entire section in the uniform room to ensure uniforms are hung correctly. If you find that someone in your section has not hung their uniform correctly, please have them fix it. Garment bags and hangers must be back in the uniform room or on the cart after the band gets dressed or changes out of uniform on site.

As a representative of Mt. Vernon High School and the community as a whole, it is imperative that our behavior and appearance be nothing short of the highest demeanor.

Acceptable appearance will ultimately be determined, without question, by the band director.

Locks

Each band student will be provided with a school-owned lock to keep his or her equipment secure at all times. Students must keep their lock locked at all times. If a lock is lost or stolen, a $10 charge will be applied to the student’s band account to purchase a replacement lock. Students may not use their own lock.

Individually Owned Instruments

Instrument Care

Individually-owned instruments must be in good working condition at all times. Musicians cannot make high-quality sounds on their instrument if it is not in good working condition. Any damage or normal wear and tear must be tended to as soon as possible.

Liability

The school does not insure any privately owned equipment against loss, theft, and/or damage. We advise you to take out insurance on your instrument through a personal insurance organization in the event of loss and/or theft while the instrument is in use or stored at school. Be sure to keep a record of the make and serial number of your instrument and keep it in a safe place.

Instrument/Equipment Rental (School Owned)

Rental Fees are as follows:

School and/or booster owned instruments/equipment will be assessed by the MVCSC school district at the start of each school year and can be paid through e-funds.

All equipment owned by the school and borrowed by the student are the student’s responsibility. Loss or damage to this equipment due to neglect and/or carelessness will be repaired at the student’s expense. Band programs are extremely expensive to operate and maintain. Students should be aware of and considerate of the fact they are allowed to use school-owned equipment.

1. Students are responsible for all repairs due to neglect and/or carelessness.

1. Signs of neglect and/or carelessness are obvious to the trained eye. The band director and our primary instrument repair vendor, Paige’s Music, will make all final decisions regarding what is deemed neglectful and/or careless damage.
2. Neglect of an instrument may result in the student being denied usage of ANY and ALL band equipment for a length of time determined by the band director.

2. Instruments must be latched in their case and stored properly when not in use.
3. Any lost items from your instrument (mouthpieces, ligatures, percussion equipment, etc.) will be replaced at the expense of the student renting the instrument.
4. The only person permitted to play a school-owned instrument is the student renting the instrument. This includes percussion equipment.
5. Use of school-owned equipment is restricted to Mt. Vernon High School band activities and cannot be used for rock bands or other special activities without consent from the band director. Violation of this policy will automatically result in the student being denied usage of ANY and ALL band equipment for a length of time determined by the band director.
6. Certain school-owned brass instruments must be handled with gloves at all times by students. Gloves cost $5.00 and may be purchased from the band office.

Instruments Requiring Gloves

-Marching Mellophone

-Marching Baritone

-Contra (Marching Tuba)

Drug, Alcohol, and Controlled Substance Policy

Use or possession of any tobacco product, vaping products,  alcoholic beverage, controlled substance, and/or drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited and will be grounds for dismissal from the band program. Students found with these substances will be referred to the Mt. Vernon High School Guidance Department for rehabilitation. Furthermore, immediate notification will be made with parents, school administrators, and the proper authorities. Use of any illegal substances on any trip will result in the student being sent home at the expense of the student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s).

Letter Jacket Requirements

General Policies

Students may purchase a letter jacket at any time. This is at the cost of each family. Patches and letters are awarded once earned. These are free for families. However, should a patch be lost it can be purchased at cost. Numbers denoting graduation year for letter jackets can be purchased for $3.50 each ($7 for both numbers). Fees must be paid in full in order to receive any chevron/letter/ensemble patch. Other miscellaneous patches are available for purchase throughout the year from the respective organization (ISSMA, IHSGCA, IPA, IBA, WGI, etc.).

Band Program Patches

Earning Patches

BAND LETTER        Awarded by earning 125 merit points through band program participation (see below).                                 Students will earn a gold chevron for each additional letter earned.

CHEVRONS                Earned for each year of participation in the Mt. Vernon High School band program.

                        A gold chevron is earned for each additional letter earned.

ENSEMBLES                Earned by completing one full season with an ensemble. Fees must be paid in full.

Earning Your Letter  Students letter in band by earning 125 points through band participation. Students will earn a gold chevron for each additional letter earned. Students will fill out the form once a year and submit for tracking in our system. Points are earned once the event has reached full completion. False information may result in the inability to earn additional merit points. Students can only receive credit for one year of middle school participation.

-Earn 125 merit points to letter in band-

-Students will earn a GOLD CHEVRON for each additional letter earned-

-All ensemble and activity points can be earned multiple times

-Example: 3 years of pep band will equal 45 points

-Points can be earned prior to high school for ensembles and activities with an asterisk (*)

-Example: Winter guard participation in grades 9, 10, and 11 results in 75 points

CONCERT BAND

INFORMATION

Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band Class Fees

Yearly Fee = $50/Student

Student fees for concert bands are set at $50 per student. This fee will cover entrance fees for the ISSMA Organizational Festival, travel expenses, compensation for guest clinicians/conductors, and other miscellaneous expenses incurred throughout the school year. This fee is separate from student fees assessed by the school district, instrument rental fees (please see the “School-Owned Instruments” section for more information), and method book purchases.

Grading Policy

-for Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band -

Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band grades are earned through a combination of playing assessments, written analyses and reflections, daily participation, concert and contest performances, and other rhythmic notation exercises. Please consult the coordinating Canvas page for more details on assessments and grades.

Playing Assessments

Playing assessments will be administered throughout the school year. Playing assessments will  occur via recorded submissions utilizing Flip or recording videos on Chromebooks and uploading to Canvas. Students may continue to re-submit an assessment through the end of each quarter to improve their grade. This is only possible IF the student submits the original assignment on time.

Other assignments will occur periodically throughout the school year. These assignments may include but are not limited to: recording analysis, listening activities, music worksheets, and eLearning assignments.

Cell Phone Policy

In accordance with the State of Indiana and the Mt.Vernon Community School Corporation, cell phones will not be permitted in the band room during instructional time or SRT. When entering the band room for class, students should take a tuner from the pocket organizer and replace it with their cell phone. At the end of the class period when putting instruments away, students will return the tuner and retrieve their cell phone. Students should handle their cell phone ONLY.

Any student refusing to place their phone in the designated pockets at the start of class will be referred to the office.

Private Instruction

One of the most effective ways to improve as a musician is through private lessons. There is no substitute for individualized instruction by an instrumental specialist. Private instructors serve as an ideal model and mentor to assist in your child’s improvement in the areas of tone, technique, and general musicianship. The small investment in them helps insure success on your instrument. If you want more information about private lessons, please contact the band director as soon as possible. We will have private lesson instructors available during the school day for all instruments.

Private lessons occur during band class, study hall, SRT, or before/after school. The cost for private lessons is $25 a week and is paid directly to the private instructor. Lessons will begin the second week of school, information will be sent from individual private lesson instructors during the first week of school.

“What is a private music lesson?”

A professional musician who is an expert at the same instrument your child plays tutors your son and/or daughter.  These occur, ideally, once per week, but can occur at different intervals if needed.

“Can lessons fit in my child’s busy schedule? What about my work schedule?”

Private lesson times can be very flexible.  Some instructors are even available to teach a lesson during your child’s band class!

Recommended/Required Equipment – Winds/Percussion

This page includes required and recommended equipment for use at the high school level. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for students to purchase these items. For winds, a mouthpiece is one of the most important investments a musician can make when considering the overall sound production on their instrument. For percussion they will be required to have basic sticks/mallets and something to practice on at home.

An instrument cannot have a characteristic sound without the proper mouthpiece. The listed percussion equipment is required for all percussionists.

The equipment we use in middle school is designed to make playing easier for beginners. It sacrifices the ability to make a great sound for being easier to create any sound. Now that we are in high school, it is time to upgrade our equipment. This starts with upgrading the mouthpiece for winds/sticks and mallets for percussionists. Contact Paige’s Music or your band director for more information.

Woodwind Mouthpieces                                                Brass Mouthpieces

Clarinet        Vandoren M30                                                Trumpet        Bach 5C or Bach 3C

Bass Clarinet        Vandoren B45                                                French Horn        Holton Farkas MC or MDC

Alto Sax        Vandoren AL3                                                Trombone        Bach 6.5AL or Bach 5G

Tenor Sax        Vandoren TL4                                                Euphonium        Schilke 51D

Bari Sax        Rousseau 5R                                                Tuba                Conn Helleberg

Percussion- REQUIRED Sticks/Mallets

Innovative Percussion – FP-2 Intermediate Pack

OR

Innovative Percussion – IP240 Medium Marimba Mallets, 1 Pair

Innovative Percussion – IP902 Medium Soft Xylo/Bell Mallets, 1 Pair

Innovative Percussion – GT-3 General Timpani Mallets – Medium, 1 Pair

Innovative Percussion – IPLD Lalo Davila Drumsticks, 1 Pair

Innovative Percussion – SB3 Stick Bag, 1

Supplemental Percussion List

Innovative Percussion – IP240 Medium Marimba Mallets, 2 Pair

Innovative Percussion – FS-MM Mike McIntosh Marching Drum Sticks

Innovative Percussion – WBR-1 Wire Brushes

Innovative Percussion – IP100 Soft Marimba Mallets

Innovative Percussion – IP200 Medium Soft Marimba Mallets

Innovative Percussion – IP275 Medium Hard Legao Marimba Mallets

Innovative Percussion – IP300 Medium Hard Marimba Mallets

Innovative Percussion – IP400 Hard Marimba Mallets

Innovative Percussion – GT-1 General Timpani Mallets – Soft

Innovative Percussion – GT-2 General Timpani Mallets – Medium Soft

Innovative Percussion – GT-4 General Timpani Mallets – Hard

Innovative Percussion – GT-5 General Timpani Mallets – Ultra Staccato

Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band Concert Attire

Professional dress is an important part of performance, if you have a concern about concert attire please speak to Dr. Spangler well in advance of any performance. Unless noted otherwise, any student may choose either Option 1 or Option 2 (please note the delineations for wind ensemble or symphonic band.) No jewelry should be worn with either option.

Option 1

• Black Tuxedo (provided for Wind Ensemble members–jacket, pants, and bow tie)
• White Dress Shirt (Wind Ensemble)
• Black Dress Shirt (Symphonic Band ONLY)
• Black Dress Pants (Symphonic Band ONLY)
• Black Socks
• Black Shoes
• Black Belt
• Black Neck Tie (Symphonic Band ONLY – bowties are not acceptable)

Option 2

• Black Concert Dress is provided for both Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band
• Black Shoes (moderate heels acceptable)

The band director will make all final decisions regarding concert attire.

Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band Event Calendar

• Check your email or Canvas for a PDF calendar during the first week of school. Please post it where you can see it!
• Itineraries for all trips will be posted on our website, Canvas, and the Band app. We will NOT hand out hard copies.
• Locations subject to change (The online Master Calendar is kept up-to-date. Please check regularly – mtvernonbands.com)

NOTE: Commencement is REQUIRED for all non-seniors. This expectation is set by the school district.

Join the Band App to keep up to date on all things band by scanning the QR code below.

BAND

OF

MARAUDERS

INFORMATION

‘Band of Marauders’ Marching Band Fees

Each student is responsible for his or her fair share of the band budget. The music booster organization is a federally recognized non-profit organization and must pay bills professionally and on time. All families must pay fees by the dates listed to provide the necessary cash flow for our programs. If at any time you experience difficulty meeting the payment schedule, please contact our booster treasurer. It is important to have communication between families and the music boosters regarding payments. We will work with you on an alternative payment schedule if it will help with your financial hardships.

If students quit marching band AFTER JUNE 1, 2024 they are still responsible for the full marching band fee.

 Below is how band fees are determined.

Item                                Cost Per Student

Instructional Staff/Materials        $546

Equipment/Props/Flags                $160

Show Design                        $74

Driver Costs                        $85

Bus Transportation                $29

Show Entry Fees                $26                

Student Show Shirts                $15

Music Copyright Fees                $25

Food/Spirit                        $30

Total                                $990

MVMB Booster Contribution    $90 per student

TOTAL STUDENT FEE OWED: $900

Fee-Reduction Possibilities – Applied once per school year

Free Lunch/School Fees:        $75 Fee Reduction (does not apply to previous seasons) per student

Reduced Lunch/School Fees:         $75 Fee Reduction (does not apply to previous seasons) per student

Multiple Children:                $50 Fee Reduction (1st child pays full fee) per family

Discount will only be applied to one student per family per year.  

Note: For free/reduced fee reductions, the family must be enrolled in Mt. Vernon’s free/reduced lunch program. “Qualifying” for the free/reduced lunch plan but not participating will not result in a reduced marching band fee. The band director will be the only individual with a list of students on these plans. Specific financial information will NOT be released to the band director.

Miscellaneous Fees        (Based on your registration, an invoice will be sent to each student to cover accessories)        

+Additional Guard Items include, but not limited to, warmups, body tights, flag bag, backpack

*Prices are subject to change, these are estimates from the previous season.

Marching Band Required Materials

Practices taking place over the summer are where the vast majority of our music is prepared and where we have the most time to learn and refine our marching technique. This is also a time to learn our drill and choreography (how and when we move around the field). It is critical to our success that all students bring a select set of equipment to make their process as efficient and safe as possible. Wind players must play a wind instrument, no wind players shall be permitted to play in the percussion sections or color guard due to the need to balance the ensemble – all wind players participating in marching band are eligible to participate in the varsity winter guard or the indoor percussion ensemble.

Meal Times and Information

• Lunch will take place from 12-1pm each day.
• Students need to bring their own lunch.
• During meal times students are NOT permitted to leave campus.

Winds and percussion students must always have the materials listed below with them at all rehearsals. The guard will also have required materials for all rehearsals as set by the guard director.

Appropriate/Smart Attire - Indiana summers are hot, chilly, humid, dry, rainy, windy, and all-around unpredictably unpleasant. Check the weather, plan accordingly. Our visual program requires clothing that allows freedom and movement.

Athletic shorts and t-shirts are ideal.  Students may wear comfortable clothing for outdoor rehearsals, but all students are required to wear a t-shirt while inside the building.  NO JEANS OR KHAKIS

NOTE: Parents, please understand rehearsals have been known to exceed 90-degrees in direct sunlight with high humidity and no wind. We will permit students to remain reasonably comfortable while outside in accordance with and in line with MVHS Co-Ed Athletic Program clothing guidelines. Muscle shirts and tank tops are acceptable; students will not be permitted to remove their shirt at any time – this is in accordance with the MVHS Co-Ed Athletic guidelines.

COMMUNICATION

Canvas, Email (Parent Square), Band Website, Newsletter, and the Band App. Information will be sent through these methods, but the Band App will be utilized the most, particularly for students. Please join asap if you haven't yet. Download the Band App and then scan this QR code to join our group.

Brass Only: Black Gloves

• Gloves are available from the directors for $5/pair and help shield the instrument’s lacquer from our oily/sweaty skin.

Students will have fun over the summer!  While most of our time will be spent practicing, we do have fun! Although hazing is not permitted, some pranks do pop up. The band is heavily supervised at all times. The things that happen are good-natured and done in fun (for example: The Band Leadership Team will create themed clothing days).

The Top 14 Things You Should Know as a Band Student

Band members share wisdom and survival tips:

14. ALWAYS be on time, which really means 10-15 minutes early.

13. Remain quiet and listen to instructions.

12. Show respect to everyone.

11. Don’t expect to know everything the first day–even band veterans still have things to learn.

10. Take things seriously, but not too seriously.

9.        We are very good at what we do because we can focus when we need to.

8.        Stay well rested, fed, and hydrated.

7.        Always have all necessary materials on you or close enough that you can get them quickly.

6.        Know how to work, but also know how to relax. Know the two NEVER occur at the same time. EVER.

5.        Keep up on your schoolwork. Take every opportunity to do your homework...on the bus, extra time in         class, at appointments – do whatever it takes. It is possible to be successful at school, a job, and         marching band at the same time (ask the veterans for help!).

4.        You will be called on to answer something eventually. Don’t be afraid. When it happens, just speak up         and don’t worry about being wrong–this is a safe space!

3.        You will be acknowledged for being wrong eventually. Don’t be afraid and do not respond. Do not take it         personally; reflect, assess, address, and improve.

2.        Trust the process.

1.        You can do this!!

Additional Parent Considerations

Drop-Off Times

Band members should be on the field (or at their designated rehearsal space) with all necessary equipment, ready to go by the time rehearsal starts. Please plan on having your child at the school at least 15 minutes before the start of rehearsal. Occasionally, a section will have an earlier-than-usual start time. Your child should know about this in advance and keep you informed.

Pick-Up Times

Students will always be dismissed at the designated time each rehearsal ends. If a rehearsal ends at 8:30pm, this means the students will be dismissed at 8:30pm. Students will still need to put equipment away, but they will leave the field at the designated time each rehearsal ends and will never be held over for any reason.

 MT. VERNON HIGH SCHOOL

2024-25 Band Program Handbook

Received and read acknowledgement

Once you and your student have read through this handbook, please sign below and turn into the band directors.  This is required by the band directors.

_____________________________________                _____________________________________

Student Name                                                Student Signature

_____________________________________                _____________________________________

Parent Name                                                Parent Signature

_____________________________________

Date Signed