East River

Marching
Centaurs

Band 2015 Handbook

Daniel Ball, Director
919-***-****

Mission
Statement

madeup@eastriver.nc.edu

The mission of the East River High school

marching band is to create a family that excels
through the extraordinary performance of good
music. We seek to instill a sense of pride and
confidence, in all of our members, that will last
a lifetime.

Motto
Excellence through
perseverance

Table of Contents
THE EAST RIVER BAND PROGRAM...................................................4
Band Curriculum........................................................................................... 4
Band Classroom Rules.................................................................................. 5
Band Member Duties.................................................................................... 5
Private Lessons............................................................................................. 6
RESPONSIBILITIES.........................................................................7
Financial ResponsibilitiesThe Fair Share....................................................8
The Fair Share pays for:............................................................................... 9
The Winter Guard Fair Share pays for:.........................................................9
The Jazz Band Fair Share pays for:.............................................................10
POLICIES.....................................................................................10
Attendance Policy....................................................................................... 12
Injury and Illness........................................................................................ 13
Care of School Property.............................................................................. 13
Bus Transportation and Student Behavior..................................................13
Day/Overnight Band Trip Student Behavior................................................15
Keeping Everyone Informed and Up-to-DateHandling Forms..................16
Alcohol, Drug, and Tobacco Use.................................................................16
Sexual Harassment.................................................................................... 16
GRADING POLICY.........................................................................17
All Band Grading Policy.............................................................................. 17
Grading Procedure...................................................................................... 17
Make Up Policy:.......................................................................................... 18
Major Performances:................................................................................... 18
Uniforms/Equipment....................................................................19
Formal Dress Marching Uniform.................................................................19
Band Shoes................................................................................................. 20
Cotton Gloves/Wrist Bands.........................................................................20
Show Shirt.................................................................................................. 20
Wearing the Uniform.................................................................................. 20
Alterations.................................................................................................. 21
Uniform Decorum....................................................................................... 21
Maintenance............................................................................................... 22
Color Guard Uniform................................................................................... 22
Football Games............................................................................22
Marching Band Calendar..............................................................24
FORM TEMPLATES........................................................................28
Marching Band Budget.................................................................34

THE EAST RIVER BAND

PROGRAM
Band Curriculum
The East River Band program is comprised of various
groups and numerous opportunities to explore the area
of music. Alphabetically, they include:
Color Guard (CG) Open to all East River High School
students. In the fall, this group is the visual
interpretation of the marching band. Auditions are held
in April. The winter guard program provides
performance opportunities for its members through
participation in the Winter Guard International circuit.
Freshman Band (FB) This band consists of all the
freshmen band students. It is open to all East River
High School freshmen without audition. Freshmen are
highly encouraged to participate in marching band.
Placement for the two concert season bands, Freshman
Wind Ensemble and Freshman Symphonic Winds, occur
in December by audition.
Jazz Band (JB) Students develop jazz techniques and
study jazz literature. The Jazz Band consists of
saxophones, trumpets, trombones, tubas and a rhythm
section. Students must be a member of a regular band
or orchestra class, except for guitar, electric bass and
keyboard players (unless there is not an available band
member).
Marching Band (MB) - Fall Semester only. This class
is a credit class that will be used as a PE substitute.
Attendance will be taken and a grade will be given

based on participation and performance requirements,

this includes all performances and outside competitions.
Marching band is a 250-member group that includes
woodwinds, brass, percussion and color guard. This
group performs at all football games and at various
marching contests. Students must be in a concert band
or color guard class to be a member.
Wind Ensemble (WE)- Performing concert band.

Band Classroom Rules

There will be no food, drinks, or chewing gum in
the band hall, color guard hall, foyer, practice
rooms and orchestra room.
Non-members other than parents/guardians, East River
staff, and special guests are not allowed in the band
hall, color guard hall, foyer, practice rooms and
orchestra room. Practice rooms are for practicing only.
Studying and visiting are welcome in the band hall, but
not in the practice rooms.
Only band members and band staff will be allowed in
the band hall one hour prior to and one hour following
each football game. The large number of students and
the limited size of the band hall does not allow for extra
bodies when students are preparing for an event in a
short amount of time.
Students may play the piano if they are taking piano
lessons or have taken lessons. They must have practice
materials. Under no circumstances will the piano be
used for tables or storage shelves. No food or drinks
allowed on the piano.
Profanity will not be tolerated during rehearsals or in
the band hall area.Vandalism will receive administrative
consequences. Alcohol, drugs and tobacco use will not
be tolerated and will result in dismissal from the East
River Band program and will result in East River

Administration action.
No PDA allowed in the band hall, color guard hall,
band foyer, practice rooms or orchestra room.

Band Member Duties

Each East River Band member will:
1. Be on time to all rehearsals, sectionals, and
performances and announced meeting times. This
means arriving BEFORE the scheduled time, because:
EARLY IS ON TIME ON TIME IS LATE.
Your selection of clothing often sets the pattern for your
behavior. We require students to use good judgment and
modesty in selecting attire. Be clean, neat and dressed
appropriately.
Maintain a strong academic standing in all other course
work at schoolthe No Pass, No Play rule applies to
band. Make a real effort to learn and improve daily.
Become responsible for and expect to assume the
consequences of your actions.Follow all classroom rules,
school regulations, and all travel instructions issued for
trips.
Be honest and fair with others concerning equipment,
music, and school life in general.
Cooperate with fellow members and share with them
the responsibilities and privileges that are a part of the
East River Band program.
Contribute positively to your music education and that
of others by the best use of your talents.
Read and play music with insight and expression.
Improve your knowledge and understanding of music
theory, harmony and history, as well as develop good
listening habits.

Have their instrument, music, equipment, and attire for

every rehearsal and performance. A student without
this equipment will not march in the rehearsal and will
not be allowed to perform the next performance.
Have the proper uniform parts at every performance.
Maintain the upkeep and cleanliness of their
instrument.
Have proper respect for those in authority.
Talking and playing while at attention, at ease, or when
the Director is on the podium is not allowed unless
directed to do so. If, for any reason, a student is
dismissed for insubordination they may not perform the
next performance.
EAST RIVER BAND MEMBERS ARE EXPECTED TO
FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF THE DIRECTORS,
DRUM MAJORS, CAPTAINS, AND/OR SECTION
LEADERS.
Have all forms completed and returned in a timely
manner.

Private Lessons
Private lessons on a musical instrument will result in
increased advancement of performance skills. This oneto-one approach allows the student to benefit from the
undivided attention of the private lesson teacher.
We have found that the student will show greater
musical development and will be more inclined to adopt
a regular practice schedule when faced with a weekly
music lesson for which to prepare. We strongly
encourage our students to hire private lesson teachers.
All Wind Ensemble members are strongly encouraged to
take weekly private lessons. The Directors can assist
parents and guardians in locating a private instructor

that matches the ability and age level of the student.

Private instruction may take place at East River High
School. Student families are responsible for payments
and arrangements must be made with the private lesson
teacher. Private lesson teachers cannot be paid with
funds from the student account.

RESPONSIBILITIES
AS MEMBERS OF THIS ORGANIZATION, WE HAVE
MANY ASPIRATIONS, ACTIVITIES, AND
RESPONSIBILITIES. IT IS ESSENTIAL TO ANY
PROGRAM THAT IF CERTAIN EXPECTATIONS ARE TO
BE MET, THAT THEY COORDINATE WITH THE
PRIVILEGES, REWARDS AND DUTIES OF THAT
PROGRAM.

To Ourselves
You have the primary responsibility of developing your
own abilities. The benefit of a good playing instrument,
proper equipment and private instruction can never be
underestimated. What you put into it is what you get out
of it. The Directors are always available for your
guidance and encouragement.

To Music
Music has always been a part of our culture. We must
take what we have and use it for the betterment of that
culture. No one expects virtuoso musicians, but we do
expect that contributions are made to society. The great
composer Gustav Mahler once said that only 10% of a
piece of music is on the page. If that is the case, then
we as performers have the duty of finding, learning, and
producing the other 90%. The joy of music is not
everything that is apparent. It must be discovered and
created.

To Each Other
We must always do what is the best for the welfare of
the group. There can be no selfish acts solely for the
benefit of the individual, but for all. Respect each other.
If there are conflicts, find a way to resolve them. Never
insult another band members integrity. Since we are all
in this together, you would be insulting your own pride
as well.

Financial ResponsibilitiesThe Fair Share

Uniforms, instruments, music, transportation, and
maintenance are all a part of our expenses. Each East
River Band member is charged with the responsibility of
raising funds, maintaining the equipment, and funding
trips and camps.
Each East River Band student is assessed a dollar
amount. This shared expense is determined by the
budgeted needs of the band for that year with regard to
the number of band members. This assessment is called
the fair share.

The Fair Share -For students in a performing

group:
Students will benefit from this fair share directly and
indirectly.
The fair share is due at the beginning of summer band
camp each school year. N O T E : The Fair Share must
be paid IN FULL by Uniform day during summer
marching band camp unless arrangements have been
made with the Band office staff and the Director of
Bands. Any and all questions in regard to fair share, or
any other financial matter, should be directed to the
band office. If your child decides not to continue in the
East River Band program, or is removed, refunds of fair
share are not given after the second week of school. If
your child is on a payment plan and they quit band or

are removed, they are still obligated to pay the full fair
share amount.
Students participating in the Winter Guard program
have a separate fair share that is due at the beginning
of the spring semester, unless otherwise specified by
the Winter Guard instructor.
Students and parents may opt to sign a contract for
making payments in installments during the semester
by contacting the band office staff and the Director of
Bands.
Students must use a Transfer of Funds Form in order to
utilize the money in their fundraising account. Students
who still have an unpaid balance as of April 1st, who
have money in their fundraising accounts, funds will be
automatically transferred over to off-set unpaid balance.
Students not fulfilling their fair share obligations
will not be allowed to go on band trips or attend
the band banquet and will also be placed.

The Fair Share pays for:

Marching band and color guard consultants, field techs,
clinicians, drill writers and arrangement of marching
show music
Entry fees to contests (marching, concert, percussion,
winter guard).
Uniform cleaning
Event transportation
Venue rentals
Meals
Music, music and more music (marching, concert, jazz,
small ensemble, special arrangements, commissions)

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Copyright fees
Show shirts
Materials and supplies for marching auxiliary costumes
and props
Concert Season Clinicians, master class instructors, and
special performances Winter Camp

The Winter Guard Fair Share pays for:

CostumesFloor/MatFlags, rifles and sabers
Show DesignTransportation to selected events
Consulting

The Jazz Band Fair Share pays for:

SpecializedInstructor

Student Policies
Standard of Conduct

POLICIES
The administration, faculty and staff assume that
secondary students are mature, will behave responsibly
while at school, and that all discipline matters can be
handled in a calm and reasonable manner. In order to
maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning, certain
standards of behavior are necessary. Each student is
under the direct control of all classroom teachers and
their substitutes. Standard procedures for disciplinary
infractions will be enforced fairly, promptly and
equitably to every student. In order for you to know
what standards of behavior are expected, the following
information is provided.
1. Students will be expected to have the proper frame of
mind prior to and during rehearsals and performances,

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avoiding inappropriate behavior (e.g. loud playing,

boisterous behavior, inappropriate gestures).
Students will be prepared and on time for class.
Remember early is on timeon time is late.
Notify a Director by phone or in writing prior to missing
any rehearsal for any reason. There is an Absence
Report Sheet that will be available in the office for you
to fill out.
A portion of the marching band activity is somewhat
militaristic. Therefore it is expected that students be
aggressive in rehearsing and performing the marching
fundamentals. When at attention or parade rest, there
should be no variation from the expected mental and
physical attitude.
Food, gum, or drink is never permitted during rehearsal
or performance. Keep the band hall, practice rooms,
and instrument storage lockers clean at all times.
Knock before entering a Directors office. No
student is to occupy any of the band offices
without permission. No student is to use the band
computers/telephones/copiers without permission.
Take care of your band instrument and other
equipment.
Take proper care of your band uniform. Failure to care
for the uniform properly, according to the rules
established for uniforms, will automatically disqualify a
student from lettering that school year. No exceptions to
this rule.
Loud and boisterous activity by East River Band
members when in public is not appropriate.
East River Band members serve as good-will
ambassadors for the school and community. Polite and

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courteous behavior is a credit to the East River Band

organization, to the school, and to the parents. Be
courteous and respectful at all times.
PDA (Public Displays of Affection) will not be
permitted in any of the band or color guard
facilities, on buses, or at official band functions.
Use of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol is strictly forbidden.
Inappropriate appearance (e.g., hair, clothes) will not be
allowed. Hair colors that are unnatural and hair and
clothing that is distracting are not acceptable.
Follow all school rules and district rules. Any infraction
of conduct, attitude, or responsibility will be dealt with
in one or more of the following manners:
a.

Conference with student

b.

Conference with parent

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c. Conference with grade-level principal

d.

Probationary contract

e.

Expulsion from the East River Band program

f.

Other, as designated by school administration.

Attendance Policy
In order to maximize our rehearsal time, a strict
attendance policy must be in place. As a member of the
East River Band, you have an obligation to your fellow
band members to be:
At rehearsals on time
Prepared, having all the necessary equipment and
materials with you

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Student grades will be based on evaluations of class

attendance, attitude, and performance as set by the
East River Band calendar (see also: Grading Policy).

Attendance
1. All East River Band students must abide by the East
River High School attendance policies.Attendance is
required at all rehearsals, sectionals, performances,
contests and competitions at all levels, including region
and state levels if student has qualified to advance to
such level. Absences and tardies will be excused in the
following casesplease notify the Directors.
a.

Medical emergency or personal injury

b.

Death in the family

c.

Religious holiday
Examples of UNEXCUSED ABSENCES/TARDIES
include, but are not limited to:

d.

Work

e.

Oversleeping

f.

Transportation not arranged

g.

Anything deemed unexcused by East River

Administration
Other appointments shall not be scheduled during
rehearsals, sectionals, performances, contests or
competitions. They are unexcused unless there is an
emergency.

Injury and Illness

When an accident occurs it must be reported at once to
the teacher in charge. The teacher will then report it to
the school nurse and any other necessary authorities.

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Proper medical referrals will be made when necessary.

A First Aid Kit and AED are carried with the East River
Band, and when traveling, each bus will also have a
smaller First Aid Kit.
NOTE: All accidents must be reported at once if you
expect the school insurance to cover any payment.

Care of School Property

We hope you share our pride in East River High School
and will at all times help keep all parts of the buildings,
equipment, and grounds at their best appearance.
Students are responsible for the proper care of all
books, supplies, and furniture supplied by the school.
Students who disfigure property, break windows, or do
other damage to school or personal property or
equipment will be required to pay for the damage, or to
replace the item(s). Disciplinary action will be taken for
willful acts of damage or destruction to property.

Bus Transportation and Student Behavior

The School Districts Student Behavior Code applies
equally throughout the District regardless of where the
incident occurs. Inappropriate behavior on a bus will be
treated with the same level of scrutiny as inappropriate
behavior in the classroom and will lead to appropriate
school consequences as spelled out in the Behavior
Code and/or suspension or termination from bus riding.
All bus riders receive a copy of the bus rules at the
beginning of school.
For safety reasons, there are some additional rules,
which apply to buses:
1. Be on time. Early is on time on time is late!Private
cars will not be used. All East River Band members are
expected to use the buses provided both to and from
events.
The East River Band will travel as a unit on all trips. If a

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East River Band member has good reason to return

from a trip by other means of transportation, the
student must submit a written permit to a Director,
signed by the students parents/guardians. This permit
must be provided 24 hours in advance. The
parents/guardians must see the Director to authenticate
the note.
Students will not touch or hang onto the bus in any
manner before boarding or after discharge.
An adult chaperone will be on each bus. Buses are
generally assigned by instrument or section and no
changes in buses will be allowed.
No one except Directors, band staff, students, and
chaperones will be permitted inside the buses.
Students must not sit on their book bags or legs
because the design of the seats is such that a serious
injury could occur if the child rises above the height of
the seat. Students are to remain seated at all times.
Students will be held responsible for any vandalism to
the windows, bus equipment and their seat or in the
general area of their seat.
No glass containers are permitted on the bus.
Do not use tobacco products or other unauthorized
materials on the bus. There will be no smoking or
drinking of alcoholic beverages at any time at any East
River Band function.
No animals/pets are allowed on the bus. Objects that
the driver deems dangerous to other riders will not be
allowed on the bus.
Throwing anything or hanging arms/heads/legs out of
the window is prohibited. Keep hands, feet, and objects
to yourself.

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Buses are to be treated with care, and all refuse is to be

placed in the trash bag placed on the bus for that
purpose. Keep the bus clean!
Talking must be limited to talking, no yelling or
screaming because it distracts the driver. No extreme
noise will be tolerated on the buses.
Do not use profane or obscene language, gestures, or
make loud and distracting noises. Students must be
quiet when the bus approaches and crosses railroad
tracks.Follow bus drivers directions.Special care should
be taken to see that all personal and school property is
properly cared for:
a. Pack instruments for travel
b.

Hang uniform neatly on hangers when not in use

c.

Place an identification tag on all school and personal

items
If a school instrument is damaged, the assigned player
will be held responsible for repair of that instrument.
Also, please do not use the large cases as chairs they
break!Our priority is to ensure the safety of our
children, the drivers, pedestrians and other motorists
on the road. If conditions on the bus become distracting
to the driver, the following actions will be taken:
1. The driver will stop the bus in a safe location and
attempt to return to safe operating conditions. When
conditions are deemed safe, the driver will continue on
the route.
If this does not solve the problem, the driver will
contact their supervisor via two-way radio and request
assistance. When possible, the supervisor will travel to
the bus, return it to safe operating conditions, and
identify students who have behaved inappropriately. The

17

bus will continue on the route when conditions are safe.

If the above actions do not result in a return to safe
operating conditions, the driver will return to the school
so that school administrators can deal appropriately
with the students causing the problem.

Day/Overnight Band Trip Student Behavior

1. East River Band trips are school sponsored and
therefore also fall under school policy and rules.Only
exemplary conduct will be acceptable from members of
the East River Band. Members must be on their best
behavior at all times. Be courteous to other schools
band members at all times.
No extreme noise will be tolerated at any inappropriate
place such as marching contests or motel rooms on over
night trips.
There will be no smoking, use of drugs or drinking of
alcoholic beverages at any time at any East River Band
function.
Students will be given as much free time as is
consistent with the educational intent of the trip.
Students must return at the appointed time. No one is
to leave the group formation for any reason whatsoever,
until properly dismissed by the Director.

Keeping Everyone Informed and Up-to-Date

Handling Forms
Students are responsible for taking home forms they
receive from East River Band staff and band boosters.
These forms should be filled out in a timely manner and
returned as soon as possible to the designated person
or area in the band office.

Alcohol, Drug, and Tobacco Use

The possession, sale, distribution, or use, of any
amount, of alcohol, marijuana, hallucinogenic drugs, or

18

any other controlled substance on the school grounds,

in the school buildings, on buses, at any schoolsponsored event, or during any other time when the
student is under the administrative jurisdiction of the
school, whether on or off the school grounds, shall be
prohibited.
A student suspended due to an alcohol or drug violation
is also subject to the zero tolerance rule. The Bands of
East River pride themselves in being superior citizens to
our community and to ourselves. This type of offense is
not tolerated by our program. You will be removed from
the extra-curricular portions of the program for a time
period established between the directors and the
administration. Reinstatement will be evaluated after
the end of the school year.
All principals and Directors are required to cooperate
fully with law enforcement agencies and are to report to
them any and all information that would be considered
pertinent or beneficial in their efforts to stop the sale,
possession, and use of illegal drugs and controlled
substances.

Sexual Harassment
Inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual
nature at school is prohibited by school board policy.
Sexual harassment is prohibited against members of the
same sex as well as against members of the opposite
sex. Any student who experiences a sexually offensive
comment or action by another student or adult at school
or school-sponsored function is strongly encouraged to
tell a parent, teacher, counselor, or principal.
Parents/guardians who have reason to believe that their
child has been subjected to sexual harassment should
report this behavior to the principal. The Bands of East
River pride themselves in being superior citizens to our
community and to ourselves. This type of offense is not
tolerated by our program. You will be removed from the

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extra-curricular portions of the program for a time

period established between the directors and the
administration. Reinstatement will be evaluated after
the end of the school year.

GRADING POLICY
All Band Grading Policy
Participation
All East River Band members are expected to follow the
rules. When expectations are not met, the student will
not be credited with a participation grade. Thus, only
academic grades will be averaged in. Participation
includes attending required rehearsals, sectionals,
performances, etc.

Grading Procedure
1. Grades are based upon the following:
a.

Attendance

b.

Completing syllabus

c.

Scale mastery

d.

Memorization of music and having setbook and/or

equipment at all rehearsals

e.

Punctuality (e.g., having the correct materials for class,

being prompt to class)

f.

Uniform responsibility in both the marching band and

concert band setting.

g.

Performance Assessments

h.

Musical Passage Pass-off

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CONCERT/MARCHING BAND GRADING POLICY

WEEKLY PERFORMANCE- 60%

It is vital that each day/week the students are
playing and performing. This grade will include,
but is not limited to, daily prep with binder, music,
instrument, etc., warm up technique, and musical
knowledge & assessment.

PERFORMANCE
QUIZ/PROJECT/REHEARSALS &
SECTIONALS- 20%
This will include written performance and playing
performance quizzes/projects, and sectional
attendance.

MAJOR PERFORMANCES- 20%

This will include, but not limited to, performances
for school events, fine arts concerts, public events,
and in-class comprehensive evaluation. In the event
that there is not a scheduled major performance in
the grading cycle, in-class performance of
comprehensive material covered will be graded as
a major performance.

Make Up Policy:
For Quizzes: If a student is not present on the day
of the quiz given, the student will have three days
after he/she returns to complete the quiz. If the
student does not complete the quiz within three
calendar school days, each additional day will have
a deduction of 10 points.

Major Performances:
Sinceamajorperformancecannotbemadeup,thestudentwill

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begivenanalternateassignment.Studentswiththealternate
assignmentwillhaveoneweektocompletetheassignment.In
theeventthattheweekperiodfallsinbetweenagradecheck,an
alternateperiodofcompletionwillbegivenaccordingtothe
teacher.

Uniforms/Equipment
Formal Dress Marching Uniform
East River Band Members will be fitted for their Formal
dress uniforms on Uniform Day during summer band
camp. Dress Uniforms are provided by AISD. Each
student will be issued a Shako (formal marching hat)
and hatbox (Tuba players will need to have hair clean
cut for gentlemen and away from face and collar for
ladies), 2 gauntlets, a jacket, bib pants, uniform bag
with a black plastic hanger, gloves/wristbands and
rainwear. Front Ensemble members may only receive a
Shako and hatbox if the band is participating in a
parade that year. The uniform staff will make sure that
the pants are hemmed and tapered so that the bottom
of the pant legs touch the tops of the band shoes with
NO break in the crease (shorter is better than longer,
really!!). Under no circumstances should any material
be cut 15from the uniform for alterations. At no time
should anyone other than a member of the uniform staff
attempt to alter any uniform item, this includes the
removal of Safety pins that have been placed in the bib
straps by the uniform staff. No Self Adjusting!!!
All East River Band members will need to purchase:
a.

Marching band shoes two pairs of Vipers are required,

one for practice and one for performance. They can be
purchased through the band on Uniform Day and
throughout the season if feet grow.

b.

Black socks mid-calf to knee length

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c.

Black Spandex to wear under uniform bibs

Uniforms will be kept at the school, issued prior to each
event, and returned after the event, unless otherwise
instructed. The East River Band will clean the uniform
jacket and gauntlets as needed (included in Fair Share).
Students may be asked to take home their uniform bibs
to launder and return the following school day. Should
any part of the formal marching uniform be lost or
damaged students will be required to replace the lost or
damaged item(s) at the following rate: jacket $250, bib
pants $100, gauntlet $75, shako $100, plume $75,
uniform bag $10, black plastic hanger $2 and rainwear
$10. After the band office has collected the uniform
replacement fee, the uniform staff will fit the student for
a replacement uniform item.

Band Shoes
The band shoes utilized by the East River Band are
patent leather plain-toed oxfords with black soles,
Dinkles. Shoes will be available for sizing and
ordering on Uniform Day. Students will need two pairs
of Dinkles one for practice and one for performance
(practice Dinkles may be used). Dinkles can be cleaned
with Windex and should always be sparkling clean.
Students will also need to purchase plain, all white
tennis shoes (with no distinguishing logo) to be worn
with their summer uniform. Keds, Vans or other skater
shoes and canvas slip-on shoes are not permitted.
Students must purchase their own shoes Dinkles and
white tennis shoes. They are not included in the fair
share.

Cotton Gloves/Wrist Bands

Cotton gloves or wrist bands (percussion only) are a
part of the dress uniform and are included in fair share.
Replacement gloves may be purchased from the band.
Students will black gloves. Brass players must wear
practice gloves at every rehearsal. The band has a

23

limited supply that students can use, wash and reuse or

students can supply their own cotton practice gloves.

Show Shirt
All East River Band members will receive one dry-fit
shirt and one black show shirt (included in Fair Share).
The dry-fit shirt is to be worn underneath their formal
uniform at all performances. The black show shirt
identifies the bands show theme and has all the
members of the East River Outdoor Performing
Ensemble listed on the back. Additional white (students
only) and black show shirts may be purchased through
the band. The black show shirts are a great way for
friends and family members to show their support of the
East River Band at games and competitions.

Wearing the Uniform

Shako: The shako (hat) should be worn straight on
top of the head and strapped to the head according to
directions. It is the responsibility of the student to
secure all hair completely under the shako. Tuba
players will be issued a beret.
Plumes: Plumes will be issued immediately before
each performance and collected immediately after.
Bib pants: The pants were designed as a jump suit to
maximize movement and to give each member a taller
appearance. Measured from the back of the heel, the
bottom of the hem should be 1 to 1 1/2 from the
ground when wearing band shoes, with no break in the
trousers. There are built-in suspenders that must be
adjusted to maintain this trim. The bib pants are close
fitting. Undergarments must not be visible.
Spandex/biking shorts are to be worn as
undergarments.
Marching Jacket: The jacket should be worn completely
fastened at all times when in public, unless otherwise

24

specified by the Directors. The current year show shirt

is to be worn under the uniform jacket, which allows the
East River Band to have a uniform appearance if the
jacket is removed.
Gloves and Gauntlets. Matching gloves and gauntlets
are to be worn during performances. Each student will
wear one white set and one black set. Students will
maintain the gloves. Percussionists wear black and
white wrist bands instead of gloves.
Shoes. Two pair of black shoes, Vipers (one for practice
and one for performance), for their formal dress
uniform. Shoes are to be kept clean and polished. Shoes
should be cleaned after each performance.
Socks. Black mid calf or knee length socks are to be
worn with the formal dress uniform.

Alterations
g.

Alterations must be avoided if at all possible! If a

Director or uniform committee member authorizes
alterations, they must be done according to specific
guidelines. All alterations will be performed by uniform
staff only.

h.

No fabric is to be cut or removed from the uniform

during any alteration!

Uniform Decorum
1. There will be no variations from the proper wearing
of the uniform unless designated by the Directors.
Never wear your hat backwards or any other way
unspecified by the Directors. Never be seen in public
without the proper dress.
At no time is the PARTIAL wearing of uniforms allowed.
Do not wear bracelets, necklaces, or other jewelry. No
earrings are allowed, including cartilage piercings.

25

Senior class rings are also not permissible. Only

exception is if it is given to you by a director for
EVERYONE to wear.

Maintenance
d.

Marching uniforms will be stored at school and cleaned

by designated personnel.

e.

The uniform MUST be carefully hung on the black

plastic hanger provided immediately after each
performance. Lost hangers will result in a
replacement fee.

f.

MEMORIZE your uniform numbers. The uniform

committee will maintain a list of assigned uniforms. DO
NOT exchange parts of your uniform with another
band member.

g.

Any loss, damages, or maintenance/repair request must

be reported immediately to a uniform committee
member or a Director.
5. Any infraction of the above uniform policies or abuse
of the uniform will jeopardize the participation in future
performances. Improper care of the uniform may result
in the loss of letter points (see letter point policy).

Color Guard Uniform

Color guard members will have a number of uniforms marching season summer uniform, marching season
formal and winter guard formal, and warm-ups. The
Color Guard uniform/equipment requirements may alter
from year to year and will be communicated to the
Color Guard members by the directors.

Football Games
The marching band attends all football games. They
march into the stadium together, sit together and
perform at half time. At the away games the entire East

26

River Band will travel as a group by bus to and from the

away game site
N O T E : Please do not ask to have your child excused
after a performance. It is essential for the organization
that they all return to the school with the East River
Band.

27

Marching Band
Calendar
August 2015
Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesda
y

Thursday

Frida

10

11

12

13

14

16

17

18

19

20

21

23

24

25

26

27

28

28

30

31

September 2015
Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesda
y

Thursday

Friday

Satur

10

11

12

Labor Day

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

29

October 2015
Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesda
y

Thursday

Frida

11

12

13

14

15

16

Columbus Day

18

19

20

21

22

23

25

26

27

28

29

30

30

November 2015
Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

10

Wednesda
y

Thursday

Frida

11

12

13

Veterans Day

15

16

17

18

19

20

22

23

24

25

26

27

Thanksgiving
Day

29

30

31

FORM TEMPLATES
Included in this section are forms commonly used by the
Bowie Band. Each of these forms will be made available
to students; however, parents may also use the
templates to make copies as needed.
Some information requested on the forms may be
duplicated. This is necessary because the forms are
designated to go to different individuals including band
staff or booster volunteers in charge of maintaining
particular files.

Included forms:
Medical Release Form*
Private Transportation Permit Form*
Band Handbook Acknowledgement Form*
* Required to be completed and turned in at the beginning
of summer band camp

32

BOWIE BAND MEDICAL

RELEASE
NameofStudent
________________________________________________________D
OB_______________(LastName)(FirstName)(MiddleI)
Home
address:___________________________________________________
____________________________

Howcanparentsbereachedincaseofemergency?
FathersName____________________________Phone:day
___________________evening________________MothersName
___________________________Phone:day
___________________evening________________

Relativeorfriendtocontactincaseparentscannot
bereached:

33

Name___________________________________Phone:day
___________________evening:_______________NameofFamily
Physician
_______________________________________________Phone_____
____________

EmergencyCare:Incaseofaccidentorsuddenillnesstothe

abovenamedchild,andintheeventIcannotbereachedbytelephone,I
herebyauthorizearepresentativeoftheAustinPublicSchoolstosecure
appropriateemergencymedicalservices.
ParentorGuardiansSignature
_________________________________________________Date
_____________MedicalInsurancePlanInformation
_________________________________________________________
_____

Prescriptionmedication:Mychildreceivesprescription
medication:YesNo
Iagreetofurnishanadequateamountofthemedicationinthe
pharmacycontainerwiththecurrentprescriptionlabellistingthe
childsname,thedrug,thedoctorsname,thedirectionsfor
administrationandthepharmacyphonenumber.Ifyourchildmayself
administerhis/hermedication,pleaseinitialthelastcolumn.
NameofMedicationDosageAtWhatTimeSelfAdminister(initial)
_________________________________________________________
__________________________________(Continueonbackif
needed)

Overthecountermedications:Igivepermissiontohave

overthecountermedicinesadministeredtomychildasneeded.(Advil,
Tylenol,Mylanta,Tums,Immodium,Benadryl,Sudafed,etc.):YesNo
ParentorGuardiansSignature
___________________________________________Date

34

__________________PertinentMedicalHistory:Please
describeindetailonbackofthisformanypertinenthealthcondition.
KnownAllergies(medicalor
other)____________________________________________________
_________DateofLastPhysical_____________________Dateof
LastTetanusBooster____________________________Parentor
GuardiansSignature
______________________________________Date
_______________________

PRIVATE
TRANSPORTATION PERMIT
We (I) are the parents (legal guardian) of __________, a student of
the Austin Independent School District.
We (I) hereby grant permission for the student named above to
travel from

_________________________________________________________
_______________________________
and return to
__________________________________________________________________
_________________ on the date of
__________________________________________________________.The
method of transportation is:
d.

privately owned vehicle

e.

privately owned chartered bus

f.

other We (I) understand that the above indicated

35

transportation to be provided is not to be driven or operated by

an Austin Independent School District officer or employee acting
within the scope of his employment, but is to be provided either
gratuitously by individuals or by an independent contractor.
Therefore, the Austin In-dependent School District, its trustees,
officers and employees are not liable for or responsible for
accidents occurring with regard to the transportation provided.
We (I) accept responsibility to determine that the transportation
provided is safe and reasonable for the purpose intended. We (I)
agree that the Austin In-dependent School District, its officers,
trustees and employees are not negligent in their choice of the
transportation and that we (I) have freely chosen the
transportation provided herein. We (I) further agree that we have
the option to provide our own transportation method. We (I)
hereby waive, release and discharge the Austin Independent
School District, its trustees, officers, and employees from any
claim, de-mand or cause of action arising out of the
transportation here provided and agree to indemnify and save
harmless the Austin Independent School District from all claims
for loss, damage or injury sustained by us (me) or by our (my)
child whether the same be caused by the negligence of the
Austin Independent School District or its officers, agents,
employees or otherwise. ParentParentStudent (if 18 years of age
of over) (To be used for field trips, extracurricular activities and
other events where transportation is provided to students but
Austin Independent School District owned school buses or
vehicles are not used.) Revised by Counsel April 3, 1979

36

JamesBowieHighSchool
HandbookAcknowledgement
TheBowieBandHandbookcontainsallofthe
rules,regulationsandpoliciesoftheJamesBowie
HighSchoolBandProgram.Itisveryimportant
thateveryoneinvolvedinthebandprogramreads
andunderstandstheserulesandregulations.Once
youhavereadthehandbook,pleaseprintoutthis
acknowledgementform,signitandturnitintothe
bandoffice.Failuretosignandreturnthisreceipt
doesnottakeawaytheresponsibilitytoabideby
thecontentsoftheBowieBandHandbook.
StudentNamePrinted:

37

____________________________Student
Signature:_______________________________
Date:__________ParentSignature:
________________________________Date:
__________

38

Marching Band
Budget
MUSIC CAMP/BAND CAMP
Food
T-Shirts
Medical Supplies
Dot Books
COLORGUARD
Uniforms (14 members)@135 Each
Equipment
Props
Flags
UNIFORM NEEDS
Supplies
Equipment/seat covers & towels
Alterations
MARCHING BAND INSTRUCTION
Full-Time Staff
Band Camp Staff
SHOW DESIGN
Music Arrangement
Drill Design
Percussion Music
OPERATING EXPENSES
Instrument repair - County Funds
Instrument repair - Booster Club
Copyright Permissions
Competition Entry Fees

4,600.00
1,000.00
600.00
1,000.00
2,000.00
9,145.00
1,890.00
1,155.00
4,000.00
2,100.00
1,400.00
500.00
400.00

EQUIPMENT CREW
Supplies and Maintenance
Truck Rental
FALL BANQUET
Awards
Expenses

500.00
35,000.00
34,100.00
900.00
5,000.00
2,000.00
3,000.00
0.00
2,255.00
1,000.00
555.00
200.00
500.00
5,000.00
3,000.00
2,000.00
1,800.00
500.00
1,000.00

Custodial
NEW PURCHASES
Percussion - Drum Heads, repairs

300.00
13,400.00
3,500.00

39

New Wind Instruments

9,900.00

40

Administrative Costs
Hospitality
Directors Expenses
Chaperone Supplies (wagons/coolers)
Communication Repairs/Upgrades
Audit - Accountant
Booster Club Office Supplies
Postage
Telephone/Fax
Software
Bank Service Charges
Liability Insurance

Marching Band Expenses Total

80,000.00

TOTAL INCOME
TOTAL EXPENSES (+15,000 trip)
BUDGET SUMMARY

95,000.00
95,000.00

INCOME SUMMARY
Booster Club Groupwide Fundraisers
Candle Fundraiser
Fruit Fundraiser
Marching Band Competition
Winterguard/Percussion Competition
Membership Fees (80 students@600/ea.)
TRIP EXPENSES
Fall Competition Trip
Equipment truck rentals/hotel rooms
Local Competition Bus Travel
MEMBER FINANCIAL OBLIGATION
Dues
Trip Fees
Fundraising Quota

41

42

43