Unexcused absences are not accepted; any unexcused absence will result in a lowered grade and administrative action, per school policy.

Students are expected to be ready to rehearse on time when the bell rings, everyday.

Students are expected to be on time (early) to all scheduled practices, dress rehearsals, concerts, and parades.

 

General Policies and Expectations

Band Program Goals

To train and develop highly motivated and responsible Junior High musicians that will maintain an ongoing appreciation for music that will ultimately affect their success in both musical and non-musical endeavors.

Expectations

  • Students are expected to be ON TIME and prepared for rehearsal everyday.
    • Each student should have their own instrument, a pencil, their music in the provided music folder on a stand, and any other materials listed below.
    • If your instrument is in the shop, then please bring a signed note and your music to class.
  • Students are expected to follow instructions given by the teacher or instructor the FIRST TIME.
  • Students are expected to treat the Director, other students, and all property with respect.
  • Students are expected to PRACTICE at home.
  • Students are expected to be on time to all performances in the designated concert attire, with their music and instrument, as well as any other item needed for the performance.

Consequences

  • Positive behavior will be recognized and awarded when necessary
  • If expectations are not being met, the following are consequences to each student:
    • One-on-one talk with Mr. Nam
    • A call home
    • Parent conference
    • Detention afterschool (with notice)
    • School administrative action
    • Removal from the band program

There will be times when the bands or drumline will travel off-campus.  Every student is expected to represent La Colina with pride and the best possible positive behavior and conduct.  If a student is found not upholding this expectation, the above-mentioned consequences may go in affect.

Concert Uniform

We will order band shirts for the Concert Band (beginning band) and Jazz Band to wear for performances.  However, parents will need to provide the other parts of the uniform.  Concert band (beginning band) students should have BLACK PANTS and BLACK SHOES to complete the concert dress.  Advanced band students for next year should wear a white dress shirt TUCKED IN or blouse (boys wear a tie) and BLACK PANTS AND BLACK SHOES.

Drumline uniforms will be specified every year, as the uniform changes with the show theme.

Parade Uniform

The two concert bands, jazz band, and drumline will combine every year for our parade performances.  We will check-out and fit for uniforms every year before the Annual Downtown Holiday Parade.  More info TBA
 

Grades

How to get an A:

  • Be on time, in your seat with your instrument, music, and pencil BEFORE the class period starts
  • Be present and on time to all concerts and performances.  I will typically give you a call time. (on time is late, 5 min. before is on time)
  • Practice at home.  We can't hope to improve as musicians if we choose to come to class unprepared.  Musical excellence starts at home, not in the band room.

  • Focus on the specific parts you have trouble with.  Slow the tempo down and practice it until it is correct three times in a row.  Perfect practice makes perfect.  (Don’t forget to practice scales, rhythms, and other exercises.)

  • Remember to ask Mr. Nam questions if you don't understand something.  I will not know you need help unless you ask!

If a student forgets his/her instrument (or sticks for drumine) during the week, that will lower the weekly grade one letter (from A to B) each time.  If a student does not have his/her own pencil or music on the stand, that would lower the weekly grade about half a letter (from A- to B+) each time.

Follow the tips above, and  you should never have a grade issue in band!