Rehearsal Guidelines
- Arrive early for rehearsals and begin warming-up carefully. Arriving just on time is actually arriving LATE.
- Pencil or highlighters can be used to mark important things on your music. Do not write in pen.
- Listen to other parts in rehearsals and be sensitive to their role. Use your ears! We are there to make our sounds better, so use teamwork.
- Be attentive to the director. Be ready to mark your music with your pencil if asked.
- Mark difficult spots in your music to remind you that they need further practice.
- Ask your director for assistance as often as you require it. Individual help is available four days a week! Also, help other players if you are able to.
- Strive to play musically (in tune, minding phrases) and with sensitivity at all times.
- Be certain to have all of your music and equipment with you at all rehearsals; failing to do so means you owe some extra time later on.
- Maintain a correct posture at all times while you are playing. Sit up straight on the edge of the chair with feet flat on the floor and your arms in a natural position.
- Develop your own dictionary of Musical terms and symbols - to help you understand and learn your individual parts.
- Be proud of yourself and your ability - don't settle for mediocre playing. If some cannot play their music well, good Band performances will not be possible!
- Remember to have fun! You will become a better musician and person through your active participation in music.
- Leave the socializing to before and after rehearsals.
- Number your measures for quick reference and effective rehearsal time.
If you are sick or out of town, we do expect a phone call or E-mail from you prior to rehearsal, with the reason for missing the practice.
Excusable reasons for absences are: going to be “out of town”, family emergencies or too sick to be there.
