Band Expectations and Grading

Band Expectations and Grading

Welcome to the Sentinel Band Program!

The Sentinel Band Program aims to enhance your skills as a player, performer, listener, and individual. It offers a range of ensembles, including three concert bands, a jazz ensemble, a percussion ensemble, a marching band, a drum-line, and a pep band. Students can also audition for prestigious groups like the Montana All-State Band and participate in various festivals such as District and State Solo and Ensemble festivals.

When you have the chance, please read the handbook.

We encourage all students and their families to engage in the band program with appreciation, understanding, and commitment.

Lewis Nelson

Band Classes Overview

Intermediate Band (Concert Band)

• Grades: 9-12
• This entry-level wind band reinforces techniques learned in middle school while pushing students to excel musically. Students are expected to prepare for additional rehearsals and performances.

Advanced Band (Symphonic Band)

• Grades: 9-12
• Similar to the Intermediate Band, this ensemble focuses on refining skills learned previously, encouraging students to reach their musical potential with additional rehearsals and performances.

Wind Ensemble

• Grades: 9-12
• An audition-only ensemble for advanced students, focusing on advanced techniques, repertoire, and musicianship. Students must be prepared for additional rehearsals and performances.

Jazz Band

• Grades: 9-12
• Open to current concert band and orchestra students, this ensemble teaches jazz theory and improvisation, preparing students for gigs. Additional rehearsals and performances are required.

Percussion Ensemble

• Grades: 9-12
• This class focuses on advancing skills on various percussion instruments and includes drumline during marching season. Students must attend additional rehearsals and performances.

Marching Band

• Grades: 9-12
• Required for students in other band classes, this visually engaging ensemble demands participation, including outside rehearsals. Accommodations can be made for scheduling conflicts with sports.

Pep Band

• Grades: 9-12
• Open to all band students, this ensemble performs popular music at events, with a commitment to rehearsals and performances. Missing more than 30% of events may impact grading and participation in tournaments.

Grading Policy for All Bands

Grades are determined by:

• Participation Points: 10 points for regular days, 20 points for block days. Tardiness results in a 5-point deduction.  Phone usage will result in a 5-point deduction on first warning and a 10-point deduction and confiscation on the second warning.
• Performance Points: 100-200 points per performance, with deductions for not following etiquette.
• Music Checks and Playing Tests: Points vary based on the test's significance.
• Written Assignments: Points vary, with late work accepted until quarter break.

To Make Up Points for Absences:

1. Schedule a 15-minute lesson with Mr. Nelson for each absence.
2. Practice an extra hour per week and fill out an absence form.
3. Absences due to athletics or school events do not incur point loss if communicated in advance.

Grading scale:

• A = 90–100%
• B = 80–89%
• C = 70–79%
• D = 60–69%
• F = 0–59%

Classroom Expectations

To succeed, students should:

• Practice at least 1 hour weekly outside of class.
• Submit forms on time.
• Arrive promptly and be ready to work.
• Maintain cleanliness and proper behavior in rehearsals.
• Store cell phones in a caddie unless permitted for tuning.

Concert/Festival Etiquette

• Wear the full uniform properly at performances.
• No food, gum, or drinks (except water) in performance areas.
• Maintain appropriate behavior during events.
• Travel by bus for all performances.
• Communicate any absences in advance with parental permission.

Note: Tobacco, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited, and vulgar language is not tolerated.

Success in Band and Life

Key Traits:

1. Being on time
2. Work ethic
3. Effort
4. Positive body language
5. Energy
6. Attitude
7. Passion
8. Coachability
9. Going the extra mile
10. Preparedness

Performance Attire/Uniform Information

Marching Band:

• Students receive a season shirt to wear under their uniform. Marching uniforms are to be cared for properly, and students must wear appropriate attire beneath.

Concert and Jazz Band Uniform:

• Detailed uniform requirements can be found in the band handbook.