Attendance at all scheduled Stone Middle School concerts, assessments, and rehearsals IS MANDATORY. Each individual is integral to the ensemble and absences affect the morale and success of the whole group. However, circumstances may arise that result in an absence being unavoidable.

Excused absences include:

• Religious observances.

• Medical emergencies.

• Death in the family. 

Absences for reasons other than those listed here will be considered on a case by case basis (ex. sporting events, extra-curricular activities).

Prior written notice, FROM A PARENT, must be submitted to your director a minimum of 7 days prior to the event to be considered for approval as an excused absence (e-mail is acceptable). Illnesses and/or emergency situations should be communicated TO THEIR DIRECTOR immediately. 

Excused concert absences will be made up with a written or performance-based assignment. Students unable to play for medical reasons (ex. broken arm, concussion, etc.) are still responsible for attending all rehearsals and concerts, and will be given alternate assignments.  

PRACTICE EXPECTATIONS

In order to develop any skill, regular practice is a necessity. Daily reinforcement of the skills addressed in class is needed for individual musicians as well as the entire ensemble to be successful. Students are expected to practice their instrument on a consistent basis. This may mean short chunks every day, or longer practice sessions every other day. Once a week or not at all is NOT a consistent practice schedule. 

It is important that students develop the ability to set goals for their practice sessions. Setting practice goals allows musicians to “work smarter, not harder” and accomplish more in a shorter period of time. Students will learn about setting goals during class. This is not to say that students can’t just sit down and play for fun some days! 

SPRING TRIP