1. Attend all classes. Recognize that while you may be practicing your part at home, orchestra is a group process whose success calls for the interaction between the members of the organization. Those crucial interactions cannot be duplicated outside the orchestral setting.

2. Arrive to class ON TIME. Be in your seat, tuned and ready for rehearsal when the class is scheduled to begin. DO NOT get up from your seat during the period to leave and reenter the room. DO NOT routinely expect to go to the bathroom during the rehearsal.

3. Come to class prepared to work. Bring your instrument, your folder and a pencil to every class. Assume that you are to notate all directions in your music. Please notate those directions in a precise and musical way and in pencil.

4. Come to class PREPARED. You are expected to prepare all assignments and come to class prepared to play them either in a solo or ensemble situation. A minimum of 20 minutes of practice time 5 days a week is expected for this class. Some assignments may take more or less time to complete.

5. Do NOT borrow an instrument or folder. Your stand’s black HHS music folders is to remain in the orchestra room except for stage rehearsals and performances. If you have forgotten your instrument or folder, do NOT assume that you may borrow another student’s instrument or folder. There may be “spare” instruments and practice folders that may be signed out in my office. The number of forgotten items will be calculated in your final grade.

6. Keep the Orchestra room CLEAN and SAFE. There will be a great number of instruments, some very expensive, stored in the instrument room. Please keep your music and instrument stored neatly on a shelf.

7. Do NOT bring food or drink into class. Do not eat foods or drink liquids from containers concealed in your pockets, book bags, or purses.

8. Use proper language in the classroom. Refrain from using street slang, and swearing no matter what the level of frustration. Often, the level of frustration can be lowered or eliminated completely through practice!

9. Polite phrases are appreciated. “Excuse me”, “please”, and “thank you” are always appropriate and appreciated. Please try to use them.

10. Proper positions are essential. Chairs are for sitting: feet remain on the floor. Proper playing position is essential to a good rehearsal and ultimately a good performance.

Questions are always appropriate. Feel free to ask a question either during or after class. Section leaders are also a good source of information!