E.

Russell Hicks Middle School Band

E. Russell Hicks Middle School

1321 South Potomac Street

Hagerstown, MD 21740

E-Mail: Ms. Hull

Hullmic@wcps.k12.md.us
301 766-8110 ext. 77206
301 - 766-8999 ext. 77206
Dear Band Parents,
We welcome you and your child to one of the most exciting and rewarding educational ventures our
schools have to offer BAND!!!! Those of us who have chosen careers in this field have found many
rewards which may not be apparent when one considers, Why should my child be in band?
Recent statistics prove that young people who participate in music are among the academically
strongest in their schools. They also have higher SAT score averages than their fellow classmates. Their
adult lives are filled with the successes, which are a direct result of their band experience: self-discipline,
group cooperation, high self-esteem, understanding teamwork, developing a sense of persistence and
performance confidence. Band can provide this foundation for your child.
As your child progresses in his/her understanding and command of the instrument, you will see how this
same desire for excellence applies to every subject and serves as a training ground for dealing with
many aspects of adult life.
The opportunity to enjoy a new level of communication and self-expression is the goal for every young
musician. Creativity is within all of us, and the language of music serves as a perfect vehicle to allow this
personal growth and development.
For parents, the chance to become involved is a bonus. We all know that it is important to support our
children in whatever they choose to do in life. I encourage you to work with your child and share in this
exciting learning process. Music allows students to express themselves in ways that words cannot.
STUDENTS WHO HAVE ALREADY BEGUN BAND IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL needs to bring their
instruments and the books they used in elementary. They will also need to purchase Essential Elements
2000, Book 1. All instruments will be stored in the band room and in the band office, where they will be
locked up when there is no one in the room. They will have band class EVERY DAY!!!! Please help your
child to remember to bring their instrument to class each day.
Our first performance will be the Winter Concert, Tuesday, December 8th at 6:30 pm. This is a formal
concert, so therefore, concert dress is required, (black slacks, white shirts, black shoes and black socks).
The next performance will be Friday, April 8th during the school day. (depending on readiness of the
group) This is an optional band assessment for 6th grade band that is held at North High. The Spring
Concert will be Tuesday, May 17th at 6:30 pm. More information will be forthcoming.
Every childs attendance is important and is a requirement at these performances.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
GRADES: Grades will be based on the following:
PLAYING GRADES: (50%) Students will be periodically tested on the music being
rehearsed/performed. We encourage instruments to go home a few times a week, but request that all
instruments go home every Friday. PRACTICE IS ESSENTIAL!
PARTICIPATION GRADES: (50%) Students receive a weekly grade based on participation in class
activities, care of instruments, posture, and discipline and performance attendance. Every week they
begin with a 100%. It is up to them to keep that 100% for the duration of the week
THE GRADING SCALE:
90-100% - A
80-89% - B
70-79% - C
60%-99% D
Below a 60% - F
CLASSROOM RULES AND PROCEDURES:

No loitering in the band room. Students will be seated immediately and will have their
instrument, music and pencil out and ready before class begins.
Students will remain seated until the teacher/band director dismisses them.
All equipment, music and instruments will be properly put away.
No food drinks or gum is permitted in the band room at any time.
No talking during instruction and or performances.
Students, who cannot follow directions and continually disrupt class, may be removed from the
band program.

AWARDS: TOP MUSICIANS will be given every 3 months to selected students based on the following:
cooperation, dependability, readiness to play on time, performance of assigned music at an adequate or
above level, leadership, positive attitude, participation, etc.
OUTSTANDING BANDSMAN - Awards will be given to any student who maintains a 99-100% average for
the year.
In addition, all students will be presented participation awards and certificates.
BAND BOOSTERS: All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend our monthly band booster
meetings held monthly at 7 pm in the band room. Our first meeting will be on Tuesday, September 1st.
Throughout the year you will be receiving letters for all events, etc. If you have any questions, please
feel free to call. In addition, you can visit our Facebook page E. Russell Hicks Band Boosters or
ERHBandboosters.weebly.com. The cooperation and dedication of all parents is essential to the success
of the band program. Together, we can make this program enjoyable and successful!

Looking forward to a GREAT YEAR!!!!

M. Hull Band Director