Tuition
There is a $90 tuition fee to cover the expenses incurred by providing this opportunity. Please bring a check payable to “HCPSS” for $90 to the first rehearsal. Please put your student’s name and phone number in the memo line of the check.
Attendance
Attendance is mandatory. Absences will only be excused for illness, death in the family, or court appearance. This is the Howard County policy for excused absences. Each student must be present for the entire rehearsal time. If students arrive late or leave early, the entire group suffers. The purpose of full rehearsals is to develop a particular sound through balance and blend. If a student is absent from a rehearsal, he/she must bring a note from a parent explaining the absence. A student’s membership will be reviewed after one unexcused absence(s) or excessive tardiness.
Preparation
Preparing the music is mandatory. Students are expected to practice at home in preparation for rehearsals. Instructional videos and resources will be available via Google Drive and email.
Concert Attire
Students are expected to wear concert attire during our final Saturday rehearsal and performance. This includes the following:
White Dress Shirt or Blouse
and
Black pants, black socks, and black shoes
Or
Knee-length black skirt with tights and black dress shoes
No sneakers please
Behavior
Cooperation among students is a must in any performing group. Students who do not cooperate (fighting, name calling, etc.) will be dismissed from the orchestra.
Materials
Each student should bring a copy of their music to the first rehearsal where they will be given a folder to use for the two weeks of rehearsals and performances. Students must bring a pencil to mark things on their music. Make certain that the student’s name is on the instrument case. Cellos and basses must have rock stops.
Transport
Children must be picked up promptly at the end of rehearsal. At 7:10 the parent will be contacted. At 7:15 the emergency contact will be notified.
Lunch
Students should eat lunch before our final rehearsal on Concert Day. No lunch will be provided.