Welcome!
Mr. Zachary May, Orchestra Teacher | zacharymay@wpcsd.k12.ny.us
"Where words fail, music speaks" - Hans Christian Andersen
Mr. Zachary May, Orchestra Teacher | zacharymay@wpcsd.k12.ny.us
"Where words fail, music speaks" - Hans Christian Andersen
Required Concert Orchestra Concert Dates 2019-2020
Tuesday, December 10, 2019. 7:00 PM - With Concert Band and Jazz Band (Winter Concert I)
Thursday, March 12, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra (Midwinter Concert II)
Tuesday, June 2, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra and String Orchestra (Spring Concert IV)
Tuesday, December 10, 2019. 7:00 PM - With Concert Band and Jazz Band (Winter Concert I)
Thursday, March 12, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra (Midwinter Concert II)
Tuesday, June 2, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra and String Orchestra (Spring Concert IV)
Field Trip 2019-2020
Friday, October 25, 2019. 11 AM - 6:00 PM - New York Philharmonic Field Trip
Friday, October 25, 2019. 11 AM - 6:00 PM - New York Philharmonic Field Trip
Concert Orchestra Course Description
The Concert Orchestra is a group that focuses on the fundamental of ensemble performance and the technical and musical development of its members. Students also receive small group instrumental instruction on a rotational basis. Most of the repertoire for this ensemble is similar in difficulty to levels III-IV in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) manual. Repertoire is chosen from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and/or Contemporary periods, as well as some selections from popular music. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required.
The Concert Orchestra is a group that focuses on the fundamental of ensemble performance and the technical and musical development of its members. Students also receive small group instrumental instruction on a rotational basis. Most of the repertoire for this ensemble is similar in difficulty to levels III-IV in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) manual. Repertoire is chosen from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and/or Contemporary periods, as well as some selections from popular music. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required.
Grading
Participation = 30% / Sectionals = 30% / Performance (Performance Assessments and Concerts) = 40%
Participation = 30% / Sectionals = 30% / Performance (Performance Assessments and Concerts) = 40%
- Participation grade is based on preparedness, attendance, punctuality, and activity in class.
- Sectionals: You will be excused from other classes to attend sectionals. There are 7 offered each quarter, and you must attend 5. Additional make-up lessons are scheduled and students can meet with Mr. May at lunch by appointment for further make-up opportunities. Playing tests are given each quarter. Excerpts are chosen from the concert repertoire or student-chosen solos.
- Concert Attendance is mandatory. There are no excused absences. Emergencies will be assessed on a case by case basis.
Classroom Policies
Mr. May's policies are based on the White Plains City School District policies and procedures
Attendance and Tardy
• TARDY - In your seat with instrument more than 3 minutes after the bell (no pass)
• CUT - Out of class without an parent excuse
Out of class for more than 10 minutes of the class period
• One unexcused absence results in an after-school detention with the teacher
• 14 unexcused absences in a year-long class forfeits credit for the course
• Bathroom passes may be used in an emergency after the first 10 minutes and before the last 10 minutes of class
Required Materials
• Black Binder 1/2" or 1" • Instrument • Shoulder Rest/Rock Stop and Rosin • Pencil
Behavior Expectations
• Treat others how you would like to be treated
• Listen silently while the teacher gives instructions
• Be ready to play immediately when a measure number is given
• Work according to instructions during group or written work time
• Put away all materials at the end of every class period
Failure to meet any of these expectations can result in:
(a) Reduction of participation grade (according to orchestra participation rubric)
(b) Parent phone call and discipline referral
(c) Additional consequences from House Administration
Cell Phones/Headphones
Electronic devices are never permitted to be used during orchestra class except when needed for specific class activities.
• First use receives a warning, student puts phone away in backpack
• Second use receives a parent phone call
• Additional use results in referral to House Administration
Food, Drink, and Gum
For the safety of our students and care of instruments, no food, drink (except for water bottles), or gum are permitted in the orchestra room. Discipline measures may be taken for repeated violations. Exceptions may be made for students making up sectionals during the lunch period.
Mr. May's policies are based on the White Plains City School District policies and procedures
Attendance and Tardy
• TARDY - In your seat with instrument more than 3 minutes after the bell (no pass)
• CUT - Out of class without an parent excuse
Out of class for more than 10 minutes of the class period
• One unexcused absence results in an after-school detention with the teacher
• 14 unexcused absences in a year-long class forfeits credit for the course
• Bathroom passes may be used in an emergency after the first 10 minutes and before the last 10 minutes of class
Required Materials
• Black Binder 1/2" or 1" • Instrument • Shoulder Rest/Rock Stop and Rosin • Pencil
Behavior Expectations
• Treat others how you would like to be treated
• Listen silently while the teacher gives instructions
• Be ready to play immediately when a measure number is given
• Work according to instructions during group or written work time
• Put away all materials at the end of every class period
Failure to meet any of these expectations can result in:
(a) Reduction of participation grade (according to orchestra participation rubric)
(b) Parent phone call and discipline referral
(c) Additional consequences from House Administration
Cell Phones/Headphones
Electronic devices are never permitted to be used during orchestra class except when needed for specific class activities.
• First use receives a warning, student puts phone away in backpack
• Second use receives a parent phone call
• Additional use results in referral to House Administration
Food, Drink, and Gum
For the safety of our students and care of instruments, no food, drink (except for water bottles), or gum are permitted in the orchestra room. Discipline measures may be taken for repeated violations. Exceptions may be made for students making up sectionals during the lunch period.
PARENT SIGNATURE: Please Print form and return to Mr. May with a parent signature. Then complete the Info Sheet below or at wphsorchestra.org/symphony. due Friday, 9/6/19.
“I have read and understand all classroom policies as outlined in this syllabus. I understand that my child is required to attend all three evening concert dates listed.”
"Lei y entiendo todas las políticas del aula como se indica en este programa de studio. Entiendo que mi hijo(a) require asistir a las tres fechas de los conciertos que figuran en el plan de estudios.”
Parent Signature________________________________ Date_______________________
“I have read and understand all classroom policies as outlined in this syllabus. I understand that my child is required to attend all three evening concert dates listed.”
"Lei y entiendo todas las políticas del aula como se indica en este programa de studio. Entiendo que mi hijo(a) require asistir a las tres fechas de los conciertos que figuran en el plan de estudios.”
Parent Signature________________________________ Date_______________________