Welcome!
Mrs. Joanna Smulakowski, String Orchestra Teacher
joannasmulakowski@wpcsd.k12.ny.us
"Where words fail, music speaks" - Hans Christian Andersen
Mrs. Joanna Smulakowski, String Orchestra Teacher
joannasmulakowski@wpcsd.k12.ny.us
"Where words fail, music speaks" - Hans Christian Andersen
Required String Orchestra Concert Dates 2018-2019
Thursday, January 14, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Mixed Chorus and Tiger Band (Winter Concert III)
Thursday, June 3, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra and Concert Orchestra (Spring Concert IV)
Thursday, January 14, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Mixed Chorus and Tiger Band (Winter Concert III)
Thursday, June 3, 2020. 7:00 PM - With Symphony Orchestra and Concert Orchestra (Spring Concert IV)
Field Trip 2019-2020
Friday, October 25, 2019. 11 AM - 6:30 PM - New York Philharmonic Field Trip
Friday, October 25, 2019. 11 AM - 6:30 PM - New York Philharmonic Field Trip
Overview
The String Orchestra is a group mainly for 9th graders that focuses on the fundamentals of ensemble performance in a High School Orchestra 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 II and III in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) manual. Repertoire is chosen from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and/or Contemporary periods. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required.
The String Orchestra is a group mainly for 9th graders that focuses on the fundamentals of ensemble performance in a High School Orchestra 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 II and III in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) manual. Repertoire is chosen from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and/or Contemporary periods. 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. The only way to make up a sectional is to complete a make-up playing assignment during lunch or after school with Mr. May and receive a B or better.
- Playing tests are given once at the end of each quarter. Excerpts are chosen from the concert repertoire.
- 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 the classroom after the bell (no pass)
In your seat with instrument more than 2 minutes after the bell (no pass)
• CUT - Out of class without an official 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 Music Folder (provided) • 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) After school teacher detention
(d) Additional consequences from House Administration
Electronic Devices
Electronic devices are never permitted to be used during orchestra class.
• First use receives a warning, student puts phone away in backpack
• Second use receives a parent phone call
• Third use results in detention with teacher
• Additional use results in parent retrieving phone from 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.
Mr. May's policies are based on the White Plains City School District policies and procedures
Attendance and Tardy
• TARDY - In the classroom after the bell (no pass)
In your seat with instrument more than 2 minutes after the bell (no pass)
• CUT - Out of class without an official 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 Music Folder (provided) • 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) After school teacher detention
(d) Additional consequences from House Administration
Electronic Devices
Electronic devices are never permitted to be used during orchestra class.
• First use receives a warning, student puts phone away in backpack
• Second use receives a parent phone call
• Third use results in detention with teacher
• Additional use results in parent retrieving phone from 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.
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 Wednesday, 9/4/19.
“I have read and understand all classroom policies as outlined in this syllabus. I understand that my child is required to attend all 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 fechas de los conciertos que figuran en el plan de estudios.” Parent Signature________________________________ Date_______________________ |