PHILOSOPHY



It would be fair to say that I am passionate about the importance of honoring one's commitments. So much time is spent in schools teaching facts and skills that often relatively little time is spent with things that are frequently even more important to success, such as dependability and the honoring of one's commitments. I believe that most people would agree that a commitment should be kept unless arrangements are made for an adjustment with the person to whom the commitment was made (except, of course, for emergencies). In the case of our band, we depend on each other to play our parts in order to produce a quality performance. When someone is missing, it is not just one person out of 70, it is usually one out of a small number playing a unique (for example, a 2nd trumpet) part. As with sectionals, if we had a "come when you feel like it" or "come when there's nothing else you think you should do" policy, we would not have an experience worth having for the students. A student who does not show up to a performance does more harm to the band's performance musically than if the student wasn't in the band at all. But to me, it is not the performance that is most important; it is the integrity shown by the honoring of one's commitments.



In attempting to prevent problems from occurring, I very clearly tell students they should not join one of the performing band classes unless they are willing to make a full year commitment to the band. I pass out a handbook containing my expectations, and I ask the students and parents to sign a form in the handbook stating that:

"I AM WILLING TO COMPLY WITH THE INFORMATION AND REGULATIONS CONTAINED IN THIS HANDBOOK, INCLUDING THOSE CONCERNING THE FULL YEAR COMMITMENTS TO CONCERT ATTENDANCE, HOME PRACTICE, AND APPROPRIATE CONDUCT. I HAVE ALSO RECEIVED A COPY OF THIS YEAR'S SCHEDULE."



I also encourage students to arrange alternate transportation plans; in the case of a problem, they should obtain transportation with a relative or friend, or with public transportation (unfortunately, teachers are not permitted to transport their students).



Best wishes for a wonderful school year. Thank you very much for your consideration!