Orchestra Handbook 2022-23 (Due 8/26) 

Calendar

Please visit our website for an updated calendar:

www.CMSstrings.org/calendar

General Information, Honor Code,
and Committment to Excellence 

Jeffrey Hall, Head Director
Orchestra Hall(C-2)
(512) 841-3724
jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org

www.CMSstrings.org

Covington Fine Arts Academy
3700 Convict Hill Rd.
Austin, TX 78749
(512) 841-3276 School Phone
(512) 892-4547 School Fax

INTRODUCTION: This handbook is for parents and students. Since your children will be members of a competitive and performing organization, certain rules and regulations must be followed to ensure the quality of the Covington Fine Arts Academy Orchestra Program. Please READ the handbook carefully and COMPLETE THE FORMS where indicated. Completing the forms and turning them in to the director is part of your child’s grade. Keep the information portion of the handbook for future reference. 

MISSION STATEMENT: The Covington FAA Orchestra Program will utilize everything that the music experience offers to provide a positive and successful learning experience for our students. Orchestra will also offer students the opportunity to achieve musical excellence through the study of violin, viola, violoncello, and string bass, as well as to provide students with the opportunity to play some of the finest music literature. Decades of studies show how music helps to promote brain function, creativity, leadership, dedication, and teamwork, as well as to improve grades in all subject areas. Our students’ experiences in Orchestra will stay with them for the rest of their lives and contribute to their future success in the workplace and as model citizens.

ORCHESTRA HONOR CODE: I will . . .

• Be on time
• Be prepared
• Be respectful
• Be responsible
• Be a team player

CAMPUS CLASS EXPECTATIONS:

STAR
 - S it up and listen
 - T rack the speaker
 - A sk and Answer questions
 - R espect the learning environment

ORCHESTRA COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE: I will . . .

• Be a member of the orchestra program for the entire year
• Achieve academic excellence in all courses
• Complete all assigned course work and exceed all teacher’s expectations
• Commit to be at school daily to learn
• Demonstrate self-control in my behavior and accept responsibility for my choices

Orchestra Hall Expectations / Facilities /

Discipline Procedures

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS (refusing to meet these expectations will result in the discipline procedures). Remember: “BE, LIKE, TRY, GET” – BE nice, LIKE music, TRY your best, GET better.

• Absolutely no chewing gum.
• Enter and exit the orchestra hall quickly and quietly.
• Remain quiet during rehearsals and follow all directions.
• Do not touch or play someone else’s instrument including the piano (touching/playing an instrument other than your own without permission may result in a detention/referral).
• Keep hands and feet to yourself. NO HORSE-PLAYING IN C-BUILDING/CLASSROOM!!!
• Keep the classroom clean (loosen your bows, put away your rock stops, anchors, and all supplies).

FACILITIES:  The Orchestra Hall is considered the students’ “working home” during the school day. We want our students to enjoy our facilities and equipment by treating the whole learning environment with RESPECT.

• The C-building (orchestra hall) will be open daily at 8:10 a.m. to allow students to drop off their instrument to their assigned lockers/spaces.
• Practice time is available Tuesday through Thursday at 7:45 a.m.  BEFORE SCHOOL PRACTICE IS STRONGLY ENCOURAGED!
• The Orchestra Hall doors are locked at 7:45 a.m. If a student arrives after 7:45 a.m., they must have an orchestra pass for access to the C-building (Orchestra Hall).
• If students are caught off-task or disruptive, they will be asked to leave.
• Only current orchestra students are allowed into the orchestra hall. NO EXCEPTIONS.
• Students may not enter the C-building without permission.
• Please knock before entering the Orchestra Office. Do NOT enter without permission.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES: We want to make sure your student receives the full benefits of being in orchestra. To do so, it is crucial for the classroom environment to remain positive and free from anything that may disrupt the learning process. Some students may choose to behave in a way that prevents their ability and the ability of others to learn. Depending on the severity of behavior, and staying consistent with Covington Fine Arts Academy school-wide rules, students will receive the following consequences for misbehavior, in this order:

• Warning
• Phone Call Home/Reflection Assignment
• Lunch Detention – failure to attend will result in after-school detention (1 hour)
• Office Referral – this may affect field trips and placement into advanced classes

Grading, Absence, and Tardy Policies

GRADING PROCEDURES:

"Formative" Grading:

40%     Daily/Weekly Participation: (This means being prepared for class with all materials)

20%     Practicing: (This will be done through the “3’s the Key” assignment)

-In order to make the minimum progress, you must practice at least 120 minutes each week (at least 4 days).
-THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE CLASS.

"Summative" Grading:

20%     Playing/Written Assessments:

-performance of music assigned (can also be recorded in BLEND)
-theory, rhythm, vocabulary, handbook/forms completed and returned

20%     Rehearsals and Performances (first, read “Absences” below)

-Rehearsals are extra practice outside of the school day for important performances
-There may occur up to two after-school rehearsals in a week (for some)
-These “REHEARSALS” are extremely important for your students’ participation in Orchestra, as a musician, and for their grades!
-Rehearsals can occur from 7:30 – 8:15 a.m. and 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. (except on Mondays).
-Performances: fall, winter, and spring concerts, UIL performances/ contests, school assemblies, etc.
-Absences for required concerts and rehearsals will be made up through attending extra sectionals. Beginning Orchestra students will make up absences by assisting at these advanced orchestra sectionals (see calendar).

ABSENCES: Participation in most orchestra functions is required (including after-school rehearsals and performances). Students (and parents) should notify the director about possible tardies or absences in advance! The director will determine the validity of any excuse of an absence for a concert. The Orchestra office telephone (512-841-3724) has a voice mail system and will be checked for messages every day. Notes should include the date of the absence or tardy, reason for the absence or tardy, and a parent signature. 

CONCERT GRADE MAKE-UP: Participation in the "Winter" and "Final" Concerts is required for all string students.  In the event of an absence, students will make-up their performance grade by performing their concert pieces for the class, while the class uses a "listening rubric" to learn to evaluate student performances.

TARDIES: As it is the role of education to prepare our students for their futures as successful citizens, all Orchestra students are expected to be on time to class every day. The orchestra program will have the same policy on tardiness as the rest of the school. Consequences can be given for unexcused tardies. Excessive tardiness may also result in loss of privilege to attend special performances off-campus, field trips, and other orchestra-related activities.

Orchestra is a performance-oriented activity. The success of the ensemble is affected by the commitment of its members. The success of an individual member is affected by their commitment to excellence! 

Concert Etiquette

CONCERT ETIQUETTE: Orchestra students and parents will exhibit proper concert behavior during all performances in order to reflect positively on Covington and the Covington Fine Arts Department. The following expectations will be followed during all performances:

• Talking is not allowed. It is disrespectful to the performers on stage and the audience members who wish to hear the performance. Talking during a performance does not show support for the Covington Orchestra.
• Do not leave your seat for any reason. Use the restroom and water fountain before concerts begin. If you must leave, leave quietly ONLY between songs or during applause (making sure doors do not slam shut).
• No food or drink is allowed in the performance area, including the stage, backstage, and seating area.
• Support your children with appropriate applause. Yelling, whistling, shouting names, etc., are not acceptable. This is not a sporting event. The audience should never cause attention to be shifted away from the performers on stage. Applaud only after the conductor has lowered his or her arms.
• PLEASE be considerate when bringing small children to a concert! Concerts are recorded.
• Cell phones and pagers should be set on silent or turned off completely during a concert. Music students should never have these items with them in the PAC during a performance.
• Set a good example for the Covington community.
• STAY FOR THE ENTIRE CONCERT!

In some cases, parents or students can draw so much attention toward themselves and away from the performing groups that they may be asked to leave.

Fees / Costs/ Payments

 

PLEASE MAKE SURE to read the section

about owing money.

Fees are due 8/26

Fairshare fees are paid on our website: www.CMSstrings.org/payments 

FAIRSHARE FEE: ALL Covington music students are required to pay a $30.00 Fairshare Fee. This fee helps cover individual needs for the orchestra program such as: district fees, region fees, UIL fees, solo and ensemble judges, clinicians and master classes, student rewards and incentives, method books, locks, extra activities for the students, etc. You may pay this fee directly or use fundraising profits.

INSTRUMENT FEE: Any student that does not rent/purchase their own instrument will be charged an Instrument Fee of $50.00 per year. This allows students to take home a “school-owned” instrument every day. With the increasing cost of maintaining instruments in playing condition, these fees will be used for repair purposes. Students will not be allowed to take home school-owned instruments unless this fee is paid or parents/guardians have spoken with Mr. Hall to discuss alternate payment plans or other options. Please note that the Instrument Fee does not cover theft or major damage. Students and parents/guardians will be responsible for the replacement of an instrument if lost or damaged beyond repair.

INSTRUMENT INSURANCE: Students are solely responsible for damage or theft of a school-owned instrument. Unlike store-rented instruments, school instrument are not covered by insurance. THEREFORE, INSTRUMENT INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, AND IT IS UP TO YOU TO HAVE THE INSTRUMENT INSURED. Consider adding your instrument to your homeowners insurance policy.

RENTING INSTRUMENTS: A good option for you and your student is to rent your instrument from WESTBANK STRING SHOP, TerraNova, String and Horn Shop, or any local music store. This option will give your student the opportunity to have an instrument that can be taken home without having to pay fees and fill out paperwork with the director. It is crucial that you include Mr. Hall in the decision of which instrument to rent; it is his job to help you find a quality instrument and avoid certain bad instruments. Please call the Orchestra Hall at 512-841-3724 or e-mail jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org for any questions relating to instruments, rentals, and fees.

FUNDRAISING: The Strings program depends on the support of its family and community. All orchestra students are highly encouraged to participate in the annual orchestra fundraisers. Student profits from the fundraisers will go toward each student’s end-of-year orchestra contest and trip. Also, money can be used toward supplies such as replacement strings, bows, cases, rosin, music, and books. Please note that if a student is no longer a part of the Covington Orchestra program, he/she will forfeit the use of orchestra fundraising money. Also, money from profit cannot be turned over to the student or his/her family.

IF YOU CANNOT PAY FAIRSHARE FEES please contact Mr. Hall in person, via e-mail, or phone to find a solution. REMEMBER, MR. HALL WILL NEVER LET THE ISSUE OF MONEY KEEP A STUDENT FROM SUCCEEDING IN THE COVINGTON FAA ORCHESTRA PROGRAM! There are the options of talking to Mr. Hall, payment plans, participating in fundraisers, and in some cases volunteering in order to pay off class fees. If no effort is made, however, by the parent or student to pay or contact Mr. Hall about options, then that student will not be allowed to use a school-owned instrument, and we must find them a different class.

IF A STUDENT OWES ANY MONEY to the Orchestra Program, it is school policy that they will be put on an “Obligation List.” This list will prevent students that owe money to the school or school organizations from participating in some field trips, extracurricular events, school dances, and will also result in the administration withholding their report cards. WHEN TURNING IN MONEY LATE, PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH. Pay with Check, Money Order, or School Cash Online.

Please make orchestra payments with cash, check or School Cash Online. Checks should be made payable to “CMS Strings,” and please include your child’s name in the memo portion. WITH CASH, PLEASE DO NOT BRING COINS. All money turned in is non-refundable!  

RECEIPTS: When you make a payment to a teacher or volunteer, it is CRUCIAL that you ask for a receipt.  If you do not receive a receipt, please keep your payment.  Without a receipt, it is not possible to determine whether or not the payment was made.

School Cash Online

Payments with a Credit Card!

Covington MS has made it easy for parents to make FUNDRAISER, TRIP AND CLASS FEE payments from the convenience of their own home!

Follow these 3 easy steps below to get started!

1. Go to the address below or click the School Cash Online link on our website.
2. Take a few minutes to register and add your child to the newly created account. 
3. Review and purchase your child’s back to school items using direct online payment.

Register at:  austinisd.schoolcashonline.com 

FYI – The browser supported by the KEV Group is Mozilla Firefox, which can be downloaded for free at www.mozillafirefox.com.

PAYMENT CLARIFICATION:

School Payments (CMS Strings Account)	Covington Strings Booster Organization (CSBO)
Payments made by cash, check or School Cash Online	Payments made by cash, check, venmo, or CMSstrings.org/donate
Trip Payments	Fairshare/Instrument Fees
Fundraisers	Membership Fees
Donations	T-shirts

School Payments can be made with cash (no coins!), checks (payable to “CMS Strings”), or credit card (School Cash Online - see above) and MUST be given directly to Mr. Hall.

Booster Club Payments can be made with cash or check (payable to “CSBO”) to our Booster Lock Box (orchestra room), to any booster club officer, or by Venmo (@CovingtonStrings-BoosterOrganization). Membership fees may also be purchased on the CMS Strings website www.CMSstrings.org.

Parent Organization & Parent Information

COVINGTON STRINGS BOOSTER ORGANIZATION: Your child is about to embark on the experience of a lifetime. Their participation is dependent upon you to provide the necessary behind-the-scenes talents. Without your support, our Orchestra Program cannot and will not succeed. We need you to become a part of our parent organization. Meeting dates are communicated to officers (and members upon request). If you are interested in being a part of the Booster Organization, e-mail covingtonsbo@gmail.com or indicate your interest in the Parent Volunteer Section Below.

The Booster Club may contact you with volunteer opportunities and event information with info provided in this form. Please contact covingtonsbo@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.

ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS: We would like to encourage you (our parents) to get involved in your child’s musical development. Research has proven that children who study music show a marked increase in test scores. If you play an instrument, playing along with your child is a wonderful way to spend time together. Even if you have no musical background, you can still be actively involved in your child’s daily practice routine. By understanding what it means to practice and asking the right questions, you can help keep your child focused as he/she practices.

Daily practice can be broken down into two sections (even professional musicians do these processes):

1. Warm-up and technical studies, which include long tones (holding out notes for a long time with slow, steady, smooth bow strokes), scales, rhythm exercise, and up/down bow stroke exercises, etc. These exercises help orchestra students focus on different aspects of their playing and make improvements. (There is more to music than just playing the notes.) Tone quality, note starts, releases, and correct phrasing are just some aspects of playing an instrument that have to be addressed. Make sure your child understands what he/she should be listening for while warming up.

2. Practicing the music – Ask yourself these three questions while listening to your child practice:

   a. Are they breaking the music down into small sections? It does not help to try to play the entire song over and over if he/she cannot play the first measure well. Encourage them to start with small sections and put these smaller sections together.
   b. Are they practicing slowly enough to play the music correctly? Once again, if they practice quickly, they will just practice making the same mistakes.
   c. Are they finding the sections of music that need to be worked on? Students like to play what they know but encourage them to work on music they don’t know.

Please understand that we want your children to practice with a big full sound. The sound may not be pretty at first, but by playing loudly, young musicians can develop good bowing habits and good tone. You cannot learn these things by playing softly all the time.

Probably the easiest and most rewarding way to encourage your child to enjoy their instrument is to hear them perform. We strongly encourage you to come hear your children performing their concerts at Covington FAA and other venues throughout the school year. They really appreciate your presence. Encourage your child to perform for you and your family at home. The more they perform, the better performers they become, and the more they will enjoy performing.

Orchestra Trip Guidelines

 

The Orchestra Program plans to take several trips during the school year, which may include performing for Elementary Schools, All-City Orchestra, pre-UIL festival, UIL, Fall Festival “Monster” Concert, String Festival, Winter Showcase, Ice Cream Social, and an end-of-the-year trips.

In order to be eligible for these trips, you must do several things throughout the year:

• Students must NOT owe any money to the Orchestra Program.
• Obligations to other school organizations must be taken care of before any trip.
• Students MUST pass ALL tests and turn in all assignments.
• Students must attend all concerts during the year to be able to go on trips.
• Students must have all of the necessary forms signed, completed, and turned in.
• Students must have appropriate behavior in class.
• Students must be passing all classes.

On trips, this is what behavior is expected:

• Students should wear the required dress attire for that day.
• Students should bring snacks, music, or other materials that are needed for the trip.
• Students should never leave the group without the consent of the director.
• Students must be checked out through the front office of the school before being taken by a parent if it is during the school day.
• Everyone will clean buses before getting off of them.
• Students will follow bus rules by remaining seated, by refraining from loud conversations or loud singing, & by never allowing any object to go beyond the bus windows.
• Students need to be sure to bring any necessary medication and make sure Mr. Hall is aware of such medication.
• Students should never display inappropriate affection.
• Students should be respectful of any chaperones and follow directions.
• Student should not draw unnecessary attention to the group by exhibiting these types of behaviors: shoplifting, aggressive behavior, loud conversation, profanity, fighting, inappropriate relations, drugs, etc.

Please direct all questions or comments to:
Mr. Jeffrey Hall, Head Director
Covington FAA Middle School Orchestra
3700 Convict Hill Dr.
Austin, TX 78749

Orchestra Office (C-2): 512-841-3724
Orchestra Classroom: 512-841-3718 (messages never checked)
School Office: 512-414-3276
Fax number: 512-892-4547
Email: jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org (e-mail and remind are quickest)

Communication and Private Lessons

VERY IMPORTANT ACTION ITEMS BELOW. DUE ASAP (DATE ASAP).

ALL PARENTS/STUDENTS MUST HAVE AT LEAST 1 REMIND ACCOUNT!!!

WHAT'S REMIND?

REMIND is a free text message service and a simple way for you to stay informed and up-to-date with what’s happening in your class. By joining your teacher’s class on REMIND, you’re choosing to receive class messages via push notifications, SMS, or email. Don’t worry; your phone number will not be shared with the teacher or anyone else in the class. 

Covington Orchestra will use REMIND to communicate via text messages about orchestra events, socials, fundraisers, rehearsals, cancellations, and other important topics. Every student and parent/guardian with a cell phone should do this! See www.remind.com for more information about this tool.

TO SIGN UP ON REMIND:

• Compose a text message to the number 81010 (instead of a phone number).
• For the body of the message, type the code that applies to your child's class:
     @cmsborch – for beginning orchestra students/parents
     @cmssorch – for string (intermediate) orchestra students/parents
     @cmshorch – for honor (advanced) orchestra students/parents
     @cmsporch - for pops orchestra students/parents
     @sup4covstr – for volunteers and supporters of the strings program
     
• You will receive a text message asking for a reply with your name.
• Students will be prompted to enter their birth date, and if under 13, will require a parent verification through e-mail.
• For parents, please include the name of your student after your own name, for example: “James Potter (father of Harry Potter)” or “James (Harry) Potter”
• You will receive an immediate confirmation and, in the future, all relevant announcements.

Email Mr. Hall for help jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO JOIN!

OPTION #1 - EASIEST OPTION!!

Join by text message. Enter this number: 81010 (in place of the phone number);

With one of these messages (use the address/handle for your child's class):

• @cmsborch (beginning orchestra - 6th graders)
• @cmssorch (string orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @cmshorch (honor orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @cmsporch (pops orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @sup4covstr (volunteers and other supports)

OPTION #2

Download the FREE Remind APP! Available for Android devices on Google Play or for iPhones/iPads in the Apple App Store.

Enter the class code:

• @cmsborch (beginning orchestra - 6th graders)
• @cmssorch (string orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @cmshorch (honor orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @cmsporch (pops orchestra - 7th and 8th grade)
• @sup4covstr (volunteers and other supporters)

OPTION #3

Join by Email or Phone!

Or visit one of these links:

www.remind.com/join/cmsborch (beginning orchestra)
www.remind.com/join/cmssorch (string orchestra)
www.remind.com/join/cmshorch (honor orchestra)
www.remind.com/join/cmsporch (pops orchestra)
www.remind.com/join/sup4covstr (volunteers and other supporters)

You may receive messages (up to 140 letters) in English & Spanish.

 

CHARMS ~ CHARMS ~ CHARMS ~ CHARMS ~ CHARMS

Charms Office Website: Please bookmark www.charmsoffice.com. Charms contains student and parent orchestra information---including updated contact information, student finances, instrument assignments, and records of collected forms. Additionally, Charms is able to send important information to all parents!

Under the Parent/Student log in, type “cmsstrings”. For student ID/password, please use your child’s AISD ID number. You may change your password at any time. If you need to reset your password, please contact Mr. Hall at 512-841-3724 or jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org

PLEASE GO ONTO CHARMS AND UPDATE “PERSONAL INFO” - Charms is used to FREQUENTLY e-mail very important information!

 

PRIVATE LESSONS

STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for ALL students, especially advanced orchestra/guitar students!

Private music instructors are usually very good about finding a time/date when they can meet with your child. If your child is going to be in 7/8 grade in orchestra or guitar next year (especially if they are in our advanced performing ensembles), it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that they are in private lessons.

If your child is a beginner, private lessons can help them excel in the class and often result in them earning a spot in the Honor Orchestra/Advanced Guitar class.

Scholarships/Financial aid may be available if you contact me. Also, reduced-price group lessons are possible if enough parents contact me. jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org, 512-841-3724.

COST (this is a reduced price): $30/half hour each week or $50/hour each week

VIOLIN –

Sophie Verhaeghe – sjverhaeghe@gmail.com – (719) 650-8564

Justin Scheibel - jscheibel.violinstudio@gmail.com – (559) 547-5997 (also teaches viola)

VIOLA –

Emma Funderburk - funderburkstringstudio@gmail.com  (310) 592-5711 (also teaches violin)

Quentin Thomas-Oliver (virtual lessons only) – quentin_oliver@hotmail.com - (319) 594-0792

CELLO –

Dr. Karla Hamlin – karlamhamelin@gmail.com – (512) 497-6589
($40/half hour each week or $60/hour each week)

Elizabeth L. Massad - massadliz1323@gmail.com - (361) 877-1496

BASS –

Daniel Racer - danielracercomposer@gmail.com - (316) 641-5693
Also group lessons "Bass Class" – $15 per student – Required for ALL bass students at Covington MSFAA.

 

 

It’s never a bad idea to call a teacher to express your interest and see if they can work with you on their price. They may say no, but many of them will if they can.

Lessons can usually happen at school during class and after school. For most instructors, weekends are an option at their house/studio.

Other Important Information

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE EXPECTATIONS:

The Covington Fine Arts Strings Program has a Facebook page, and Instragram account, and a website (www.CMSstrings.org) to promote our wonderful program. Parents and students are invited to “like” our pages and share with friends and family.

Orchestra members and parents are responsible for their postings on the Covington Fine Arts Strings pages. The areas of inappropriateness will include but are not limited to profane, foul or disrespectful language (abbreviated or alluding to), inappropriate pictures, references to alcohol/drugs/tobacco, and postings (text or photo) that could be interpreted as being negative or threatening toward other AISD teaching staff or orchestra members, or that demonstrate poor sportsmanship or a disrespectful attitude toward other orchestras. Any such incident will result in a review by the directors and/or principal, removal of the post (text or photo) in question, and may lead to consequences such as, but not limited to, a permanent ban from the Covington Fine Arts Strings page or dismissal from the orchestra.

ORCHESTRA LEVELS:
Covington MS FAA currently has 3 Orchestra: Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced.

Beginning Orchestra – This orchestra is for students with little or no experience on the violin, viola, cello or bass. Beginning Orchestra is designed to teach students the basics of playing a string instrument (violin, viola, cello and bass). Typically, this orchestra is for 6th graders; however, it is open to 7th graders, as well. Being enrolled in beginning orchestra is required to be a member of "Select Strings" (below)

“Select Strings” is a group of the most committed and hard working beginning orchestra students which rehearses every Friday after school from 3:50-5 pm. Being admitted into “Select Strings” is based upon attending all Friday rehearsals (or providing the appropriate written excuse). Additionally, this group is for students with good behavior, no referrals, passing grades in, and NO owed work (grade of 100% for the year) in orchestra. This group will get to attend the Elementary Recruiting Tour (see calendar), which includes performances at our 5 feeding Elementary Schools and lunch at GattiTown! “Select Strings” members are the best representatives of Covington Fine Arts Academy!

*Intermediate Orchestra (“String Orchestra”) – This orchestra is for students with at least “some” experience with a string instrument. “String Orchestra” is designed to be for students of any grade level. Some beginning students may be promoted to String Orchestra 2nd semester and some students in this orchestra may be promoted to the Advanced Orchestra 2nd semester or the following year. If you are new to Covington with any level of experience, please contact Mr. Hall, 512-841-3724 or jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org, to audition and determine which ensemble is right for you (Beginning, Intermediate or Advanced).

*Advanced Orchestra (“Honor Orchestra”) – This orchestra is for the most motivated orchestra students at Covington Fine Arts Academy. While this orchestra gets to play and practice more challenging and fun music, this class has the highest standards and expectations for work ethic and behavior! “Honor Orchestra” students are expected to participate at ALL scheduled and new performance opportunities.

*** Being enrolled in a performing orchestra ensemble, "String" or "Honor," is required to be a member of Pops Orchestra. 

Pops Orchestra - This orchestra is for students who want to have DOUBLE the amazing experience of playing a string instrument.  This class focuses less on technique and exercises and focuses almost entirely on playing a variety of "fun" and "cool" music chosen by the students in the class. Music choices may include popular music, rock, oldies, film music, tv theme songs, and much more!  The goal of this performing group is to perform as much as possible on campus, and in Austin, to promote the Covington Fine Arts Program. 

Pops Orchestra is by Audition Only - please contact jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org for more information

WHAT ARE REGION ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS? (Does not apply to beginners)

In our Region (18) of Texas, we have TWO “Region Orchestras.” A “String Orchestra” (strings only) and a “Full Orchestra” (ALL symphony instruments). The Full Orchestra is a group of the highest level middle school musicians in Region 18. The String Orchestra is a group of high level string players that did not make the Full Orchestra. To play in one of these orchestras, students must participate in the Region Orchestra Auditions (see Calendar of Events). These auditions involve performing 3 very advanced selections of music. The first piece is the “summer etude” designed to be learned over the summer and the 2nd and 3rd pieces are “excerpts” usually from a well-known symphonic work. All CMS Honor Orchestra 8th graders and Fine Arts Academy members are required to audition. Since Covington hosts this district-wide contest, all other Honor Orchestra students are expected to volunteer in the setting up of this contest.

BLEND INFO (from AISD website)

BLEND is a learning positioning system that allows teachers to provide instructional support, class calendars, assignments and resources for students in a safe online environment. Features within BLEND are intended to be used to amplify the best practices of teachers and enhance the skills and interests of students. BLEND provides learning, assessment and organization tools that allows users to be more efficient and effective in their day to day teaching and learning tasks. BLEND will not replace the district gradebook (TEAMS).

BLEND is designed to:
• Improve teachers' capacity to understand and serve your child at an individual level
• Enable your child to create ePortfolios, where he or she can keep work from grades K-12
• Enable your child to self-identify his or her strengths and weaknesses, setting personal learning goals and accessing appropriate resources to meet those goals
• Provide your child with collaborative learning experiences that improve social learning interactions and support diversity
• Provide opportunities for your child to learn about and apply responsible digital citizenship

Will parents have access to BLEND?
Parents will have their own accounts in BLEND that allows access to view their child’s courses through the BLEND Parent Portal. In BLEND, a parent has a role called an observer. Observers have limited permissions that allow them to see what is going on in a course and a calendar of assignments.

What can parents view in BLEND?
Below are some of the features available to parents/observers. Please note that not all courses use all features.
• Set your Notifications
• View the Dashboard
• View the course syllabus
• View but not submit assignments
• Preview and download some files
• View the modules page
• View Canvas grades
• View the calendar
• Communicate with the teacher

How will parents access BLEND?
• An introduction to BLEND: http://bit.ly/BLENDparentTOUR
• BLEND can be accessed through the Austin ISD Portal at: https://portal.austinisd.org
• Your username and password are the same as your Austin ISD Parent Portal account.
• If you are experiencing trouble with Austin ISD Portal or BLEND Parent Portal login or password, please contact (student services)
• Parents should not use their student's login credentials.
• The Canvas Parent app, which allows you to access BLEND, is available in Google Play and the App Store for tablets and smartphones. Windows devices use the browser.
• BLEND is new to the District and campuses are developing plans for parents as observers. If you have specific questions about how your child’s campus is using BLEND, please contact the campus.

Instrument / Classroom Supplies / Uniform

INSTRUMENT: If your child will be playing violin, viola, or cello, they should rent an instrument (Westbank String Shop or local music store). If there are financial issues, please feel free to talk to Mr. Hall about options.

INSTRUMENT SUPPLIES: All students are responsible for purchasing all supplies needed for their instrument. Rosin, soft cleaning cloths, shoulder rests/pads (for violin and viola only), a bow (all instruments), and other supplies may be purchased at any local music store. In extreme cases, supplies may be purchased from the school. If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact Mr. Hall (512) 841-3724.

You may buy these items at any local music shop; however, it is recommended to use Westbank String Shop at 6301 Manchaca Road, Austin, Texas 78745; (512) 326-4898. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Westbank String Shop is following all CDC protocols regarding COVID-19, and masks are required in the shop.

CLASSROOM SUPPLIES (Please purchase these supplies):

• Large black 3-ring binder (at least 1.5”) with 10 clear sheet inserts and notebook paper
• Pencils with erasers
• Zippered pencil bag for binder

Supplemental handouts – rhythms sheets, scale sheets, fingering charts will be provided and should be brought to class.

Agenda - required and very important organization tool used every day in class as a hall pass, to remember dates, class assignments, and anything other useful information for students.

PRACTICE/HOME SUPPLIES (Please purchase these supplies):

• Bow (all instruments)
• Electronic tuner/metronome (tuners that attach to instruments are very beneficial)
• Extra set of good quality strings (violin and viola only)
• Wire folding music stands for at home practice
• Donut/Rock-stop (for Basses), Kolstein Rosin (for bass bows)
• Chair Anchor (for Cellos), Dark Rosin (for cello bows)
• Nail Clippers (you will be expected to keep all nails very short in order to play correctly)

Optional Donation Items for the Classroom:

6th grade – Shelf Stable Student Snack Stash - say that 5 times fast! (1 or more item, i.e bags of chips/popcorn, bottled water, cereal bars, goldfish, fruit snacks, trail mix, chex mix, soda, etc...)

7th grade – Decoration Items (especially poster board, rugs, colorful sharpies, markers and paint pens, utility and decorative tapes, wall art, etc.)

8th grade – Hand Sanitizer or Box of Tissues

Our Amazon Wishlist: 

https://smile.amazon.com/hz/charitylist/ls/LGK0J2BO1UBQ/ref=smi_ext_lnk_lcl_cl

CLICK HERE!

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS: In the musical world, each member of a performing ensemble will be dressed uniformly, the same as the other members in the group. When one person is dressed differently, they “stand out” and can draw attention to themselves instead of the entire ensemble. As always, unless told otherwise, the Covington FAA Orchestra will be dressed uniformly for concerts and other performances. All Orchestra Students: you will need a pair of black dress pants or black dress, a black collared shirt, black socks and black dress shoes. Please NO tennis shoes, jeans, exposed shoulders, skirts above the knee (any student wearing skirts must wear leggings or tights). ALL CLOTHES SHOULD BE BLACK (INCLUDING SHOES).

If students are unable to acquire the proper attire for concerts please let Mr. Hall know AT LEAST a week in advance so accommodations can be made. No student should miss out on performance opportunities because they are unable to acquire the proper attire. Students will not be allowed on stage without the required performance attire.

Important Considerations: 1) Ladies, if you are wearing a dress or skirt, please make sure it falls below your knees. Consider what the audience will be able to see. 2) If you EVER do not know what to wear for an event, all-black concert attire is ALWAYS a good idea! 3) When wearing all-black concert attire, you may substitute your black shirt for the Covington Strings Black Shirt (only exception).

Covington FAA Orchestra

Student Contract

 

STUDENT AGREES THAT:

As a Covington FAA Orchestra member, I will act in accordance with the academic and behavior expectations stated below. These expectations have been set in place for my classroom success as well as the success of others in orchestra.

I am expected to adhere by the Covington FAA Orchestra Honor Code:

• Be on time
• Be prepared
• Be responsible
• Be respectful
• Be a team player

I will not stop other students from learning. It is my responsibility to ensure that everyone around me has the ability to learn.

I will come to class prepared every day. Therefore, I will bring the following daily:

• Myself: I cannot learn if I am not at school.
• My instrument: I need to practice every day! I cannot succeed if I fall behind.
• My complete folder with music, book(s), pencil, and paper: I cannot achieve if I do not have all of the materials I need.

I will make a Commitment of Excellence by:

• Being a member of the orchestra, and all year-long classes, for the entire school year (SCHOOL POLICY).
  • When a classmate quits a performing ensemble, it can have a serious impact on the classroom climate; being able to trust and rely on each other is so important to have successful experiences.
  • in some rare cases, a course change can be made. This would, first, require a parent-teacher meeting to explore any possible solutions before submitting a schedule change request.
• Achieving academic excellence in all courses by maintaining a minimum of 75% grade point average
• Completing all assigned course work and exceeding all teacher’s expectations
• Preparing for & passing all benchmark tests and STAAR test
• Committing to be at school daily to learn (98% - 100% attendance)
• Demonstrating self-control in my behavior and accept responsibility for my choices. My decisions will not only affect myself but my team as well.
• Demonstrating a willingness to learn, lead, and positively motivate others. I must be an example for others to follow.

I understand that breaking this contract may result in consequences such as after school detention, exclusion from field trips and performances, referrals, and in some cases, schedule changes. Most importantly, breaking this contract will disrupt my learning and the learning of others around me.

Students will not be allowed go anywhere with the orchestra if this form is not filled out & signed.

AISD ORCHESTRA AGREEMENT & TRIP/MEDICAL FORM

I have read and understand the Orchestra Handbook and agree to the stated requirements. I also give permission for my child to travel with the orchestra for all competitions, local events, and orchestra recreational trips during the school year. While my child is in attendance at these events, I understand that my child will follow all district, school, and orchestra policies. I understand that my child will be dealt with accordingly in the event that he/she should not comply with these policies. Failure to follow these policies will result in removal from the event/trip and possible loss of the privilege to attend future events/trips. Should my child be in need of medical attention during one of these events/trips, Mr. Jeffrey Hall and agents of AISD are authorized to seek proper medical attention for my child.

PLEASE PROVIDE AS MUCH INFORMATION BELOW AS POSSIBLE.

VERY IMPORTANT!

 

You will need to add this same information to Charms.

AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION PERMIT

We (I) are the parents (legal guardians) of student named above, a child enrolled in the Austin Independent School District.

We (I) hereby grant permission for the student named above to travel by a vehicle  driven or operated by an employee of the School District acting within the scope of his or her duties, or gratuitously by individuals, or by an independent  contractor. This transportation may be a privately owned vehicle or a privately owned chartered bus.

We (I) accept responsibility to determine that the transportation provided is safe and reasonable for the purposes intended. We (I) agree that the Austin Independent School District, its officers, trustees and employees are not negligent in their choice of the transportation and that we (I) have freely chosen the transportation provided herein.

We (I) understand that we have the option to provide our own transportation method.

We (I) hereby waive, release and discharge the Austin Independent School District, its trustees. officers and employees from any claim. demand or cause of action arising out of the transportation herein provided and agree to indemnify and save harmless the Austin Independent School District and its employees from all claims for loss, damage or injury sustained by us (me) or by our (my) child whether the same be caused by the negligence of the Austin Independent School District or its officers. agents. employees or otherwise.

 

(To be used for field trips. extracurricular activities and other events during which students travel in privately owned vehicles driven or operated by Austin Independent School District employees, other individuals. or independent contractors.)

This form gives permission to use pictures of the orchestra/guitar students. Without this, we cannot use any group pictures that contain your student's image. - Mr. Hall

 

 

 

AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Talent Release

For my engagement as talent for the Austin Independent School District (hereinafter AISD), I hereby consent and without further consideration of compensation to the use (full or in part) of all videotape recordings taken of me and/or recordings made of my voice and/or written extraction, in whole or in part, of such recordings or performance for the purposes of illustration, broadcast, or distribution in any manner.

I hereby irrevocably agree that all videotape recordings of me used and taken by the AISD are owned by them they they may copyright material containing same.

Further, I acknowledge and agree to the terms as described below and hereby grant in perpetuity to the AISD:

A. The right and permission to copyright and use, or not use, in whole or in part, and/or to reuse by means of electronic and/or non-electronic media and to republish and distribute videotape recordings, photographs or recordings of my voice, including the event of unintentional distortion due to technical mishap, through any media by AISD at its studio or elsewhere, for any purpose whatsoever, including the use of printed material in conjunction therewith. I understand the materials are for non-commercial educational use.

B. I hereby waive any right to inspect or approve the finished videotape, sound track, copy and/or printed material which may be used in conjunction therewith or approve the eventual use to which it may be applied.

C. On my own behalf, and on behalf of my heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, I hereby release discharge and agree to save harmless AISD, its representatives, assigns, employees or any person or persons, acting under its permission or authority, or any person, persons, corporation or corporations for who AISD might be acting, including any firm publishing and/or distributing the finished product, its publication, distributions, or broadcast of same.

I hereby grant permission for my child’s photograph and classroom work to be published without his or her name on the AISD or Schools web site: I understand certain risks are associated with this activity. I hereby agree to assume any and all risks surrounding my child’s participation in this project and hereby release the Austin Independent School District, its Board of Trustees, its officers, the school’s employees, agents and volunteers in both their official and individual capacities from any and all liability, claims, or causes of action connected with my child’s photograph or classroom work being published on the teacher’s website.

Covington FAA Middle School Orchestra
Parent/Guardian Volunteer Form

 

VOLUNTEERS, YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF OUR PROGRAM!

WE REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR WILLINGNESS TO HELP AND SUPPORT OUR STUDENTS.

 

For interest in volunteering or for any other questions, please feel free to contact Jeffrey Hall (512) 841-3724, jeffrey.hall@austinisd.org or our booster club covingtonsbo@gmail.com. 

Please indicate your willingness to assist by selecting the appropriate areas of your interest below. Additionally, you may sign up for a "help as needed" remind group (text @sup4covstr to 81010)

If you are ever willing to drive students when we go on trips or to performances, or if you are willing to volunteer for activities involving students, it is always a good idea to become a registered volunteer with Austin Partners in Education (APIE). APIE will do a free background check.

IT’S FREEEEEEE!!!!!!!

FOR APIE registration:

• Go to www.austinpartners.org
• Click on “Get Involved”
• Click on the circle that says “school-based volunteer”
• You may donate and register OR you can just click “click here to continue the registration process without donating.” (at the bottom of the first paragraph)
• Under “School-based Volunteers," select “Covington Middle School”
• Select “Fine Arts Volunteers”