For a successful orchestra program, there must be a high level of commitment from the director, from the parents, and from the student.
From the director: You should expect your director to be dedicated to making the orchestra program (grades 5 through 12) and the high-school orchestras the finest that we can make them. We all want the program to continue to be regarded as one of the best in the five-state northwest area, providing a top-quality orchestral experience for students of all talent levels. For the high-school orchestras, this means the directors will constantly be pushing themselves and the students to higher and higher levels of musical achievement.
From the parents: It is important to realize what is being asked of your children. The director cannot be effective as a teacher if your child regards this as a frivolous activity. This does not mean that a student cannot have other commitments. We all have other interests and obligations, and they are all important. What you are being asked is that for for the hours that belong to orchestra, you will support your student's efforts in practice, rehearsal, performance, and when applicable, travel obligations. If any of these commitments are a problem, especially the performance and orchestra travel time, please talk to your director by the end of September. Emergencies can certainly arise and should be brought up with the director immediately and will be handled on a case by case instance.
For everyone to meet their commitments, we must have a whole team. If financial restraints are a problem, please talk to your director privately. We have a method of handling these matters in a confidential manner.
From the student:
The student's commitment is twofold. First, the hours that belong to orchestra in practice, rehearsal, performance, and travel are extremely important, and students must come prepared to make these hours as productive as possible. Practice time is scheduled by each individual and cannot be neglected. Students need to fit practice time into their schedule so it is consistent and productive.
The second part of the student's commitment regards communication. There will be conflicts that arise in regards to rehearsal times, especially after school. It is imperative that you communicate these problems to your director far in advance, preferably both verbally and in writing. Please look over the “Schedule of All Events” carefully, and make arrangements to talk about any problems right away.