Debut Classes-Inspiration Program Musicians Handbook 2015-2016

SDYS 2015–2016 Musicians’ Handbook

Debut Classes Inspiration Program The San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory instills excellence in the musical and personal development of students through rigorous and inspiring musical training experiences.

The SDYS music programs offer students at all levels of musical ability the opportunity not only to improve their talents, but also to develop lasting friendships with fellow musicians, achieve more than they ever thought possible, and serve as role models and a source of inspiration to the San Diego community. SDYS has a distinguished reputation as being one of the best youth symphonies today because it continually challenges students to rise to the next level whilst presenting unparalleled opportunities for committed musicians to excel through concerto competitions and community events.

Claudia, Clarinet, Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra — 2013-14

Table of Contents First and foremost the level of talent and professionalism within the orchestras is very special. SDYS gives musicians the opportunity to play and perform with some of San Diego’s best musicians. Being in this kind of environment is highly motivational and extremely inspirational.

Marisa, Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra — 2013-14

Welcome Balboa Park Programs Registration and Audition Dates Debut Classes Description Inspiration Program Description Instrument List Conductor Biographies Making the Decision to Audition Audition Requirements Audition Preparation and Expectations Attendance and Conduct Rehearsals and Logistics Concerts Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Additional Opportunities 2015-2016 Season Calendar Liability Releases

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If you have any administrative questions, please contact: Ensembles Administrator, FangFang Li ffli@sdys.org / 619.233.3232 x111 1650 El Prado #207A | San Diego, CA 92101 619.233.3232 | www.sdys.org

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WELCOME Make great music, meet new friends, and create exciting lifelong memories at the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory!

At San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory (SDYS), we know that beauty and joy, collaboration and friendship, tenacity and discipline, communication and listening are all essential to cultivating citizenship and personal achievement.

Learning in a musical ensemble that upholds the highest standards delivers these and numerous other profound benefits. This is why SDYS offers every student musician at every musical level the chance to participate in our orchestras and wind ensembles. We commit to giving aspiring musicians from all backgrounds and corners of the San Diego region a place in our rigorous programs.

Our faculty of professional conductors and teaching artists share all that music has to offer by challenging students to meet high expectations. Whether a student first auditions into our Debut Classes or has matured to reach the Ovation Program, our full range of ensembles gives every student a place to excel.

San Diego’s finest student performers return to SDYS year after year for this experience of learning and growing alongside friends from across the region.

Culminating performances are essential to reaping the benefits that come from joining a musical ensemble.

SDYS musicians and their families thrill at the excitement of our concert performances at the Jacobs Music Center and other prestigious venues. The professional concert experiences we produce are designed to reinforce SDYS’ rehearsal lessons in addition to the progress our musicians make in their school music programs and with their private music teachers. The more music students perform and enjoy, the more they reward themselves, their family, and their community.

By enrolling in SDYS, you are electing to pursue excellence. Because excellence is not easily achieved, we set explicit participation and commitment standards for the SDYS ensembles. Our Musicians’ Handbooks provide you with all the details you need to thrive in SDYS – including important dates, attendance requirements, and audition preparation instructions.

Please read all of this material carefully so you and your family feel confident with the commitment that comes with making music at SDYS. By upholding this commitment, you will be on the same path to personal success that countless SDYS musicians have taken over the past 70 seasons. We are excited to have you take this journey.

If you have any questions, please contact FangFang Li, our Ensembles Administrator. She will be happy to answer your questions. We look forward to having you join in our 70th anniversary season!

Sincerely,i

Dalouge Smith President and CEO

Jeff Edmons Music Director

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Balboa Park Programs DEBUT CLASSES Upper and Lower Strings / Woodwinds / Brass / Percussion

INSPIRATION PROGRAM Overture Strings / Overture Winds / Symphonic Strings

SHOWCASE PROGRAM Concert Winds / Concert Orchestra / Wind Symphony / Sinfonia

OVATION PROGRAM Symphony Orchestra / Wind Orchestra / Chamber Orchestra / Saxophone Ensemble

Programs at a Glance SDYS’ programs are designed to give student musicians a sequential ensemble experience over multiple years. Debut Classes are SDYS’ entry-level group instruction focusing on beginning ensemble techniques and instrument skills’ development. These classes are provided for students in their first or second year of playing who are preparing to participate in a full ensemble.

Our Inspiration Program offers quality foundational ensembles that provide an important musical and social experience for young students. In these ensembles, students will develop technical, collaborative, and musical skills as they progress on their instruments.

The Showcase Program encourages our intermediate-level students to participate in both an orchestra and a wind ensemble to maximize their musical training and exposure to diverse musical literature from a range of styles and historic periods.

Our Ovation Program provides the most advanced string, woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians with a comprehensive, intensive, pre-professional musical training. Participation in the Ovation Program includes the study and performance of classical music spanning the eighteenth century through the twenty-first century in multiple wind and orchestral ensemble settings. This flagship program provides the finest training at the highest levels attainable in a youth orchestra program.

This handbook is specific to Debut Classes and the Inspiration Program.

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OVATION PROGRAM Chamber Orchestra Symphony Orchestra

Wind Orchestra

SHOWCASE PROGRAM Sinfonia

Wind Symphony

Concert Orchestra

Concert Winds

INSPIRATION PROGRAM Symphonic Strings

Overture Winds

Overture Strings

Debut Winds Class

Debut Strings Class

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Registration and Audition Dates (Current and New Students) April 1

Registration opens for currently enrolled and new students. All currently enrolled musicians must register for a June audition.

Register at www.sdys.org/auditions.

The non-refundable registration fee is $40 from April 1 until April 30. The fee will increase to $50 after 12 noon on April 30. Registration closes on May 21 at 12 noon.

The registration fee may be paid online with a credit card, mailed as a check, or hand-delivered to the office as cash or check.

12 Noon on May 21

Registration deadline for June auditions.

Financial aid deadline for June auditions (optional).

May 26 to 12 Noon on June 2

Audition sign-up period.

June 6 to 19

Auditions for currently enrolled and new musicians.

July 3

Ensemble and class placements will be available.

July 31

Tuition payment of $450 for Debut Classes is due. Tuition payment of $600 plus $100 per additional ensemble is due for the Inspiration Program. Payment may be made online by credit card with a $20 service fee. It may also be made by check or cash at the SDYS office or via mail with a check. A $20 late fee will be charged for past-due payments. The musician’s ID # must be included with payment.

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Late Registration and Audition Dates (New Students Only) 12 Noon on May 21

Registration for August auditions opens (new students only). August auditions are not guaranteed an ensemble placement for the 2015-2016 season.

Register at www.sdys.org/auditions.

The non-refundable registration fee is $50.

The registration fee may be paid online with a credit card, mailed as a check, or hand-delivered to the office as cash or check.

12 Noon on July 24

Registration deadline for August auditions.

Financial aid deadline for August auditions (optional).

July 28 to 12 Noon on August 5

Audition sign-up period.

August 8 & 9

Auditions for new musicians only in sections with vacancies.

August 12

Ensemble and debut class placements available for August auditions.

August 24

Tuition payment of $450 for Debut Classes is due. Tuition payment of $600 plus $100 per additional ensemble is due for the Inspiration Program. Payment may be made online by credit card with a $20 fee. It may also be made by check or cash at the SDYS office or via mail with a check. A $20 late fee will be charged for past-due payments. The musician’s ID # must be included with payment.

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Debut Classes Description Upper and Lower Strings / Woodwinds / Percussion Debut Classes are SDYS’ entry-level group instruction focusing on beginning ensemble techniques and instrument skills’ development. These classes are provided for students in their first or second year of playing who are preparing to participate in a full ensemble in the Inspiration Program. The minimum age to participate in Debut Classes is 8, or entering 3rd grade, by September 1, 2015. Tuition for Debut Classes is $450, and need-based financial aid is available. Classes take place in Balboa Park on most Sundays; see rehearsal calendar for details.

DEBUT UPPER AND LOWER STRINGS CLASSES, taught by SDYS artistic faculty, are SDYS’ entry-level group instruction. Two different classes are offered: upper strings (violin/viola) and lower strings (cello/ bass). Students will focus on instrument techniques, develop sight-reading skills, and improve beginning ensemble techniques, such as following a conductor and fellow musicians. Classes are offered based on minimum enrollment.

DEBUT WOODWINDS, BRASS, AND PERCUSSION CLASSES, taught by SDYS artistic faculty, are designed as a first group experience for students in the SDYS program. Three different classes will be offered: woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and saxophone), brass (trumpet, French horn, trombone, and euphonium), and percussion. Students will focus on instrument techniques, develop sight-reading skills, and improve beginning ensemble techniques, such as following a conductor and fellow musicians. Classes are offered based on minimum enrollment.

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Inspiration Program Description Overture Strings / Overture Winds / Symphonic Strings Our Inspiration Program offers quality foundational ensembles that provide an important musical and social experience for young students. In these ensembles, students develop technical and musical skills as they progress on their instruments. The minimum age to participate in Inspiration Program ensembles is 8, or entering 3rd grade, by September 1, 2015. Tuition for the Inspiration Program is $600 with a second ensemble fee of $100, and need-based financial aid is available. Rehearsals take place in Balboa Park on most Sundays; see rehearsal calendar for details.

OVERTURE STRINGS, conducted by Mr. Anthony Do-Hoon Kim, is a beginning-level string orchestra providing a first ensemble opportunity for musicians in their second year of playing and above. The orchestra focuses on enhancing beginning-level skills such as fingering, tone quality, intonation, and sight-reading as part of an ensemble. Musicians will enhance their ability to follow the conductor, to play together, group intonation, and section cohesion by integrating technique into ensemble playing, including fluency in staccato and legato bowings.

OVERTURE WINDS is a wind ensemble that provides a progressive and accelerated opportunity for woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians in their second year of playing and above. Instruction focuses on teaching ensemble skills such as tone production and quality, musicianship, blend, balance, rhythm, and sightreading as part of an ensemble. Musicians will enhance their ability to follow the conductor, play together, and achieve group intonation as well as section cohesion by integrating technique into ensemble playing.

SYMPHONIC STRINGS, conducted by Ms. Ulli Reiner, is a string orchestra providing performance experience for intermediate string players. Musicians will learn important concepts of left and right hand technique, vibrato, shifting and bowings, articulation, tone production, intonation, balance, and blend.

Repertoire will include arrangements of music for string orchestra representing various periods and styles.

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Instrument List for Inspiration Program Overture Strings and Symphonic Strings Violin Viola Cello Double Bass Overture Winds Flute Oboe Clarinet Bass Clarinet Bassoon French Horn Trumpet Trombone Tuba Timpani Battery Percussion Melodic Percussion, e.g., xylophone, marimba, etc.

Euphonium Alto Saxophone Tenor Saxophone Baritone Saxophone

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Conductor Biographies Anthony Do-Hoon Kim, Conductor Overture Strings Originally from Seoul, South Korea, Anthony Do-Hoon Kim is a versatile musician who has performed throughout North America as a pianist, violinist, and conductor. He served as Music Director of the Michigan Pops Orchestra and was founder and Music Director of the Dead Composers Society Orchestra at UC Santa Barbara. He also served on the conducting staff with the Thousand Oaks Philharmonic, University of Michigan Orchestras, UC Santa Barbara Symphony Orchestra, South Coast Reading Orchestra, and Santa Barbara Youth Symphony. He has pursued conducting studies at the Pierre Monteux School and performed in master classes for artists including Leon Fleisher, Gustav Meier, and the Juilliard String Quartet. As a featured performer, he has given live radio performances and led numerous world premieres of works by living composers. He is a recipient of multiple career grants from the Léni Fé Bland Foundation and has won first prize awards in piano from the Music Teachers National Association and Saddleback Symphony Young Artist competitions. Mr. Kim was awarded a Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Michigan where he studied under Kenneth Kiesler. He also holds both a Bachelor and Master of Music in Piano Performance from UC Santa Barbara, where he was a student of Charles Asche.

Ulli Reiner, Conductor Symphonic Strings Ulli Reiner is the Artistic Director and co-founder of the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra of San Diego, Suzuki School. She is also the former conductor and co-founder of the Civic Youth Orchestra. Ms. Reiner is an adjunct faculty member of Palomar College; Concertmaster and orchestra manager of the Palomar College Symphony Orchestra; founder, orchestra manager, and Concertmaster of the Poway Community Symphony Orchestra; Conductor of the Poway Community Symphonette; and orchestra director with the Poway Unified School District.

Ms. Reiner performs regularly as a violin soloist with the Palomar Symphony, Poway Symphony, Poway Community Symphonette, and with the Maryland University Symphony Orchestra in St. Louis, Missouri.

Ms. Reiner’s ensembles are asked to perform in international festivals around the globe. She traveled to perform at the Vienna Advent Festival with the Poway Symphonette in 2014.

The Conductor of Overture Winds will be announced soon.

Artistic faculty are subject to change.

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Making the Decision to Audition into the Inspiration Program Participation in SDYS requires a substantial commitment to weekly rehearsals, practice, and concert performances. You may have to choose between joining SDYS and other activities. We strongly encourage you to consider carefully if you, both the musician and family, can fulfill this commitment.

Musicians involved in fall activities who cannot commit to the attendance policy should register for a mid-season audition toward the end of the calendar year. Please add your name to the Interest List on www.sdys.org/interestlist to receive information about mid-season auditions.

The minimum age to participate in the Inspiration Program or Debut Classes is 8, or entering 3rd grade,

by September 1, 2015. Younger musicians may be considered on a case-by-case basis with a written recommendation from their private or school music teacher outlining their musical, social, and physical readiness for an ensemble experience.

Musicians enrolled in the 2014-2015 season may audition to remain in their current ensemble or audition to advance to the next level of ensemble.

Inspiration Program placement decisions are final. They are made for the entire season so that the ensemble can grow together. There are no mid-season auditions to change ensembles. Musicians enrolled in the Inspiration Program and Debut Classes will have rotating seats, determined during the rehearsal season.

Both new and currently enrolled musicians should read the audition requirements carefully with the guidance of a private or school music teacher to prepare an audition for the appropriate level. We encourage all students who are interested in joining the Inspiration Program to visit and observe the current season’s Symphonic (Concert) Strings, Overture Strings, and Overture Winds rehearsals on Sundays. Find rehearsal schedules at www.sdys.org.

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Audition Requirements for Debut Classes and the Inspiration Program DEBUT CLASS MINIMUM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS FOR UPPER/LOWER STRINGS All Strings: • Two-minute prepared solo.

• Sight-reading (provided at audition).

Violin: • One-octave G, C and D major scales.

Viola: • One-octave G, C and D major scales.

Cello: • One-octave G, C and D major scales.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

Double Bass: • One-octave G, A, and C major scales.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

DEBUT CLASS MINIMUM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS FOR WOODWINDS, BRASS, AND PERCUSSION Woodwinds and Brass: • Concert B-flat major scale, one octave, quarter note = 120 bpm, tongued.

• Short solo or method book piece.

• Sight-reading (provided at audition).

Percussion • A short snare drum solo, etude or method book excerpt.

OVERTURE STRINGS MINIMUM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS All Strings: • Two-minute prepared solo.

• Sight-reading (provided at audition).

Violin: • Two-octave G major scale.

• One-octave D, A and C major scales.

Viola: • Two-octave C major scale.

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• One-octave G, D and F major scales.

Cello: • Two-octave C major scale.

• One-octave G, D and F major scales.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

Double Bass: • One-octave G, A and C major scales.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

OVERTURE WINDS MINIMUM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS All Instruments: • Short solo piece.

• Sight-reading (provided at audition).

• One-octave concert B-flat, E-flat and F major scales, quarter note = 120 bpm, tongued and slurred.

Percussion: • Note reading in treble clef.

• Basic snare rudiments: snare drum roll, flam taps, paradiddle.

SYMPHONIC STRINGS MINIMUM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS All Strings: • Two-minute prepared solo.

• Sight-reading (provided at audition).

• Instrument tuning ability.

• Developed knowledge of staccato, spiccato, legato, slurred staccato, and slurred concepts.

Violin I: • Three-octave G major scale.

• Two-octave D, G, C, A and F major scales; shifting to 3rd position facility and introductory vibrato.

Violin II: • Two-octave D, G, C, A and F major scales; shifting to 3rd position facility and introductory vibrato.

Viola: • Two-octave D, G, C, A and F major scales; introductory shifting.

Cello: • Two-octave D, G, C, A and F major scales; introductory shifting.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

Double Bass: • One-octave D, G, C, A and F major scales.

• Please bring a rock stop to your audition.

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Audition Preparation and Expectations Students auditioning on two different instruments will be scheduled for two auditions.

Audition Preparation: • Read all SDYS communications carefully prior to the audition.

• Discuss with your private teacher and/or school music teacher all the criteria and skill levels for the program that are best suited to your current abilities.

• Revisit the audition requirements for the program that is right for you, and prepare the solo you will play for the judges.

• Make a plan for how and when you will practice in order to prepare fully for your audition.

Practice Tips: • All areas of the audition—scales, solo, and sight-reading—are important.

• Practice with a metronome for even tempo and accurate rhythms.

• Scales: Prepare all required scales with an even tempo throughout.

• Solo: Choose a solo piece that best represents your level of ability.

• Sight-reading: Work with your teacher on a variety of sight-reading materials as part of your daily

practice routine. Sight-reading ability is heavily weighted and often the deciding factor between two students of otherwise equal skill.

Day of the Audition: • Put your best foot forward when auditioning. Dress nicely.

• Make sure your instrument is in top shape. As a precaution, bring extra strings, reeds, mutes, or other accessories.

• Remember to bring your instrument, and at least one original solo part for the judges.

• Arrive 20 to 30 minutes before your audition so you have plenty of time to check in and warm up.

• Auditions usually run on schedule. If parking is a problem, have a parent or guardian drop you off first.

Check-in is outside Room 207, at Casa del Prado. Time slots will not be held for students who are late to their audition time.

• Warm up only in the designated area, and have your music out of its folder so you are ready to be escorted to the audition room.

• Please do not play your instrument in the halls or outside the audition room, as the sound may interfere with other auditions.

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During the Audition: • When you enter the room, the judges will greet you and ask you to introduce yourself.

• Before playing your solo, state the title, composer, and movement (if applicable).

• Take about five seconds to look at the sight-reading excerpts before you begin to play. Think about the tempo in your head. Play for accuracy. If you make a mistake, keep going.

• Audition time is limited, so come prepared. Make the best of every minute you have.

• In order to maintain efficiency of the audition process and fairness to all students, judges may likely stop you before you complete your solo piece and/or sight-reading. This has no negative effect on your audition placement and simply means that they have listened to a sufficient amount to determine your placement.

General Criteria: Every student auditioning for SDYS is required to prepare materials from the categories listed below.

Specific requirements within each category are determined by the instrument the student plays and the various program levels. Please check the audition requirements for your group(s).

• Scales for woodwinds, brass, and percussion: The goal is to demonstrate different tonalities, tone quality and range development. Different scales are required for each ensemble level.

• Scales for strings: The goal is to demonstrate knowledge and expertise of different tonalities, tone quality, range development, bowing styles, and articulations. Different scales are required for each level.

• Prepared solo: This should be two to four minutes, depending on your instrument and the level you are attempting. All students must bring at least one original score.

• Sight-reading: Music is provided by judges during the audition. Sight-reading ability is heavily weighted and often the deciding factor between two students of otherwise equal skill.

Specific Areas of Evaluation: Articulation:

Does the musician perform articulations clearly and as marked?

Intonation:

Are pitches in tune, or is there a tendency to go sharp or flat?

Musicianship: How well does the musician phrase, make dynamic contrasts, and interpret the music?

Rhythm:

How precisely can the musician play rhythmic figures in the context of a piece?

Tempo:

Is the musician following and keeping the proper tempo in the context, style, and period of the piece?

Technique:

How strong is the musician’s technical ability?

Tone:

Is the tone focused, and does it have character?

Sight-Reading: How well can the musician play a previously unseen piece of music? Is the musician able

to play the right notes and rhythms at the correct tempo?

Transposition: This may be required in some orchestral passages for horn, trumpet, and clarinet.

Other Clefs:

This may be required in some orchestral passages for strings, bassoon, and trombone.

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Attendance and Conduct Attendance Participation in SDYS requires a substantial commitment to weekly rehearsals, practice, and concert performances. Consistent, weekly attendance at rehearsals is not only a requirement for musicians in the Inspiration Program, but it is also essential to creating strong musical ensembles. You may have to choose between joining SDYS and other activities. Please carefully review the attendance guidelines and rehearsal/concert schedule before making the decision to audition.

All musicians are expected to be at every rehearsal, dress rehearsal, and concert on the calendar.

Musicians are required to be at rehearsal by the call time, and they are expected to be in their seats, warmed up, tuned, and ready for the conductor’s downbeat. If a musician is not present, the ensemble diminishes. Each musician is significant to the integrity of his/her ensemble.

Debut Class and Inspiration Program musicians may not have more than: • three (3) absences in the first concert period (Aug. 30-Dec. 13), • two (2) absences in the second concert period (Dec. 20-Mar. 13), or

• two (2) absences in the third concert period (Mar. 20-June 11).

Debut and Inspiration students may request one additional rehearsal absence across the second and third concert periods. Such requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may or may not be excused.

Absences due to illness or emergency count toward the total number of allowed absences, so please plan accordingly. Students may not be absent from three consecutive rehearsals at any time during the season.

Inspiration musicians who do not stay within the attendance policy will be excluded from performing in the next concert and will be moved to the back of the section in the following concert period. Please review the rehearsal and concert calendars before making the decision to audition. Concert periods are detailed on the calendar. Other performances may be scheduled during the season. Recurring absences over these limits or excessive late arrivals and early departures from rehearsals may result in dismissal from SDYS at the discretion of the President and CEO. Absence Reporting It is important for all musicians and their families to communicate with SDYS regarding any expected absence from a rehearsal. Absences, late arrivals, or early departures must be reported at least ONE WEEK in advance. Please report on the “Report an Absence” clipboard at rehearsal or complete the online absence form on the website www.sdys.org. A reason for the absence is required. In the event of an absence due to unexpected circumstances, please call the SDYS office at 619.233.3232 x. 111 or email Ensembles Administrator FangFang Li at ffli@sdys.org within 24 hours of the absence.

In order to augment their musical understanding of the repertoire, musicians are expected to attend rehearsals even if their instrument is being repaired or if they have a minor personal injury. Communication about any absence for any reason is imperative for the conductor’s planning.

Attendance at all rehearsals and concerts will be recorded. Musicians “standing in” for absent musicians will be dismissed from the SDYS program, as will the absent musicians.

Reminder: Absences must be reported in advance.

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Conduct and Behavior Any musician who exhibits inappropriate behavior at rehearsals, concerts, or activities jeopardizes his/her good standing and may be dismissed from SDYS. Examples include, but are not limited to: • • • • • • • •

failure to report absences,

disrespect toward others,

failure to follow instructions,

verbal or physical threats toward others,

horseplay, harassment, intimidation, or bullying,

inappropriate physical contact or gestures of affection, e.g., kissing or holding hands, inappropriate language, or

any other inappropriate behavior that undermines the integrity of the ensemble.

If any musician does not feel safe, s/he should speak to an SDYS staff member immediately.

SDYS maintains a drug-free workplace. Illegal drug use by musicians will not be tolerated and will result in the musician’s dismissal from the program. Adults who smoke should do so away from the rehearsal rooms and buildings. Smoking in Balboa Park is prohibited and may result in fines imposed by city staff.

Dismissal from SDYS The final decision regarding dismissal from SDYS programs for excessive absences, excessive late arrivals or early departures, missing a concert, unacceptable conduct, or failure to uphold any other required policy or agreement of participation in the respective SDYS program or ensemble will be made by the President and CEO. Tuition refunds are not provided to musicians dismissed from SDYS, and students dismissed from a program are ineligble to join another program during the season.

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Rehearsals and Logistics (Revised 8/25/15) SUNDAY DEBUT CLASSES REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Call Time

Conductor’s Downbeat

End

Ensemble

Location

1:45 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

Debut Strings Class

Room 103

Location

SUNDAY INSPIRATION REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Call Time

Conductor’s Downbeat

End

Ensemble

1:00 p.m.

1:15 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

Symphonic Strings

Room 207

1:00 p.m.

1:15 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

Overture Winds

Room 205

3:00 p.m.

3:15 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Overture Strings

Room 207

Rehearsals begin on August 29, 2015. All rehearsals (unless notified) will be held in the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park, 1650 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. A special Season’s First Downbeat event will be on Saturday, August 22. This is a fun, meet-and-greet orientation for all new and returning families to meet SDYS staff and faculty, and to get to know each other!

Saturdays and Sundays are busy and fun with musicians and families coming and going throughout the day. The majority of musicians’ SDYS experience occurs during rehearsals. Below are some helpful guidelines to ensure rehearsals are successful for all. On rehearsal days, we have production staff ready to help you and answer questions.

Call Time and Conductor’s Downbeat Musicians are expected to be at the rehearsal room by the call time. Musicians must be seated, warmed up, tuned and ready by the conductor’s downbeat time. Students are recorded as late if they are not seated by the conductor’s downbeat time.

Rehearsal Etiquette Musicians are expected to take personal responsibility for the following: • to arrive at rehearsals before call time,

• to be seated, warmed up, tuned, and ready for the conductor’s downbeat,

• to stay focused on the conductor, be respectful, follow directions, and participate fully in rehearsal, • to have the current music in their folder and on their stand,

• to have a pencil and eraser for note taking,

• to have extra instrument supplies in their case (strings and reeds, etc.),

• to wear shoes but no hats,

• not to use a cell phone or engage in other distracting activities during rehearsals, and

• to store instruments properly during rehearsal breaks.

Due to various health risks and allergens contained in some food items, no snacks or drinks (except bottled water) are allowed in the rehearsal room.

Parking for Rehearsals Parking in Balboa Park on Saturdays and Sundays can sometimes take time and patience. To ensure

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timely arrival at rehearsal, musicians can be dropped off curbside on Village Place outside the Casa del Prado building and make their way to rehearsal while the driver finds parking. Difficulty parking is not an acceptable reason for tardiness.

Parking is typically available in the Inspiration Point Lot near Park Boulevard and Presidents Way. A free tram runs from there to Plaza de Panama outside the San Diego Museum of Art. This is a short walk to the rehearsal rooms in the Casa del Prado. For more information about Balboa Park tram and parking, please visit http://www.balboapark.org/visit/parking/.

Balboa Park is very active with cultural events, recreational activities, and large civic events such as runs and parades. Every Thursday, SDYS staff will email families a Weekly Update, which will give notice of known events in and around Balboa Park that might cause traffic delays so you can plan accordingly.

Music Distribution New music is distributed at the first rehearsal of the season and after each concert. If a musician is absent on the music distribution day, s/he will need to contact the SDYS office to schedule a time to pick up any new music that was distributed.

All music must be returned to the Music Librarian after each concert. Musicians should not depend on their stand partner and are required to bring their own music to each rehearsal and concert.

Lost Music Any musician who loses his/her music will be required to pay a $5 replacement fee per part. Musicians may request a replacement for lost music online at www.sdys.org under the “Our Musicians” tab.

Loaned Instruments SDYS has a large inventory of purchased or donated instruments. If you are unable to buy or rent an appropriate instrument, please contact us, and we may be able to lend you an instrument. In situations where your instrument has to be repaired, we may be able to lend you an instrument for a short period of time. Families accept liability for any damage or loss of SDYS instruments that occur while the instrument is on loan. The instrument loan policy is available from the Instrument Librarian. A deposit of 10% of the value of the instrument is required at the time of the loan and will be returned when the instrument is returned in good condition.

Instrument Insurance SDYS is not liable for loss or damage to instruments when musicians have them at rehearsals, concerts, or in transit. Families are encouraged to add valuable instruments to their personal property insurance.

Accidents do happen. Musicians are expected to take care of their own instruments and respect other musicians’ property.

Weekly Preparation, Private Lessons, and School Music Programs Musicians are expected to practice music between rehearsals to make rehearsals enjoyable and productive for all. When possible, musicians are encouraged to take private music lessons and/or participate in school music programs.

Family Involvement Families are important partners in their musician’s participation and development through SDYS programs.

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Musicians’ success at SDYS is the result of dedicated families who help their children understand the importance of practicing, being on time, and contributing to the ensemble. All rehearsals are open to the public. Families are encouraged to visit rehearsals to witness their musician’s musical journey and to enjoy the other ensembles.

Due to copyright, privacy, and royalty issues we do not allow photography, audio or video recording at rehearsals.

Volunteering Rehearsal days are very busy with about 600 musicians moving through our rehearsal rooms. Please offer to help the production staff with room setup and breakdown, snack setup, or handing out SDYS materials to visitors. The Weekly Update will also include opportunities for parent volunteers. There are many ways to help, so just ask! SDYS appreciates the help of all parent volunteers.

Musicians who help on a consistent basis may record their volunteer time as community service hours for school. Families who receive need-based financial aid have additional volunteer requirements, which are outlined in the Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid section of this handbook.

Communication SDYS’ communication with musicians and their families is essential. To enable good communication we ask that you keep the administration staff up to date with any email, phone, and address changes. Important SDYS communication will be sent to all email addresses listed in the registration application. Primary and secondary contacts are responsible for reading SDYS correspondence.

We email a Weekly Update every Thursday with important information for all families, and we send ensemble-specific emails on Tuesday. Weekly Updates are archived on the website under “ENews” for reference. Please read these emails so you can stay up to date with your musicians’ SDYS activities. Please ensure emails from “@sdys.org” are not blocked as spam.

Rehearsal schedules and Weekly Updates can be found on www.sdys.org under the “Our Musicians” tab.

Frequent postings are made on the SDYS Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and YouTube accounts available through the buttons on www.sdys.org.

Notice boards outside the rehearsal rooms display information about music-related activities. These events are not endorsed by SDYS. Any questions can be directed to the Ensembles Administrator, FangFang Li, at ffli@sdys.org.

Merchandise for Sale SDYS sells some merchandise at rehearsals: • Snacks — $1

• Concert CDs (if available) — $15

• SDYS T-shirts and hoodies (if available) — $15 / $30

Concert DVDs can be purchased through Walker Vision on www.sdys.org under the “Our Musicians” tab.

We record some, but not all, concerts.

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Artistic Faculty Students at SDYS are expected to follow the conductors’ directions at all rehearsals and concerts. Students are also expected to treat conductors with respect as their leaders in each ensemble. Our conductors will be happy to answer any artistic questions.

Production Staff SDYS production staff members are onsite at rehearsals to assist musicians and families. They can answer questions and give directions. Production staff facilitate smooth rehearsal and concert day activities. They depend on volunteers and musicians to assist with rehearsal setup and breakdown. Musicians and families are asked to respect these staff members and assist them when asked.

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Concerts Concert days are exciting events that enable SDYS musicians to share their talents and progress as an ensemble. They start with a dress rehearsal at the venue, followed by a concert for families, friends, and supporters. We publish timelines, including call times, at least three weeks in advance. All musicians are required to stay for the duration of each concert in which they participate.

Concert Tickets Families and friends are encouraged to attend concerts and events where musicians perform. Most concerts require paid tickets. Concert tickets are sold at reduced prices to SDYS families through the SDYS office approximately four weeks prior to a concert. For some concerts, SDYS offers a “2 for 2� ticket deal that gives families two free tickets with the purchase of two full-priced tickets. This offer is only available through SDYS and is limited to two free tickets per family. This offer is not available on the day of the concerts.

Concert and Debut Class Recital Attire The concert attire is a visual representation of the artistic excellence we present on stage.

Male Attire:

o Black pants,

o White shirt,

o Black bow tie,

o Black socks, and

o Black shoes.

Female Attire:

o Black dress, black pants, or black skirt just below the knee,

o Black shirt,

o Black shoes, and

o Black stockings.

o No sparkly jewelry or hair accessories.

o No backless, sleeveless, or spaghetti straps without a jacket.

SDYS often has a limited amount of concert attire which has been donated. If you would like further information, please contact the Ensembles Administrator, FangFang Li, at ffli@sdys.org.

Photography and Recording Due to copyright, privacy, and royalty issues we do not allow photography, audio or video recording at concerts.

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Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid Tuition Payments Tuition for Debut Classes is $450. Tuition for the Inspiration Program is $600 plus $100 per additional ensemble. All tuition is due in full by August 1, 2015. Payments may be made by credit card online with a $20 service fee, by check mailed to SDYS, or by cash at the office. All payments should include the musician’s ID number.

A $20 late fee will be applied to payments received after the deadline. Families will be charged a $15 fee for bounced checks. Tuition is non-refundable after September 1.

Ensemble placement will be forfeited and musicians will not be allowed to join rehearsals if the tuition balance has not been paid or financial aid has not been requested by the first rehearsal.

Dissatisfaction with ensemble placement or seat assignment is not an acceptable reason for a refund.

Dismissal from SDYS does not result in any refund of tuition regardless of the time in the season.

Financial Aid Financial aid for tuition is available for musicians whose families demonstrate need, but applying for financial aid does not guarantee approval. Financial aid is not available for the registration fee.

Musicians eligible for the Federal Reduced School Lunch Program qualify for full financial aid to cover tuition. Please send your federal lunch award letter to the Ensembles Administrator, FangFang Li, at ffli@ sdys.org. Alternately, submit the fully completed financial aid application with all required documents as outlined on the application form. The application will be reviewed by the SDYS Board of Directors Financial Aid Committee, and SDYS staff will notify families of any financial aid award before tuition is due. A receipt acknowledging the acceptance of the financial aid award must be signed and mailed back to SDYS before the first rehearsal.

Preuss School students also may be eligible for financial aid and may indicate their eligibility on their application.

Volunteer Expectations All families receiving financial aid for tuition are required to pay a $75 fee, which will be refunded if the family completes five volunteer services before the end of the 2015-2016 season. Families may opt to donate the $75 fee and not volunteer.

Examples of volunteer services include, but are not limited to: • Help with rehearsal setup and breakdown,

• Help with truck loading and unloading at concerts, • Help at the information table at rehearsals,

• Help with chaperoning at concerts,

• Help with music preparation, and

• Help with preparing mailings.

Volunteer opportunities will be advertised in the Weekly Update.

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Music Lessons Musicians awarded financial aid may be eligible for inclusion in SDYS’ sponsored lessons. Musicians who accept lessons are required to attend lessons regularly to benefit from this opportunity. Students are permitted a maximum of four absences from sponsored lessons. Students who are dismissed from lessons may be ineligible for future lessons.

Concert Tickets Families that are awarded full financial aid are mailed a voucher redeemable for free tickets to most large ensemble concerts. This gives the families the opportunity to see their musician perform. Additional tickets may be purchased.

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Additional Opportunities Music Theory and Ear Training A beginning theory class will be available for students who have learned basic skills on their instrument.

This course reinforces and enhances the students’ knowledge of music essentials such as treble and bass clef, note reading, scales, time signatures, key signatures, basic intervals, melody, and structure. This class is recommended for students in Overture Winds, Overture Strings, Symphonic Strings, Concert Winds, and Concert Orchestra.

Ten-week courses are available in the fall with continuation into the spring. Details on program offerings and tuition will be made available in the Weekly Update. Theory course offerings are dependent on minimum enrollment. New students must take a placement exam to determine current skill and knowledge level.

Peer Arts Partnerships SDYS has partnered with schools and community organizations since its founding. SDYS regularly partners with leading professional music, theater, and arts organizations, including La Jolla Music Society, San Diego Symphony, The Old Globe, and La Jolla Playhouse, to give students access to unique performance experiences, professional music mentors, and concerts by the world’s leading artists. Please watch the Weekly Update for notification of concert ticket offers, performance opportunities, or master classes from our partners.

Community Opus Project San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory works in neighborhoods across the region to build community support for giving all students access to the benefits of music making. Chula Vista, City Heights, and Solana Beach are just three locations where SDYS partners with local schools or educational providers to further music education for their students. Balboa Park musicians are encouraged to join our movement by serving as student peer mentors at the various ensembles or sectionals.

Along with teaching instrumental music at the high standard of the Balboa Park programs, the community programs of SDYS engage students and families in the education process to build confidence and leadership in children who may not have the opportunity to learn music otherwise. It is the vision of SDYS for all students in the San Diego region to have access to high-quality music instruction on a regular basis.

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2015–2016 Season Calendar (Revised 8/25/15) SDYS Debut Classes Rehearsals Sunday rehearsal times:

Debut Strings: 1:45 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

N/A

Saturday

August 22

“Season’s First Downbeat”

1

Sunday

August 30

Rehearsals

Labor Day

Sunday

September 6

No Rehearsals

2

Sunday

September 13

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

September 20

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

September 27

Rehearsals

5

Sunday

October 4

Rehearsals

6

Sunday

October 11

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

October 18

Rehearsals

8

Sunday

October 25

Rehearsals

9

Sunday

November 1

Rehearsals

10

Sunday

November 8

Rehearsals

Music Educator’s Concert

Sunday

November 15

No Rehearsals

11

Sunday

November 22

Rehearsals

Thanksgiving

Sunday

November 29

No Rehearsals

12

Sunday

December 6

Performance Class

Inspiration Concert

Sunday

December 13

No Rehearsals

No more than three absences.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

Winter Break

Sunday

December 20

No Rehearsals

Winter Break

Sunday

December 27

No Rehearsals

Winter Break

Sunday

January 3

No Rehearsals

1

Sunday

January 10

Rehearsals

2

Sunday

January 17

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

January 24

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

January 31

Rehearsals

5

Sunday

February 7

Rehearsals

President’s Day

Sunday

February 14

No Rehearsals

6

Sunday

February 21

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

February 28

Rehearsals

8

Sunday

March 6

Rehearsals

Inspiration Concert

Sunday

March 13

No Rehearsals

No more than two absences.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

1

Sunday

March 20

Rehearsals

Spring Break

Sunday

March 27

No Rehearsals

2

Sunday

April 3

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

April 10

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

April 17

Rehearsals

Earth Day

Sunday

April 24

No Rehearsals

5

Sunday

May 1

Rehearsals

6

Sunday

May 8

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

May 15

Rehearsals

Recital

Sunday

May 22

Recital

8

Sunday

May 29

Rehearsals

9

Sunday

June 5

Rehearsals

Ovation Concert

Sunday

June 12

No Rehearsals

No more than two absences.

All rehearsal dates may be subject to change

2015–2016 Season Calendar (Revised 8/25/15) SDYS Inspiration Program Rehearsals and Concerts Sunday rehearsal times:

Symphonic Strings: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Overture Winds: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Overture Strings: 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

N/A

Saturday

August 22

“Season’s First Downbeat”

1

Sunday

August 30

Rehearsals

Labor Day

Sunday

September 6

No Rehearsals

2

Sunday

September 13

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

September 20

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

September 27

Rehearsals

5

Sunday

October 4

Rehearsals

6

Sunday

October 11

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

October 18

Rehearsals

8

Sunday

October 25

Rehearsals

9

Sunday

November 1

Rehearsals

10

Sunday

November 8

Rehearsals

Music Educator’s Concert

Sunday

November 15

No Rehearsals

11

Sunday

November 22

Rehearsals

Thanksgiving

Sunday

November 29

No Rehearsals

12

Sunday

December 6

Rehearsals

Concert

Sunday

December 13

Inspiration Concert

No more than three absences.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

Winter Break

Sunday

December 20

No Rehearsals

Winter Break

Sunday

December 27

No Rehearsals

Winter Break

Sunday

January 3

No Rehearsals

1

Sunday

January 10

Rehearsals

2

Sunday

January 17

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

January 24

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

January 31

Rehearsals

5

Sunday

February 7

Rehearsals

President’s Day

Sunday

February 14

No Rehearsals

6

Sunday

February 21

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

February 28

Rehearsals

8

Sunday

March 6

Rehearsals

Concert

Sunday

March 13

Inspiration Concert

No more than two absences.

Rehearsals

Day

Dates

1

Sunday

March 20

Rehearsals

Spring Break

Sunday

March 27

No Rehearsals

2

Sunday

April 3

Rehearsals

3

Sunday

April 10

Rehearsals

4

Sunday

April 17

Rehearsals

Earth Day

Sunday

April 24

No Rehearsals

5

Sunday

May 1

Rehearsals

6

Sunday

May 8

Rehearsals

7

Sunday

May 15

Rehearsals

8

Sunday

May 22

Rehearsals

9

Sunday

May 29

Rehearsals

10

Sunday

June 5

Rehearsals

Afternoon Concert

Saturday

June 11

Showcase/Inspiration Winds Concert

Evening Concert

Saturday

June 11

Showcase/Inspiration Strings and Orchestras Concert

No more than two absences.

All concert and rehearsal dates may be subject to change.

Liability Releases for San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory (SDYS) MEDIA RELEASE Pursuant to the furtherance of the purposes, goals, and objectives of SDYS, and for no other consideration or compensation, I hereby irrevocably grant to SDYS and its officers, directors, and employees the permission to use my child’s name, likeness and biographical data incident to practices, recitals and other performances with SDYS, and the right to take photographs or record audio or video of my child’s practices, recitals and other performances with SDYS, and to use such photographs and video or audio recordings for any SDYS purposes. In granting the above permission, I hereby irrevocably relinquish all right, title, or interest in the above mentioned photographs and/or recordings and all rights of authorship or of performance as may apply and hereby assign to SDYS all copyrights arising with respect to my child’s practices, recitals and other performances with SDYS. Additionally, I hereby irrevocably grant SDYS, its officers, employees, and licensees permission to reproduce, use, or publish such photos and/ or recordings in all media, whether now known or hereafter existing, for any SDYS purposes, with no additional compensation being due to me or my child. Additionally, I hereby irrevocably release SDYS, its officers, directors, employees, and licensees from any and all claims that my child may now or hereafter have for libel, defamation, invasion of privacy or right of publicity, infringement of copyright, or violation of any other right arising out of or relating to any utilization of my child’s name, likeness or biographical data, the practices, recitals and other performances with SDYS and all related photos and/or recordings.

MEDICAL RELEASE I agree, on behalf of myself and/or on behalf of my child, beginning on the date of execution of this Release, to give consent to SDYS to obtain all emergency dental or medical care prescribed from a duly licensed physician (M.D.) or dentist (D.D.S.). This care may be given under whatever conditions are necessary to preserve life, limb, or the wellbeing of me or my dependent.

HOLD HARMLESS AND LIABILITY RELEASE As a condition of my child’s participation in any activity sponsored by or associated with SDYS, I agree to and hereby irrevocably waive all claims on behalf of myself and/or my child against SDYS and to indemnify and hold SDYS, its officers, directors, and employees, the City of San Diego, and the San Diego Park and Recreation Department (“Released Parties”) harmless from any and all liability or claims that I, my child or anyone else on behalf of my child or otherwise may have against the Released Parties or that any other person, entity, my child or I may have against the Released Parties because of any death, bodily injury, personal injury, or illness, or because of any loss to property that may arise out of or in any way be connected with my child’s participation in any activity sponsored by or associated with SDYS and any Released Parties’ activity related thereto. I will also allow the Released Parties to transport me and/or my child in an emergency circumstance. I further acknowledge that the Released Parties do not provide any type of insurance including liability or medical coverage for any child who participates in any SDYS activity. I hereby state that it is my intention in executing this Release that the same shall be effective as a bar to each and every claim, complaint, action, debts, promises, demand, cause of action, obligation, damage, liability, charge, attorneys’ fees and costs herein above released. I hereby expressly waive and relinquish all of my rights and benefits, if any, arising under the provisions of California Civil Code § 1542, which provides: A GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT EXTEND TO CLAIMS WHICH THE CREDITOR DOES NOT KNOW OR SUSPECT TO EXIST IN HIS OR HER FAVOR AT THE TIME OF EXECUTING THE RELEASE, WHICH IF KNOWN BY HIM OR HER MUST HAVE MATERIALLY AFFECTED HIS OR HER SETTLEMENT WITH THE DEBTOR. I hereby expressly agree that the above releases apply to all unknown, unsuspected and unanticipated claims, liabilities and causes of action which I, my child or any other party may have against the Released Parties which have arisen, occurred or existed at any time prior to the date of this Release or after.

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San Diego and Conservatory

1650 El Prado #207A, San Diego, CA 92101 619.233.3232 • www.sdys.org