Performance Policies

Performances are an integral component of the band and choral programs at Mt. Ararat. Most performances are outside of the regular school day. However, they are required as part of the curriculum of the course, and are not considered extra-curricular activities. Attendance at regularly scheduled performances is mandatory and unexcused absences from these performances will count against a student's grade for the course. In order for an absence (other than personal illness or family emergency) to be considered excused, a note from a parent or guardian must be presented to the teacher and approved by the teacher prior to the performance. Student work or participation in an extra-curricular event will not be considered excusable.

Membership in a performing group is at the discretion of the director of that performing ensemble and is dependent on the student's maintaining musical proficiency. Attendanceat all performances is required of all members of the ensemble and is an integral part of the student's grade for the course.

Performances will be scheduled only if there is solid educational justification for the stu dents involved in the performance. School performing groups do not exist to be public service or public relations vehicles and the directors of the groups will always justify a performance first and foremost by the educational benefits derived by the students from performing. Music and/or literature will be chosen that is educationally and artistically challenging, and represents a broad historical and stylistic range.