Attendance
PYSO musicians are very busy with academics and social activities. However, an orchestra is much like any other team and cannot play its best without all of its teammates. All ensemble members (you!) are expected to attend every rehearsal and concert performance. It is important that each musician of PYSO realizes and fulfills their obligation to the conductor, sectional coaches, themselves and fellow musicians of the orchestra. Students need to arrive 15 minutes early in order to be tuned and ready to rehearse on time. Please take traffic issues into consideration as late arrivals are disruptive to a rehearsal. Parents who do not stay for rehearsal need to return on time. Students will not be left alone to wait for a ride. Parents and guests are welcome to stay and listen to all rehearsals except the rehearsal on the concert day.
The PYSO attendance policy is set forth as follows:
· A musician may only miss a maximum of four (4) rehearsals during the course of the entire season. There are no excused absences allowed outside of these four. Additional absences (five or more) are grounds for a musician to be dismissed from their respective ensemble, at the discretion of the conductor and/or the Youth Orchestra Manager.
· Musicians are expected to be in their seat, warmed up and prepared to begin rehearsal (e.g. tuning) at the rehearsal start time or designated call time.
· A musician’s late arrival (tardiness) to rehearsal can be more disruptive than an absence. Three (3) late arrivals will be considered equal to one absence.
(3x Tardy = 1x Absence)
· Musicians are asked to give at least 24 hours’ notice to the Youth Orchestra Manager if a rehearsal is going to be missed or if a musician will be arriving late.
· Every musician is required to attend the final rehearsal prior to a concert, or they will not be allowed to participate in the concert performance.
· Attendance at all concert performances is mandatory.
Conduct
Orchestra members are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner. Courteous attention, punctuality, and good manners will lead to a productive rehearsal for all involved. It is expected that these courtesies will be extended to fellow musicians, staff, and volunteers. Inappropriate behavior may result in loss of membership. No cell phone use during rehearsal.
School Music Programs:
Orchestra members are expected to participate in their school music program to the satisfaction of their school music teacher, if there is a program for them. Participation in PYSO contributes to a well-rounded music education, and provides students with additional opportunities to develop musicianship, leadership, and ensemble playing skills that they can then bring back into their school programs. We encourage you to take a leadership role in your school program and set an example for your classmates who will often be inspired to reach the level of musicianship you have achieved.
