NJYS Student Handbook 2017-18

PAS|60 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
WhartonMusicCenter.org | 908.790.0700

NJYS |570 Central Avenue, New Providence, NJ 07974
NJYS.org | 908.771.5544

Board of Trustees Administrative Staff

Robert Hamburger, President Karen Deschere, Executive Director

Lenore Davis, Vice President Programs
Marnie G. McKoy, Vice President Stacy Beltran,
Howard Kailes, Secretary
Mark P. Matthews, Treasurer NJYS Manager of Orchestras
Libby J. Corydon-Apicella Adrienne Ostrander,
James Gillen
Henry S. Hadad NJYS Student Services Assistant
Charissa Wong Horton Elizabeth Moulthrop,
Stephen Kay
Judith G. Wharton Program Director,
Paterson Music Project
Shanna Lin,
Associate Program Director,

Artistic Staff Paterson Music Project

Helen Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director Designate Timothy Maureen Cole,

and Interim Youth Orchestra Conductor Director of Musical Theater Arts

Mark Gunderman,

Philharmonia Conductor Student Services

Michelle Hatcher, Andrew Nitkin, Education Director

Preparatory String and Junior String Kristen Wuest, Manager

Ensembles Conductor Matthew Buckwalter, Assistant

Simon Lipskar, Joyce Alexander,

Interim Youth Symphony Conductor Early Childhood Coordinator

Milan Milinkovic, Operations
Chamber Music String Coordinator Susan Peterson, Operations Director
Cedric Sanders, Custodian
Dr. Mesia Austin
Interim Percussion Director and

Percussion Ensemble Director Development and Marketing Handbook
Diana Charos Reilly, Pamela M. Palumbo, Director
Elizabeth Piercy, Assistant Director of
Flute Choir, Flute Forum and Development
Fortissimo Flutes Conductor Alice Hamlet, Associate Director of
Bryan Rudderow,
Junior Wind Ensemble and Clarinet Marketing
Ensemble Conductor

David Schumacher, Finance
Director of Jazz Studies Jillian Lyons, Director

Nate White,

Sinfonia Conductor &

Chamber Music Manager

Welcome PLAYATHON!

Welcome to the 2017-18 Season of New Jersey Youth Symphony,
NJYS! We look forward to an amazing season with great music,
performances, and fun. To help you understand how we do things at
NJYS, we have developed this handbook that includes NJYS general
guidelines, rules, regulations, and procedures.

We ask that all parents and students, new or returning, take time to
read the handbook and refer to it often. In these pages, we hope to
answer all the questions you may have about NJYS participation.

We look forward to and exciting 2017-18 season.

Karen Deschere,
Executive Director
Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts

Wharton Institute Administration

Stacy Beltran Andrew Nitkin
NJYS Manager of Orchestras Director of Education
[email protected] [email protected]
908-771-5544 ext. 10 908-790-0700

Adrienne Ostrander Susan Peterson
NJYS Student Services Assistant Director of Operations
[email protected] [email protected]
908-771-5544 ext. 19 908-771-5544 ext.11

Helen Cha-Pyo Karen Deschere
NJYS Artistic Director Designate Executive Director
Youth Orchestra Interim Conductor [email protected]
[email protected] 908-790-0700

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Membership Renewal Contents

All current students must re-audition for the upcoming NJYS year to be General Information ..................................................................2
considered for an ensemble in 2018-19. Students not interested in returning NJYS Ensemble Listings...........................................................4-5
to NJYS must submit an email to Stacy at [email protected]. General Expectations..............................................................6-7
Discipline.................................................................................... 7
Student placement is at the discretion of the conductors who judge the Parking and Pick Up ...................................................................7
auditions. Placement is based upon grade eligibility and skill level. Audition Rehearsal Cancellations.............................................................7
results are emailed a few weeks after the audition. Results are final. Attendance Policies ..............................................................8-10
Attendance Phone Extensions.................................................10
While we strive to give every student the best opportunities to advance Music .......................................................................................10
within our system, neither advancement nor continuation with the same Rehearsal Etiquette ............................................................11-12
ensemble is guaranteed as a consequence of prior participation. Rehearsal and Concert Attire ..................................................12
Communications ...................................................................... 13
Students must be prepared for their audition. Tickets ...................................................................................... 13
Part Assignments and Seating .................................................14
The audition requirements will be the same as new student audition Evaluations……………………………………………………………. ..............15
requirements and are posted on the website: Additional Programs ...........................................................16-17
Key Volunteers....................................................................18-21
1. Solo chosen and prepared by the student Membership Renewal .............................................................22
2. Scales as depicted on the requirements posted on NJYS.org PLAYATHON! ............................................................................ 23
3. Sight reading WIPA Board and Staff ................................................ Back Cover

The 2018-19 season auditions will take place after the final concerts. The
dates and times will be published on the website. Current NJYS members will
audition with current ensemble rehearses.

All rehearsals will take place at 570 Central Avenue,
New Providence, NJ 07974 (rear entrance) unless

otherwise noted by NJYS.

The Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts is a
non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

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NJYS Ensembles COMMUNITY SERVICE

FULL ORCHESTRAS: Strings, Winds, Brass, Percussion STUDENT COMMITTEE (Phil, YO, YS)
YOUTH SYMPHONY (YS), Simon Lipskar, Interim Conductor Students in Phil, YS, or YO who are interested in giving their input on NJYS
Rehearsals: Tuesdays, 6:30-9:30 pm │ Grades9-12 issues and events are welcomed to join. Committee meets five times a year,
YS, NJYS's premier ensemble and most advanced full orchestra. one hour before rehearsal. Please email Stacy to submit your name for
consideration.
YOUTH ORCHESTRA (YO), Helen Cha-Pyo, Interim Conductor
Rehearsals: Mondays, 6:15-9:15 pm │ Grades7-12 BE A MENTOR! (YO, YS, FORT, CE)
YO isan orchestra foradvanced students whichperforms masterworks oftheorchestral Students in YS and YO, FORT and CE are encouraged to serve community
repertoire. service hours by either performing with younger ensembles or visiting their
rehearsal with the approval of the conductor. Students must submit an NJYS
PHILHARMONIA (PHIL), Mark Gunderman, Conductor Mentorship Program Form found online to participate.
Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 6:15-8:30 pm │ Grades6-9
PHILintroducesadvanced intermediatestudentstothesymphonicexperience. VOLUNTEER
Students can earn service hours by volunteering during rehearsals, concerts
STRING ORCHESTRAS: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass or Playathon. Email Stacy at [email protected] to sign up.
SINFONIA (SINF), Nate White, Conductor
Rehearsals: Tuesdays, 5:00-7:00 pm │ Grades5-8 LIBRARY: Students in YO and YS are encouraged to volunteer in the library
SINFONIA is an intermediate string orchestra that performs major string after school, or during the summer.
works. Its goal is to develop a more mature sound in preparation for
advancement into a full orchestra. Paterson Music Project Volunteers may sign up by filling out the volunteer
application in the current members page and will be placed at a school based
JUNIOR STRINGS (JS), Michelle Hatcher, Conductor on schedule and instrument.
Rehearsals: Thursdays, 6:15-8:00 pm │ Grades 5-7
JS is designed for the advancing young string player, and focuses on refining Students not affiliated with NJYS may also volunteer to receive service hours
orchestral fundamentals; theory, bowing and performance technique, and as stage hands for any NJYS concerts. Email [email protected] to apply.
string orchestra repertoire.
INTERNSHIPS
PREPARATORY STRING ENSEMBLE (PREP), Michelle Hatcher, Conductor
PMP Paid Internships
Rehearsals: Thursdays, 4:30-6:00 pm │ Grades 3-5 Students may apply for the position and 4 applicants will be selected for the
PREP is an introductory string orchestra. Emphasis is placed on developing 2017-18 School Year. Interns are paid a stipend for their work and must
skills such as basic orchestral rehearsal and performance etiquette. commit to a regular weekly schedule in Paterson. More information is on the
attached intern job description and application. Applications are due
WIND ENSEMBLES: Flutes, Clarinets, Winds September 8, 2017. Questions, contact Program Director Elizabeth
FORTISSIMO FLUTES (FORT) Diana Charos Reilly, Conductor Moulthrop at [email protected] or call 973 341 7959.
Rehearsals: Thursdays, 8:00-9:30 pm │ Grades10-12
Our most advanced flute chamber ensemble, Fortissimo Flutes will represent NJYS Non-paid Admin and library internships are available during the year
NJYS at several community concerts during the year. and summer for graduating seniors. Email [email protected] to apply.

FLUTE FORUM (FF), Diana Charos Reilly, Conductor Playathon Librarian and Stage Hands Non–Paid Internships also available.
Rehearsals: Mondays, 6:45-8:00 pm │ Grades9-12
FF presents musical and technical challenges for advanced flutists in a fun
environment. Players will also have an opportunity to try piccolo, alto, and
bass flute.

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STAGE HANDS FLUTE CHOIR (FC), Diana Charos Reilly, Conductor
2-4 Parents Rehearsals: Mondays, 5:15-6:45 pm│Grades6-9
FC providesa nurturingand educationalmusicalexperiencefordedicated and talented
The orchestral set up sets the stage for the ensemble to make music! Each intermediate flutistswho wantachallengeina comfortableenvironment. Studentswillalso
chair and stand are placed in a certain order to make sure each of our havetheopportunity toplaythepiccolo,alto,andbass flute.
students have a comfortable place to learn. Although each ensemble set up
might be different, the more help we have, the easier it is to set up and break JUNIOR WIND ENSEMBLE (JWE), Bryan Rudderow, Conductor
down! Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 5:00-6:30 pm │Grades4-8
JWE focuseson thefundamentalsofplayingwellincludingair support,phrasing,sound
The students who arrive early will certainly help set up, but they need leaders! production, tuning, and playingasacohesiveunit. Thesebasic skills willprepare students for
No worries, we will train you so you know what to expect! moreadvanced playing.

Rehearsals, Concerts, Playathon CLARINET ENSEMBLE (CE), Bryan Rudderow, Conductor
Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 6:45-8:15 pm │ Grades 8-12
 Set up the required number of chairs and stands for the ensemble at least CE offers students the opportunity to deeply explore music specifically written for their
20 minutes before rehearsal. unique abilities as clarinetists. Performances will range from new commissions to
classics of the repertoire that will challenge and inspire. Clarinetists will also have the
 Set up additional rooms for sectionals as needed based on the day’s opportunity to try E-flat soprano, alto and bass clarinets.
schedule.
PERCUSSION
 Attend the beginning of all rehearsals for changes, and the end of PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE (PE), Mesia Austin, Interim Conductor
rehearsals if needed. Rehearsals: Sundays, 3:00-9:00 pm │ Grades7-12.
PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE provides the opportunity for talented percussionists
 All ensemble stagehands assist at Playathon: Dress rehearsal is Friday, to perform challenging literature with intensive and personalized instruction
March 23. Concert is Sunday, March 25, 2018. in all percussion techniques.

JAZZ
INTRO TO JAZZ WORKSHOP, Dave Schumacher/Kevin Brown, Instructors
Rehearsals: Sundays, 2:30-4:00 pm │ Grades 6-10
INTRO provides an excellent opportunity to learn melodic and rhythmic improvisation
skills, become familiar with jazz forms, and learn tunes from jazz masters.

INTERMEDIATE JAZZ, Dave Schumacher/Kevin Brown, Instructors
Rehearsals: Sundays, 2:30-4:00 pm │ Grades 6-10
INTERMEDIATE JAZZ WORKSHOP provides an excellent opportunity to learn melodic
and rhythmic improvisation skills, become familiar with jazz forms, and learn
outstanding tunes from jazz masters.

NJYS JAZZ COMBO, Dave Schumacher, Conductor
Rehearsals: Sundays, 1:00-2:30 pm │ Grades 9-12, Intermediate-Advanced
The NJYS JAZZ Combo will work on improvisation and building a repertoire,
amongst other skills. Guest artists will coach and play with the students.

Detailed ensemble descriptionsand conductorbiosare available online atwww.NJYS.org.

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General Expectations

NJYS COMMITMENT NJYS LIBRARIANS
New Jersey Youth Symphony is dedicated to giving its students the best 2-4 Parent Volunteers
orchestral and ensemble educational experience through its selection process,
its conductors, challenging repertoire, and performance opportunities. NJYS Head Volunteer Librarian, Martha Nowik is the leader of our NJYS Librarians.
seeks excellence among its students and ensembles by adhering to the highest No prior library or musical experience is required. Martha will provide a
standards of professionalism, teaching, and musicianship, and strives to detailed Instruction Manual that includes every library task. Martha welcomes
provide a nurturing and welcoming environment to both students and all new and returning Librarians! We try to secure Librarians before any other
families. Staff, conductors, and volunteers strive to provide students with an volunteer job because there is lots of work in August before the season
energetic and engaging atmosphere to enhance their involvement and begins.
learning.
Students at NJYS use “real” parts. This just means the music parts are originals
NJYS asks its students and parents to adhere to certain rules and policies to and not copies. For this reason, we keep track of each part to make sure our
enable it to offer the best ensemble experience for all. The most important students return their assigned music at the end of the concert period.
requirement is punctual and reliable attendance. Successful ensembles rely on
the full participation of every musician at every rehearsal. A student’s quiet  Attend a training session with Martha Nowik
and focused presence at rehearsals allows the conductor to maximize the  Generally, attend the beginning of every rehearsal to ensure all students
musical experience for all students.
have what they need.
PRIVATE LESSONS & PRACTICE  Maintain a Librarian’s Binder containing student lists (including check-in
In striving to maintain high standards, each member is expected to take
regular private lessons. The artistic staff can assist students in finding private and check-out of parts)
teachers to help students’ learning, if needed. Failure to take lessons may  Maintain two designated working shelves within the library’s rolling stacks
result in dismissal. Members must practice their orchestral and ensemble
parts at home and with their teacher to be prepared for each rehearsal. If in the library. These are to be used as general work and storage space for
financial resources are strained, tuition assistance is available for lessons at the ensemble.
the Performing Arts School (formerly Wharton Music Center) 908-790-0700.  Have a working relationship with the ensemble conductor for any library
needs
SCHOOL PARTICIPATION  Pre-Concert Period music preparation & Pre-Concert Period folder
NJYS expects all members to participate in their school music program. NJYS preparation
supports school music programs. If conflicts arise between NJYS and a school  Each student in the ensemble is designated a folder for the year. All of the
music schedule, NJYS will make every effort to accommodate the student’s student folders will be located on the ensemble’s designated working
school schedule. Students are expected to inform NJYS of school music/NJYS shelves. Librarians will fill each folder with the music that will be
schedule conflicts at the earliest opportunity. distributed to the students. Further instructions in manual.
 Music Maintenance During Concert Period
INSTRUMENT LIABILITY  Post-Concert Period:
All NJYS students/families are responsible for their instruments. Lost, stolen or
damaged instruments (or instrument accessories) are not the responsibility of  Inventory of all pieces must be completed no later than two
NJYS. NJYS strongly encourages all members to have their instruments weeks after each concert including the final concert.
insured. If any damage occurs to your instrument while you are participating
in an NJYS activity, please notify an NJYS staff member immediately.  All folders must be collected at the end of the ensemble’s final
concert.

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ENSENMBLE VOLUNTEER TEAMS Discipline

Join the FUN! NJYS maintains a tiered discipline system for misbehavior at any rehearsal,
performance, or other NJYS activity.
Our NJYS Ensemble Volunteer Teams are made up of parents who join
together to help their child’s ensemble from week to week. We welcome you 1. Student receives a verbal warning or reprimand from
to join the NJYS family! Volunteer Teams include: Team Leaders, Librarians, conductor, Section Coach, or staff members.

Attendance Volunteers & Stage Hands. 2. Student receives a reprimand that is communicated to
parents by phone, e-mail, or letter.
TEAM LEADERS
2 volunteers per ensemble 3. Parent Conference — student and parent (s) meet with NJYS
staff.
Working closely with the NJYS Manager of Orchestras, our Volunteer Team
Leaders assist the NJYS Staff and their ensemble Conductor with supervision 4. Suspension — student will be suspended from NJYS activities
and communication to and from the parents, students, and Core Volunteers. for at least one Concert Period.

 Attend all rehearsals and concerts as determined by the ensemble 5. Dismissal.
schedule to help with set up and student supervision. Two or more parent Advisory: Smoking or the use of illegal drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited
volunteers could create a rotation. and will not be tolerated by NJYS. If students are observed smoking or
drinking illegal beverages or drugs at any NJYS event, it will result in their
 Send weekly email updates from ensemble email address including: immediate dismissal from NJYS and all tuition and fees paid to NJYS will be
conductor notes, NJYS notes, and Playathon notes. Email wording, and forfeited. Any behavior that endangers, violates, or disrespects another
templates will be provided. person may be cause for immediate dismissal.

 Lead parent volunteers during checkups, sectionals and special events Driving-Parking-Pickup
such as Playathon
Please observe the following driving pattern when at the NJYS building:
 Supervise students during breaks at regular rehearsals (Especially for  Enter via the driveway closest to the Shopping Center to the right of the
younger groups) NJYS building and exit via the driveway closest to South Street to the left
of the building. Otherwise the parking lots become very unsafe.
 Help distribute important materials at the end of rehearsal: flyers, call  Drive slowly and considerately.
sheets, etc.  Please pick your child up promptly upon conclusion of rehearsal.
 Students are required to wait inside the NJYS Music Center. The parking
ATTENDANCE VOLUNTEERS lot is not a safe place to congregate.
2 volunteers per ensemble  Parents are allowed to drop off at the entrance, please do not pass at any
time.
Rehearsals, Concerts, Playathon  Parent, please do not sit idle in the parking lot.
 Arrive 15 minutes before scheduled rehearsal to record attendance as
Rehearsal Cancellations
students arrive
 Check mailbox for absence notifications, accept absence notifications In the event rehearsal is cancelled, NJYS will make the announcement by 2 pm
that day via:
from students
 15 minutes after the rehearsal has started, the Attendance Manager will  NJYS cancellation message at: 908-771-5544
 Email
check the ensemble voicemail after taking attendance and make calls to  www.NJYS.org & Facebook
the family of any student who has not reported their absence; a script will  Text message (only in extreme emergencies and not used often)
be provided.
 Attendance volunteers will be supported by the NJYS assistant who will
handle attendance issues and update attendance books.

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Attendance Policy & Procedures CHAMBER MUSIC

OVERVIEW CHAMBER MUSIC │ Grades: 3 through 12
Dates: 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, Concert on 11/19
NJYS is committed to providing superior music education and performance
experience to all NJYS students. Absence, lateness, or early departure detracts The NJYS Chamber Music Program provides young musicians with the
from the student learning environment, disrupts the individual student’s opportunity to learn and perform chamber music literature composed for
learning process and impacts the performance level of the entire orchestra. small un-conducted ensembles. Students are placed in ensembles by NJYS
Each student musician is expected to attend all rehearsals, to arrive promptly, Artistic Staff and coached weekly by a professional musician. NJYS and non-
and to remain throughout the rehearsal, unless otherwise notified. Perfect NJYS Students are welcomed and encouraged to form their own ensembles.
attendance is the recommended goal for each NJYS student.
 Eight weeks of 60-minute sessions
NJYS recognizes that occasional absences may be necessary due to  Rehearsal time will depend on group and coach: 1-2pm, 2-3pm or 3-4pm
unavoidable situations, although they are acceptable only in extenuating
circumstances. Therefore, NJYS has adopted this Attendance Policy. By signing or by agreement
the acceptance contract electronically upon registration the student and
parent agreed to attending every rehearsal, concert and event on the season Chamber Music Concert: Sunday, November 19 at 7:00 pm
calendar. Detailed below are the attendance requirements and procedures Register online at www.NJYS.org. Registration Deadline: September 6, 2017
that makeup the NJYS Attendance Policy. Formed groups may continue into the spring semester.

POLICY SUMMER CAMPS

Allotted Absences: Students are allotted 2 absences per concert period in case ORCHESTRAL CAMP │ Grades: 4 through 8
of unavoidable situations including illness or emergencies. A Concert Period June 24 -July 7, 2018
(CP) is the time frame during which a concert program is rehearsed in Diana Charos Reilly, Camp Director
preparation for a performance. It begins with the first rehearsal and
culminates with the performance. A rehearsal is any scheduled session NJYS Orchestral Summer Camp is a great way for students to grow musically
including a full ensemble rehearsal, a sectional coaching session, or a check- over the summer. The camp offers chamber music, large ensemble playing
up. Ensembles have 2 or 3 concerts periods during the 2017-18 season. experiences, and lots of fun! Camp is open to NJYS members and non-
members in grades 4-8. Non-members must audition.
Mandatory Rehearsals: The last two (2) rehearsals immediately preceding a
concert are mandatory. Mandatory means you must attend. This includes any JUNIOR WINDS CAMP │ Grades: 4 through 6
Dress Rehearsals that are scheduled on a night other than the regular Dates: July 24 -July 28, 2018
rehearsal night. Failure to attend mandatory rehearsals may cause immediate Diana Charos Reilly and Bryan Rudderow, Camp Directors
removal from the ensemble.
Junior Winds Camp focuses on fundamentals and strengthening of wind and
Mandatory Concerts: Concerts and sound checks are mandatory. Sound brass skills as well as offering campers a chance to perform. Students work on
checks generally take place at the concert venue on concert day, at least 2 two instruments – their “major” instrument which they have experience
hours prior to the start of the concert. Refer to ensemble schedules for dates playing and a “minor” wind or brass instrument. Secondary instruments will
and times of mandatory concerts as they vary by ensemble. NJYS’s annual be provided. The day includes sectionals, technical fundamentals and full
fundraising concert, Playathon, is also a mandatory performance which takes ensemble rehearsal.
place on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at the Mills at Jersey Gardens Mall,
Elizabeth, NJ. Call time varies by ensemble. Mandatory Dress Rehearsal: Current NJYS members may register without an audition for Orchestral
Friday, March 23, 2017 from 6-9 pm. Location TBD Camp or Junior Winds Camp. New Students must register online for an
audition at www.NJYS.org

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Evaluations and Check Ups Exceptions to the Attendance Requirements: The allowance with written
notification for 2 absences from non-mandatory rehearsals per Concert
EVALUATIONS Period is intended to eliminate the need to authorize an exception.
To regularly evaluate and assess the students’ progress throughout the Therefore, it is envisioned that the need for a student to request such an
season, NJYS conducts a series of “check-ups.” These evaluations give exception to the Attendance Policy will be rare. If a serious crisis or an
conductors an overview of the students’ strengths and weaknesses and their unavoidable situation arises, the parent/guardian must inform NJYS staff by
development in technical ability, intonation, tone quality, rhythmic pulse, and email as soon as possible. Staff will then talk to the respective conductor and
musicianship including sight-reading ability. Strings will play periodic address the situation accordingly. Any exceptions made will be handled on a
“check-up” auditions to assess their progress on the instrument and their case by case basis.
individual part.
PROCEDURES
Check-Ups
Generally check-ups are scheduled once for each concert period. Check-ups Attendance Check in: Students are required to arrive for rehearsals at least
are used as evaluations throughout the year. Instrument sections who do not 15 minutes before the start of rehearsal to unpack and tune. Upon arrival,
have check ups will be evaluated during sectionals. students must check in with the Attendance Manager and check the bulletin
board for announcements. Failure to check in with the attendance manager
Check-ups during regular rehearsal: Students do not need to sign up for an may be recorded as a student absence. Students must be in their seats and
time slot. Student will be pulled from regular rehearsal with the help of ready to play their instruments five minutes before the rehearsal begins.
parent volunteers to usher them to and from the audition room. Students are
generally not given the excerpts before the check-up, but will have a chance Volunteer Attendance Managers or NJYS staff will call home if the student is
to mark their music before walking into the check-up room. not in rehearsal and no message or absence form have been submitted. If
called in error because your child did not sign in upon arrival, kindly inform us
Seating is not a direct result from the check-ups. Final seating is at he that your child should be in rehearsal. Administrative staff will become
discretion of the conductor. Students are encouraged to seek feedback from involved if a student has more than two absences.
the conductors during break, or before or after rehearsal.
Absence Notification Forms: The Absence Notification Form captures the
If you are a parent who would be willing to volunteer as a check-up proctor, reason for a student’s absence from a rehearsal necessitated by an
please contact the NJYS office. unavoidable situation (such as a scheduled school concert on his/her major
instrument, illness, etc.) that conflicts with any NJYS rehearsal. Absence
THE ORCHESTRA AS A TEAM Notification Forms must be filled out and submitted to NJYS staff for any
The goal of NJYS is to have musical balance in each section. The performance absence, tardiness or early departure exceeding 15 minutes. The forms are
seating order within string sections does not necessarily reflect a musician’s available on the NJYS website in the FORMS section and on the ensemble
playing ability. While seating order at NJYS may be different from many other bulletin boards in the NJYS facility. These forms must be signed by a parent or
situations such as Regional and All-State Orchestras, the NJYS artistic staff guardian. The purpose of the notification form is to assist NJYS staff with
believes its seating arrangement better suits its sustained symphonic music rehearsal planning and student record keeping.
education program.
NEW Online Absence Notification form also available at NJYS.org.
NJYS wants students to raise their own levels of performances. While in the
NJYS orchestra, every player is a valued musician who belongs to an artistic Scheduled Absences: Notification of scheduled absences (school concerts,
team. family events, etc.) should be submitted by a parent/guardian as soon as
possible or at least two weeks prior to the absence. Failure to submit Form at
least two weeks prior to any scheduled absence is a serious breach of each
student’s responsibility to NJYS and his or her fellow musicians and may
result in disciplinary action. Absence Notification Forms for long-planned
absences such as family vacations and school concerts should be submitted as
soon as the student and parents become aware of the conflict.

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Non-Scheduled Absences: Notification of non-scheduled absences (illness, Concert Tickets
etc.) on the day of rehearsal should be made by calling the NJYS Office at 908-
771-5544 as soon as possible. In such a case, the parent must submit a signed NJYS strives to produce high quality concert experiences for all its ensembles.
Absence Notification Form within one week after the absence occurs. Ticket revenue offsets the cost of the expenses of producing the concerts.
Absences due to illness will be counted against the students’ absence record. Tickets are available for each concert at least two weeks prior to the event
and are sold online or in the NJYS office, regardless of whether the tickets are
To leave a message on the day of rehearsal please call 908-771-5544 and use issued by NJYS or the concert venue.
the following extensions for your child’s ensemble:
One Complimentary Adult ticket is given to each family for most NJYS
Youth Symphony ....................................................................... Ext. 14 Concerts. Parents receive a CODE to redeem their complimentary ticket
online for NJYS ticketed events.
Youth Orchestra ........................................................................ Ext. 15
Other complimentary tickets are available in the NJYS office for the following
Philharmonia ............................................................................. Ext. 16 categories of patrons:

Sinfonia ..................................................................................... Ext. 17  Key Volunteers in each ensemble — 2 tickets per concert

Junior Strings............................................................................. Ext. 18  NJYS students in ensembles not performing — one ticket per student
per concert
Junior Wind Ensemble/Clarinet Ensemble ................................ Ext. 20
Preparatory Strings ................................................................... Ext. 21  Private Teachers or School Music Teachers of NJYS students — one
complimentary ticket per teacher.
Flute Choir/Flute Forum/Fortissimo Flutes ............................... Ext. 22
Communication
Percussion Ensemble Contact NJYS Office
Jazz Programs Contact Dave Schumacher directly Email is the primary means of communication between NJYS staff and
students. Students and parents must be sure to enter correct email
Please include the following in your voicemail: addresses at registration and notify the NJYS office of any email changes.

1. First and last name of student Volunteer Ensemble Managers will send a weekly email with information
2. Student’s ensemble from the conductor on rehearsal expectations, practice suggestions, and
3. Reason for absence or tardiness other crucial information. Both students and parents should receive these
emails. Please make sure you check your junk mail folders and add
Music NJYS.org and whartonarts.org email addresses to your “safe senders” lists.

MUSIC AND FOLDERS Notify the office immediately if you are not receiving weekly emails.
To meet requirements of federal copyright laws, students will be issued
original pieces of music. Students are required to bring their NJYS borrowed Students, please inform your parents of any announcements made during
music folders to all rehearsals and concerts. At the end of the concert period, rehearsal regarding anything sent home, i.e. call sheets, flyers, forms, etc.
students must return all NJYS music to the ensemble librarian. Librarians will Parents, please feel free to ask NJYS staff if you have questions.
communicate music return procedures to ensemble members. This policy
places even greater responsibility on the students to care for each piece of Parents, please call or email if you feel that you have not received emails
music performed throughout the season. Music may only be marked with or to ask any questions. We’re here to help!
pencil. If lost or damaged, students will be charged $15 for an NJYS folder
and a minimum of $10 for each original music part. Rental music will be
charged at a higher rate. Invoices will be sent at the close of each concert
period for missing music. Students must return the music or pay the amount
owed to ensure continued participation in the organization.

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PREPARE Rehearsal Etiquette
 Students must arrive prepared to rehearsal by knowing their parts, be
warmed-up, and alert. Every student is asked to contribute to a collegial and collaborative
 Students are expected to have the following at all rehearsals and environment by showing respect and consideration. Students are required to
performances: arrive early to rehearsals and be seated, tuned, and ready to play 5 minutes
 A pencil before rehearsal begins. Percussionists: It is a special responsibility of the
 Music folder provided by NJYS members of the percussion section to arrive sufficiently early to insure that
 Extra music supplies (strings, rosin, reeds, etc.). String students the instruments are set up at least 15 minutes before the rehearsal begins.
especially need to keep a complete set of replacement strings with
them at all times. Students are expected to adhere to the following behavioral policies:
 Cellists and Bassists MUST have rock stops for their endpins.
SHOW RESPECT TO:
ANTICIPATE  Conductors and staff; volunteers and parents
Students should leave the room during the rehearsal only when absolutely  Fellow players and their instruments. Students should not use other
necessary. Students are expected to attend to bathroom needs during breaks. students’ instruments; nor lend their own to others.
 THE BUILDING! No food or beverage, except water is permitted in the
Rehearsal and Concert Attire rehearsal room. Students may bring a bottle of water with a spill-proof
cap to rehearsals.
REHEARSAL ATTIRE
Clothing should reflect respect and allow for effective playing. NJYS may EXHIBIT ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR by refraining from:
occasionally have visitors including program donors or trustees who attend  Unnecessary talking
rehearsals to observe. NJYS asks students to dress appropriately for all  Running and horse-play
rehearsals.  Eating (including chewing gum) and drinking (other than water in a
spill-proof container)
CONCERT/PERFORMANCE ATTIRE  Playing games (electronic or otherwise)
Performance attire varies by NJYS ensemble and event. Specifics will be  Wearing hats, headphones, or sunglasses
communicated prior to each performance by the Conductor and Rehearsal  Sound recording without prior permission
Managers. Some general rules:  Disruptive playing of instruments
 Rudeness to fellow students, staff, volunteers, or parents
 Do not wear strong cologne or perfume  Use of listening devices such as iPods and MP3 players
 Girls should wear skirts that fall below the knee and black tights or black  Texting or use of other mobile devices
 CELL PHONE USE OF ANY KIND. Cell phones must be turned off and
dress slacks. No leggings, unless under a skirt or dress stored in instrument cases during all NJYS rehearsals, performances,
 Keep hair away from face and activities. Please disable automatic WiFi detection on all devices
 Do not wear sneakers or athletic shoes when they enter the building to avoid low WiFi speed for parents who
 Do not chew gum need to work while waiting during rehearsals.

Students are to present a professional look at each performance. This is not a FOLLOW DIRECTIONS
time to “stand out” by wearing something flashy or revealing. As a part of an From the downbeat of a rehearsal to dismissal, play as instructed. If a student
ensemble, the goal is to present a unified look. has a problem with an instrument or is unable to perform for any reason, the
student must wait for an appropriate moment to inform the conductor or
quietly exit the rehearsal room and seek assistance from a volunteer or staff
member. Students must BE QUIET BETWEEN PLAYING to allow instructions to
be heard.

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RETURNING STUDENT AUDITIONS Part Assignments and Seating
These auditions are held at the end of the season for the following year. All
students are required to re-audition. Conductors go through an extensive PART ASSIGNMENTS
assessment of each student based on participation, attendance and the Each piece of music performed was handcrafted by its composer to form a
audition. Invitations and/or placement is not guaranteed. Invitations are beautiful work of art. Each member of the ensemble, whether they stand
made in the best interest of the students. All decisions are final. alone like the piccolo or are part of a group like the violins, plays an essential
role to the overall success of any performance. Only when every part is played
Current students are strongly encouraged to seek progress updates with excellently will the quality of the whole be achieved.
their conductor.
At NJYS, parts will be assigned by the conductor of each ensemble according
How to set up your returning student placement audition: to each player’s abilities and current level of performance. In making the
assignments, the conductor strives to foster every student’s musical and
1. Sign into your online account and complete the Registration Fee personal growth and achieve performance success for the orchestra. NJYS
payment conductors are dedicated to the welfare of all students. Assignments will
always represent the conductor's best judgments and will balance the value
2. Register for “Returning Student Audition” for the ensemble the student of the individual and value of the common good.
currently attends.
SEATING OF STRING PLAYERS
3. Before completing the checkout process, make sure to answer the Seating of string players within sections, principal roles, and assignment of
custom questions. violins into sections within the orchestra deserves special discussion.

4. Sign up for a time slot: This procedure varies based on the student’s In most orchestra music, the second violin part carries the prominent melody
current ensemble: less often than the first violin part. When it does carry the melody the second
 JS, PREP: Time slots will be scheduled by the office. Parents will violin often plays the melody one octave below the first violin part. In some
have the opportunity to select their time slot based on the music, the second violins, like the violas, carry the inner part that belongs to
time stamp on their online audition registration; first come the harmonic framework for the more obvious melody played in other
first serve. sections of the orchestra. Moreover, the quality of an orchestra can be
 ALL OTHER ENSEMBLES: Sign-up sheets will be posted on the measured by the strength and quality of the inner voices, that lend richness
bulletin board at least three weeks before the last concert. and beauty to the entirety or when played weakly, can fatally undercut the
 All audition schedules will be emailed out to the families as a overall intonation and quality of the performance.
reminder.
A violinist may be assigned to the second part precisely because his or her
ability is needed to add to the strength and beauty of that part. A violinist
may also be at the stage of development where the player is not yet as secure
playing in the higher positions on their instruments. In that case, a violinist
would be asked to join the second violin section. Our orchestras can only be
as good as their 2nd violins and violas.

These principles generally apply to every section and to every individual.

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