Youth Orchestra Program 2021/22 Handbook

2021/22 HANDBOOK

W W W. R I C H M O N D S Y M P H O N Y S O M .C O M

RICHMOND SYMPHONY SCHOOL OF MUSIC (RSSoM)

TA B L E 2 3 4-5 6 6 6 7-18 7 7-10 10 10 11 11-12 13-15 15-17 17 17-18

O F

CO N T EN TS

Mission Statement RSSoM Administrative Staff RSSoM Virtual Checklist RSSoM Community Guidelines RSSoM Communication RSSoM Financials Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Program (YOP) YOP Artistic Staff YOP Membership COVID-19 Protocols Student Code of Conduct Loss of Membership Financials Rehearsals and Sectionals Concerts School Participation Parent/Guardian Information Code of Conduct YOP Orientation Representatives Council

The following institutions generously provide support for the Richmond Symphony School of Music: Chesterfield County Chesterfield County Public Schools Community Impact Grants at the Community Foundation for a greater Richmond CultureWorks and the Arts & Cultural Funding Consortium: City of Richmond, Hanover County, and Henrico County The Emily S. and Coleman A. Hunter Charitable Trust The Estes Foundation Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. Hanover County Public Schools Henrico County Henrico County Public Schools The James L. and Lucia M. O’Connell Fund for Music Education National Endowment for the Arts Margarete and Siegfried Eckhaus Charitable Trust Martha Mabel Moore Charitable Trust Moses D. Nunnally, Jr. Charitable Trust B The Rea Charitable Trust R.E.B. Foundation Virginia Commission for the Arts Richmond Symphony School of Music is also partially supported by the following funds of the Richmond Symphony Endowment: Brian Szabo Memorial Scholarship Fund Dunkum Endowed Fund for Music Education Hopkins-Eggleston Family Fund for Discovery Concerts Martha D. Newell Memorial Scholarship Fund Mary Morton Parsons Education Fund Music Education Scholarship Fund

1

OUR HISTORY RICHMOND SYMPHONY SCHOOL OF MUSIC MISSION STATEMENT

The Richmond Symphony performs, teaches, and champions music to inspire and unite our communities.

RICHMOND SYMPHONY SCHOOL OF MUSIC CORE VALUES

To ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Page 4 • YOP 2019-20

2

RSSoM ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Walter Bitner Director of Education & Community Engagement, Richmond Symphony wbitner@richmondsymphony.com

Jennifer Tobin Assistant Director of Education/ Youth Orchestra Manager, Richmond Symphony jtobin@richmondsymphony.com

Marcey W. Leonard RSSoM Program Manager/ Community Partnerships Manager, Richmond Symphony mleonard@richmondsymphony.com

Jonathan Sanford RSSoM Program Manager/Registrar, Richmond Symphony education@ richmondsymphony.com (contact Jonathan with questions about enrollment or payments)

Amy Pintea RSSoM Program Manager/ Educational Performances Coordinator, Richmond Symphony apintea@richmondsymphony.com

INTERNS JuHye Kim University of Richmond Bonner Scholar juhye.kim@richmond.edu

Page 5 • YOP 2019-20

Mimi Laws University of Richmond Bonner Scholar mimi.laws@richmond.edu

3

VIRTUAL REHEARSAL & CLASS EXPECTATIONS RSSoM VIRTUAL CHECKLIST FOR STUDENTS To ensure you receive the best possible virtual musical experience, please review the following guidelines (*Applies to YOP members only.): 1. Before you start your rehearsal/sectional/class: a. We highly recommend using a desktop or laptop computer, rather than a tablet or smartphone, for optimal learning. Check that your device is on a stable surface, fully charged or plugged in, and your internet connection is working properly. b. We highly recommend using the most updated version of Zoom for best possible audio quality. In the upper left-hand corner, click “Turn on Original Sound” to enable this free feature. c. Come prepared to your assigned Zoom link 10 minutes before your rehearsal/sectional/class is scheduled to begin, with a pencil and your music printed and on a music stand. If you are unable to print your music, please let us know ahead of time so we can help you.* 2. Join the call through the link in your email, and enter the password when the program asks for it. a. If your link does not work, or if you have technical difficulties, please visit our virtual office at https://whereby.com/rssom/office where a staff member can assist you. If you still require assistance, please email admin@richmondsymphonysom.com.

3. Help your teachers to best help you! a. Pick a place in your house that is quiet, where you feel comfortable to give your best focus and effort. Check your appearance and surroundings in the video preview before you officially enter the call. b. Type your first name (and instrument, if applicable) to introduce yourself. To do this, as soon as you sign in to the Zoom call, click on “Participants” at the bottom of the screen and a list of names should appear in the upper right hand corner. Click on YOUR NAME (or the name on your device) and click “Rename” to add your first name and instrument so it appears with your video and acts as your virtual nametag. c. Please make sure your Chat box is open for the entirety of class.

This helps your teacher communicate with you easily. d. Be sure your device has a working camera and microphone. It is very helpful for your teachers to be able to see and hear you play, just like they would in a traditional rehearsal space. That way, they can be sure to give you their best instruction, just as they would in person.

4. Wait in the waiting room for the class to start - a staff member will let you in shortly.

Page 6 • YOP 2019-20

4

4. Wait in the waiting room for the class to start - a staff member will let you in shortly.

5. Make sure you are muted when you should not be heard and unmuted when it is time to speak. (Button in lower left corner.)

6. We expect your video to be on for the majority of class, if not the entire class. Classes are interactive, so to be seen, please make sure your video is on. If you need to step away, you can turn off the video (button is next to the Mute button), but be sure to turn it on upon your return. We are so lucky to have access to technology that lets us see one another while we are staying safe and healthy in our homes. We should use our virtual tools to our advantage!

7. If you have any questions, you can either physically raise your hand or send a message in the chat. Someone will be able to answer it.

8. Do not touch the button that says “Leave” until your class has ended and your teacher dismisses you. If you leave by accident, don’t worry! Just find the original Zoom link and click on it - someone will let you back in.

9. Breakout Rooms are small group video chats a host can assign. You may be asked to “Join” and “Leave” these breakout rooms during class/rehearsal.

In this case, simply follow the prompts on the screen.

We are all learning together!

Let’s be patient and understanding of one another as we continue our virtual studies.

Page 7 • YOP 2019-20

5

COMMUNITY GUIDELINES Refunds & Withdrawal/Dropping Out All RSSoM students are expected to make a full commitment through the length of their respective class(es). If you must drop out at any point, please email the Registrar at least two weeks in advance. A partial refund is available if the student gives notice to withdraw before October 1, 2021. After October 1, a full commitment will be expected of every student and no refund will be granted if there is a need to withdraw. As a courtesy, please inform your teacher/conductor of your withdrawal. Students who withdraw from YOP mid-year forfeit their seat in YOP and will need to audition during the annual auditions to re-gain entrance into the program.

Photo/Video Waiver Richmond Symphony School of Music (RSSoM) will occasionally hire a photographer or videographer to document rehearsals, classes, and/or showcases. These photos/videos may be used in publicity items (website, programs, ads, etc.). No names or personal information will be associated with images. To opt out, please email education@richmondsymphony.com.

COMMUNICATION Email: admin@richmondsymphonysom.com Website: www.richmondsymphonysom.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/RichmondSymphonySoM Instagram: @richmondsymphonysom YouTube: http://bit.ly/rssom-youtube

FINANCIALS Tuition varies by class/ensemble. Family discounts are available.

For more information as it pertains to your registration, please refer to the RSSoM website. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Registrar at education@richmondsymphonysom.com.

Page 8 • YOP 2019-20

6

YOUTH ORCHESTRA PROGRAM (YOP) YOP ARTISTIC STAFF Daniel Myssyk Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Conductor (Assistant Conductor: Richmond Symphony, Director of Orchestral Activities, Virginia Commonwealth University)

Sandy Goldie Youth Concert Orchestra Conductor (Assistant Professor Music Education, Virginia Commonwealth University)

Melissa Jones Camerata Strings Conductor (Orchestra Director, Collegiate School)

Christie-Jo Adams String Sinfonietta Conductor (Instructional Specialist for Fine Arts, Richmond Public Schools)

Richmond Symphony School of Music’s Youth Orchestra Program is proudly sponsored by Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.

YOP MEMBERSHIP Auditions for 2021-2022 new membership will take place in both June and August 2021, as well as January 2022. Please visit our website for more information regarding audition requirements.

Page 9 • YOP 2019-20

7

Membership/Advancement Auditions Auditions for new students interested in joining the Spring 2022 Youth Orchestra Program (YOP) are held in mid-January. Please refer to the RSSoM website (www.richmondsymphonysom.com) throughout the year for date postings and audition requirements. Requirements typically include 2 scales, solo, prepared excerpt(s) and sight reading.

Following the audition, each student will receive an email within four to six weeks outlining the results of the audition, along with feedback if requested.

Registration materials will be e-mailed in early summer.

Seating Auditions Seating auditions take place at the CS, YCO, and RSYO levels. Seating auditions are typically scheduled in place of a regular rehearsal day or virtually and will be indicated on the calendar at the beginning of the year.

Audition excerpts will consist of pieces from the upcoming concert cycle. No students will be heard after the scheduled audition date.

Student musicians will be evaluated on musicality (phrasing, dynamics, etc.), rhythmic & note accuracy, preparedness, fluency, and intonation in the seating audition. Other factors including weekly attendance, professionalism, preparedness and student leadership also play a role in final decisions regarding musician seating. Please note that seating assignments are not “permanent” - the conductor may find it necessary to alter seating at any point during the concert cycle.

Seating auditions are a great way for the conductor to track the progress of each student in the ensemble. Within a few weeks of the seating audition, each student will receive written feedback on his/her performance. Students are encouraged to approach their conductor with questions about the audition and/or feedback.

Seating auditions are not optional - every student is required to perform in the seating auditions. If a student misses an audition, for any reason, he/she will still need to perform for the conductor, and will be placed at the back of the section until the following seating audition. Students are encouraged to take these auditions seriously and prepare the music to the best of their ability.

Every student must audition (unless excused by conductor). If a student does not show for the seating audition and did not play a make up audition the week prior, they will be marked absent.

Tardiness/Early Departure Musicians are marked tardy if they are not in their seat, tuned, with their music and a pencil on the stand by the beginning of the rehearsal or sectional.

Arriving late or leaving early is counted as one half (1/2) of an absence.

Page 10 • YOP 2019-20

8

Attendance and Notification of Absence One of the guiding philosophies of the Youth Orchestra Program is that personal responsibility is as important as musical excellence. By accepting membership into YOP, our musicians acknowledge a serious commitment to musical training and make YOP participation a high priority. YOP conductors prepare rehearsal schedules and concert programs based on full and punctual attendance from every musician.

As soon as you are aware of an absence, early departure, or late arrival, please make every effort to complete the online absence form found here.

Official notice of absences, tardy, early dismissal, etc. must be submitted through the YOP office. Any attendance information submitted to the conductor only will not be considered an official notice.

SS, CS, WE, YCO: Fall concert cycle (September-December), students are allowed no more than two (2) non-consecutive absences, regardless of reason.* Spring concert cycle (December-May), students are allowed no more than three (3) non-consecutive absences, regardless of reason.

RSYO: • In order to have a productive rehearsal, the conductor needs all students in attendance.

• Students should look at their schedules in advance and try to work out conflicts well in advance to try and avoid an absence. Students are allowed two (2) absences per concert cycle.* • If a student needs to miss another rehearsal during the concert cycle, permission will need to be received from the conductor. *Absences will not be marked as excused or unexcused but simply as an absence. The reason for the absence is not the issue; it is the absence itself.

If a student reaches their maximum amount of absences for the concert cycle, they will receive a warning from the Youth Orchestra Manager.

If an additional absence occurs, participation in the upcoming concert is at the discretion of the conductor and will require an audition of the musician’s part for the conductor. If absences continue after the warning and audition, then a meeting with the student and parent will be called to further discuss participation in YOP for the remainder of the year.

Student Preparedness If it appears to a conductor that a student is struggling or unprepared for a concert, the student may be asked to play privately for the conductor. At the conductor’s discretion, students may be asked to not perform in the concert if the student’s progress is not comparable to the rest of the orchestra, or if the repertoire is beyond the student’s technical ability.

Each facility and its staff must receive the utmost respect from YOP students Page 11 • YOP 2019-20

9

and parents. If any misbehavior is reported, a warning email (as described under “Loss of Membership”) will be sent to the student’s parent/guardian.

Richmond Symphony Tickets – Special Offers Child tickets are valid for ages 3-18. Child tickets are free for most of our Masterworks concerts and can be attained through the normal ticketing process.

Our Atlantic Union Bank LolliPops concerts are only an hour long and are a perfect introduction to the Symphony for children. Children 2 and under are welcome to attend our Atlantic Union Bank LolliPops concerts for free without a ticket.

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS In compliance with the Governor of Virginia’s most current mandate, we require that all students, parents/guardians, and Richmond Symphony staff wear a mask for the full duration of YOP rehearsals and events. At the first rehearsal, students will receive a COVID-19 waiver agreeing to abide by the guidelines set forth by the Richmond Symphony, Dominion Energy Center, and Branch Museum. We will continue to update our COVID-19 procedures according to the state, CDC, and VDH guidelines to best keep our students, families, and staff safe. These updates will be available on our website and emailed directly from the Youth Orchestra Manager.

If you are feeling sick at any time or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or if you have potentially been exposed to the coronavirus, please email the Youth Orchestra Manager right away and do NOT come to rehearsal. We will be understanding of any absences that are taken out of an abundance of caution.

As we continue to navigate our way out of the pandemic, communication is paramount. Please submit vaccination records to help guide us as CDC and VDH protocols are updated. Should any ensemble be at risk of possible exposure at any time throughout the season, the Youth Orchestra Manager will email the entire ensemble, and the appropriate action will be taken,

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT YOP musicians serve as ambassadors for this organization and are expected to act in a professional manner while part of YOP or other honor ensembles.

Your actions reflect on the entire ensemble and organization. Expectations of musicians include thorough preparation, good manners at all rehearsals and concerts, and respect for the conductor, staff, parent representatives, and rehearsal/concert facilities. The extraneous use of cell phones during rehearsal is prohibited.

Page 12 • YOP 2019-20

10

LOSS OF MEMBERSHIP Membership in YOP is an earned privilege. All YOP members and parents should be aware that repeated absences, tardiness, or serious and/or continued policy violations are all grounds for review from YOP. If behavioral issues or more than two absences arise, a consultation between the member in question, their parent(s)/guardian(s), the orchestra conductor, and the RSO Director of Education & Community Engagement may be held before a dismissal.

FINANCIALS Membership Fees The youth orchestra program strives to keep tuition affordable. Tuition is based on a 34-week program breaking the fees down between $9-$15 per rehearsal (not including concerts/concert package).

Registration/tuition is due by September 20, 2021. After September 20, tuition will increase by $20 and your seat is no longer guaranteed.

2021-22 Tuition (September - May): Tuition

Concert Package

Activity Fee

Total

RSYO

$511.88

$95

$30

$636.88

YCO

$429

$95

$25

$549

CS

$375.38

$95

$25

$495.38

SS

$312

$95

$25

$432

Late Registration Policy Student registration must be submitted by September 20. If payments (or payment arrangements) are not met 2 weeks past the deadline, students are placed on probation for the following 2 weeks. After that time, they are marked absent at rehearsals until payment arrangements are made.

Late Fee & Refunds Late Registration Fee: Registration is due by September 20. Tuition will increase by $20 after September 20, 2021.

Refunds: Please note: the activity fee is non-refundable. Members of YOP are expected to make a full year commitment. If you must drop, please notify the Youth Orchestra Manager in writing, at least two weeks in advance. A partial refund is available if the student gives notice to withdraw before Page 13 • YOP 2019-20

11

October 3, 2021. After October 3, a full commitment will be expected of every student and no refund will be granted if there is a need to withdraw. As a courtesy, please inform your conductor of your withdrawal. You will still need to give official notice in writing to the Youth Orchestra Manager. Students who withdraw from YOP mid-year forfeit their seat in YOP and will need to audition during the annual auditions to re-gain entrance into the program.

Concert Package Tuition alone does not cover the cost of the youth orchestra program. In years past, we have sold tickets to YOP concerts to help keep tuition low and to help offset some of the remaining costs. At the beginning of the 2009/2010 season, parents voted in favor of a concert package so that concerts could be open and free to the public.

The cost of the concert package is $95. No family will be required to purchase more than 2 concert packages, putting the family cap at $165. Special considerations may be made for families qualifying for financial aid. All YOP concerts will be unticketed and open to the public free of charge. Students and families may invite as many people as desired at no additional cost, pending COVID restrictions at Carpenter Theatre.

Activity Fee The Activity Fee is used strictly for additional ensemble expenses during the current concert season only. The Activity Fee supplements the following: pizza parties, t-shirts, recognition gifts for conductors & parent representatives, concert receptions, etc. The Activity Fee is non-refundable.

Tuition Assistance In an effort to ensure that Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Program (YOP) participation is accessible to all students regardless of their ability to pay, we are proud to offer scholarships on an as-needed basis.Tuition assistance applications are available online at the beginning of July. Activity Fee is due with application. Applicants will receive an award letter outlining tuition balance after all applications have been reviewed. Please contact the RSO Education Coordinator with questions. Families must reapply for tuition assistance each concert season. Please contact Jennifer Tobin, Youth Orchestra Manager at jtobin@richmondsymphony.com for more information and to obtain a Financial Assistance form.

Tuition Payment Plan YOP offers a payment plan enabling families to make 3 payments over the year. You may opt for the payment plan when registering online. If payments (or payment arrangements) are still not met 2 weeks past their respective deadlines, the student is placed on probation for the following 2 weeks. If this deadline is still not met, they may be removed from the program.that time, they are marked absent at rehearsals until payment arrangements are made.

Page 14 • YOP 2019-20

12

REHEARSALS & SECTIONALS Rehearsals and sectionals are mandatory and will be outlined on the RSSoM/YOP calendar. Students must communicate with the RSO Education Department and their conductor, in writing, at least two weeks in advance if they have a conflict with a rehearsal or sectional date so we may work together to find a solution. All absences must be recorded in the absence form. If a student is absent from a rehearsal, participation in the upcoming virtual recording or showcase will be at the discretion of the conductor and may require an additional audition of the musician’s part. Emergencies will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Students are expected to arrive at rehearsal at least 15 minutes early and sign in with the parent representatives (musicians not signed in will be marked absent). Students should be in their seat ready to rehearse at least 10 minutes before rehearsal.

Rehearsal Locations & Times for 2021-2022 String Sinfonietta (SS): Tuesdays 5:30pm-7:00pm The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design 2501 Monument Ave. Richmond, VA 23220 Camerata Strings (CS): Mondays 6:00pm-7:45pm The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design 2501 Monument Ave. Richmond, VA 23220 Youth Concert Orchestra (YCO): Mondays 5:00pm-7:00pm Rhythm Hall - Dominion Energy Center (RH) 612 E. Grace St. Richmond, VA 23219 Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra (RSYO): Tuesdays 4:45pm-7:00pm Rhythm Hall - Dominion Energy Center (RH) 612 E. Grace St. Richmond, VA 23219 What to bring for rehearsal It is very important for every student to come prepared to rehearsal. Students are responsible for bringing their instrument (in excellent condition), music stand (labeled with your name), pencil, and music.

Snack Snacks are provided each week by parent volunteers (sign-up at beginning of season) for all YOP students. Snack time takes place during the break at each rehearsal.

Page 15 • YOP 2019-20

13

Lost Music If a student loses or forgets to bring their music to rehearsal, he/she will be charged $2 for each replacement piece. Tuition covers the price of music for each student to have one copy. It is advised to notify the Youth Orchestra Manager as soon as the student discovers a missing part, so that replacement materials are ready before or at the start of rehearsal.

Rehearsal Notes As needed, the conductor of each ensemble will put together notes from rehearsals including specific spots to practice at home. Students are first encouraged to contact their stand partners for these notes whenever absent, then the Youth Orchestra Manager as needed.

Transportation Students must arrange for their own transportation to and from rehearsal and concerts. A carpool list sorted by school will be provided at the first rehearsal of the season. Students must be picked up immediately following each rehearsal. If you wish not to have your information included in this list please email the Education Coordinator.

Parking The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design There is free and ample parking available for YOP rehearsals at the Branch Museum. Enter the parking lot attached to the museum through N. Robinson St. RSO is encouraging families to carpool between the two downtown locations and consider the Branch for parking during rehearsals. Carpool lists sorted by school are available to registered students from the Youth Orchestra Manager available at the first rehearsal.

Dominion Energy Center Parking for rehearsals held at Dominion Energy Center is available at the Second Presbyterian Parking Deck (5 N 5th St., Richmond, VA 23219). Parking passes are $3 per rehearsal. The total cost will be added to your RegPack account at the end of each concert cycle. Be sure to insert these passes into the parking ticket machine correctly. Do not bend, tape, or modify your validated parking ticket in any way. If you damage your ticket, please see a YOP staff member for a new one.

Carpool drop-off and pick-up will be available at Dominion Energy Center for families wishing to avoid the expense of parking. Parking stewards will be present - and visible - to provide peace of mind over student safety. Carpool instructions and detailed information on the parking arrangements will be emailed to students upon receipt of registration.

Inclement Weather Policy If a rehearsal is being cancelled or delayed due to weather, a decision will be made by 2:00pm on the Monday or Tuesday in question. Please keep in mind that we are unable to make up a cancelled rehearsal. Every family should make their own decision regarding attendance based on their local Page 16 • YOP 2019-20

14

road conditions and the safety issues. To confirm if a rehearsal has been cancelled, please check your email for a message from the YOP Manager and/or consult the YOP portion of our website.

Venue Rules Remember, we are guests! Each facility and its staff must receive the utmost respect from YOP students and parents. If any misbehavior is reported, a warning letter (as described under “loss of membership”) will be sent to the student’s home. Food, beverages (with the exception of a water bottle) and gum are not allowed at rehearsal unless provided by the parent representatives. The use of cell phones during rehearsal is prohibited. If a student is caught using their cell phone during rehearsal the conductor or parent representative will take possession of it until the end of rehearsal.

CONCERTS Dress Rehearsal and Concert Attendance Dress rehearsal and concert attendance is mandatory. Missing a dress rehearsal and/ or concert may jeopardize your membership in YOP or result in the need to re-audition for subsequent seasons. Please review the concert schedule before committing to YOP. If you foresee a conflict, please notify the Youth Orchestra Manager immediately. Requests to be excused from a concert need to be submitted in writing and signed by the student and guardian. A response will be sent via email. If a dress rehearsal is missed for any reason, the student’s participation in the concert is at the discretion of the conductor.

Concert Details A concert worksheet will be sent home with the musician prior to each concert. The concert worksheet will include dress rehearsal time/location, concert attire, directions and parking information and any other details pertaining to the performance. Concert worksheets will also be posted on our website two weeks prior to the concert.

Concert Attire A concert dress code is enforced so that the audience will stay focused on the music during the performance and won’t be distracted by individuals in the ensemble. If a musician comes to a concert in unacceptable attire, he or she will not be allowed on stage until dressed appropriately.

Page 17 • YOP 2019-20

15

RSYO Option 1: • Black floor length dress, OR black top with a floor length skirt or long, black dress pants • ALL SLEEVES MUST BE AT LEAST ¾ LENGTH OR LONGER • Black dress shoes (closed toe) • Black hose, tights, or trouser socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement Option 2: • Black tuxedo • Black tuxedo bow tie • White tuxedo shirt • Black dress shoes • Black socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement YCO

Option 1: • Black floor length dress, OR black top with a floor length skirt or long, black dress pants • ALL SLEEVES MUST BE AT LEAST ¾ LENGTH OR LONGER • Black dress shoes (closed toe) • Black hose, tights, or trouser socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement Option 2: • Black dress slacks • White dress shirt or Black dress shirt (long sleeves) • Long, dark necktie • Black dress shoes • Black socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement

CS & SS Option 1: • Black dress pants or floor length skirt • White top - ALL SLEEVES MUST BE AT LEAST ¾ LENGTH OR LONGER • Black dress shoes (closed toe) • Black hose, tights, or trouser socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement

Page 18 • YOP 2019-20

16

Option 2: • Black dress slacks • White dress shirt (long sleeves) • Long, dark necktie • Black dress shoes • Black socks • Jewelry should be limited and modest, and should not impede movement Concert Package The 2021/22 YOP performances will be free and open to the public. No tickets are required. Please invite all family and friends to attend the concerts throughout the year. Please refer to the “Concert Package” section for more detailed information about concert admission.

YOP Events Please reference the YOP calendar, posted on our website, for a complete up-to-date schedule of concerts and events.

SCHOOL PARTICIPATION The Richmond Symphony School of Music Youth Orchestra Program (YOP) is very proud to support in-school music education. Our policy states that every YOP musician must participate in their respective school band or orchestra program if class instruction is offered on his/her instrument during the school day. If a legitimate scheduling conflict prevents the student from enrolling in his or her school ensemble, verification of their past/intended enrollment in the school music program must be confirmed by their band or orchestra teacher. You will be prompted at Registration to share your teacher’s email address for this purpose. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact the Youth Orchestra Manager.

PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION Code of Conduct YOP is committed to providing student musicians an opportunity to advance their skills in a welcoming environment that will challenge and nurture their musical development. Parents/guardians are valued partners in their student’s music education, and we ask that they abide by the following guidelines in supporting their musician’s participation in YOP: • Model positive, responsible behavior with regard to YOP commitments, and expect your student to do the same.

Page 19 • YOP 2019-20

17

• Emphasize the importance of values like respect, preparedness, cooperation, and teamwork to ultimately foster musical improvement and enjoyment of the art form.

• Instill confidence in your student’s musical ability by encouraging individual improvement rather than drawing comparisons to othe student musicians.

• Support your student’s individual ownership and responsibility for musical excellence through the use of respectful collaboration and communication with YOP staff, conductors, and peers.

Parents/guardians, conductors, YOP staff, and student musicians are considered members of a team dedicated to the musical development of the ensemble. Parents/guardians who do not abide by the values outlined above jeopardize their student’s participation in YOP. YOP Orientation YOP Orientation is REQUIRED and will be held on September 30, 2021 for parents/guardians AND students in the Youth Orchestra Program. This meeting will cover important policies and calendar items. Please check your email for more details regarding our Fall 2021 Orientation.

Representatives Parent/Guardian Representatives are a vital component to the success of YOP. Parent/guardian representatives are present at every virtual rehearsal to assist with attendance and address any technical issues that may arise. A tuition waiver will be granted for one child of the parent representative in YOP for the current year. If you are interested in becoming a Parent Representative, please contact the YOP Manager.

Council The Parent/Guardian Council meets throughout the semester to offer feedback for the Youth Orchestra Program. If you are interested in joining at any time, please contact the YOP Manager.

Page 20 • YOP 2019-20

18