Member Guidelines for the Brookline Community Band
These guidelines are meant to provide a framework for the running of the Band and to be a guide to the Band’s expectations of its members. By having an understanding of these guidelines, members will be able to get the most out of rehearsals, create the best possible performances, and participate in an enjoyable community of fellow musicians. Participation in the Brookline Community Band reflects a member’s acknowledgment of and consent to these guidelines.
1. COVID GUIDELINES 2023-2024.
2. All Band members are expected to attend rehearsals as often as possible, arrive on time, and participate fully in the work of preparing Band selections for performance. Members unable to attend should inform the Conductor or the section leader.
3. If multiple rehearsals are missed, it will be left to the discretion of the Conductor whether a member will be allowed to participate in upcoming performances. In the case of continued unexplained absence, the Conductor has the option of removing the member from the organization. If unable to attend a rehearsal, the member should take steps to find out what was missed to be prepared for the next rehearsal.
4. Band members are expected to practice the music at home and to come to rehearsals prepared to play to the best of their abilities.
5. Any member who must miss rehearsals for more than a month, or who cannot play an upcoming concert, or decides to leave the Band, must return all folders and music belonging to the Band.
6. The Brookline Community Band puts an emphasis on teamwork and mutual respect. We are cooperative, not competitive. It is expected that members arrive on time and will refrain from talking and using cell phones during rehearsals. Members whose demonstrated behavior distracts from the musicality of rehearsals and concerts may be asked to leave.
7. The Brookline Community Band promotes individual improvement. A successful member of the Band should be able to play in tune, adjust pitch at the direction of the Conductor, be able to keep time, follow the Conductor’s tempos, and demonstrate the ability to listen and blend with the section and the ensemble. If a player has difficulty with any of the aforementioned requirements, the player should seek advice and/or assistance from the section leader, the Conductor, and/or a private teacher. Members who are unable to meet the requirements may be asked to leave.
8. The Brookline Community Band promotes ensemble improvement. The Conductor has oversight in determining the musical balance of the Band and has discretion in setting caps of certain instrumentation, requiring auditions, and evaluating whether a member’s musical skill level is appropriate for the Band.
9. Designed to work as a team, the Brookline Community Band encourages all members to participate in every aspect of the Band and to feel welcome to communicate suggestions or concerns to the board. All members are encouraged to run for positions on the board and to participate in Band management.
10. Income for the Band comes from our performances and contributions from members and others. Band expenses include the Conductor’s stipend, music, supplies, advertising, program booklets, equipment, and instruments. Each year, dues will be collected from every member who is able to pay. The amount is set by the Treasurer on a sliding scale, announced at the beginning of the season. Dues are non-refundable, should a member not remain with the Band. Additional donations are also appreciated. A full financial statement for the Brookline Community Band will be available from the Treasurer upon request.
11. The Brookline Community Band is an inclusive, safe place for people to make music as an ensemble. The Brookline Community Band email chains and the Brookline Community Band podium are places for just sharing music, thanking community members, and working on band logistics.
Updated October 2023