UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI ORCHESTRA
MEMBERSHIP GUIDELINES
Membership in the University of Mississippi Orchestra carries with it
certain obligations, primarily those of prompt attendance, attentive
participation, and adequate individual preparation.
Rehearsals
Regular rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 2:30
to 3:45 and on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00. Details of the
rehearsal schedule are posted in advance on the orchestra bulletin in Meek
Hall. A limited number of additional rehearsals may be scheduled
immediately prior to a concert, but these extra rehearsals are generally
exchanged for days off prior to holidays and at the end of the semester.
Every aspect of the rehearsal and performance schedule of the
University Orchestra is designed to be compatible with academic success
for all participants.
Prompt and reliable attendance at all rehearsals is a minimum requirement
of membership in the University Orchestra. Absences other than
emergencies must be cleared in advance with the director; emergency
absences must be cleared as soon as possible after they occur. Persons
who are registered for University Orchestra for credit will have their
grade lowered one letter for every two unapproved absences. Habitual
tardiness may also result in the lowering of a grade at the director's
discretion.
From time to time, scheduling conflicts will arise which make it
impossible for members to attend all regular rehearsals. Such conflicts
may be cleared with the director, but it is understood that all
such arrangements carry with them the expectation that the individual
concerned will undertake an exceptional level of outside preparation to
the satisfaction of the director.
Attendance is mandatory at all dress rehearsals except for extreme
emergencies. Absence from or significant tardiness at dress
rehearsals is sufficient reason for dismissal and/or failure.
Performance
Performances are scheduled to be consistent primarily with the educational
mission of the Department of Music, and secondarily to be consistent with
the University's obligation for community service. Performances are the
culmination of the educational process of the orchestra, although
rehearsals should serve the educational process beyond simple preparation
for concerts. Each member of the University orchestra assumes an
obligation to fulfill his or her part in contributing to a superior
performance. Absence from a performance is sufficient reason for
dismissal and/or failure.
Instruments
Except for string basses, tubas, and percussion, students are ordinarily
responsible for owning and maintaining their own instruments. At all
times, members should assume the responsibility for having all the
necessary equipment for an adequate rehearsal and performance. Orchestra
students who use University instruments are reponsible for their safety
and condition.
Concert Dress
Concert dress for women is long (at least mid-calf) black. Black skirts
with white blouses are acceptable, as are black slacks. Conservative
jewelry and other conservative variations consistent with the formal
nature of concerts are also acceptable. Concert dress for men is tuxedo
(black-tie). A black or navy suit with black bow tie is an acceptable
substitute. Every member assumes the obligation to dress in such
a way as to contribute in a positive way to the overall success of the
concert.
Auditions and Seating
Auditions and seating in every section are the responsibility of the
director, and are intended to produce the best overall performance of each
composition. Although principal players and section leaders assume an
additional degree of responsibility, every part and every player is an
important and essential part of the orchestra. In the string sections
particularly, strong and experienced players are often paired with weaker
or less experienced players.
ALL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES OF THE UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA ARE DESIGNED TO
ENSURE AN ORGANIZATION WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND
ARTISTIC GROWTH OF EVERY PARTICIPANT. SUGGESTIONS FROM MEMBERS CONCERNING
REPERTOIRE, ACTIVITIES, OR ANY OTHER ASPECT OF THE UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA
ARE WELCOME.
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