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Robinson B-Mail
June 14, 2011
Dear Members and Families of the 2011 Robinson Marching Rams,
Just a reminder that there will be a music rehearsal TONIGHT (July 14) from 7-9:00 pm at Robinson in the HS Band Room. You should have received an email notification last week about this rehearsal. If you did not then your student may not be registered on our new CHARMS system. In order to be sure you're receiving all needed information, please visit www.robinsonband.org for the simple steps to get registered with RBOPO for the upcoming Marching Rams season! Looking forward to seeing you all tonight!
Michael Cook, Band Director
June 20, 2011
Dear Families of the 2011 Robinson Marching Rams!
Congratulations on your successful school year of music with the Robinson Bands. I hope you are ready for a summer that is full of fun, rest, and music! We look forward to your participation in the 2011 Robinson Marching Rams! As our parent volunteers are already working on plans for band week, please take a moment and complete the simple steps outlined below to begin your registration process:
IF YOUR INFORMATION IS UP TO DATE IN OUR CHARMS DATABASE YOU MAY HAVE RECEIVED THIS TWICE. PLEASE NOTE THAT VERY SOON ALL COMMUNICATION WITH THE MARCHING RAMS WILL HAPPEN THROUGH CHARMS. PLEASE BE SURE YOU INFORMATION IS UP TO DATE!
1. MEDICAL FORMS: Have your student log in to CHARMS at www.charmsoffice.com
a) If this is the first time they've logged in see instructions on www.robinsonband.org for how to update student and parent information
b) In the "Handouts & Files Area" there is a "Marching Band" folder.
c) In that folder is the fillable pdf called "Required Medical Forms".
d) Please complete that form and mail it to: RBOPO, P.O. Box 39, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
2. UNIFORM MEASUREMENTS / TSHIRT INFORMATION:
a) Log into CHARMS
b) Select "Update Info"
c) In the BLUE Bar that says "Update Student Detail" select the dropdown menu
d) Select "Uniform Sizes" from the dropdown menu
e) Fill in all the fields with student measurement information (leave blank any information you don't know)
f) Click on "Save" to submit the information
3. FEES: Marching Band Fees can be paid through PayPal or check. See the "Finances" area of CHARMS. For an explanation of fees see the Marching Band folder in the "Forms & Handouts" area of CHARMS.
4. The 2011 Marching Band Packet has been placed in the Marching Band folder in CHARMS. New members in particular are encouraged to read that thoroughly at your convenience.
5. All Forms and Fees are Due by MONDAY AUGUST 8. Forms may be submitted in person at the July 14 and July 26 Summer Rehearsals.
Thanks for taking the time to help us be certain that we can offer the best possible experience in the Marching Rams 2011. GO RAMS!!
Michael K. Cook
High School Band Director
James W. Robinson Secondary School
5035 Sideburn Road Fairfax, VA 22032
(office) 703-426-2147 (fax) 703-978-7243
Dear Robinson Band students, families, and friends, It is with mixed emotions that I write asking you to join me in offering a show of Robinson support and congratulations to Christopher Vitale for being selected as the new Band Director at Westfield High School in Westfield, New Jersey.
Mr. Vitale – the Robinson Band community thanks you sincerely for all you have brought to Robinson over the past two years. Thank you for your dedication, your cheerfulness and positive energy, your sense of humor, your tireless work ethic, and most importantly for being both an inspiring educator and human being. We will miss you terribly, but we are excited for you and for this tremendous opportunity as you pursue the next step in your career and in your life. We know that student musicians everywhere need fantastic educators like you, and we are happy that you will be continuing to share your talent and your enthusiasm with students who will appreciate you the way we have at Robinson. Best wishes from the Robinson Band family to you on this new and exciting chapter in your life. GO BLUE DEVILS!!
Michael K. Cook
High School Band Director
James W. Robinson Secondary School
June 14, 2011
Please join us for the final 2010-2011 Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization meeting tonight, Tuesday, June 14, 7 PM, in the High School Band Room. On the agenda, electing the board for next year and much more!
June 13, 2011
Dear Robinson Orchestra and Band Families,
As most of you know, the Band and Orchestra are moving to a new online database (called CHARMS) for use in communication with our families. If you or your student has already logged in to CHARMS then you should have received an email from me today welcoming you to the new system!
The subject line in your email will say something like CharmsEmailSender@charmsmusic.com On Behalf Of mkcook@fcps.edu. It is possible that your email provider (or even you!) will think the email is spam. It is possible that you will need to adjust your settings to allow emails from CHARMS.
The instructions for logging in and updating your information are below. If you have any questions or trouble logging in please contact: Orchestra – Mrs. Rupert / HS or MS - Band Mr. Cook
Thanks for your help in this very important transition! Here are the instructions for logging in:
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL ROBINSON HS AND MS BAND FAMILIES:
The Robinson Band and Orchestra are switching over to a new database system.
We are asking all Band members (seniors included) to log in and update their information.
It only takes a few minutes and will save our volunteers a great deal of time.
Instructions are below. If you have any questions or find difficulty logging in feel free to contact Mr. Cook or Mr. Vitale.
Thank you all for helping us with this important transition!
ENTER and/or UPDATE INFORMATION IN THE "CHARMS" OFFICE DATABASE:
1. On your home computer go to the following website: https://www.charmsoffice.com/charms/parents.asp?username=RSSBand
2. You will be asked to enter your case sensitive student password:
a. First Initial/Last Initial/Last 4 digits of your student ID
b. EX: Robbie Ram (student ID 12345678) would be RR5678
3. Click “UPDATE INFO”
4. Check your name/address/phone #. Make any changes necessary.
5. Enter your personal email address in the space provided.
6. Click on “Adult’s Information” tab at bottom of screen.
a. Enter information for parent 1 if applicable.
b. Enter information for parent 2 if applicable.
7. Click the green “UPDATE” button in upper right hand corner to save your info.
8. Log out.
June 10, 2011
Please adjust your summer calendar! The marching band rehearsals will be July 14 and July 26! (changed from July 12)!
June 5, 2011
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL ROBINSON HS AND MS BAND FAMILIES:
The Robinson Band and Orchestra are switching over to a new database system. We are asking all Band members (seniors included) to log in and update their information. It only takes a few minutes and will save our volunteers a great deal of time. Instructions are below. If you have any questions or find difficulty logging in feel free to contact Mr. Cook or Mr. Vitale. Thank you all for helping us with this important transition!
UPDATING YOUR INFORMATION IN THE "CHARMS" OFFICE DATABASE:
1. On your home computer go to the following website: https://www.charmsoffice.com
2. In the upper right hand corner of the screen scroll your mouse over “ENTER”
3. A drop-down box will appear. Click on Students/Parents/Members
4. You will be asked to enter your case sensitive school code: RSSBAND
5. You will be asked to enter your case sensitive student password:
a. First Initial/Last Initial/Last 4 digits of your student ID
b. EX: Robbie Ram (student ID 12345678) would be RR5678
6. Click “UPDATE INFO”
7. Check your name/address/phone #. Make any changes necessary.
8. Enter your personal email address in the space provided.
9. Click on “Adult’s Information” tab at bottom of screen.
a. Enter information for parent 1 if applicable.
b. Enter information for parent 2 if applicable.
10. Click the green “UPDATE” button in upper right hand corner to save your info.
11. Log out.
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
To the members and families of the 2011 Robinson Marching Rams, The Marching Band “Fact Sheet” has been updated with complete information regarding performances and competitions. Follow this link: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/fact_sheet2011.pdf
Remember these important “kickoff” events coming up this week!!:
WEDNESDAY JUNE 8 – Drum line and Front Ensemble Assessments – 2:30-4:30 pm
THURSDAY JUNE 9 - FIRST REHEARSAL OF THE 2011 MARCHING RAMS! 7:00 – 8:30 pm in Room 403
GO RAMS!!
May 29, 2011
HIGH SCHOOL BAND AWARDS BANQUET 2011
All students and families are invited to the celebration!
Come honor Robinson Musicians for a very successful year.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011 ~ 6:30 P.M. ~ Robinson Gold Cafeteria
Each family please bring:
One main dish to share and a dessert (Last names A-L) or a salad (Last names M-Z)
Drinks will be provided.
Symphonic Band – Concert Bands I, II, III, IV – Jazz Bands - Color Guard – Marching Band
May 23, 2011
HIGH SCHOOL BAND AWARDS BANQUET 2011
All students and families are invited to the celebration!
Come honor Robinson Musicians for a very successful year.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011 ~ 6:30 P.M. ~ Robinson Gold Cafeteria
Each family please bring:
One main dish to share and a dessert (Last names A-L) or a salad (Last names M-Z)
Drinks will be provided.
Symphonic Band – Concert Bands I, II, III, IV – Jazz Bands - Color Guard – Marching Band
We're using VolunteerSpot (an online sign up and reminder tool) to schedule Volunteers for the 2011 Band Banquet. We need your help! Please sign up - here's how it works in 3 easy steps: 1) Click this link to go to our invitation page on VolunteerSpot: http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/6123456346834580109 2) Enter your email address. VolunteerSpot will then send you a PERSONAL* signup invitation coded to your email address. (No registration required!) Please note: VolunteerSpot does not share your email address with anyone or send spam emails. 3) Go to your email inbox and open the invitation from VolunteerSpot – click "Sign Up Now" to choose your spots. Note: If you have trouble accessing the site or prefer not to enter your email address – please email jenniferbanksesq@gmail.com and I can sign you up manually. * Please don't share your personal sign up invitation, the link is unique to your email address . If you delete your personal email invitation, please go to www.VolunteerSpot.com and click "Find My Activity Links" to get a new email with links to all your activities. THANK YOU!
May 21, 2011
Please join the Robinson Band Directors in congratulating our own Mrs. Tiffany Hitz on her selection as the new Band Director at Mark Twain Middle School in Alexandria, VA. We in the Robinson Band family are grateful to have benefited from Mrs. Hitz's outstanding teaching and musicianship in the Robinson Middle School bands, our elementary school bands, and the Robinson Marching Rams.
Mrs. Hitz, you will be sorely missed, but know that the Robinson Band community wishes you all the best on this next and exciting phase of your career as a superior music educator!
GO TIGERS!!
Judy Einuis, Christopher Vitale, and Michael Cook, Robinson Band Directors
** ** **
ROBINSON MUSIC - TRI-M MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY RECITAL
When: Monday, May 23, 7:00 pm
Where: Russell Theatre, Robinson Secondary School
The program will include:
· Robinson Percussion Ensemble
· Robinson Saxophone Quartet
· Caitlin McGuire, Flute
· Hayley Warmuth – Mezzo Soprano
· Lorena Johnson, Flute
· Ainsley Kilgo and Grayson Kilgo, Alto Saxophone Duet
Please join us to celebrate the talent and accomplishments of these terrific musicians!
May 12, 2011
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra Families,
Happy Spring from the Robinson Orchestra and Band! This is the time of year when many of our families are looking to upgrade their instrument for the following school year. This is particularly a great idea for middle school students who are preparing themselves for their high school experience.
On May 21, Music and Arts is offering an outstanding opportunity for students and families who are considering investing in intermediate or professional instrument. Held at the Music & Arts Center, 2916 Chain Bridge Road, Oakton, this will be an opportunity for anyone (specifically middle school and high school students) to try a number of instruments. Families considering an upgraded instrument can save between $400 and $1800 depending on the instrument. Follow this link for a flyer with more information regarding the event. Parents and private instructors are encouraged to come with any students who would like to explore better instruments which will help them improve their playing. Feel free to contact your students private teacher or director for guidance in helping you make this important choice.
The Directors of the Robinson Band and Orchestra wish to publicly thank Music and Arts for their pivotal role in ensuring that our students will continue to have the opportunity to play in the string and band programs in our elementary schools, and we are pleased to recommend this event to our families.
May 8, 2011
Please join us!
ALL CONCERTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Tuesday, May 10~ Middle School Spring Concert
7:00 P.M. Russell Theatre
Thursday, May 12 ~ United States Navy Band
7:30 PM Russell Theatre
Tuesday, May 17 ~ High School Spring Concert
Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band 2, Concert Band 4
7:00 PM Russell Theatre
Wednesday, May 18 ~ High School Spring Concert
Concert Band 3-Blue, Concert Band 3-Gold, Symphonic Band
7:00 PM Russell Theatre
Tuesday, May 31~ High School Band Banquet
6:30 PM Gold Cafeteria
Tuesday, June 7~ High School Jazz Combo / Guitar Ensemble
7:00 PM Russell Theatre
May 3, 2011
UNITED STATES NAVY BAND PERFORMANCE! Where: Robinson Secondary School, Fairfax, VA – Russell Theatre When: Thursday May 12 Time: 7:30 PM Cost: Free! This concert will feature the winner of the U.S. Navy Band High School Concerto Competition as well as the finalists and select members of the Robinson Symphonic Band. We hope you can join us!
April 18, 2011
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra families:
Welcome home to the Robinson High School Band and Orchestra and congratulations on terrific performances and a GREAT trip to New York City! Be sure to check out the photos on www.robinsonband.org.
The 2011 Solo & Ensemble Festival at Irving Middle School will be upon us after spring break! String performances are April 29 and Wind/Percussion performances are on April 30. Performance schedules are now posted online at www.solofestival.com. There will not be a crisis room available to use the day of the festival, so performance times are not changeable at this point.
Important information and details about Solo & Ensemble have been posted in the member’s area of www.robinsonband.org. (username: robinsonband password: gorams).
Have a great Spring Break!!
April 14, 2011
Photos from Day 1 of the New York City Band & Orchestra Trip: http://www.robinsonband.org/photos.html Keep checking back as photos are added throughout the trip!
April 12, 2011
Middle & High School Spring Jazz Concert Tonight! Tuesday, April 12, 2011 ~ 7 PM ~ Robinson's Gold Cafeteria This concert is free and open to the public! Please join us!
April 10, 2011
LET'S GO TO NEW YORK CITY!
IMPORTANT ~ Click here for the NYC trip page, where you will find the FINAL ITINERARY and FINAL INSTRUCTIONS for travel.
NEW YORK CITY ~ HERE WE COME!!
April 6, 2011
This is a notification that the Middle School and High School Jazz concert scheduled for Tuesday, April 12th, will be held in the GOLD CAFETERIA rather than in Russell Theatre. The concert will still begin at 7 PM and is still free to the public. Please come support the Robinson Jazz Bands in their Spring Concert!!
March 23, 2011
Come support our Robinson Jazz students this weekend at the Chantilly Jazz Festival! Performances will be held in the Chantilly High School Auditorium and are free to the public.
High School Jazz Combo - Friday, March 25, 7:40 PM
High School Jazz Band 2 - Saturday, March 26, 10:05 AM
High School Jazz Band 1 - Saturday, March 26, 4:20 PM
A full schedule of the festival can be found here: http://chantillyband.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/CIJF-Schedule-2011updated.pdf
March 22, 2011
Did you know Robinson Band has a Twitter feed? Yes, we do! You can follow "RobinsonSSBand" via the band website homepage or your usual Twitter sources on your computer and/or phone! If you're looking for a reason to give Twitter a test drive, we hope to tweet updates during the upcoming high school band and orchestra trip to New York City.
Speaking of the NYC trip, students interested in wearing blue and gold Ram Wear items on the trip may turn in an order form now. Here is the link to merchandise photos and the order form: http://www.robinsonband.org/rbopo/ramwear.html
March 17, 2011
Dear Robinson High School Band students and families - a reminder that Solo & Ensemble registration forms AND FEES are due by 2:10 on FRIDA, MARCH 18 (tomorrow).
Solo & Ensemble entry forms can be found on the band website in the “Member’s Area.” (username: robinsonband password: gorams).
Checks should be made out to RBOPO.
March 13, 2011
CONGRATULATIONS to the students and families of the Robinson High School Bands on your spectacular performances at this weekend’s VBODA Performance Assessment at Centreville High School. Details of the Assessment ratings will be posted in the High School Band Room for students to review, and the judges’ taped comments will be available to the students. Overall ratings were:
Concert 3 Blue – Excellent
Concert 3 Gold – Excellent
Concert 4 – Superior
Symphonic Band – Superior
Based on these ratings, and on the success of the 2010 Robinson Marching Rams at October’s VBODA Marching Assessment, the Robinson High School Band can take pride in being named a 2011 Virginia Honor Band. Congratulations!!
There is more great music to come in the next weeks! A few reminders:
1. Orchestra Assessment is this week. Students in Philharmonic be sure you are prepared to give another terrific performance!
2. Jazz Combo, Jazz 1 and Jazz 2 are preparing for the Chantilly Jazz Festival on March 26. There are several guests coming in this week to work with the bands. Be sure to be at all rehearsals on time and prepared to go!
3. Solo and Ensemble Paperwork for HS Band students will be due this week. Please note the separate B-mail regarding solo and ensemble registrations.
GO RAMS!!
Mr. Cook and Mr. Vitale
ROBINSON HS BAND STUDENTS should be advised that SOLO & ENSEMBLE PAPERWORK AND FEES will be due THIS WEEK. It's easy to register…here are the steps.
1. Visit the members area of the band website for the registration form. It is not fillable. Print it out.
2. Complete the form and attach a CHECK made out to RBOPO for the correct fee indicated on the form.
3. If you don't know what piece you're playing yet…it's ok! Just write "TBA" and submit the form with the fees.
4. Don't know the Grade Level? The VBODA CD will be available this week if you want to check.
5. If you have an accompanist who will be playing for anyone besides you, you MUST indicate their name or their schedule may be in conflict.
6. Give the forms and fees directly to Mr. Cook or Mr. Vitale. PLEASE DO NOT PUT THESE IN THE BLUE BOX.
7. FORMS AND FEES ARE DUE by MARCH 18 (Friday)
March 11, 2011
This message applies to Philharmonic Winds students and their families -
It’s concert time!! We hope that you will join us for these TWO concerts next week. The orchestras have worked very hard these past few months and we need and appreciate your support and attendance at our concerts/festivals!
Here is detailed information regarding our concerts next week: http://robinsonorchestra.org/pdf_files/orchestra_assessment2011.pdf
March 6, 2011
Dear Robinson High School Band Families,
Below is a reminder of the schedule of events for this week's rehearsal, concert and District Assessment (Festival) performances. We hope this is helpful to students and parents as they prepare for this very important week! All rehearsals and performances are required. More information (including performance times) is available on the Robinson Band website at this link: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/festival_schedule2011.pdf Go Rams!
MONDAY 3/7:
Concert 4 - Rehearsal after school at 2:20 pm
TUESDAY 3/8:
Symphonic Band - Rehearsal after school at 2:20 pm
Percussion Ensemble - Pre-Assessment Concert - Report in Uniform at 6:00 pm
Concert 4 - Pre-Assessment Concert - Report in Uniform at 6:00 pm
WEDNESDAY 3/9:
Concert 3 Blue AND Gold (and Percussion Ensemble) - Combined Rehearsal Period 6
Concert 4 - Rehearsal after school at 2:20 pm
Concert 3 Blue AND Gold (and Percussion Ensemble) - Pre-Assessment Concert - Report in Uniform at 6:00 pm
Symphonic Band - Pre-Assessment Concert - Report in Uniform at 6:00 pm
Map to Centreville HS
THURSDAY 3/10:
Concert 3 Blue (and Percussion) - District Assessment at Centreville HS - Report in uniform at 3:15 pm
Concert 3 Gold (and Percussion) - District Assessment at Centreville HS - Report in uniform at 5:15 pm
FRIDAY 3/11:
Concert 4 - District Assessment at Centreville HS - Report in uniform at 5:25 pm
SATURDAY 3/12:
Symphonic Band - District Assessment at Centreville HS - Report in uniform at 4:00 pm
March 1, 2011
Attention all NYC spring trip participants! At this time, all required forms and all student account payments are due. Student account statements are being issued to students during class beginning Tuesday, March 1st. Look for that statement in a backpack near you! Bus sign-ups are scheduled for Tuesday, March 22nd at the end of the school day. All required forms and trip payments must be received prior to this date. Please submit all forms and all payments to your director. That's the fastest way to get them where they need to be! Use the blue box in the band room on the counter just outside Mr. Cook's office door. Currently missing: 40 sets of forms for traveling students, and $19,000+ in trip payments. If you have a question about your student's trip status, please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974. Thank you!
February 16, 2011
Sweets 'n Swing!
An evening of Jazz featuring Robinson's Middle and High School Jazz Bands
Thursday, February 17, 2011 ~ 7 PM ~ Gold Cafeteria
Come enjoy a selection of sweet treats and listen to the Jazz sounds of Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Weather Report, Thelonious Monk and more, performed by the Jazz Students of Robinson Secondary School. Please join us!
High School 2011 District Band Festival Schedule
Map to Centreville HS
February 10, 2011
The Music Department of Robinson Secondary School presents Sweets 'n Swing 2011 ~ A Night of Jazz
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Gold Cafeteria
7:00 PM
FREE with donations accepted
Come enjoy a selection of sweet treats and listen to the Jazz sounds of Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Weather Report, Thelonious Monk, and more, performed by the Jazz Students of Robinson Secondary School. Please join us!
February 9, 2011
ATTENTION ALL NYC SPRING TRIP STUDENTS! Room & options sign-ups are now open! Please visit the trip page to print and complete the form, then turn it in to your director NO LATER THAN Friday, February 18th. Pick a leader ~ groups of 4, please! Each roommate should indicate Saturday restaurant and show preferences. If you've not submitted your 4 REQUIRED FORMS FOR TRAVEL, please do so immediately. These forms are PAST DUE! Payment deadline is February 15th. This is the month to pay off all outstanding balances. Please pay for your trip! If you have questions about the trip ~ rooms, forms, payments ~ please contact the trip coordinator directly.
Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974. Thank you!
February 8, 2011
Please join us for the Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization (RBOPO) monthly meeting tonight, Tuesday, February 8, 7 PM, in the high school band room. All middle and high school band and orchestra parents are welcome to attend!
February 1, 2011
This email is for all high school band members participating in District Band this week starting Thursday, February 3. Three important files have been posted on the members area of www.robinsonband.org. They are:
1. Information letter
2. Final Schedule
3. Parking Permit
Please go to the members area and print these files. Read them carefully. It is important that you have correct information. (username - robinsonband / password - gorams)
Feel free to email me with questions! Michael K. Cook
January 30, 2011
NYC Trip Reminders! (I know the weather has not been particularly cooperative, so just a gentle reminder!) If you have not already done so, please note that the 2nd trip installment is due January 31st and the 3rd is due on February 15th. Hopefully you've seen your student's account statement and can make the appropriate adjustment to your outstanding trip balance. Also, required forms for travel are now due. To avoid any confusion, this is not the trip commitment form that was used to register your student for the trip and submit a request to chaperone the trip. These are 4 forms with emergency contact information, medical information, permission to travel, and luggage search form. These forms are required by FCPS. Again, if you have not already done so, please take care of that. All information can be found on the trip page of our web sites, where you can also access the current itinerary and menu options, at: http://www.robinsonband.org/nyc2011/tripinfo.html As always, for any questions, please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974.Thank you!
January 26, 2011
To all Robinson Band and Orchestra students:
Recognizing the possibility of continued poor weather this week, the Band and Orchestra Rooms at Robinson will be open TODAY (January 26) until 2:00 PM for any student who needs to pick up an instrument for practice and/or end of quarter recording assignments. If we face more closings tomorrow or Friday the music rooms will not be available. Today only.
January 25, 2011
Parents: I am forwarding the below message from FACE concerning potential legislative changes to elementary school curricula. While I understand that the state Senate voted yesterday to approve this proposal, you still, if you choose have a chance to communicate with your Delegate. Thanks!
Paul McMahon
President
RBOPO
We are in urgent need of your immediate help. On January 10 a bill requiring 150 minutes of weekly PE instruction in grades K-8 was introduced in the VA Senate. It has made it out of committee and now goes to the full Senate for a vote. The House Standards of Quality subcommittee votes this coming Tuesday (1/25) on a similar bill. The current state requirement is for 150 minutes of physical fitness, which in most schools includes 60-90 minutes of PE instruction with the remainder coming from recess supervised by the classroom teacher. This bill would require more actual PE class time. Daily recess is, and will still be, required by the state.
As you know, music and PE (and sometimes art, depending on the school schedule) are Time to Teach subjects meaning the classroom teacher is getting a break during this time. Should this bill pass - we fear that the additional 60-90 minutes needed to meet this requirement will come from art and music. We must be proactive NOW and DO THE FOLLOWING:
1) Send letters to your own Senator. Go to: http://conview.state.va.us/whosmy.nsf/main?openform
Sample letter: http://faceadvocacy.org/FACE%20Stuff/Senate%5B2%5D.doc
2) Send a letter to the House Education committee (http://faceadvocacy.org/FACE%20Stuff/House%20Subcommittee%20Email%20List%5B1%5D.doc). They will vote on 1/25 and this will determine if the bill goes forward.
Sample letter to the House Education Committee: http://faceadvocacy.org/FACE%20Stuff/HouseED.doc
We are counting on you to do your part. If you do not follow through - we risk losing much of our program as we know it today. It only takes a few minutes to do this - use the attached list of house education committee member emails, cut and paste the body of HouseED, sign, and send it out. Please pass this on to anyone else who may be able to send letters. This will affect all of us it gets passed.
Thank you for your time and tenacity, Chris Donlon / Mary Wagner FACE Co-chairs
January 18, 2011
RBOPO will not meet Tuesday, January 18. The next meeting is schedule for Tuesday, February 8, 7 PM, in the high school band room.
January 11, 2011
Due to inclement weather, the RBOPO meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 11, has been re-scheduled for Tuesday, January 18, 7 PM, in the high school band room.
Please join us!
January 10, 2011
Dear friends of the arts, Effective July 1, 2011, all Virginia high school students will be required to take a course in Economics and Personal Finance before graduation. This requirement will seriously impact elective options for students, making it even more difficult to elect a four-year sequence in the arts or any other career choice sequence which requires maintaining skills and practice throughout high school. Personal finance and economics could be taught within our existing curriculum--either math, social studies or health--so that students are not mandated to use up one of their precious elective slots. Please visit the site below to sign a petition supporting the repeal of HB 622, and contact your state legislator with your concerns before January 12, 2011 .http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/virginia-students-need-to-keep-their-electives/
Here is the text of the petition: We are concerned about the implementation of the Virginia Board of Education's Economics and Personal Finance graduation credit scheduled to become effective July 1, 2011. While we believe the Economics and Personal Finance graduation credit should be repealed, if the credit is to become effective, we support the intent of HB 622.
1. The new Economics and Personal Finance requirement imposes an unfunded mandate during a difficult budget situation for local education agencies. School divisions are facing choices to maintain existing programs while implementing new requirements. Resources required to procure textbooks and hire and train teachers will, without additional fiscal support from the state, require a reallocation of existing monies at a time when budgets are being cut and funding for localities is falling short of the amount needed to sustain current levels of programming.
2. This additional graduation requirement would adversely affect the elective options in high school making it even more difficult for a student to elect a four-year sequence in the arts or any other career choice sequence which requires maintaining skills and practice throughout high school.
3. If the proposed Economics and Personal Finance graduation credit is implemented as initially approved, the strong potential exists for fine arts programs and other elective offerings to be reduced or eliminated.
We ask that the Economics and Personal Finance credit requirement be withdrawn and to ensure that students have fiscal and economic knowledge and understanding by graduation, that statewide mathematics and social science Standards of Learning, which currently have aspects of the proposed additional course of study, be expanded to include the addition of economics and personal finance content. In addition, it would be well to note that a number of electives including Career and Technical Education courses in business and entrepreneurship also currently address aspects of the proposed courses.
If this bill cannot be repealed, we find that HB 622 is a viable alternative that could allow local 'school systems to find alternative ways (i.e. as part of a government class or other required math or social science class) to deal with this requirement.
HB 622 Economics education and financial literacy Patron – Robert Orrock adds the following language to the original bill: Local school boards may implement this requirement through relevant Standards of Learning and career and technical education programs or through other educational programs that comply with Board objectives for economics education and financial literacy.
Please contact your Virginia General Assembly member with these concerns before January 12, 2011. Information provided from the Virginia Music Educators Association.
Thanks for your time and support of the arts.
January 7, 2011
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra students and families, The forecast for this evening (Jan. 7) includes the possibility of light snow. Though it's possible Fairfax County Public Schools will post a delay, District Band Auditions will go on as scheduled. In the event that driving is bad, parents should use discretion as to whether or not to allow their students to participate. If unforeseen events should force a cancellation, an announcement will be posted here.
We are pleased to announce that all volunteer spots have been filled for the District Band Auditions on Saturday, January 8. All volunteers who have been assigned a spot have been notified by email. If you have not received a message from Diane Harazin regarding a volunteer spot for District Band Auditions or need to confirm your assignment time, please contact her directly at dmharazin(at)gmail.com.
January 3, 2011
Drink Donations Needed for District Band Auditions!
All middle and high school students who will audition for District Band this coming Saturday are requested to donate one 12 pack of drinks for our snack bar. Please provide according to the following list (and the first letter of your last name) and deliver your drinks to the high school band room between now and Friday. Thanks so much!
A - C: Coke
D - F: Diet Coke
G - I: Sprite
J - K: Dr. Pepper
L - M: Mountain Dew
N - R: Gatorade
S - T: Water
U - Z: Sunny D (or other non-carbonated drink such as Lemonade)
January 2, 2011
District Band Auditions are less than a week away and we still need six volunteers to help make this a successful event. We need 6 volunteers to help with warm-up rooms and monitor the halls from 12:00 to 4:30. If you are able to volunteer please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org. Thank you!
December 17, 2010
Robinson Band Parents! We are still in need of volunteers for the District Band Auditions on January 8. Please see the needs below and either go to our VolunteerSpot site, http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/11023456343169760108 and sign up for an available volunteer opportunity, or review the list of spots below and email Diane Harazin, dmharazin(at)gmail.com if you are interested in volunteering. Thank you!
December 16, 2010
Due to inclement weather, the High School Orchestra Winter Concert has been rescheduled for Friday, 12/17/10. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. All performing musicians should arrive at 6:15 for tuning and warm-up. Families will enjoy the basket silent auction, sale of other goods and the CD of our performance, and most especially an evening of festive music. Looking forward to seeing you there!
December 9, 2010
WE HAVE EXTRA FRUIT! A million thanks to our many students and customers for a hugely successful fruit sale, and to a terrific group of volunteers who did an amazing job getting it all in the door, and then right back out the door! Congratulations! We have a few boxes of fruit that are in 'cold storage' in the garage of Pat and Paul McMahon. If interested, please contact Pat at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974. Selection changes frequently, so put in your order soon! For your convenience, we can easily break down the larger boxes into 10 pound portions. Thanks!
5 boxes 10 pound navel oranges
5 boxes 20 pound navel oranges
2 boxes 40 pound navel oranges
3 boxes 20 pound grapefruit
1 box 10 pound mixed navels and grapefruits
4 boxes 20 pound mixed navels and grapefruits
1 box 10 pound tangelos
December 5, 2010
REMINDER! FRUIT PICK-UP!
Wednesday, December 8th from 5 - 9 pm in the middle school band room. Earlier depending on timing of truck arrival. If you're picking up your student at the end of the school day, be sure to check in with us before leaving the campus. If we've taken inventory and are ready for you, we'll happily release your order!
LAST CALL FOR PIES!
There are still a few pies available. Need one for your holiday table? Selection changes daily, so please contact Cathy Brudvig at 703-250-5803 for details.
TINY TOTS VOLUNTEERS!
A handful of smiling faces are needed to assist with our annual Tiny Tots concerts on the morning of Tuesday, December 14th. Please contact Rich Koucherary at usma1985@verizon.net or 703-470-1188 for details.
DISTRICT BAND AUDITIONS
If you can help with district band auditions on Saturday, January 8th, please sign up for a slot at volunteerspot.com. Questions? Please contact Diane Harazin at dmharazin@gmail.com or 703-278-8949.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING??
Need to shop? Hate the crowds?? Check out LetsSavetheArts.com for easy, convenient, store-to-door delivery from hundreds of merchants!
December 1, 2010
Fruit truck will deliver on Wednesday, December 8th. Fruit will be available for pick up in the middle school band room as soon as the truck is unloaded and inventory is taken. Official pick up times are 5 - 9 pm in the middle school band room. BUT if you are at school picking up your student at the end of the school day, feel free to pop into the middle school band room to check things out. If we're ready for you, you're welcome to take fruit orders home at that time. It's hard to know exactly when the truck will arrive, but it's usually right around lunch time. We'll keep our fingers crossed! FRUIT PICK UP: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8TH FROM 5 - 9 PM IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND ROOM! THANK YOU
and
The high school band & orchestra spring trip to New York City is officially a 'GO!' All currently held checks will be deposited on approx December 15th. Please check the trip page for additional updates. Questions? Pat McMahon at rbopovp(at)aol.com or 703-426-2974. Start spreading the news!
November 30, 2010
District Band Auditions are just around the corner on January 8, 2011, and we need your help to make this a rewarding experience for our students. Please sign up for a slot to volunteer using the link below. If you have any questions, please contact Diane Harazin, dmharazin@gmail.com or 703-278-8949. Thank you for your help! http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/11023456343169760108
November 26, 2010
Greens Delivery!
This Tuesday, November 30th from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the middle school band room. Important! Please watch web sites and e-mails for a last minute date change. This shouldn't happen, but cross-country shipping can be tricky this time of year. Thanks for your understanding.
Volunteers needed to assist with distribution! If you can help for an hour or two, please contact Karen Emmons at karen@the-emmons-family.com. Thank you!
Pies Inventory!
The following pies remain in stock, and will be sold on a 'first come, first served' basis. If interested, please contact Cathy Brudvig at 703-250-5803.
13 Apple Hi
2 Apple Caramel Nut
6 Pumpkin
5 Peach
2 Boston Cream
1 New York Cheesecake
3 Turtle Cheesecake
Fruit on the Horizon!
Fruit truck is scheduled for Wednesday, December 8th. Pick up from 5 - 8 p.m. in the middle school band room.
White House Ornaments!
WHO should be available beginning this week on pick up nights for greens and fruits and also on concert nights. Contact Paul Culler with questions at 703-591-6917.
Thanks, everybody, for a terrific fundraising effort! And now, let's go to Russell Theatre ~ it's concert season!!
November 17, 2010
ROBINSON BAND to Lake Braddock High School, Friday, November 19:
Band Room open 6:00 p.m.
Load buses 6:15 p.m.
"Ticket" to get on the bus:
1. Band t-shirt
2. Marching Band sweatshirt
3. blue jeans
Students must be in "uniform". Bring other layers. Underarmor is great. Gloves, hat. "Dress for the second hour of the game." Students may not drive themselves to and from the game. Buses will return to Robinson immediately following the game.
November 13, 2010
Pies Pick Up! Monday, November 22nd from 5 - 8 pm in the middle school band room. Just in time for Thanksgiving, as promised! All pies must be picked up on this date - we do not have access to cold storage! Product is frozen - please deliver promptly to your customers! Congratulations, students, on another successful fundraiser! Great job!
November 10, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – UPDATES/PLAYOFF GAMES
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 12 – ROBINSON vs OAKTON (home)
TIME – Band Room at Robinson will be open at 6:30 p.m.
DRESS – Jeans, sneakers, marching band sweatshirt and t-shirt. Bring other layers. Underarmor is great. Gloves, hat. “Dress for the second hour of the game.”
OTHER PLAYOFF INFORMATION – These playoff games are “single elimination,” so each time Robinson wins we advance to the next round! A loss means the end of playoff games. These are the dates of the possible playoff performances (we don’t know until the end of one game where the next game will be played, so games could be home or away).
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 19 – Regional Semi-finals (should be local evening game)
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 27 – Regional Finals (could be local evening game)
SATURDAY DECEMBER 4 – TBA
SATURDAY DECEMBER 11 – State Championship game in Charlottesville.
This notice is to inform you that Mr. Cook will not be available on Thursday November 11 for the “Touching Bases” program at Robinson. Please feel free to email (mkcook@fcps.edu) or call Mr. Cook (703-426-2147) if you wish to discuss your student’s progress in the Robinson Band. As always, sincere thanks to the parents and families who have tirelessly supported the activities of these students throughout this fall season.
November 7, 2010
RBOPO meeting Tuesday, November 9th at 7 p.m. in the high school band room. All are welcome. Please join us!
Fruits and WHO orders are due on Wednesday, November 10th. Please deliver your packets to your director or to the crates in Mr. Cook's office. Thanks!
Shopping on-line for the coming holiday season? Support Robinson Band & Orchestra while you're at it! Visit Let's Save the Arts at http://tinyurl.com/369ojyn to get started!
November 2, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – UPDATES:
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 4 – Rehearsal 3:00-4:30 followed by Red Hot & Blue
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 5 – SENIOR NIGHT SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS:
4:45 Uniform Room is open
5:30 Full Band Rehearsal (black shoes/socks, jumpers)
6:20 Seniors – flower pinning in MS Band Room
6:55 Line up – full uniform
HALFTIME PERFORMANCE
After halftime performance seniors (only) are excused for the rest of the game.
Turn in uniforms
Senior reception outside entrance 8. Following reception, seniors may return to the game or depart for home, but may not stay in the building.
November 1, 2010
Robinson Philharmonic rehearsals will begin this week, Wednesday November 3, 2010. The rehearsal will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. (please arrive a few minutes early) in the High School Band Room and will end at 8:00 sharp. Mrs. Rupert is looking forward to a great new orchestral season with you!
October 31, 2010
To the members of the 2010 Robinson Marching Rams,
"Then let us all do what is right, strive with all our might toward the unattainable, develop as fully as we can the gifts God has given us, and never stop learning." ~ Ludwig van Beethoven
CONGRATULATIONS on your outstanding performance at the 2010 Virginia State Marching Band Assessment on Saturday! We hope you experienced the performance you deserved from yourself yesterday.
This has been a season of "raising the bar" for all of us in a number of ways. We are so proud of you all for your willingness to embrace change, and for your success in overcoming obstacles placed in your pathway this fall. Your learning curve continues to be unbelievable. That's one of the highest compliments one can ever hope to receive. We will always look for ways to be more productive and more efficient; and we congratulate you for the tremendous progress you have made toward those ends.
We are looking forward to the chance to honor the Class of 2011 Marching Rams at our home game this Friday. The enthusiasm and leadership of our senior class is a huge part of the success we have found this season. Let's make sure we give our seniors the performance they deserve from us.
I'll wish you a relaxing weekend (of practicing ?), and leave you with this: Probably many of you have seen this before…but if not you should give it a look. You've been spending this season performing music from the first movement of Beethoven's 5th Symphony. The music in this video is the finale (fourth movement) of the same symphony. I think this video is a great example of the innate joy of music with which we are all born, and which young children freely express before they learn inhibition and self-consciousness. Remember Jeff talking to us about that when we were learning the Haydn? It lives within all of us and is ours to access any time we choose. Enjoy and GO RAMS!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0REJ-lCGiKU
Mr. Cook
October 25, 2010
Fundraising packets for GREENS and PIES are due this Wednesday, October 27th. Please submit to your director, or deliver to the appropriate crate in Mr. Cook's office.
October 23, 2010
Congratulations to all Marching Rams for your high-energy performance last night and for a terrific homecoming week overall! Special congratulations to Band President Meghan Doyle on your selection as Homecoming Queen!
We hope this information will be helpful to families in planning for the coming week and our VBODA State Marching Assessment.
WEEK OF OCTOBER 25 – Normal Rehearsal Schedule
SATURDAY OCTOBER 30 – The schedule for the day has been posted here. Please note this is an earlier day than our other Saturday events. Please also note the performance time at West Springfield High School. There are no advance ticket sales for this event.
SENIORS: Please turn in your forms for Senior Night.
LOOKING AHEAD: This coming week students will be given information for: rehearsal schedules the week of November 1, Senior Night, and the plan for performing at playoff games.
SPRING TRIP UPDATES: here.
October 18, 2010
Hello, band and orchestra families! This is a personal message from your spring trip coordinator, which I'm hoping you'll find a moment to read. YES, there is still time to register your student for the trip! Read on...
New York City! What a great destination, and a new one for us! We've not done this trip before, and it's proving to be quite a challenge, but it also promises to be spectacular! Because our trip dates lead into what is considered a spring break weekend, in addition to both Holy Week and Passover, I've found space to be at a premium pretty much across the board, from hotels to restaurants to Broadway shows.
Trip commitment forms and initial payments are now due. This is much earlier than with past trips, but NYC is a very busy place, and I'm securing reservations now even though we're still 6 months out. I know - crazy, right? If you've not already done so, please get those forms and payments in as soon as possible. For this trip, timing is critical on our part.
I encourage you to pay close attention to the trip page, accessible from either of our web sites at www.robinsonband.org and www.robinsonorchestra.org, and to look for b-mail and o-mail announcements. The trip is a work in progress over many months, and that is the best way to stay on top of things.
For prospective chaperones, I review all forms as they come to me and I read and print all trip related e-mails. Please be assured that your request has been received and noted. The list will likely be confirmed in the late January to early February time frame, and every year we have many more requests than available slots. Thank you for your patience.
If your student has dietary restrictions that would dictate his or her restaurant selection, (Bubba Gump's Shrimp, Hard Rock Cafe, Ben's Deli of Manhattan), I'm better off knowing that sooner rather than later in terms of making assignments, so please don't hesitate to make those needs known. All meal menus have a variety of offerings, to include vegetarian.
I truly enjoy putting this trip together every year for these kids. I think teenagers, and in particular band & orchestra kids, are some of the most amazing young people out there, and I promise to do my best to deliver them a great experience!
As always, all questions, concerns, and even complaints are welcome! Consider me at your service.
Warm regards,
Pat McMahon, Trip Coordinator
703-426-2974
rbopovp@aol.com
October 17, 2010
CONGRATULATIONS to the 2010 Marching Rams on your terrific performance of "A Night at the Symphony" at the USSBA Northern Virginia Showcase on Saturday!
Students and parents wishing to view the recap of the entire day may access that information at this link: http://marchingbandcontest.org/scores2010/20101016_USSBA_NORTHERN_VIRGINIA_SHOWCASE.pdf
We hope the information that follows will be helpful to students and families. Please read carefully:
1. Rehearsal Schedule - Regular Schedule this week except for Friday. Read on:
2. Homecoming - FRIDAY OCTOBER 22 - This is a long day but a really fun one, and a great day for the band. Here are some important items:
a. Students should come to school on Friday 10/22 with everything they need for the football game that evening including: marching band t-shirt/sweatshirt, black shoes/socks, instrument, underarmor (if needed), $$ to purchase food
b. The Robinson Marching Rams will perform at the SGA Pep Rally during the last block of the school day.
c. After school the Band will have a short break. At 3:00 pm they will assemble in the back of the school for a visual block and short warmup - wear jeans and marching band t-shirt/sweatshirt.
d. 4:00 PM - The Marching Rams will March to the front of the school to perform at the opening of the "TASTE OF ROBINSON." Families and friends we hope you can be present for the short performance at 4:00 and to treat yourself to the terrific food offerings organized by the Robinson SGA.
e. 4:30 PM - Band students will have some free time to enjoy the "Taste of Robinson" events and purchase some food for their dinner.
f. 6:00 PM - Marching Rams rehearse in back parking lot in full uniform.
g. 7:00 PM - Marching Rams will march to the stadium and perform "A Night at the Symphony". PARENTS PLEASE NOTE: Because of homecoming festivities, the Marching Rams will perform their show PREGAME (7:00), not at halftime.
3. LOOKING AHEAD - Saturday October 30 - VBODA State Marching Band Assessment at West Springfield HS. Morning report time and rehearsal schedule will be posted soon, as well as a performance schedule. The performance at West Springfield High School will be an early afternoon performance.
Many thanks to the parents and to RBOPO in particular for their tremendous showing of support for these talented students.
October 14, 2010
Robinson Marching Band competes Saturday in the Northern Virginia Competition at Park View High School in Sterling, Va. Additional chaperones are needed to ride with the band from Robinson, assist with plumes, water, guard, and as asked by the directors. If you're interested, please visit the Robinson Bands web-site, click on Volunteer Spot, and sign-up. Thanks for your support of Robinson Marching Band!
and
PEP BAND to Westfield High School, Friday, October 15:
Meet at Robinson - 5:45 p.m.
Load buses/depart - 6:00 p.m.
"Ticket" to get on the bus:
1. Band t-shirt
2. Marching Band sweatshirt
3. blue jeans
Students must be in "uniform". Students may not drive themselves to and from the game. Buses will return to Robinson immediately following the game.
and
Attention all high school band & orchestra students & families! The New York City Spring Trip Page is LIVE on our web sites!
For your convenience, you may access all of the following at the click of a button!
* Trip Memo / Student Commitment Form / Parent Chaperone Request
* New & Improved (but still subject to change!) Trip Itinerary
* Payment Schedule & PayPal Button
* Required Forms for Travel
* Questions? Pat McMahon, Trip Coordinator at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974
New York, New York ~ Here We Come!
October 11, 2010
Attention All Marching Rams Families! For anyone who might be interested, you have an opportunity to support your marcher by placing a 'personal ad' in the printed program for the VBODA State Marching Assessment, which will be held on Saturday, October 30th just down the road at West Springfield High School. Links are provided (below) for both the order form and a selection of sample ads.
Sample ads: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/VBODA_ad_examples.pdf
Order form: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/personal_ad_vboda2010.pdf
Submission deadline is Wednesday, October 13th.
October 10, 2010
Dear Marching Rams and families,
Congratulations on your performance at the Robinson/Chantilly game (and 8th Grade Night!). We covered a lot of ground last week. Let's use that performance as a starting point for a great week as we prepare to do our very best work at the Park View contest! We hope you will find the information in this email helpful.
SCHEDULE FOR THIS WEEK (reminder):
Tuesday October 12: FULL BAND REHEARSAL 3-5 pm. Remember Mr. Schoonover will be there to offer us some constructive feedback on our show. Let's be prepared!
Wednesday October 13: Student Half-Day/PSAT – No Rehearsal
Thursday October 14: FULL BAND REHEARSAL 3-5 pm.
Friday October 15: FULL BAND REHEARSAL 2:30-4 pm. (pep band to Westfield will depart Robinson at 6:00 pm).
Saturday October 16: USSBA Northern Virginia Showcase at Park View HS. The schedule for the day has been posted on the website: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/NoVAShowcase2010.pdf
USSBA NORTHERN VIRGINIA SHOWCASE – OCT 16: Families wishing to purchase discounted tickets in advance may still do so until Wednesday October 13. The ticket order form can be found at http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/2010ParkViewTix.pdf, and can be submitted to Mr. Vitale through Wednesday. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate on the day of the contest. Driving directions to Park View HS have been posted here: http://www.robinsonband.org/marchingmain.html.
LOOKING AHEAD:
FRIDAY OCTOBER 22 – HOMECOMING DAY/GAME: For families new to the Robinson High School Band, please be aware that Friday the 22nd is a long day for the Marching Rams. It's a REALLY FUN day…and a long one. The band will be participating in a pep rally during the school day as well as festivities after school. They will not have the opportunity to go home between school and the football game. They WILL have the opportunity to purchase food/dinner at the "Taste of Robinson" that afternoon before the game, and should bring some money for that.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE: On Homecoming the Marching Rams will perform BEFORE THE FOOTBALL GAME NOT AT HALFTIME, so families wishing to see the performance should be in the stadium by 7:00 pm.
Homecoming is tremendous fun, and does require some thinking and planning on the part of these students. Parents please help your students to plan ahead. A more comprehensive schedule for the day will be posted on the website after the Park View competition.
October 8, 2010
Attention all band & orchestra families!
The next meeting of RBOPO is on Tuesday, October 12th at 7 pm in the high school band room. Please join us!
Fundraising packets have been distributed to all band & orchestra students, and may be found in a backpack near you! Take advantage of the long weekend to get out there and pad your student account! Sales of Florida citrus fruits, fresh wintery greens, scrumptious holiday pies, and White House Christmas ornaments are all ongoing throughout the month of October. Questions? Pat at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974.
For high school band & orchestra students & families:
Planning for the spring trip to New York City is underway! Commitment forms, deposits, and chaperone requests are due. Preliminary details may be found at: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/nyc%20trip%202011.pdf
Remember, this itinerary is tentative and just a framework for the final product, as the trip details are a work in progress! There will be both multiple restaurant options and Broadway show selections for Saturday, so get your forms in early! It promises to be a trip to remember! Questions? Pat at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974.
October 6, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – SCHEDULE FOR FRIDAY OCTOBER 8:
ROBINSON vs. CHANTILLY – 8TH GRADE NIGHT
5:00 pm – Uniform Room is open. Students collect uniforms. (black socks/marching shoes required)
5:45 pm – Rehearsal in FULL UNIFORM minus hats/plumes. Parking lot.
6:40 pm – Collect hats and pair students with "Band Buddies"
7:00 pm – March to field
After half-time 8th Graders report back to the school for pizza.
October 3, 2010
Congratulations to the Marching Rams on your successful performance of "A Night at the Symphony" in Annapolis Saturday evening. You are to be commended for covering a LOT of ground last week through the increased efficiency with which you rehearse. Students and families interested in viewing the recap of scores from the entire "2010 Marine Corps Invitational" can view participating schools and their scores here: http://marchingbandcontest.org/scores2010/20101002_marine_corps.pdf
SOME UPDATES FOR FAMILIES OF THE MARCHING RAMS:
MONDAY 10/4 - rehearsal 3-5 pm (rain or shine)
TUESDAY 10/5 - Colorguard sectional, Drum line sectional (note that the front ensemble will not have sectionals on 10/3)
WEDNESDAY 10/6 - rehearsal 3-5 pm
THURSDAY 10/7 - rehearsal 3-5 pm
FRIDAY 10/8 - ROBINSON RAMS vs CHANTILLY. Also 8th GRADE NIGHT!! Go Rams!!
MONDAY 10/11 - NO SCHOOL (Columbus Day)
TUESDAY 10/12 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL 3-5 pm
WEDNESDAY 10/13 - HALF DAY FOR STUDENTS/PSAT - no rehearsal
THURSDAY 10/14 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL 3-5 pm
FRIDAY 10/15 - FULL BAND REHEARSAL 2:30 - 4 PM (also...volunteer pep band to Westfield that night!)
SATURDAY 10/16 - "NORTHERN VIRGINIA SHOWCASE" - Competition at Park View HS in Sterling, VA
TICKETS FOR THE "NORTHERN VIRGINIA SHOWCASE" - can be purchased in advance at $11 each. Ticket form can be found at www.robinsonband.org, and can be returned to Mr. Vitale who will fill the orders. Last day for advance ticket purchases will be WEDNESDAY 10/13.
We hope this information will be helpful to our families in their planning.
From the Instructional Staff of the Marching Rams to all of our families, THANK YOU the support and enthusiasm you continue to bring to this organization. Go RAMS!!!
October 1, 2010
Subject: Robinson Philharmonic Orchestra Auditions
Auditions for the Robinson Philharmonic Orchestra will take place on Wednesday, October 6th beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Orchestra room. Please sign up for an audition time on the sheet outside Mrs. Rupert's door (Room #401). All interested musicians need to prepare the ETUDE ONLY of the Senior Regional Orchestra audition materials, plus your chromatic scale (performed just as you would for District Band.) The audition materials can be found on the band website: www.robinsonband.org in the Members Only section.
Philharmonic rehearses EVERY WEDNESDAY from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the High School Band Room at Robinson beginning November 3rd. We will perform 5 times (Dec. 16, March 15, March 19 at orchestra festival, on Spring Trip and May 27) The Philharmonic plays professional level full symphonic orchestral literature. Typically, an orchestral work is scored for: 2 flutes, 1 piccolo, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 1 bass clarinet, 2 bassoons, 4 French horns, 3 trumpets, 2 tenor trombones, 1 bass trombone, 1 tuba and percussion (number depends on the piece). I will accept AT LEAST this many players. If I hear auditions that are prepared to the necessary maturity level, I will consider doubling parts if necessary.
I hope that you will consider taking advantage of this unique musical experience. The Orchestra students are ready to start another season of Philharmonic and we're excited that you'll be auditioning to join us!!
Please contact Mrs. Rupert with any questions at: amrupert@fcps.edu
September 30, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – SCHEDULE UPDATE
1. Friday, October 1st – in response to a student poll and because of weather considerations, the Marching Rams will rehearse at Robinson on Friday 10/1 from 2:30-4:00 pm (this replaced Thursday's rehearsal).
2. Friday, October 1st – PEP BAND to Lake Braddock (for students who have already signed up). Meet at Robinson ready to warm up at 6:00 pm. Dress for this event is: jeans, comfortable shoes, marching band t-shirts; marching band sweatshirt. The bus will return to Robinson immediately following the game. Students MAY NOT drive themselves to or from the game.
3. Saturday, October 2nd – Competition in Annapolis, MD. Students should remember to bring a non-perishable bag lunch/dinner for the bus. Students should eat lunch before coming to rehearsal. The schedule for the rehearsal / performance: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/MarineCorpsInv2010.pdf.
September 28, 2010
Dear Senior Regional Orchestra Auditionees:
Here are the registration time blocks for Senior Regional Orchestra Auditions on Monday, October 4th at South County Secondary School. Students listed (link 1) are to arrive during that time frame to audition for Senior Regional Orchestra. You will receive your audition number during the block of time listed. Registration will begin promptly at the start of each block of time – no early registration. The times listed are merely registration times (your audition will not necessarily be finished at the end of your time block.) Please come prepared with music and homework in case your wait is long. Best wishes to each of you for a successful audition! I've attached directions to South County Secondary School from Robinson (link 2).
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me: amrupert@fcps.edu.
Mrs. Rupert
Link 1: http://robinsonorchestra.org/pdf_files/sro_2011_audition_timeblocks.pdf
Link 2: http://robinsonorchestra.org/pdf_files/southcountydirections.pdf
September 27, 2010
High School Band & Orchestra students:
We're going to the Big Apple!
Please read the information packet located on the orchestra website (or via the link below) regarding the proposed Spring 2011 trip to New York City. Commitment forms and initial deposit are due October 15.
and...
The Fairfax Symphony invites students ages 6-18 to join our Student Passport Club (http://www.fairfaxsymphony.org/Passport.shtml) and attend the Fairfax Symphony concert on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. at George Mason University's Center for the Arts in Fairfax. This season, students are encouraged to attend Fairfax Symphony concerts and collect passport stamps throughout the season. To top off the club's first year, there will be a special reception in May for all students with a chance to try instruments, meet FSO musicians, and receive prizes!
Student tickets are only $5 and adult tickets begin at $25. This performance features Fairfax Symphony's concertmaster, David Salness, on violin, and principal violist, Gregory Rupert. The program includes works by Sibelius, Mozart, and Bartòk. Tickets need not be reserved, though students are encouraged to join the Student Passport Club by visiting our website: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e313sd8mge75x04d/a00mgelufmrn/questions
Parking is free in Lot K, across the pond from the Concert Hall, and event parking is available for a fee in the garage directly next to the Concert Hall.
OPEN DRESS REHEARSAL: Families and students are invited to attend an open rehearsal on Saturday, October 23, at 4:00 p.m. prior to the concert that evening. Experience the "behind-the-scenes" preparation that goes into making our performances happen! Please e-mail Education Director, Tara Nadel at tnadel@fairfaxsymphony.org for more details.
Thank you for encouraging students and parents to sign up for our program at www.fairfaxsymphony.org, to attend our concert, and for sharing this information with others in the community!
September 26, 2010
Good afternoon Robinson Marching Rams and families,
We apologize for the length of this email. Please be sure to read all of this information as it will be extremely helpful to families.
Congratulations on a successful first endeavor on the field of competition. Lots of pride, energy, enthusiasm, and our best run of the show so far. We still have a great deal of work to do as we continue to clean and improve our performance. Let's get set for a really productive week!
Four important updates on information for students and parents:
1. LOOKING AHEAD - Week of October 11 contains Columbus day AND an early release day (Wednesday...the day students take PSAT's). That's also the week of our Park View USSBA Contest in Sterling. In order to reduce complications for families and students the rehearsal schedule that week will be adjusted to the following:
Tuesday October 12 - full band rehearsal 3-5 pm
Wednesday October 13 - no rehearsal
Thursday October 14 - full band rehearsal 3-5 pm
Friday October 15 - full band rehearsal 2:30 - 4 pm
This advance notice is being given so that families can plan accordingly. That will be an EXTREMELY important week. We hope this adjustment in schedule will help families solve transportation issues on the early release day.
2. HYDRATE - in our rehearsals this coming week (preparing for the Marine Corps Invitational in Annapolis) please remember the importance of bringing water to rehearsals.
3. TICKETS FOR MARINE CORPS INVITATIONAL (Oct. 2) are still available for advance purchase until WEDNESDAY Sept 29. Tickets are $14 each. Order forms are on the website. Forms and checks (made out to RBOPO) can be given to Mr. Vitale through Wednesday. Tickets can be purchase at the gate on Saturday. They will be more expensive. Parents of band students must purchase a ticket for the performance (unless they are a chaperone).
4. REHEARSAL/PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE FOR SATURDAY OCTOBER 2 has been posted on the website here.
October is a busy month for the marching band. Let's keep our eyes on the goal and push ourselves to be the best we can be. No regrets!
September 24, 2010
USA TODAY 2-part video series starring our own Robinson Marching Rams!
Part 1
Part 2
Advance ticket sales for Robinson's October 2nd USSBA Marine Corps Invitational performance at US Naval Academy's Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, MD are still being sold. The order form can be found here. Ticket order forms and money should be turned in to Mr. Vitale and will not be accepted after Wednesday, September 29th. All checks should be made out to RBOPO.
September 23, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – SCHEDULE FOR FRIDAY AND SATURDAY (Sept 24-25)
FRIDAY SEPT 24 - Home Game vs Herndon
Uniform Reminders: No jeans or long pants under uniforms. No heavy (or cargo) shorts. Athletic shorts are best. This year's show t-shirt.
5:00 p.m. Uniform Room is open – dress in all except jackets. (remember…BLACK SOCKS!)
5:30 p.m. Drum Line, and Guard Report
6:00 p.m. Full Band rehearsal on parking lot (Front Ensemble please be set up by 6:00!)
6:40 p.m. Rehearsal ends. Finish dressing in Uniforms
6:55 p.m. March to stadium
8:15 p.m. (approx) - Performance – "A Night at the Symphony"
SATURDAY SEPT 25 – HERMITAGE CLASSIC
Remember – students should bring a bag lunch/dinner (non-perishable) to eat on the bus.
The rehearsal / performance /and travel schedule for the day is posted here: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/Hermitage2010.pdf
Driving directions to Hermitage HS
From Washington/Fredericksburg - I-95SExit I-95 via ramp at sign reading "Exit 83B VA-73 Parham Rd" and continue on Parham approx. 3 1/2 miles. Turn right at light at Hungary Springs Road. School will be on the right. Stadium and student parking will be beyond the building.
Approximate return to Robinson is 11:30 p.m.
GO RAMS!!
September 19, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS - UPDATES FOR WEEK OF SEPT 20:
Rehearsals this week - Regular schedule of rehearsals and sectionals.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING WATER TO REHEARSALS.
FRIDAY, September 24 - Home Game at Robinson. Schedule to follow later this week.
SATURDAY, September 25 - HERMITAGE CLASSIC Competition in Richmond. FIRST COMPETITION!! The schedule for the day is below and is also posted on www.robinsonband.org. PLEASE NOTE students will need to bring a non-perishable bag dinner for the bus ride to Richmond.
Hermitage Schedule: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/Hermitage2010.pdf
Driving directions to Hermitage HS
GO RAMS!!
September 16, 2010
Senior Regional Orchestra audition registration is NOW. Senior Regional Orchestra auditions will take place on Monday, October 4, 2010 at South County HS. Times will be assigned in blocks (same as for District Band). Audition excerpts are posted on the websites: www.robinsonband.org and www.robinsonorchestra.org
If you plan to audition and have not already spoken to Mrs. Rupert, please e-mail her immediately (amrupert@fcps.edu) to let her know that you wish to take this audition. Names of students wishing to audition need to be turned in by Friday 9/17/10– no late applicants will be accepted.
There is a $6.00 fee for auditioning for SRO. Please bring your fee (cash preferred) to Mrs. Rupert by Monday 9/20/10. If you have already signed up with Mrs. Rupert, you are registered and just need to bring the money to her. (Thank You!)
Any questions? Please contact Mrs. Rupert right away.
September 15, 2010
Marching Rams time line for Thursday, September 16:
Morning - arrive at school with your marching band t-shirt (this year's!), black socks, black marching shoes, lightweight shorts (no heavy cargo shorts, long pants, or jeans under uniforms).
2:30 pm - bronze group
3:00-5:00 pm - Rehearsal on back parking lot
5:00 pm - dinner (provided) / change into marching uniforms
6:00 pm - basic block and uniform inspection (black socks!!).
6:40 pm - break, water, restroom
6:55 pm - line up and march to football field for game & halftime performance
Go Rams!!
September 13, 2010
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization
Tuesday, September 14th at 7 pm
High School Band Room
Please join us as we kick off another great year!
TAG DAY RESULTS!!
Hope to see you there!!!
September 10, 2010
To all student and adult TAG DAY volunteers:Tag Day is almost here - it is this Saturday, September 11th. Students and drivers should arrive at 8:00 a.m., sign in, and enjoy breakfast, before we begin the biggest fundraising day of the year for Robinson's bands and orchestras.Thank you for your support in making Tag Day a success!
September 9, 2010
We're still in need of food donations for Tag Day on Saturday, September 11th.If you are able to donate one, two or three dozen somethings, please send the food items with your child to Tag Day.If you need ideas of things to send, we welcome breakfast-y items and/or lunch items. Some examples of what you might like to send in include bagels and cream cheese, donuts, fruit, granola bars, sandwiches, and snack-type items of all kinds. Oh, did I mention snack food? Cookies, individual bags of snacks including but not limited to Chex Mix, cookies, popcorn, pretzels, granola bars, whatever you'd like to provide. Thank you in advance, Tammy Karas and Diana Schuler
September 6, 2010
All Robinson high school band and orchestra families:
Tag Day is just around the corner and we need more help!!
Thank you to those parents who have already volunteered to help. We still have plenty of opportunities for band and orchestra families to assist with the biggest fundraising day of the year.
If you are available to support Robinson Bands and Orchestras on Saturday, September 11, we need more drivers and students. If you would like to drive students on a Robinson neighborhood route so they may request donations, please contact Carmen Bishop at cjbish(at)aol.com.
Students who have not yet signed up will be given the opportunity to do so on the first day of band or orchestra class. Please encourage your child to participate. Student and parent volunteers will enjoy a breakfast feast before setting out on the neighborhood routes with plenty of food remaining for when the fundraisers return to Robinson.
Together parents and students can make Tag Day 2010 a huge success!
September 2, 2010
Good afternoon to the Robinson Marching Ram community,
Congratulations again on a great two weeks of hard work! We are proud of what you have accomplished. You should be, too. We have a WHOLE LOT of work to do to clean up this show. Be sure to be prepared for rehearsals this coming week. Learn your music, try hard, remember your process…and a lot of things will take care of themselves.
SCHEDULE FOR THIS COMING WEEK:
Tuesday, Sept. 7 – Drumline and Front ensemble after school
Wednesday, Sept. 8 – full band 3-5 (be here 2:30….special presentation!)
Thursday, Sept. 9 – full band 3-5
ALSO….an exciting opportunity for you this weekend. Read on:
YOU ARE INVITED…..to an OPEN REHEARSAL of the VIRGINIA TECH MARCHING BAND!
When: Monday, Sept. 6 – Labor day
Where: Oakton High School
Time: 12:00 noon – 1:30 pm.
There are lots of Robinson Rams in this band and they'd love to see a showing of blue and gold! The band is stopping at Oakton to rehearse in preparation for their performance at FedEx field that night. We always have a lot of Robinson students interested in Virginia Tech. What a GREAT way to see a taste of a college marching band in action! Spread the word to the Robinson Band community.
Have a great weekend. GO RAMS!!
Michael K. Cook and Christopher J. VitaleAttention all Robinson Marching Rams Parents!
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In an effort to increase efficiency between and among our many generous volunteers, we will once again use VolunteerSpot this marching season to help us assign the various tasks involved at our football games and competitions. Hopefully, this will make all our lives easier! For those of you who are either new to this system or simply need a refresher, here's how it works:
1. Go to www.robinsonband.org and click on the green "VolunteerSpot" button (beneath the slide show) to get to the VolunteerSpot web site.
2. Enter your e-mail address where indicated and click on the orange "Continue" button. This step ensures that only you can sign yourself up for a volunteer shift.
3. Open the confirmation e-mail sent to you and click on the "Sign up now / Learn more" button to get back to the VolunteerSpot calendar.
4. Click on the gold "Your Info" button on the left of the screen, and then on the "Change Your Info" pop-up, enter your name and best telephone number. (You may also want to uncheck the "I want to receive special offers from VolunteerSpot.")
5. Click on your available date, then your desired task, then "Save and Close." You will be returned to the calendar, where you may continue to select other opportunities.
6. When you are finished signing up according to your availability, click on the red "Confirm" button.
7. You will very quickly receive a confirmation e-mail with the details of your selections. Several days ahead of the event, you will also receive a reminder e-mail.
It's that simple! Our first home football game is Thursday, September 16th, so don't delay ~ check it out and let's give it a test drive! Thanks, everybody!
Questions? Pat McMahon at 703-426-2974 or rbopovp@aol.com.
Go Rams!
August 29, 2010
ROBINSON MARCHING RAMS – THIS WEEK'S SCHEDULE AND PHOTO DAY INFO:
Monday August 30 – Rehearsal 6pm – 9pm (marching band t shirts will be distributed on this day)
Tuesday August 31 – Rehearsal 6pm – 9pm including PARENT PREVIEW SHOW
Parents join us in Coffey Stadium at 7:15 pm for a short rehearsal/performance of the 2010 Marching Rams
Marching Rams – wear your t shirts and shorts for this evening
Wednesday, September 1 - Marching Rams Picture Day
Uniform Room open: 2 p.m.
Individual Photos: 3 p.m.
Official Group Photo: approximately 4:30 - 5 p.m. (attendance required)
Uniform reminders:
1. black socks (crew/trouser length, no logos, no ankle/low styles, not navy, not dark gray)
2. show t-shirt must be worn under the marching uniform (shirt from a past show is okay)
3. black marching shoes
4. black socks
Thursday, September 2 - no morning rehearsal
August 27, 2010
Dear students and parents of the Robinson Marching Rams,
CONGRATULATIONS and kudos to all of your hard work, your enthusiasm, positive attitude, and your leadership this past week during band week. You are the most remarkable students in the school. Let's remember….with that comes a responsibility to continue to do whatever it takes to be our best. Honor your talents, they are many.
You have accomplished a great deal this week. THINK of how much you've learned since Monday (or since rookie camp)!
The hard work is now just beginning. Being great is not convenient or easy…but it carries with it a feeling of accomplishment that cannot be achieved any other way. If some of the work was difficult for you this week…it's OK….YOU CAN DO IT! Practice, try, do your best, don't settle. You will find the way to be the best you can be.
I hope you all have a relaxing and fun weekend, and I look forward to seeing you on Monday!
PARENTS: Please join us in Coffey Stadium at Robinson on Tuesday evening for a special preview rehearsal and performance of the 2010 Marching Rams show, "A Night at the Symphony." The band will march into the stadium shortly after 7:15 pm. We hope to see you there!
GO RAMS!!
August 22, 2010
Dear Robinson Marching Rams and Families,
Greetings and welcome to the 2010 Season of the Marching Rams! We hope you've had a great summer and are ready to start the adventure of this year's show, "A Night at the Symphony!" The adventure begins tomorrow (Monday 8/23)!! In preparation for a great week please review the "Fact Sheet" that can be found at this link: http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/factsheet2010.pdf. Remember you need Instrument and accessories, cool clothes for hot weather, hats, sunscreen, comfortable sneakers (no sandals), water-bottle with name, 3 ring-binder, and your name tag! A special note of congratulations to the Marching Rams leadership, our drum line, front ensemble, and our talented group of rookies for their great work last week! Remember...."Early is On-time!" We'll get going right at 8:30 a.m. Be sure to eat breakfast before you come, and remember that lunch will be provided. A special reminder to parents to please join us on Tuesday 8/24 for a special RBOPO meeting where you'll get a chance to meet the Directors, Board Members, and catch up on the exciting plans for the Marching Rams this Fall!
Welcome to the start of a great season! Go Rams!
Mr. Cook and Mr. Vitale
August 20, 2010
Attention all Robinson Marching Rams Parents! Marching band parents' meeting is TUESDAY, AUGUST 24TH AT 7 PM. Somewhere in the vicinity of the high school band room. Hopefully in the Recital Hall. Volunteers and signs will direct you! Come through Entrance 8. Meet the directors and the RBOPO executive board. Hear about this year's season ~ Ask lots of questions ~ Volunteer to help! Hope to see you there!
August 18, 2010
Hello Band Parents, I'm heading up the Band Week lunches and water stations for next week and need a few more volunteers. I'm primarily seeking out a few more youth volunteers. (Please disregard this email if I've already spoken with you about volunteering.) In particular, if you have any responsible middle school youth that need service hours, or who would just enjoy hanging around the HS band kids and helping to serve water or lunch, please let me know. The kids really have fun doing this! I have water station slots available from 1-4pm and 6-9pm each day (a very easy but important job!), and I could also use some help from a few youth to help setup/serve lunch from 11-1:30pm. Please email or call me if your son/daughter would like to help. (Please reply to the email address below, not to this message.) Thanks! Diana Schuler
August 18, 2010
All Robinson high school band and orchestra families: Tag Day is just around the corner!
Thank you to those parents who have already volunteered to help. We still have plenty of opportunities for band and orchestra families to assist with the biggest fundraising day of the year. If you are available to support Robinson Bands and Orchestras on Saturday, September 11, please reply ASAP to the appropriate person below. If you would like to drive students on a Robinson neighborhood route so they may request donations, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org. To donate food or help serve our students food before they leave the school to begin fundraising and when they return, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org. The treasurers need parents to sort and count money collected. To volunteer in this capacity, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org. Marching band students will sign up for Tag Day during band week. Other students will be given the opportunity to do so the first day of band or orchestra class. Please encourage your child to participate. Student and parent volunteers will enjoy a breakfast feast before setting out on the neighborhood routes with plenty of food remaining for when the fundraisers return to Robinson. Together parents and students can make Tag Day 2010 a huge success!
August 16, 2010
Welcome, Rookie Marching Rams Parents!
Please join us for a meet & greet, Thursday, August 19th at 11 a.m.!
Come watch the kids in action and meet other parents as we prepare to kick off this year’s show, "A Night at the Symphony"!
Welcome to the world of the Robinson Marching Rams!
August 11, 2010
Parent volunteers are needed to help sort the concert uniforms back fresh from the dry cleaners. A volunteer group will be working tomorrow evening during the marching band rehearsal, Thursday, August 12, 7 - 9 p.m. If you can help, come on in and we will put you to work (no prior experience or sewing skills needed!).
June 20, 2010
Attention all Robinson Band & Orchestra Students and Families
Do you love the convenience of on-line shopping?
Introducing an exciting new concept in fund-raising that will benefit our band & orchestra programs every time you shop!
No registration, no hassle, no crowds!
Want to learn more? Visit either of our web sites at:
www.robinsonband.org or www.robinsonorchestra.org
and click on the link for Let’s Save The Arts. It’s that simple!
Together, we CAN make a difference! Let’s save the arts!
June 16, 2010
Registration for the 2010-2011 band & orchestra school year is now available on-line!
Please visit the registration page and click on the link to register your student today!
FOR ALL HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND STUDENTS:
1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your marching band and concert uniform fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Complete, print, sign, and snail mail the medical & travel permission forms.
4. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Deposit is due July 1st; balance is due August 9th. All forms and payments must be on file prior to rookie camp. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!
FOR ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL BAND & ORCHESTRA NON-MARCHING STUDENTS:
1. Print and read the information packet and use the fee calculator to determine your concert uniform/program fees for the coming year.
2. Complete and submit the on-line registration form.
3. Make a secure on-line payment via Paypal or write a personal check payable to RBOPO. Fees are due prior to concert uniform distribution and no later than October 5th. Please include your student's Robinson ID # with all Paypal payments and personal checks. This is how we identify your payment so that we properly apply it to your student's account!
Happy summer! We look forward to welcoming you to the new school year!
RBOPO and the Robinson Band & Orchestra Staff.
June 7, 2010
A reminder to everyone, students and parents, that a Marine recruiter will be in attendance in the HS Band room on Wednesday, June 9, during RAISE, to talk to interested Robinson Band students about military careers in music. Students interested should sign up for RAISE on accutrak.
June 2, 2010
Attention All Robinson Band & Orchestra Parents
Robinson Band & Orchestra Parent Organization
Final meeting of the 2009-10 school year
Tuesday, June 8th at 6 pm in the high school band room
Election of officers
2010-11 early planning
Volunteer needs
Please join us as we say farewell to some, welcome others, and wrap up a terrific year!
Hope to see you there!
May 24, 2010
Help Wanted:
Volunteers are needed to assist with uniform collection on the following nights:
Tuesday, May 25 - MS Orchestra Spring Concert 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 27 - HS Orchestra Spring Concert 7 p.m.
Uniforms will be collected after each ensemble performs. The turn in process takes place in the hallway behind the music wing. Students need to turn in uniforms and garment bags. Boys keep their tuxedo shirts. Students need to remember to bring a change of clothes!
Volunteer shifts are available between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org, if you're able to help out on either night. Please indicate your student's ensemble, so we can ensure that volunteers are not scheduled during their student's performances.
May 19, 2010
HIGH SCHOOL BAND AWARDS BANQUET 2010
All Students and Families are invited to the celebration! Come honor Robinson Musicians for a very successful year. Tuesday, June 1, 2010 6:30 PM In the Robinson Gold Cafeteria Each family please bring: ONE MAIN DISH TO SHARE and A SALAD (LAST NAMES A – L) or A DESSERT (LAST NAMES M –Z) Drinks will be provided.
Volunteers are needed to help with the Band Banquet on June 1. Come join the fun at 3 PM to help set up and decorate the Gold Cafeteria. We are usually finished by 5 PM. Also volunteers are needed from 6 to 7 PM to help at the food tables. If you are available, e-mail bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.
May 18, 2010
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra students and parents,
Greetings from the Robinson Orchestra and Band! Since High School course selection verification sheets were recently sent out, we thought we’d send out a quick note that might answer a few questions people often have. As you review your course selections, please keep in mind the following:
1. Your Orchestra/Band class might be listed as “Beginning Band” or “Beginning Orchestra.” Don’t worry about what it says right now (and no need to contact your counselor). All students are put in the same class when they first register and then are placed in the correct class through audition. This will all happen over the next couple of weeks. When course placements are complete lists will be posted in the music hallway. No need to panic or to call your counselor about this.
2. It is not too late to ADD the Robinson Band/Orchestra to your schedule! All you need to do is contact your counselor (the sooner the better).
3. We will be talking to students about the Robinson Marching Rams over the next couple of weeks. Information about the Marching Rams, including the 2010 schedule and “fact sheet” are posted on our website at www.robinsonband.org.
4. It has been GREAT to listen to the students audition over the past couple of weeks. We are already looking forward to a great 2010-11 school year with the Robinson Band and Orchestra!
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your student’s Director. Go Rams!!!
Mr. Cook, Mrs. Rupert, Mr. Vitale – High School Directors
James W. Robinson Jr. Secondary School
5035 Sideburn Road
Fairfax, VA 22032
May 13, 2010
Help Wanted:
Volunteers are needed to assist with uniform collection on the following nights:
Tuesday, May 18
HS Band Spring Concert 7 p.m. - Concert Bands 3-Blue, 3-Gold and 4
Wednesday, May 19
HS Band Spring Concert 7 p.m. - Concert Band 2 & HS Symphonic Band
Uniforms will be collected after each ensemble performs. The turn in process takes place in the hallway behind the music wing. Students need to turn in uniforms and garment bags. Boys keep their tuxedo shirts. Students need to remember to bring a change of clothes!
Volunteer shifts are available between: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Please email Sue Fisk: fiskfamily5(at)aol.com if you're able to help out on either night. Please indicate your student's ensemble, so we can ensure that volunteers are not scheduled during their student's performances.Thank you!
May 12, 2010
ROBINSON HIGH SCHOOL BANDS IMPORTANT DATES / DEADLINES
MAY 14: Deadline - Ensemble Night Intent
MAY 17: Lunsford / Behrend Applications Due
MAY 18: Concert (3Blue, 3Gold, C4) 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 19: Concert (C2, Symphonic) 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 21: Drum Major/Sect. Leader/Guard Essays are due
MAY 21: Point Sheets Due - points sheets form
MAY 24: Stokes Scholarship Applications Due
MAY 24: Ensemble Night 7:00 pm, Russell
MAY 26: First Colorguard Clinic 2:30 pm
JUNE 1: HS Jazz & Guitar Concert 7:00 pm, Russell Theatre
JUNE 2: HS Band Banquet 6:30 pm, Gold Cafeteria
May 2, 2010
The Virginia Tech Wind Ensemble will perform at Woodson High School, the evening of May 13, at 7: 30 p.m. Admission is free.
The program includes:
Mother Earth (Maslanka)
Dusk (Bryant)
Angels in the Architecture (Ticheli)
Looking At the Stars (Cross)
Bugler's Holiday (Anderson)
Lincolnshire Posy (Grainger)
Bugler's Holiday will feature trumpet players: Staff Sergeants Brandon Eubank, Amy McCabe, and Jeffrey Strong, all of "The President's Own" United States Marine Corps Band.
April 29, 2010
To all Robinson Band students and families. Preliminary facts and schedule information regarding the 2010 Marching Rams has been posted on the Band website. Go Rams!
April 22, 2010
Myrtle Beach Trip Photos
April 17, 2010
Myrtle Beach final itinerary and trip instructions!
Students print and bring both documents to class this week (Tuesday/Wednesday) for review with directors.
Students bring itinerary on the trip.
Let's go to Myrtle Beach!
April 12, 2010
DISTRICT XI SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
Frost Middle School
April 16 (Orchestra) - 17 (Band), 2010
PERFORMER NOTES
All performance information can be found online at www.solofestival.com.
PLEASE READ ALL OF THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY!!
Students should dress appropriately for the performance; please refrain from wearing T-shirts, jeans, sneakers, etc.
Students should arrive thirty minutes prior to performance.
Students who miss their performance will not receive a refund.Participants should use Door #1 for entry and exit.
Students do not need to check in at the information table. Proceed directly to the warm-up room.
Students should remain in the warm-up areas (by their performance room number) to ensure that runners can locate and escort them easily to their performance room. Runners will not seek out performers.
It is the student’s responsibility to agree on a meeting time and place (warm-up area or performance room) with their accompanist before the festival day. Runners will not seek out accompanists.
Students must have an original copy of their selection for the adjudicator. The original copy must have the measures numbered. Judges must be given an original copy of the music. VMEA, VBODA, and Event Chairpersons will not be held responsible for copyright violations.
All high school and middle school students are required to have piano or pre-recorded accompaniment (with appropriate playback device provided by the student) if it is required for their selection. The accompaniment is one half of the performance, and the solo the other.
Family and guests are welcome to listen to the performances at the judge’s discretion but should refrain from talking and taking pictures during the performance.
Ratings will be posted in the cafeteria. Individual rating sheets will be sent directly to directors; students should not ask the judge or runner for their rating sheet.
Parking at Frost will be very limited due to the construction of a new building on our school grounds.
Parents should drop their child off at the front of school and continue on to find a parking space. FC Police will ticket any car parking along the yellow curb in front of the school!!
PLAY WELL AND HAVE FUN!
April 10, 2010
Myrtle Beach Trip Meeting, Tuesday, April 13th!
Chaperones at 6 p.m. in the middle school band room.
Interested parents of traveling students at 7 p.m. in the high school band room.
Please join us!
April 7, 2010
Please join us!
Enjoy all our Robinson Middle & High School Jazz Bands with guest soloist, Yamaha Artist Rex Richardson, VCU trumpet teacher and Robinson alum!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
7 p.m.
Russell Theatre
Free & open to the public.
Report time for all High School jazz students is 6 p.m.
April 4, 2010
Hi everyone, As you know the budget process is continuing for next school year and this week the FFX County Board of Supervisors will be listening to public input about how to appropriate monies for the schools and set final tax rates. The bottom line is... the end is near and we need a strong final push to advocate for funding so programs like music can continue to exist and thrive in our great school.
There is a rally on Tuesday starting at 4:30 - FFX County Government Center near Fairfax Corner. It would be great to get as many music students there as possible wearing FACE t-shirts, Robinson Band/Orchestra wear, etc. April 6 rally information
This is a busy time for everyone and certainly as we approach the end of the quarter, spring trips, musical rehearsals and such all of our plates are full. Please consider making that trip over to help make a strong statement. Many of you helped in several ways already - but as we all have learned there is no quick or easy solution to this dilemma. In many ways this is a good learning experience to be involved in this process first hand. We all believe this is important and the people making these decisions need to know as well.
Please pass the word along to your family and friends!
Michael K. Cook, Band Director
March 31, 2010
Please join RBOPO in supporting Elementary Band and Strings at the upcoming
Board of Supervisors hearing: April
6 rally information.
March 23, 2010
Our re-scheduled performance for Sweets 'n Swing is this Thursday, March 25, at 7 p.m. in Robinson's Gold Cafeteria. This wonderful night of jazz is free with donations gladly accepted!
If your student is participating in one of the jazz ensembles, please remember to bring along your batch of sweets or treats!
Volunteers are still needed to help:
- decorate between 1:30 and 4 p.m., Thursday
- work a food or drink table for a half hour shift during the evening (not while your student performs!)
- CLEAN UP CREW! :-)
If you can help, please email bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org!
Looking forward to a great night of Robinson Jazz!
March 11, 2010
Myrtle Beach Spring Trip - important
updates.
Payment & forms deadlines, bus sign ups, chaperone phone calls, updated itinerary,
upcoming parent trip meeting and more!
March 10, 2010
Last minute reminders:
Concert 4 – RAISE rehearsal on Friday in BAND
ROOM.
Symphonic Band – Bring your instruments HOME on
Friday. No Saturday access to the building.
Everyone - If you USE IT, PLAY IT, WEAR IT…you
are responsible for it. Arrive at Westfield FULLY DRESSED, please.
Gentlemen – BLACK
SOCKS!
Ladies - real shoes, no flip flops!
Festival Schedule
Driving
Directions to Westfield HS
March 2, 2010
Greetings friends.
At the risk of being redundant, I would like to mention
that this weekend is the "mark-up session" for the Fairfax County
tariff. Once the tariff is set (March 9) the board will not be able to
exceed it in determining
a final real property tax rate, and the revenue it would generate.
WHAT: If
you support increased revenue as a solution to the budget shortfall, and
it's impact on schools, now would be the time to contact your Board of
Supervisor and Board Chair, Sharon Bulova.
WHEN: Now, this week, NLT Friday.
An email, short or long, expressing your desires in this issue will matter
more this week than at any point thus far
in this effort, and should be our main focus for the next few days.
HOW: you
can access your board member and contact info here: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
WHY: The members of the board must decide, as elected officials, if the center
of gravity on this issues lies with those who want lower taxes at
any cost, and those who are willing to pay the cost of the nation's best
public school system. They will essentially do so this weekend.
WHO: All of
us.
All the best.
Denny Stokes
Please forward this email to parents of elementary school students
who are not on our band and orchestra distribution lists.
February 27, 2010
Greetings friends.
Have tried to avoid "email overload." In that context, here are some
thoughts as of today, February 27:
There is much justifiable concern regarding current developments in the
county budget process. However, none of this should come as a surprise. Early in this year-long campaign, I noted that the Board of Supervisors would face exquisite pressure to restrain school funding, county spending and revenue enhancement. We are now entering that phase of the debate. From
the news and from the email traffic, I am sure you are aware of the current
numbers being discussed.
So, what are we to do?
- Convert concern into action
- Understand the process
- Know your audience
- Pony up
- Mark you calendars
2. It is common for the County Executive to make recommendations of extreme austerity at this point in the process. Doing so provides each BoS member, their financial leanings notwithstanding, the opportunity to "come to the rescue" of constituents, if they are under intense pressure to do so (see item #1).
3. Remember, the BoS does not "cut" any school program or line item in the school board budget. They can only determine the amount of funding for the entire school system. So, in contacting them it is right to be holistic, and to resist advocating the saving of one particular item. Never forget that each of the two Boards are, to a certain extent, leveraging the other via the views as expressed by the community (again, see item #1...).
4. The report commissioned by FACE and presented by parents is a powerful statement on our behalf. However, the funding for this report is still incomplete, with the burden being shouldered by several school pyramids, and some individuals. Frankly, that is not fair. To all schools and pyramids that have contributed, THANKS. For those who still have the opportunity before them, sooner is better than later. It's hard to think of a need that will ever be more pressing than this.
5. The Board of Supervisors hearings are scheduled for April 6, 7, and 8, 3:00 pm. We have many speakers who will advocate for music. We need enormous numbers of people at each of these meetings. Check the FACE website periodically for updated information regarding times and locations.
So, where are we in this? As dire as the numbers being discussed are, all is not lost. However, at this point, nothing is won. As our bands and orchestras prepare for concerts, festivals and contests, their directors always stress that students can never be too prepared, that no detail or effort is too small to matter. As we work to preserve music education in Fairfax, we must have and hold that same attitude. Through this long process, we must each strive as though our own individual action, our letter, our email, our attendance might be the tipping point for success.
It may well be.
Denny Stokes
For information from FACE, visit: www.faceadvocacy.org
- FACE has joined forces with FLAGS, CPES and FDK to present a united front to the Board of Supervisors.
- LCI unfreeze has not yet passed the Senate.
- FCPS student population has risen by 9,000.
- Recommended 1% overall cut to school budget, amounting to $16.3 million dollars less than last year's budget. (Dr. Dale requested $81 million more than last year's budget.)
- Proposed $0.05 or $0.06 tax rate increase, and has recommended an advertised rate of $0.08 (from which the BoS may reduce, but not increase). Even at the $0.08 rate, it would not cover our programs.
- Car decal... proposed bringing back at $33 each.
February 24, 2010
ATTENTION ALL MYRTLE BEACH TRIP STUDENTS!
Room sign ups have begun and will continue until Monday, March 1st. THAT IS A HARD DEADLINE! Please sign up in groups of 4 and turn your form in to your director. If you can't find a 4th, do the best you can and turn it in anyway. Meet the deadline! Here's the link to the sign up form.
Please make sure you've turned in your required forms for travel. Here's the link to the travel forms.
http://www.robinsonband.org/myrtlebeach2010/springtrip_forms.pdf
Reminder: Final payments are due by Friday, March 5th.
Any questions regarding forms or payments? Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974.
LET'S GET IT DONE SO WE CAN GO TO MYRTLE BEACH!!!
February 20, 2010
High School Band Festival Schedule
February 18, 2010
A reminder to ALL Robinson Band and Orchestra students and their parents:
Please TRY ON your concert uniform to be sure that it still fits. If you
have a
uniform issue please bring the ENTIRE uniform (in the blue garment
bag) to Mr. Cook, Mrs. Rupert, or Mr. Vitale so that arrangements can be
made to help you. PLEASE DO THIS RIGHT AWAY!! Go Rams!!
February 17, 2010
Our recently canceled Sweets ‘n Swing jazz concert has been rescheduled
for Thursday March 25th at 7 pm in the Gold Cafeteria. The middle school
jazz band, the high school jazz bands, and the high school jazz combo will
all be performing.
February 15, 2010
Both high school jazz ensembles WILL rehearse tomorrow, February 16th, after school at their regularly scheduled time.
February 14, 2010
All Myrtle Beach students & parents:
Due to all the recent school closures, we've gotten a little behind on spring trip business! Here are a few reminders...
1. Required forms for travel are now due! If you haven't done so already, please complete all 4 pages, print, sign, and turn in to your director asap. Follow this link to the forms: http://www.robinsonband.org/myrtlebeach2010/springtrip_forms.pdf.
2. At this point, student accounts should reflect no more than a $225 balance due. Statements will be sent home this week. Please check your statement and make a payment if appropriate. For those of you who are either current or fully paid, thank you!
3. The final deadline for trip payments has been extended to Friday, March 5th. At that time, all student accounts should be paid in full. The big bills are starting to roll in! Please be timely with your payments so that we are able to meet our trip obligations.
4. Remember to check the trip page for updated information, coming soon! The trip page is linked from the opening page of both the band and orchestra web sites, or follow this link.
5. Next stop ~ room sign ups!
As always, if you have questions regarding the trip or your student's account, please contact Pat McMahon at rbopovp@aol.com or 703-426-2974. Thanks, and here's hoping for a full week of school and plenty of sunshine!
February 11, 2010
Dear Robinson Band and Orchestra Family,
This purpose of this email is to clarify the Blue/Gold schedule for the coming week. As you know, Monday, February 15, is now a full day of school to make up for one of the snow days. That day will be a GOLD DAY. Tuesday, February 16, will ALSO BE A GOLD DAY. Two in a row!! Please think ahead to ALL of your Gold Day Classes and bring books, instruments, and materials you will need. To recap:
Monday 2/15 – GOLD DAY
Tuesday 2/16 – GOLD DAY
Wednesday 2/17 – BLUE DAY
Thursday 2/18 – GOLD DAY
Friday 2/19 – BLUE DAY
As posted on the Robinson Blue/Gold Calendar http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?crd=bluegoldcalender&op=cal&month=2&year=2010
Have a great weekend and PRACTICE!!
February 8, 2010
Congratulations to the Robinson Band Students listed below who are eligible to audition for the 2010 All-Virginia Band/Orchestra! These students are eligible through their placement in District Band and/or Senior Regional Orchestra. Auditions will be held at James Madison University on Saturday February 27, 2010.
TO ALL-VIRGINIA ELIGIBLE STUDENTS: Mr. Cook has sent you an email through blackboard that contains VERY IMPORTANT information about the audition including links to the audition etudes. If you did not receive this email please email Mr. Cook IMMEDIATELY so that you can receive the information. Congratulations to these students!!
TRUMPET ADB - Brese, Robert
Eb CLARINET ADB - Doyle, Meghan
TROMBONE ADB - Emmons, Alexander
TROMBONE ADB - Esch, Andrew
BASS TROMBONE ADB - Fisk, Michael
BARTIONE SAXOPHONE ADB - Ha, Jae Won
ALTO SAXOPHONE ADB - Kilgo, Ainsley
TUBA ADB - Kropaczek, Brian
TROMBONE SENIOR REGIONAL - Kropaczek, Stacey
FRENCH HORN ADB - McMahon, Megan
TENOR SAXOPHONE ADB - Reinsel, Samuel
BASS CLARINET ADB - Speed, Taylor
STRING BASS ADB - Taube, William
BASSOON ADB - Trumbo, Matthew
February 4, 2010
District XI All-District Band event will go on tonight as scheduled!
Thursday 2/4/10
All district band members are expected to attend.
6:00 p.m. Arrival
6:15 p.m. Seating
6:30 p.m. Rehearsal
8:30 p.m. Performance (no uniforms)
Parents are welcome to attend. Admission is free.
Friday's rehearsal is CANCELED.
February 3, 2010
ALL-DISTRICT BAND PARTICIPANTS: An update has been posted on www.robinsonband.org in the "Member's Area" (username: robinsonband password: gorams). PLEASE READ THE UPDATE, THE CHANGES ARE SIGNIFICANT. Items of note are: 1. Rehearsal on Thursday will be a little bit later than on the original schedule 2. On Friday students should report to WT Woodson IN THEIR CONCERT UNIFORM 3. They will not be serving lunch on Friday. Might want to bring some snacks. Thank you all for your flexibility!!
TO: Robinson Band students in DISTRICT BAND (this weekend)
FROM: Robinson Band Directors
RE: DISTRICT BAND INFORMATION AND SCHEDULE
This message is intended for students accepted by audition into the 2010 All-District Band to be held at W.T. Woodson HS Feb 4-6. All other students and families may disregard.
All information you need regarding All-District Band has been posted on www.robinsonband.org in the “Members Only Area”.
Information posted includes:
Schedule
Information about purchasing lunch
Uniform information
A parking permit for Friday (please try to carpool)
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Please read this information carefully…it will answer most of your questions
- An email has been sent to the Robinson Faculty regarding attendance on Friday.
- You will need your Robinson Concert Uniform for Saturday
- Please be at Woodson before 6:00 pm on Thursday and meet with Mr. Cook and Mr. Vitale. DON’T BE LATE. Students who are late risk losing their spot and alternates will be called.
- It is possible that the concert could be moved to FRIDAY because of weather. We do not have specifics about this right now…stay tuned.
- If you have questions please email Mr. Cook at mkcook@fcps.edu or stop in Thursday morning before school. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE FOLKS AT WOODSON HS WITH QUESTIONS!!
January 31, 2010
Greetings Friends:
Many thanks to those who attended, and especially those who presented at the school board hearings last week. There were many wonderful thoughts shared, from the pragmatic to the emotionally compelling. Well done.
The reality is, our hardest work lies before us. In the coming week, the school board will take action on the budget; at that point, the focus of attention will turn to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. While I think we did a good job last week, I believe we can, and will have to do better in the upcoming discussions with the BoS. I believe our audience participation will need to be larger, and our message more emphatic than it has thus been. Unless I'm missing something, I don't see a lot of "second chances" in this process.
What's next:
- Now would be a great time to send a follow up email to school board members, thanking them for their remarkable patience last week, and encouraging them to request all that is needed for FCPS to be fully operational.
- Familiarize yourself with the Local Composite Index (LCI) issue. If you are so inclined, contact your state representatives and the Governor's office regarding the proposed one year "freeze" of the index (see: Washington Post, today, C5, "Insult from Richmond" Here’s the link: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/local-opinions/2010/01/insult_from_richmond.html ).
- Per the information below, prepare to testify on behalf of elementary instrumental music education at BoS hearings.
As you know, the Board of Supervisors will make the budget decisions critical to our success, and they will be subjected to enormous pressure to restrain any growth in tax revenue. There will be some intense discussions that go to the very heart of the relationship between the supervisors and the school board. In this complicated environment, as regards band and strings, our mission and our message needs to be kept simple, on point, and relentless: FIND A WAY. As for ourselves, there must be no faltering in our efforts; or tepidness in our response.
So, on we go. And, on this email goes, with important information below regarding the next step in the process.
Let the music continue!
Denny Stokes
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The speakers docket for the Board of Supervisor's Budget Hearings is now open. The School Board will give its presentation on Tuesday, April 6 at 6:00 p.m. We need speakers to sign-up to speak that night in favor of the Superintendent's proposed budget for the school system. If you are not inclined to speak, please mark your calendar and consider attending the board meeting to "stand in support" for the school budget (more info to follow on this opportunity).
The hearings are held over three days. The Tuesday hearing starts at 7:00. Wednesday and Thursday, the hearings begin at 3:00 p.m. It would be best to get on the docket for Tuesday the 6th to reflect support for the school budget in particular.
Our general message should be that we (residents) are willing to support a tax increase to pay for the budget submitted for FCPS schools. That includes the requested additional transfer of $57.8 million to cover the programs outlined by the Superintendent as "in jeopardy" if the additional funds are not provided.
You can sign up by calling 703-324 3151 or by going to: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
In the middle of the center window and under "Meetings and Agendas" - click the link "Register to Speak".
WHO: Board of Supervisors
WHEN: Tuesday, April 6, 7:00 (following School Board presentation at 6:00 p.m.)
Wednesday, April 7, 3:00 p.m -??
Thursday, April 8, 3:00 -??
WHAT: speakers needed - sign up NOW
WHERE: Fairfax County Govt. Center
WHY: The BOS must be willing to approve Dr. Dale's budget to support school programs, including an increase transfer of $57.8 million
HOW: Call 703-324-3151 or
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/government/board/
Click on Board of Supervisors. Under Meetings and Agendas - click on register to speak. Try to get on the Tuesday night docket, if possible.
January 13, 2010
Attention all Myrtle Beach Trip Students and Parents:
Spring trip payments
#1 were deposited on January 8th.
Student account statements have been processed,
reflecting unpaid program fees, trip fees, fundraising credits, and trip payments.
These statements
are being handed out in band and orchestra classes this week.
Spring trip
payment #2 is now due, and may be made via check (turn in to director)
or PayPal. Regardless of payment form, please include your student's
name and/or student ID# to ensure proper application by the treasurers.
Required
forms for travel (4 pages) are now available to complete, print, sign & date,
and turn in to your director. Please submit these forms by the end of January.
Trip
updates, PayPal button, and trip forms may be found at (link).
Thanks so much!
Questions? Pat McMahon at 703-426-2974 or rbopovp(at)aol.com.
January 12, 2010
As a reminder, the RBOPO meeting originally scheduled for this evening
has been rescheduled to next Tuesday, January 19, at 7 p.m. in the high
school band room. We hope to see you at the FACE Rally to support Elementary
Band & Strings at GMU Center for the Arts tonight at 7 p.m. (http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RallyFlyer.pdf).
January 10, 2010
Greetings Friends.
As you know, the FACE rally takes place this Tuesday, 7:00 pm, at the Center for the Arts, George Mason University. I am sending this last email, asking each of you to personally consider the thoughts below, and to share this communication with everyone who would join us in helping to preserve the elementary instrumental music program in Fairfax County.
Ours is a remarkable county, made so by remarkable people who are "doers," in the community, the nation and beyond. It is also a community of very busy people. I write this reminder tonight, knowing that many want to help in our efforts, while still tending to the myriad responsibilities of careers, families...and booster groups! In this setting, a most understandable sentiment could well be: "I'd be happy to help in any concrete way possible, I understand the needs, and I don't really need to be 'rallied'."
Nothing could be further from the truth.
The reality of our dilemma is that there really are no "bad guys" in this process. I am sure, that under different circumstances, our superintendent, our school board, and our county board of supervisors would have no interest in taking on the thorny, difficult, heart-wrenching decisions such as (but not limited to) cutting elementary instrumental music. And yet, here we are.
If I, like they, had to answer to the electorate every few years, I would be paying close attention to these issues, hoping to sort out that which is a "want" from that which is truly visceral in the hearts of the community. I would be impressed by a cogent, thoughtful articulation of the value of music education. But I would be compelled to action by the presence of throngs of people, each one of whom represent the wishes of many more voters. As I see it, it is our job to help make it easier for our leaders to do their job, to find the ways and the means to continue the current music instruction, even in these difficult times.
Do you matter in this process? I have performed many times at the GMU Center for the Arts. It is a lovely facility. It is also BIG. A thousand people will not fill it. Two thousand will make GREAT video! Yes, you matter. The car-load of people you bring with you matters. A room full FACE tee shirts, uniforms and school colors matter. There will be decision-makers at the rally, specifically to gauge the "level of energy," as I was told today. What will they find?
The rally itself will be most informative, and will help equip everyone with the rationale and facts needed as we move into the upcoming decision-making process. Everyone who attends will hear words of hope, while also making the powerful statement of a determined electorate.
I hope you will find a way, to find the time, to find yourselves in Lot K, George Mason University next Tuesday, in time for our 7:00 pm rally. Need directions? Here you go: http://faceadvocacy.org/GMU_Map.pdf. Need more information? Please visit www.faceadvocacy.org.
Remember, we can have whatever we want, if we're willing to work for it, and sometimes, fight for it. As we work to save elementary (and in reality, ALL) music in Fairfax County, the time for planning has ended. The time for action is upon us.
See you Tuesday! Denny Stokes
January 7, 2010
Happy New Year and Thanks to everyone for your continued support of RBOPO and, in particular, the efforts of FACE www.faceadvocacy.com to support
elementary music education in Fairfax County. This is a reminder about several important upcoming events.
1. Please consider signing up to speak in support of elementary instrumental music education at the FCPS School Board public hearing scheduled for January 25 & 26, 2010. Sign-ups begin Friday January 8 (tomorrow) at 6 a.m. via the web and 8 a.m. via telephone. The link is on the FACE homepage listed above or at http://www.fcps.edu/schlbd/requestspeak.htm
2. At 7 p.m. on Tuesday January 12, FACE is holding a supporters RALLY at the GMU Center for the Performing Arts. If you can make it, please show your
support by attending. Details are at http://www.robinsonband.org/pdf_files/RallyFlyer.pdf
3. As a result of the FACE RALLY, the RBOPO meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday January 12 has been rescheduled to Tuesday January 19 at 7 p.m. in the High School Band Room. See you there, RBOPO
January 6, 2010
Parents, We are almost ready for District Band Auditions at Robinson on Saturday, January 9. We are still in need of some volunteers to help out to make this a successful event! If you can volunteer between 7:30 a.m. and noon or between 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., please contact
bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.
January 2 & 3, 2010
District Band Auditions for Middle School and High School students are coming up next Saturday, January 9th, at Robinson Secondary School. RBOPO assists our Band Directors in running this event. To help us with the Snack Bar(a fund raiser for RBOPO) we are asking for beverage donations of bottled water and soft drinks (12 packs).
Students, by last name, are asked to contribute:
A-C: Coke/Pepsi
D-F: Diet Coke/Pepsi
G-Q: Sprite or Mt. Dew or Diet Sprite/7Up or Dr. Pepper
R-Z: Bottled Water
Please bring beverage donations to the band room by Friday, January 8th. Thanks for your support of RBOPO.
If you can volunteer for an hour or two on Saturday, January 9, please contact bandwebmaster(at)robinsonband.org.
Check B-Mail for more specific information.
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