Musician Code of Conduct

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Membership in the Spokane Youth Symphony is an honor and a privilege. The young musicians chosen by audition to play in these groups are expected to make membership a first priority among their many activities. Instrumentation and balance are established at the time of audition and must be maintained. If the orchestras are to provide the highest possible level of performance, preparation of the music and attendance at all rehearsals and concerts for the entire season is of utmost importance.

All members will adhere to the following Code of Conduct:

1. Attendance is required at all rehearsals and concerts. Upon arrival, check in with the Orchestra Aide before taking your place. Students should arrive 15 minutes before rehearsal to tune and be ready to play before the rehearsal begins. Late arrival is not acceptable.

 

2. Bring a portable music stand and pencil to all rehearsals (the bringing of music stands applies to Philharmonic, Sinfonietta and Strings members).

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3. Return all music promptly to the orchestra aide when asked to do so. If a student must leave the orchestra, all music must be returned within two weeks of leaving or a penalty will be assessed.

4. If you borrow anything, return it. This is particularly true for borrowed instruments, which must be turned in at the end of the season.

 

5. Your complete attention is required at all times. The use of cell phones and electronic games is not allowed during rehearsals or concerts.

 

6. Students must behave respectfully to the conductors, staff, volunteers, and fellow musicians at all times. Speaking out of turn during rehearsals or concerts is not permitted. (This includes whispering, joking, and otherwise disruptive behavior. A student may be removed from the group by the conductor, orchestra aide, or parent volunteer if such behavior continues.)
 

7. All students must respect the property of our rehearsal and concert locations. Gum chewing is not permitted.

 

8. We strictly prohibit the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. Any student in violation will be immediately removed from the orchestra.

 

9. In matters of seating, the Conductor’s decision is final.

 

10. At concerts, students must be seated in the theater hall as audience members when they are not on stage performing. Appropriate audience etiquette is expected while students support their fellow musicians. Such etiquette includes refraining from talking, using personal electronics or phones, or doing homework, and it includes remaining seated. Respectful listening is an important part of a musical education.

PARENTS WILL BE CONTACTED IF POOR BEHAVIOR IS ONGOING AND, IF NOT CORRECTED, A STUDENT MAY BE REMOVED FROM THE ORCHESTRA WITHOUT TUITION REIMBURSEMENT.