GENERAL MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Attendance — Groove Inc. members are expected to attend all rehearsals. It is understood that at times school, work or family activities may arrive that conflict with Groove Inc. Please communicate with the staff regarding any conflict prior to time of absence. Every member has an important position and every rehearsal is imperative. By missing rehearsals, competitions or performances, you jeopardize the success of the performance. BE THERE!
Discipline — All Groove Inc. members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all rehearsals and performances. All behavior should meet the mission of Groove Inc. and members must be respectful of other members, staff, parents, equipment and facilities. If a member’s behavior is repeatedly addressed by a staff member or parent, the member will be suspended from the next rehearsal and/or performance. If this happens three times, the member will be removed from Groove Inc. with no refund. Groove Inc. has a Zero Tolerance policy in regard to the use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs. Use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs will result in immediate termination with no refund.
Attitude — You need a good attitude. Face rehearsals with a positive approach. People who are willing to work hard as a team are the type of people Groove Inc. wants. Our goal is to be THE BEST at what we do. If for any reason you have any concerns please contact Pete or any staff member.
Pride — Groove Inc. relies on the maturity and unity of everyone to inspire the proper attitudes and actions necessary to promote this excellent program.
We rely on YOU to:
- Be ready. Practice, perform, compete giving 100%.
- Treat everyone with the utmost respect at all times.
- Work together at all times as a team.
- Be mature enough to handle situations as they occur.
- Carry yourself with pride.
- Help out and step where needed. Look around and pitch in without being asked.
- Work for your section leader. He or she works for you, too.
Rehearsals — Schedules are distributed in the beginning of the year to assist families in planning their schedules. Members should arrive 10-15 minutes early so the rehearsal can begin on time. A late member needs to join their section as quickly as possible.
Shoes are to be removed at some rehearsal sites. If you need to wear shoes during rehearsal, bring another pair for indoor use only.
BE RESPECTFUL of the rehearsal area. Food and drink are to be eaten in designated areas only. Some sites may not allow any eating. Clean up after yourself.
Experience — To become a member, we prefer previous percussion experience, but it is not required. An audition will be required at all levels. The staff strongly recommends you participate in only one group each season if you are in Pursuit due to the time commitment.
Preparation — Come prepared. Your hardest work comes outside of rehearsal time, in private practice. As an individual, you have the opportunity to contribute to the ultimate quality of the program, or hinder the progress of your peers.
Show Etiquette — You represent Groove Inc. at performances and competitions. Be aware of how you act and speak in public. Be responsible for your image.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Groove Inc. requires a financial commitment on behalf of its members. There is a $300 membership fee for Genesis, $350 membership fee for Cadets and Slam. Impact is $425; Pursuit is $475; Summerline is $250. This fee is due at the first practice. By paying the dues, the students membership in the group is secured and the student is making a commitment to Groove Inc.
No part of the membership fee will be refunded after four weeks of practice have been held, regardless of whether the member attended any or all practices.
Groove Inc. dues provide you:
- Musical instruction
- Use and repair of Groove Inc.-owned instruments (no deposit required)
- Summerline transportation
All groups will be required to purchase their own uniform. Participants must purchase their own sticks. One set of mallets will be given to bass players to use.
Impact & Pursuit — In addition to the membership fee, members pay additional costs for transportation, lodging, and costs strictly associated with operating these groups. Monthly payments are set up to assist in helping you budget for these expenses. Members are required to pay for their own food and any recreational activities while on trips.
To protect your child and the integrity of Groove Inc., we are required to collect completed forms from each Groove Inc. participant for consent for medical treatment and a health form. Those participants who travel with Groove Inc. to competitions will be required to sign a document indicating their compliance and appropriate conduct at all times or be potentially removed from participation in Groove Inc.
Groove Inc. is an independent, incorporated, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the focus on and goal of percussion education.
The group is governed by a working board of directors. Groove Inc. operates year-round at various levels. Area youth, along with a dedicated professional, instructional staff, strive to share the excitement and benefits of percussion with the people of the Midwest.
Groove Inc. is comprised of the following groups:
- Genesis – approximately grades Kindergarten through 4th grade, introductory percussion and music program
- Cadets – approximately grades 5-7, limited performance ensemble. Open to grade 4 if taking private lessons from a Groove Inc. instructor
- Slam – approximately grades 7-9, moderately advanced performance ensemble
- Impact – approximately grades 9-12, advanced competitive/traveling performance ensemble
- Pursuit – approximately grades 9 to age 22, internationally competitive/traveling full percussion ensemble
- Summerline – auditioned group comprised of members grades 6 and up, which performs during the summer months at town festivals and parades throughout the tri-state area
Special Notices — There will be a MANDATORY Parent Meeting held at the beginning of each group’s first rehearsal. Parent(s) are expected to attend this important meeting with their child, complete all required forms, pay registration dues, purchase necessary sticks and/or mallets, and sign up for the many volunteer opportunities we have available. Announcements will be made and there will be time for Q&A.
Membership dues are payable at the first rehearsal. Travel costs for Pursuit & Impact will be paid monthly. Each group member will pay for his or her own uniform. Genesis, Cadets, & Slam will wear the black Groove t-shirt, hat, blue jeans, black & white chucks purchased through Corporate Gifts & Incentives (visit their website via the Web Link page). Pursuit & Impact’s uniforms will be based on the show theme and the cost will be included into the travel costs. Each group’s parent coordinator will compile orders and distribute uniforms.
No practice during Thanksgiving, Christmas break, Presidents Day break, or Easter.
Practice dates/times/locations will be listed on the Events Calendar and are subject to change and WILL CHANGE throughout the season. Please check the website regularly for updated information and do not leave for a practice WITHOUT FIRST checking to see if the practice date/time/location has been revised.
Do NOT travel in inclement weather and be sure to check the website or contact your group’s instructor for cancelled practices due to unsafe road/travel conditions.
