Our Shared Journey: What We Expect from Everyone
At ACO’s Youth Ensembles, we're all about creating a positive, fun, and supportive place for everyone to shine musically. To keep that great vibe going, we have some friendly guidelines about showing up, how we treat each other, and handling fees. When we all stick to these, everything runs smoothly, we all grow as musicians, and we put on fantastic performances!
Being There: Attendance Expectations
Showing up regularly and on time is key to your progress and to us sounding awesome as a team. Every person makes a difference!
Being on Time:
Please arrive punctually for all rehearsals and performances. That means being in your spot, instrument ready, before we officially start.
Being late can interrupt our flow.
If you'll be late, please just give the conductor a quick heads-up. You can do this by messaging on the Spond app.
Commitment to Regular Attendance:
Regular attendance is fundamental. Each session builds on the last, and missing out can make it tougher to keep up and for us to prepare.
Performances are our big showcase, so if you're playing, we need you there for the last two rehearsals and the main show.
Letting Us Know About Absences:
If you have to miss something, it's a big help to let the conductor know as soon as possible, with a reason if you can.
Frequent unnotified absences might mean a chat about your membership.
Getting Ready:
Please practice your parts between rehearsals so you arrive prepared. Don't forget your instrument, and bring a music stand if you can.
How We Play Together: Behavioural Expectations
We want our orchestra to be a place where everyone feels respected, supported, and happy to collaborate. We ask all members to act in ways that keep this atmosphere thriving.
Respecting Everyone:
Please treat all fellow musicians, conductors, tutors, staff, and volunteers with kindness and respect.
Listen carefully when conductors or tutors are speaking.
Be a cheer squad for others! We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying or unkindness.
During Rehearsals and Performances:
Stay focused and engaged during rehearsals. Avoid distractions such as unnecessary talking or using phones.
Follow instructions from conductors and tutors with a positive attitude.
Embrace feedback – it's how we get better!
During performances, be fantastic ambassadors for our orchestra.
Taking Care of Our Gear:
Your instrument and belongings are your responsibility.
Please be gentle with any orchestra equipment. Report any damage right away.
Please don't misuse anyone else's instruments or equipment.
Staying Safe and Well:
Follow all safety tips and instructions from staff.
If you have any worries about safety or how you're feeling, please tell a staff member immediately.
ACO is a strict drug-free and alcohol-free zone. No smoking or vaping during activities, please!
Keeping in Touch:
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to the right staff member or tutor. We're here to help!
If music is tricky, chat with your conductor or tutor – they'll lend a hand.
Investing in Our Music: Fees and Payment
Membership fees help keep ACO running, covering costs like rehearsal spaces, music, tutors, and admin. Paying on time is super important to keep offering these fantastic musical opportunities!
How Fees Work:
Termly fees are communicated at the beginning of each academic year. Details are provided upon registration within the Spond app, by our website, or by contacting the YE Coordinator aden@aberdeencityorchestra.co.uk.
Extra fees may apply for special workshops or trips, and we'll tell you about these in advance.
When to Pay:
Fees are usually due by a specific date, often within 14 days of the invoice.
You can pay via Spond using Stripe. No cash at rehearsals please, unless we specifically ask.
If Payments Are Late:
If you anticipate trouble with a payment deadline, please contact the YE Coordinator aden@aberdeencityorchestra.co.uk right away to discuss a flexible plan.
Unarranged late payments might mean a temporary pause in membership. Persistent non-payment would require a membership review.
Our Refund Policy:
Generally, fees aren't refundable once the term has started, except in special cases like prolonged illness or moving. Refund requests are considered by our Treasurer.
A full refund might be available if you withdraw before the term starts and within a "change of mind" period of two rehearsals.
Need a Little Help? Financial Assistance:
We believe everyone should have the chance to make music, regardless of financial situation. Limited bursaries or financial help may be available. Please contact the YE Coordinator aden@aberdeencityorchestra.co.uk confidentially to inquire.
What Happens if Things Go Off-Track
While we always want to support our members, consistent or serious issues with these expectations might lead to:
A friendly chat with the member and/or their parent/guardian.
A formal warning.
A temporary break from orchestra activities.
In very serious or repeated cases, we may have to consider terminating membership.
Our Promise to You
In return for your commitment, ACO’s Youth Ensembles promises to:
Offer fantastic musical teaching and conducting.
Ensure a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.
Organise exciting and rewarding musical opportunities.
Keep communication clear and open.
We truly believe that by working together, we can make sure our Youth Ensembles stay a vibrant and incredibly rewarding experience for everyone!