Membership Policy and Guidelines

Auditions
New members are required to audition to evaluate their skill level before they are admitted to the Orchestra. Auditions are held three times during a season in September, December and March. However, once applications are received, the conductor may choose to accelerate the process by giving audition appointment anytime during the year based on Orchestra needs and his time schedule.

Attitude and Behavior
All members are expected to have appropriate behavior during and after rehearsals as in public schools. They are expected to treat each member of the orchestra and their conductor with respect. Chewing gums during rehearsals or mobile phones are absolutely forbidden.

Attendance
The success of the EYSO depends on regular rehearsal attendance, which is essential not only for individual performance, but that of the entire group. All musicians are expected to attend assigned rehearsals without exception and on time. Repeated and unexcused absences and late arrivals indicate lack of seriousness and commitment and may result in exclusion from a performance and eventual dismissal. Each abstention must be justified with advanced notice to orchestra coordinator. Attendance sheet must be signed during every rehearsal and more than three unexcused absenteeism, students will be placed on probation and eventual dismissal from the orchestra. 

Dress Code
EYSO is considered as a school and dress codes applied in schools apply for rehearsals as well. Casual attire is allowed during rehearsals. However, bare feet and beach attire are not permissible. Special attire as specified is obligatory for concerts and public performances.

Membership Fees
Rehearsals and Tuition for EYSO is free for all members. The Orchestra provides notes and snacks during full rehearsals while during certain functions and festivals, provides gifts at no cost to members. Due to escalation of such costs and expenses of our Headquarters, we are obliged to ask our members to participate in covering our expenses. Effective Academic Year 2007/2008 members are expected to pay an annual fee of AED. 1,500.00 towards their membership.  

Travel
Members are expected to travel with EYSO. Travel dates are selected to provide minimum conflict with school schedules. EYSO will make every effort to collect travel expenses through fund raising efforts of the EYSO sponsors. Lodging is usually paid by the host; however parents may be required to contribute towards air fair if contributions from sponsors fall short of the travel expenses. Parents should volunteer to chaperone trips whenever possible and are required to pay for their own travel expenses.

Travel Documents
In October of every year, the following documents must be provider to the then designated parent’s coordinator: a) Six passport Photos of the EYSO member in concert attire. b) Signed parent consent form. c) Signed medical release form. d) Copy of passport including photo page, and pages indicating name, date of birth, passport number and validity information. e) Copy of valid U.A.E residency visa page.

Member of the Month Award

The Director and conductor of the orchestra will award every month three to five students for their excellence in performance attendance and adherence to Orchestra policy. Such rewards can be in cash or gift vouchers as appropriate.

Remarks