BUFFALO COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA, INC.

GUIDELINES FOR MEMBERSHIP

It is the expectation of the Orchestra Board and the conductor that every member will be present for every rehearsal and performance. We realize this is a difficult task for even the most faithful members, so these Guidelines have been prepared.

1. Each orchestra season shall begin on the first Sunday following the Labor Day Holiday, and shall end with the Buffalo Days Concert in the Park performance (typically the second Sunday in June). Special performances by small groups may take place during and after the regularly scheduled season.

2. Orchestra members are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of rehearsals, and all performances, if possible. The Orchestra Board may grant an extended leave of absence for a period of up to one (1) year for compelling reasons, such as serious illness, disability or other extenuating circumstances. A member granted an extended leave of absence shall not be dismissed from membership on account of absences during the extended leave granted by the Board, and may return to the position held prior to the leave of absence. A request for an extended leave of absence must be presented to the Orchestra Board in writing prior to the beginning of the rehearsals for the upcoming concert, if possible.

3. Applicants for membership may be required to complete a membership application, audition and meet other reasonable requirements of the Orchestra Board.

4. Principals are expected to accept the musical and leadership responsibilities within the section. This includes encouraging the musical development of the section, rotating parts within the section as appropriate, encouraging regular attendance, and leading sectional rehearsals.

The position of principal of a section may be contested only prior to the first rehearsal of a season by notifying the Conductor. If the position of principal is contested, or in the instance of a leave of absence by a principal, an audition by a committee comprised of the Conductor and at least two (2) members of the Orchestra, will take place.

5. If unable to attend a rehearsal or performance, the member shall notify the Concert Manager and Conductor as far in advance as possible.