Syllabus

Schedule:

Below is the breakdown of the specific days band meets for class pertaining to each course.

8^th Grade Wind Ensemble: Monday – Friday (40 minute class period daily)

8^th Grade Band: Monday – Friday (40 minute class period daily)

7^th Grade Cadet Band:

(Woodwinds): Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

(Brass/ Percussion): Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

7^th Grade Beginning Band*:

(Section 1): Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

(Section 2): Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

6^th Grade Beginning Band*:

(Section 1): (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

(Section 2): (40 minute class period 3x/ week)

*(Days will either be Monday-Wednesday-Thursday or Tuesday-Wednesday-Friday)

Course Outline:

The middle school band program has a history of extraordinary performances because of the exceptional efforts of its members. Each course will develop:

1) Individual musical skills 2) Individual performance skills

3) Ensemble performance skills 4) Musical knowledge

We will develop such skills and knowledge by striving to meet the North Hills Music Department Curriculum and the Core Music Standards:

1. Creating – Imagine, plan & make, evaluate & refine, present

2. Performing - Select, analyze, interpret, rehearse, evaluate, refine, present

3. Responding- Select, analyze, interpret, evaluate

4. Connecting – Synthesize & relate knowledge and personal experiences to make music

- Relate musical ideas and works with varied context to deepen understanding

Students are asked to practice 5 days a week for approximately 20 minutes each day. 8^th grade students should anticipate increasing their daily practice routine to 30 minutes daily. Students who practice more frequently will gain more enjoyment out of playing a musical instrument, as well as be more successful throughout the course.

Assignments will be given throughout the course, though a large amount of the material to be practiced at home will involve our warm-up routines and concert music. Supplemental materials will be given out at the teacher’s discretion. During each class, we will work on fundamental techniques, as well as repertoire pertaining to the ensemble.

Evaluation

(These assessments may be used to measure student learning and determine the grade earned)

- Performance evaluations: on required studies or ensemble music; may be live or recorded; formal and informal. Students may be expected to submit playing assignments via the school-issued iPad.

- Tests and homework: pertaining to concepts addressed in class

- Participation: having necessary items, following expectations, and actively contributing to class: (5 points possible for each week.)

- Concert Attendance: (30 points per concert)

- All grades are updated weekly into PowerSchool.

Beginning Band (6th and 7th grade)

Selecting an instrument to study is a very important and detailed process. Many factors are considered when recommending an instrument to a student including physical traits, instrument availability, past experience, musical knowledge, and ear training ability.

Band instructors take the instrument selection process very seriously. An instrument assignment either can make a student’s year very frustrating or easy and enjoyable. The band instructors will guide the Beginning Band students through a detailed selection process and give recommendations as to what instrument the student will find quick success.

Instruments Offered

Tuba, French Horn, Trombone, Baritone, Clarinet, Saxophone

Private Lessons

We work very hard to learn as a group each day in school. You will progress by practicing regularly, however, students may also opt to study privately as they progress on their individual instruments. These lessons allow students more individual time with an instructor, which enhances their overall technique and musical abilities. If this is something that interests you, please see either Mr. Rodack or Mr. Beaver for a list of private instructors in the area.

Communication

Every student deserves to have a great experience in band. Band is a very rewarding class and one of the most popular electives in the school. This happens because the instructors and students help each other in creating an excellent learning atmosphere. Communication is the key ingredient to this formula. If an issue arises in class about anything, students and parents should feel very comfortable in talking with a director.

The ways students are notified about information: