Junior High Band meets during 8th period every day.
Materials
Students must have their own supplies for band class. They can purchase all materials through me. This includes at least three working reeds for reed players ($3 per reed, $25 per box of 10) and valve/slide oil for brass players ($7).
We will also be using the Tradition of Excellence Book 2 for the entire year. You may also purchase this book from me for $10. In addition, everyone must have a pencil at every rehearsal!
Students will receive participation points for having all of the above required materials in class each day. It is highly encouraged (but not required) that all students purchase a tuner/metronome. This is a crucial tool in practicing! The Korg TM40 tuner/metronome is a fantastic, affordable option.
Cell Phone Policy
There will be NO cell phones allowed in class at any time. I see it once, and I will take it for the remainder of the period.
Concert/Rehearsal Attendance
Concert and rehearsal attendance is essential to our success. Included in this handbook is a calendar of events, and performance dates will be announced well in advance. Please use this information to plan ahead. Absences will only be excused for illness, conflict with another school activity, or family emergencies.
Please be on time to band class. You must be in the door by the time the bell rings and in your seat with your instrument out ready to play at 3 minutes past the bell. NO food or drink during rehearsal please!!
Grading Procedures
Your semester grade for band will be based on the following:
Concert/Performance Attendance: 30%
• Attendance at all performances and concerts
• Correct performance attire (nice dress clothes; no jeans, shorts, or gym shoes)
• Arrives on time with all materials
Class Participation: 30%
• Good attitude and respect towards others during class
• Works Hard, including practicing outside of class
• Brings all materials to class (pencil, music, instrument etc.)
• Arrives on time (no tardies)
Written Assignments: 20%
• Concert/rehearsal reflections
• Listening assignments
• In class hand outs/worksheets
Performance Assessments: 20%
• Individual Playing Tests (recorded or performed for
teacher)
Practicing
Students
should be practicing at least 3 times
a week for 30 minutes at a time. Their playing ability is a part of their
grade, and it is very hard to get better without practicing outside of band
class!
Private Lessons
For those students for whom band is of serious interest, private study with a qualified professional is an outstanding opportunity to work one-on-one with a specialist on their instrument. Please contact me for a list of teachers if you are interested!
