Class meets in Bahnik Hall from 1:19 to 2:03 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and meets 2:45 to 3:25 pm on Thursdays. You may be required to attend one small group lesson each week. This requirement will depend on how many rehearsals you are called to attend during that week.
Grades
Trimester grades are based primarily on mastery of the band repertoire, measured through assessments. These assessments will be given during lesson periods. It is expected that you will show progress from your starting level. Grades are also affected by lesson attendance and preparation. If you need to reschedule your lesson, please speak to me before missing your scheduled lesson. Students may receive extra help by arranging to attend additional scheduled Upper School lessons.
It is important that you make every effort to arrive at class on time. Frequent lateness will lower your grade.
Your effort grade will reflect your behavior in class, your attitude, and your preparation: You are to bring your own folder with music to every class as well as your instrument, a pencil, and any needed reeds or oil.
Written Work
Score study sheets are to be completed for each piece and will be taken into consideration when grades are calculated.
You will be called on to listen critically to your peers and will be assessed by your peers. These performances, usually done by section, will be announced ahead of time. The written responses will reflect the development of your listening and critiquing skills and will contribute to your grade.
Performances
The Upper School Concert Band will perform at the Coliseum on Thursday evening, November 17. The winter concert will take place Tuesday evening, December 6, with a town meeting reprise that week. The spring concert will be held on Wednesday evening, April 25, with a town meeting reprise that week. In addition, the band will perform at graduation on Friday, June 8.
This is a performance class and participation is mandatory for all performances. Unless otherwise announced, concert attire for the men will be black slacks, black shoes, white shirt, and conservative tie. Concert attire for the women will be black skirt or dress pants, black shoes, and black blouse.
Instruments
Students playing flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, and trumpet are responsible for providing their instruments through purchase or outside rental. An attempt will be made to offer rentals to students playing larger instruments. Percussionists are expected to set up equipment at the start of the period and put away equipment at the period’s end. Between classes, instruments are to be taken home, stored in lockers, or left in the music room. You are to use the designated shelf area only. Instruments are not to be left on the floor. When retrieving or returning instruments to room 101, please be respectful of classes in session.
Special Ensembles
Small ensembles may be formed during the year for interested and able students. Participation is by audition.
I look forward to working with you!