Marching Forward

Dear Parents,

We are beginning to hit the busier part of our fall season, with many fun activities just around the corner.  Here's an update on last week's news:

• The 1st annual Parent Preview and Barbecue on September 27 was a success.  Last spring, the high school band director, Bill Zabelsky, donated about $30,000 worth of band uniforms to our program.  I then had them cleaned and embroidered with our school letters.  On Saturday, the CMS Marching Band debuted them to the parents with a showcase performance and a family barbecue.  The kids wore them with pride and put on a great show for the parents. I forgot to introduce the drum majors, so I'll do it here.  Regan Lowe, Adelynn Puett, and Jacob Richetta will each get to lead the band through one of the parades this fall.  Thank you to everyone who helped with this project.  A special thank you to the students who showed a lot of pride and professionalism, while still managing to have fun!

• Dr. Snider and Dr. Davis, tuba and horn professors from UNR, visited Concert band, Intermediate band, and Advanced band for a workshop.  The students had a chance to hear them perform and discuss techniques on breathing and practicing.  They personally complimented me on the atmosphere in the room.  Students were extremely polite and had a great experience.
• Beginning band, Concert band, Beginning strings, and Advanced strings are preparing for their fall concert on October 15.  Details about this concert are forthcoming.
• Advanced band and Intermediate band are going to be receiving some winter concert music this week. 'Tis the season!

New Fundraiser - Dolan Automotive's 2014 Class Project - Update

Thank you to the amazing contributions we have received so far.  I cannot thank you enough!  We are 44% to our goal of $2500.  Keep spreading the word!!

http://classproject2014.dolanautogroup.com/campaigns/carson-middle-school-instrumental-music-help-improve-our-band-room 

Practice Logs

Practice logs are due each Friday.  Students may click the link on the top of the website, or go here.

Students who do not turn in a practice log will be required to take a playing test on Monday to earn up to half credit.  The material will be chosen from what they have been asked to practice the previous week.  This week, I was surprised by how many students did not turn one in, with only two classes (Intermediate Band and Beginning Strings) that did better than last week:

63% Concert Band

71% Intermediate Band

55% Advanced Band

35%​ Advanced Strings

48% Beginning Band

74% Beginning Strings

Marching Rehearsals

Marching rehearsals will continue on Tuesdays for all intermediate and advanced band members from 2:45-4:30 PM.  Now that they're ready, we will begin marching through the neighborhood and building their endurance.

Upcoming Event: Oktoberfest, "Oktober" 11 (aka Parents' Afternoon Out!)

On October 11 the Boosters will be hosting an Oktoberfest for the enjoyment of those 21 and older. Tickets will be $20 and will include a sausage, beer/wine tasting, and a souvenir mug. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the event. We are looking into a way to sell tickets online, so please watch for an email and a flyer coming home with details once we decide.

Upcoming Event: Fall Concert and Spaghetti Feed, October 15

On October 15, we will have a spaghetti feed fundraiser, as well as a concert to showcase our orchestra program, as well as our beginning band and concert band.  The spaghetti feed will begin at 6:00 PM, with the concert beginning at 6:30 PM.  The cost to eat is $5 per plate, or $15 for a family of $4, but you may still come and watch your students for free.

Thanks, as always!

-Mr. Jacques-