Friday, October 17, 2014

It Takes A Village

Hello Again,

We just wrapped up a successful concert, and are gearing up for an eventful November. I also have Nevada Day Parade information, hot off the presses!

Beginning Strings, Beginning Band, Advanced Strings, and Concert Band put on their first concert of the year.  For the beginning classes, this was their first concert ever, and hopefully one that they will never forget!  I still remember my first concert as a very exciting experience.  More details about this concert later.
Intermediate Band received their last piece for the winter concert, "Still, Still, Still," and are working to improve their skills on reading/performing rhythms.  Students are also making finishing musical touches on Battle Born for the Nevada Parade.
Advanced Band is continuing to push forward with all their music at such an incredible rate.  I may be giving them another piece for the winter concert before too long.
Jazz Band deserves an update too.  I have incredible instrumentation for this group of volunteers who come to school as close to 7:00 AM as possible to play music together.  Additionally, they have learned 5 pieces of music, with more to come shortly.  I'll begin including updates about this group on a weekly basis.

Nevada Day Parade Information

I have Nevada Day Parade information for all students in Intermediate and Advanced Bands.  Since this parade showcases the excellence of the music program at CMS to thousands of people, it is imperative that we work together to help support the students.  As the saying goes, it takes a village...  I have specific details located right here and students will receive hard copies on Monday.

Recap: Fall "Oktoberfest" Concert and Spaghetti Feed, October 15 

Our first concert and first annual spaghetti feed was a huge success! All groups performed at a level never seen this early in the school year.  In addition, we raised over $900! Thank you everyone for your donations and support. Ms. Simkins would like to send a special thank you to the amazing cooking and cleaning crew, without whom this event would not have been possible.  Our next phase of our room upgrades will now be possible.  I'll be purchasing music folder storage for the students this weekend!

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 76% to our goal of $2500, but only have 13 days left.  Keep spreading the word so we can reach our goal and have the funds matched by Dolan Automotive Group.  Only $595 more dollars and we will be there!
http://classproject2014.dolanautogroup.com/campaigns/carson-middle-school-instrumental-music-help-improve-our-band-room 

Facebook Page

We have a Facebook page called "Friends of CMS Bands and Orchestra". Search for us, "like" the page, and share our events!

Practice Logs

Practice logs are due each Friday at 11:59 pm.  Students may click the link on the top of the website, or go here. I will be posting percentages later this weekend. As a reminder, because it is the end of the quarter, I must enter grades by Sunday, so we will not be able to do a playing test to make up 50% of their grade if a student forgets to turn one in. Please remind them, or it will be a "0"! 

Marching Rehearsals

Marching rehearsals will continue on Tuesdays for all intermediate and advanced band members from 2:45-4:30 PM.  We will be working on improving endurance and marching technique.  In the event that it's too windy on Tuesday, we will still hold the rehearsal indoors.

Upcoming Events

November 1: Nevada Day Parade, 9:30 AM-afternoon TBA*
November 7: Veterans Assembly at CMS, 2nd and 3rd period*
November 7: Fall Football Game at CHS, 5:30 PM- 9:00 PM**
November 8: Sierra Band Crusade, times TBA**
November 11: Veterans Day Parade, morning TBA*

* MANDATORY for Intermediate and Advanced Band
** Optional event for Intermediate and Advanced Band

Enjoy your weekends!

-Mr. Jacques-

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